2005 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 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2005 is known for its impressive performance and stylish design, but like any vehicle, it has some common problems reported by its owners. Here are the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Oxygen Sensor Failure: A few owners have experienced issues with their oxygen sensors, which can lead to poor fuel efficiency and reduced engine performance. Replacing the faulty sensor should resolve this issue.
- Heat Shield Rusting: Some owners have reported that the heat shield on the catalytic converter has rusted, causing parts of it to hang. This issue may not affect the vehicle's performance directly, but it can lead to noise and other inconveniences.
- Limited Aftermarket Support: While the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2005 has decent aftermarket support, some owners have reported that certain parts are hard to find or expensive. This can make it challenging to customize or repair the vehicle.
- Big People Unfriendly: Some taller individuals have reported that the Eclipse Spyder is not very comfortable for them, especially during long drives. This is mainly due to the limited legroom and headroom in the cabin.
- Rough Idle: Some owners have reported that their Eclipse Spyder has a rough idle, which can be caused by various issues, such as a dirty throttle body, faulty spark plugs, or a vacuum leak.
- Electrical Issues: A few owners have experienced electrical problems, such as malfunctioning sensors, blown fuses, and intermittent warning lights. These issues can be challenging to diagnose and may require professional assistance.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported transmission problems, such as slipping, jerking, or hesitation during shifts. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, or a faulty transmission control module.
- Body Rust: Some Eclipse Spyder owners have reported issues with body rust, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels. This issue can be caused by exposure to road salt, moisture, and other environmental factors.
- Noise and Vibration: Some owners have reported noise and vibration issues, such as rattling, squeaking, or humming sounds coming from various parts of the vehicle. These issues can be caused by loose components, worn-out bushings, or other mechanical problems.
In summary, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2005 has several common problems, including engine issues, oxygen sensor failure, heat shield rusting, limited aftermarket support, and discomfort for taller individuals. However, many owners have reported that they love their Eclipse Spyder and have had few or no issues with their vehicles. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems and ensure the longevity and reliability of the Eclipse Spyder.
Is the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder a good car?
Eclipse Spyder Convertible is So Much Fun
This is my second Spyder and I have loved them both. Best convertible for the price. And the V6 in this little car makes it so much fun to drive. This car is reliable and solid, the perfect car for those lazy spring and summer days (or is that daze)!!!!
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.
How much horsepower does a 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder have?
142 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Used 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.4 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 142 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Child seat problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4A3AE75H65E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The electrical burn up completely causing a fire
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-04
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,CHILD SEAT
- Summary: MY COMPLAINT IS//// IF THIS COUNTRY REALLY NEEDS TO FIND A METHOD OF BUYING LESS OIL FROM ABROAD "WHY NOT RAISE THE LEGAL DRIVING AGE TO 18 YEARS OLD. UST THINK OF HOW GAS WOULD BE SAVED IF WE DID NOT HAVE THESE RECKLESS KIDS OF TODAY RACING AROUND WITH THEIR LOUD MUFFLERS AND BOOM BOXES.BESIDES ALL OF THE ACCIDENTS THESE "KIDS CAUSE. *AK
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2000-2005 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 5, 1999, to December 17, 2004, 2001-2005 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured January 19, 2000, to March 18, 2005, 2001-2005 Chrysler Sebring vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
- Manufacturer: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN WILL MAIL A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION LETTER CONTAINING A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION AND A GRAPHIC OF THE BI-LINGUAL DASHBOARD AIR BAG WARNING LABEL. IN ADDITION, ALL CURRENT 2000-2004 NATIVA OWNERS WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG ALERT LABELS FOR THE SUN VISORS. THIS RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH OR APRIL 2005. THE NOTIFICATION TO THE NATIVA OWNERS IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL OR MAY 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
Negative 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
Positive 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
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Contrary to Edmunds' review, this car is a blend of sport and practicality. It handles reasonably well, especially after replacing the Goodyear RSA tires with Toyo Proxes 4. Its fuel economy is good, and the styling both inside and out is great, making it an easy car to live with. The top and windows go down with one push of a button, and the exhaust note is sporty. While it's not super fast, it does have great torque and goes when you need it to. It's also not bad in the snow. The body integrity is much better than the Chrysler Sebring or Mustang that I've had. It has some trade-offs as an all-out sports car, but what you get is a tight car with decent handling and acceleration, good looks, space for an occasional passenger, and good quality. I highly recommend this car.
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I'm so glad to hear that you love the car!
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This car is a great value for the money. The seats are luxurious and comparable to those in much more expensive cars I have owned. The stereo is great and the car has ample power with a smooth transmission. Although it is a little slow out of the blocks and has a not-so-tight turning radius, it is extremely dependable and there is minimal wind sound. The top is easy to use with a glass window that has a defroster. Overall, this car is a great combination of luxury, dependability, and ease of use.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with a car I bought used in 2009 with 83k miles on it. Since then, I've put 59k miles on it and I'm happy to say that I've never had a single issue with it. I've only needed to do general maintenance, and it's been a reliable car for me. Unfortunately, it was involved in a wreck in September 2017 when it had 170k miles on it, but even then, the only thing I had replaced was the MAF. I loved that car until the very end, and now I have a 2009 Spider. I'm hoping for the same level of dependability with this one too!
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There is nothing about this car that is bad. The style, interior, and power top are all great. I can't say enough good things about this car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems:
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
Top 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems · The Sunroof May Become Stuck Closed or Have Difficulty Moving · Manual Transmission Shifting Difficulty · Rattle Noise From ...
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 ...
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Feb 15, 2023 ... I know it's high mileage but the seller says no problem with it and swears by it so I want to go and see the car.
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Mar 29, 2021 ... For a good condition '05 gts spyder with only minor cosmetic imperfections and to my knowledge no mechanical issues, with a functioning and well ...
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May 2, 2015 ... This is a mitsubishi eclipse 2003 gt v6. Okay I been having problems with my vehicle and my last guess is either - Answered by a verified ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder
Are you having problems with your 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder?
Sheridan Orn 2025-03-13
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your second Eclipse! Despite some negative experiences with your previous Eclipse, it's great to hear that this one has been treating you well. The exterior style of the Eclipse is definitely above par for its class, and it's wonderful to hear that the car handles and performs well. It's true that there may be other cars in its class that perform slightly better, but the Eclipse is still a great option in its price range, especially considering that it offers a convertible without looking like a car built for your grandparents. Overall, it sounds like the Eclipse is a fun, affordable, and reliable car, which is all that really matters. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Bennie Fritsch 2024-10-13
Hello there! Thank you for considering this car. I just wanted to share some of my experiences with it. I did encounter some transmission troubles within the first 13,000 miles, but the dealership was able to fix it after 6 months. At 35,000 miles, I had to replace the transmission completely due to metal shards in the fluid. Additionally, at 45,000 miles, I noticed some shaking and took it in for a brake job. The dealer said it was just the rotors and that I would be good for a few months before needing any work. However, two weeks later, I was on interstate 95 and had some issues with the brakes. I was able to make it to the dealer using the e-brake. They recommended a new caliper for $850. If you're interested in this car, I would highly recommend purchasing a big warranty. Thank you!
Carlos Reilly 2024-10-06
I have experienced several issues with this car, including problems with the antenna, a loose seat, and chipping paint on the hood. Despite multiple visits to the service department, these issues have persisted. As a loyal Mitsubishi customer, I am disappointed with the quality of this vehicle and it is unlikely that I will purchase another one in the future.
Trenton Hagenes 2024-08-17
This car has had several issues, including a faulty fuel pump, malfunctioning lock, stuck seatbelts, and a problematic passenger seat. Despite our efforts to have it fixed, the acceleration issue persists. Additionally, the car lacks sufficient trunk space and backseat room, making it uncomfortable for passengers. The air conditioner has also required recharging. It is worth noting that the car's design does not include a front grill, which can lead to debris entering the engine. Overall, these issues have been frustrating, but we remain confident that they can be resolved with the right expertise and attention.
Julio Pacocha 2024-02-29
I have owned two Eclipse Spyders and unfortunately, I cannot recommend them. My first car had constant mechanical issues and I thought it was a lemon. However, my second Eclipse is experiencing the same problems. In my experience, I would advise against purchasing an Eclipse Spyder as they have been nothing but trouble.