1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems
The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sport compact car that was produced by Mitsubishi in four generations from 1989 until 2011. A convertible body style was added during the 1996 model year.
The first two generations share the automobile platform and parts with the rebadged Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser captive imports. They were built during Mitsubishi Motors' close relationship with Chrysler Corporation. Their partnership was known as Diamond-Star Motors (DSM). In Japan, the first two generations were sold at a specific Japanese retail chain called Mitsubishi Car Plaza. The third, 2000–2005 generation shared a redesigned platform with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus. In May 2005, the fourth, and final generation Eclipse was introduced, replacing the Chrysler platform used for the third generation with the PS platform.
According to Mitsubishi Motors, the Eclipse was named after an unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse that won 18 races in a row and then retired.
At the end of August 2011, the final Eclipse was manufactured and subsequently auctioned for charity.
In 2017, Mitsubishi resurrected the Eclipse name on a compact crossover vehicle, called the Eclipse Cross.
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Common 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems
The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues and their details:
- Starting Problems: Some owners have reported difficulties starting the car, especially in cold weather or after it has been kept outside for a few hours or days.
- Faulty Headlight: Another common problem with the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is a malfunctioning headlight, particularly one that won't turn on, while the parking light and turn signal light still work.
- Fuel System: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 11 recalls related to the fuel system, including issues with fuel leaks, fuel pump failures, and fuel injection system problems.
- Air Bags: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 5 recalls related to air bags, including issues with air bag inflators that can rupture and cause metal fragments to be propelled into the vehicle's interior.
- Brakes: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 3 recalls related to brakes, including issues with brake line corrosion, brake fluid leaks, and brake pedal assembly problems.
- Suspension: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 3 recalls related to suspension, including issues with suspension arm bolts, suspension bushings, and suspension control arms.
- Transmission: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 2 recalls related to transmission, including issues with transmission fluid leaks and transmission control module software problems.
- Engine: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 1 recall related to engine, including issues with engine mounts.
- Frame: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 1 recall related to frame, including issues with frame corrosion.
- Steering: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 1 recall related to steering, including issues with steering column components.
- Seats: The 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has had 1 recall related to seats, including issues with seat belt buckles.
These common problems with the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder can lead to inconvenience, costly repairs, and even safety hazards for drivers. It is important for owners to stay informed about recalls and ensure that their vehicles are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent or address any issues.
Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder a reliable car?
The Mitsubishi Eclipse received a 4.6 out of 5.0 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book users, who cited the car's strong performance and low maintenance needs.
Is a Mitsubishi Eclipse expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Mitsubishi Eclipse is $510, compared to an average of $526 for compact cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
When did Mitsubishi stop making the Eclipse Spyder?
Mitsubishi Spyder may refer to any of several vehicles by Mitsubishi Motors: Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, any of several convertible cars produced between 1996 and 2011.
Is a Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder a sports car?
The Iconic Sport Coupe
In the face of countless competitors, the two-door, four-seat Mitsubishi sports car maintained continued success over four generations and, to this day, has a strong fanbase of car aficionados and motorsport enthusiasts.
1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
- Manufacturer: AIRTEX PRODUCTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES, P/N E7081H, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WALL OF THE FLARED FITTING OF THE FUEL PUMP IS NOT THICK ENOUGH TO PREVENT THE MATING THREADED FITTINGS FROM BOTTOMING OUT BEFORE AN ADEQUATE SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION OF THE VEHICLE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AIRTEX AUTOMOTIVE AT 800-880-3056.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI AMERICA
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. THIS CAMPAIGN SUPERCEDES MMC'S PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN, SEE 99V-066.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT FOR WEAR. BALL JOINTS THAT EXHIBIT WEAR BEYOND THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY DESIGNED LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS. BALL JOINTS THAT ARE WITHIN THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE CLEANED AND A SPECIAL SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED TO PREVENT INTRUSION OF MOISTURE.
Negative 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
Positive 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
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Since I bought my Eclipse Spyder GS-T used with 113,000 miles in 06/03, I've put about 40,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, in the last year and a half, I've had a few issues with the car. I've had to replace the passenger window track twice, and the check engine light has come on a few times. Additionally, there has been a problem with thick blue smoke from the tailpipe while idling, rattling doors, a roof that leaks through the back window and the A-pillars, a radio that's never worked, and an antenna that won't go all the way down. I regret buying a car with so many miles, but I was eager to have one at the time. Now, I'm trying to sell it.
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I bought my '97 new after a lot of careful consideration. It's been my pride and joy for 22 summers, and I take great care of it. I love taking it out on sunny days and feeling the breeze in my hair. It's a joy to drive, and I've only had to replace a few things over the years, like the canvas top and a starter. I run ultra-high performance summer tires on it, which makes it a blast to zip through turns. I still get comments all the time when I'm out, and it's always a great conversation starter. This roadster is truly one of a kind and the perfect way to enjoy a nice summer day!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my '97 Spyder. I bought it used in '99 and I have to say, I absolutely love it! Even after 6 years, it still turns heads and people often stop me to ask about it. It's been a reliable car for me and I plan on driving it for many more years. Plus, it's been great in all kinds of weather, even in bad snowstorms (with snow tires, of course). Overall, I couldn't be happier with my purchase!
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This is a great vehicle! I've had no mechanical problems for the last 3 years.
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Ok. This is the first convertible I've owned, so I'm still wowed by the experience. Every time the top goes down, it feels like the first time! :-) The car has a very sporty look and handles well, with very sensitive steering. However, the turning radius is awful. You do pay a price for the convertible feature, as this is a nice-weather car, not a bad-weather car. Although, it does amazingly well in snow.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems:
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Other years of Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder
Are you having problems with your 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder?
Jayce Stanton 2024-10-14
Although it's fun to drive, unfortunately, I've had some issues with this car. Since I bought it, the spark plug wires have burned through, causing it to run poorly and the spark plugs foul out quickly. Additionally, the top leaks in several places, including the plastic glued onto the metal pillar coming loose, the rubber boot ripping, and the back window stitching coming loose. As expected, it also leaks around the windows. Another issue is that the elastic strap on top failed and bent the support bars, which ripped the rubber boot. However, there is a kit available for this model that costs $200 per side. The outside driver's door handle was also broken by a five-year-old trying to get in, which is a known problem for this car. The replacement part (black) costs $42, and with painting and labor, it comes to $200. Despite these issues, I still plan on selling this car!
Emile Schroeder 2024-09-18
Although the car has some areas for improvement, it still has some great features. The interior has a cozy and enclosed feel, and the car has a convertible top for those sunny days. The trunk is spacious enough to hold a spare tire and a gym bag. However, the car's engine could use some more power, and the materials used in the interior are prone to chipping. Additionally, the automatic transmission could be smoother. Overall, the car has some great features, but there is room for improvement.
Faustino Goyette 2024-09-15
I owned this car for less than a year and unfortunately had to replace the engine, turbo, struts, and deal with numerous other problems. It spent more time in the shop than on the road. The top leaks, it's noisy, and has a poor ride. I ended up trading it in for a new Accord. I would advise avoiding this car as I spent over six thousand dollars on repairs for an $8500 car. Please be aware!
Chase O'Connell 2024-06-03
Hello there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share with you my experience with my 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse 2.4L that I've had for almost 8 months now. It's hard to believe that it's already 22 years old! Despite its age, I can't really complain too much about it. Of course, some of the plastics in the car are starting to crack, but that's to be expected after 22 years. The rear window gliders need replacing and the interior plastic pieces are delicate and can break easily, but again, that's understandable for a car of this age. Unfortunately, the leather seats didn't survive, but that's a common issue with most cars after 22 years. Currently, it has 176,000 miles on it and the front and rear struts will need replacing, along with most of the front end bushings. The plastic door handles, even the new ones, can break easily, especially if it's cold outside. However, despite these minor issues, the car still looks flashy and stylish and performs well, even when compared to 2019 cars in its category. Thanks for listening to my story!
Jerel Considine 2024-06-01
This car is certainly pretty and sporty, but if you need to get from point A to point B, you might want to consider a bike instead. Unfortunately, it seems that this car was cheaply made and sooner or later everything fell apart, including the leaky rag top. I was disappointed as I love the Eclipse and it had been my dream to own a Spyder. However, for this car, the adage that a car is a hole in the pavement surrounded by metal into which one throws money could not be truer.