1998 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.
Social links
Common 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, several common problems have been identified:
- Engine Cooling Problems: Complaints include engine cooling issues, which can result in overheating and potential engine damage. Proper maintenance of the cooling system is crucial to prevent these problems and ensure the engine operates within the optimal temperature range.
- Vehicle Speed Control: Some owners have experienced challenges with the vehicle's speed control, particularly related to the accelerator pedal. Issues in this area can impact the car's acceleration and overall performance, affecting the driving dynamics and safety.
- Reliability Concerns: The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been associated with reliability issues, often attributed to inadequate maintenance. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to a range of problems, impacting the car's performance, longevity, and overall reliability .
- Door Handle Durability: Another common problem reported by owners is the frequent breakage of door handles in the Mitsubishi Eclipse. While this may seem like a minor issue, it can be inconvenient and affect the usability of the vehicle. Proper handling techniques can help mitigate this problem .
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. By addressing these concerns proactively, owners can enhance the performance, reliability, and longevity of their vehicles.
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.
Are Mitsubishi Eclipse reliable 1999?
Beautiful ageless style,drives like a sports car and it's economic at the same time,reliable,fast,cool,and ofcourse as we all know,it can be modified to look like the Fast and the Furious Eclipse,both the 420a 2.0 non-turbo engine and the 4g63T 2.0 Turbocharged engines are both reliable when taken cared of and if you ...
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.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1998 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 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
Positive 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
-
I purchased a GS automatic transmission Spyder version with 47,000 miles in Nov 2011. It was in beautiful glossy shape inside and out, and had been kept as a garaged weekend toy by the original owner. However, at the time of purchase, it idled rough and would tend to die on startup. To fix this, I replaced the ECU with a $200 EBay replacement unit taken from an identical junker. Additionally, the plastic door handle had been previously broken off and superglued back in place. Unfortunately, it snapped off almost immediately. I replaced it with a blister-packed unit from Autozone (which says something) reinforced by an aftermarket metal reinforcement kit. Finally, I changed out the timing belt (you don't want it to break from age). The result? ONE FUN CAR FOR A YEAR NOW!
-
This is definitely one of the most enjoyable cars to drive.
-
Hi there! I'm actually the second owner of this car, but I've had it for about six years now. The great news is that I've only had to fix the alternator recently, and it's still running great with 140,000 miles on it! I didn't drive it for a couple of years, but every other year I put on roughly 30,000 miles or more. I really wish it could last forever!
-
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.
-
After owning several Volkswagen GTI's and Honda Civic SI's, I have found that none can top the fun and excitement of driving a Turbo Eclipse Spyder. It looks great, has more than enough power, good gas mileage and a comfortable interior. It feels as much a sports car as vehicles costing $10,000 more.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems:
Q&A: 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Engine for Sale, Reliability & Problems
Aug 6, 2011 ... First off, the timing belt is a 60k mile interval and a belt failure will cause severe cylinder head damage. The headgaskets are a weak point on ...
What to look for when buying a 97-99 Eclipse GS?? | DSMtuners.com
Are there any common problems with the 97-99 eclipse GS ... Are there any common problems with the 97-99 eclipse GS? ... 1998 ...
2nd gen. Eclipse (Spyder) reliability? - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi ...
Oct 28, 2005 ... 2nd Generation - 2nd gen. Eclipse (Spyder) reliability? - Hi, I'm an Eclipse newb. I'm thinking of buying a 98 Eclipse Spyder, GS, GST or GT ...
1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Top 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems · Brake Pedal Pulsation · Exterior Door Handle May Break · Airbags may not deploy as expected · Wheels may easily be bent or ...
1998 eclipse reliability - Mitsubishi Forum - Mitsubishi Enthusiast ...
Jan 28, 2010 ... 2nd Generation - 1998 eclipse reliability - Getting ready to possibly purchase a one owner 1998 eclipse with 136000 miles on it.
Other years of Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder
Are you having problems with your 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder?
Candelario Hill 2024-10-24
The Spyder is a fabulous driving machine! It feels great on the road and moves well. The only issue is that the nose hangs too low and scrapes everything. However, after 5 years with no issues, the convertible motor unfortunately died and needed to be replaced. Overall, I would still give it an A+!
Armani Denesik 2024-10-15
Hey there! I recently got my '98 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS-T and it's been a blast! I've had a lot of people asking for rides or drives since it's such a cool looking car. Although it's true that there's not much space in the backseat, it's perfect for carrying a passenger in the front seat. Plus, mine came with a loud blow-off valve which makes it even more fun to rev up! The only issue I've had so far is that I didn't get great gas mileage on my first tank, only about 160 miles on a full tank which is roughly 10 mpg. I'm not sure if it's my gas tank sensor or something else, but I'm definitely going to look into it. Overall, I'm really happy with my new ride!
Andre Schmeler 2024-08-18
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!
Nelson Wolf 2024-08-06
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.
Santos Russel 2024-04-04
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.