2008 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 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2008 has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is transmission problems, particularly difficulty shifting gears. This issue is believed to be caused by the binding of the synchronizer gear to the gear surface, resulting in the spline and grooves on the main shaft of the synchronizer assembly developing burrs that cause difficult shifting. To address this issue, owners can try adding a special friction modifier to the manual transmission fluid or installing a revised synchronizer kit. It is recommended to hire a mechanic to inspect the transmission system before ordering a replacement, with a general diagnosis costing around $88 to $111.
Another common problem with the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2008 is clutch problems. This issue is particularly prevalent in 1995 to 2008 models, with some RepairPal users reporting rattle noises when the car is idle. This may indicate a bad clutch pressure plate, which can be identified by a creaking noise when pressing down on the clutch pedal. If the pressure plate is in good condition, the spring alignment in the clutch disc may need to be checked for wear. Transmission problems are not limited to the Mitsubishi Eclipse, with the faulty continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross being a notable example.
The sunroof in some 2002 to 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse models, including the Spyder, may become stuck. Some owners have managed to open their sunroofs by pushing the sunroof cover forward. While some believe the problem is caused by a faulty motor, others do not, as their sunroofs can still operate. A RepairPal user with a 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse, for example, does not believe the problem is caused by a faulty motor.
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse has the most overall complaints, with the most-reported problem being transmission failure. The average cost to fix this issue is $2,200, with an average mileage of 82,000 mi. Other common problems with the Mitsubishi Eclipse include engine noise, valve/lifter knocking/tapping, water leaks, and coolant leaks.
In summary, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2008 has several common problems, including transmission and clutch issues, sunroof malfunctions, and engine and coolant leaks. It is recommended to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
Is a 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder a good car?
Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse a good car? Yes it is a good car. Typically the best models if you want something fast out of the box will be the 4th gen GT eclipses with the 260+ hp V6. The 4th gen Eclipses are also generally the most reliable.
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.
What is the recall on the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Recalls
Due to corrosion inside the antil-lock brake system (ABS) unit, one or more of the internal valves may seize. In a braking event that uses the ABS, a seized valve would increase brake pedal travel and reduce braking ability.
2008 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-11
- VIN: 4A3AL25F88E
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH, the rear window of the convertible exploded: projecting shattered pieces of glass all the way to the dashboard. The contact was able to continue driving. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-13
- VIN: 4a3al25f38e
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: There is a constant loud beeping when the concerable top is closes as well as indicator light flashing that the conversation able top is unlocked and hen it is. Upon more research almost everyone with this vehicle has this issue and it's a very expensive fix.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4A3AL35T08E
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SYPDER GT. CONSUMER STATED THAT THEY LOST POWER AND CONTROL WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER WAS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF THE 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SYPDER GT, AUTOMIBLE MANUFACTURER, DISTRIBUTOR, SERVICE CENTER, AND THE CRASH. THE CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO THE CRASH, THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE DUE TO NOT HAVING THE PROPER EQUIPMENT. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN INOPERABLE SINCE THE CRASH.
WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-31
- VIN: 4A3AL25F58E
- Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE USED IN 2008, AFTER DRIVING FOR A WEEK OR 2 I NOTICE THE TIRES WERE LOOSING AIR. I AM CONSTANTLY FILLING THE TIRES WITH AIR EVERY 2 TO 3 DAYS. I HAVE TAKEN THIS VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND 2 OTHER SHOPS FOR A DIAGNOSIS AND THEY SAID IT WAS THE TIRES, I REPLACED THE TIRES AND I STILL HAVE THIS ISSUE, SO I KNOW ITS MORE THAN THE TIRES (ITS PROBABLY THE WHEEL ELEMENT DAMAGED OR SOMETHING). THE LIGHT TIRE LIGHTS TURNS ON CONSTANTLY AND ON SEVERAL INSTANCES THE CAR WOULD SHAKE HEAVILY. MOST OF THE SHAKING IS EXPERIENCED WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THIS ISSUE IS SO BAD, I BARELY RIDE THE VEHICLE AND WHEN I DO, I DO NOT TAKE IT FAR DUE TO THE AIR PRESSURE ISSUE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4A3AL35T28E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: CAR WILL STOP WHEN BREAK IS APPLIED
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4A3AL25F38E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V337000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,031.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-22
- VIN: 4A3AL25F88E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V337000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-17
- VIN: 4A3AL25F18E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: SR15-004 RECEIVED RECALL LETTER IN JULY 2015. NO ADDITIONAL FOLLOWUP OR REPAIR. HAVE CONTACTED MITSUBISHI AND THEY SAY PART NOT AVAILABLE. HOW COULD HYDRAULIC FLUID NOT BE AVAILABLE? HAVE HAD ISSUES WITH BRAKES EARLY 2015 FOR ANTILOCK AT 5 MPG. ALL BRAKE LIGHTS REMAINED ON FOR TWO DAYSWITH CONCERN FOR TOTAL BRAJE FAILURE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-14
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STRUCK AN ICE PATCH AND STARTED SWERVING. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THERE WAS NO RESPONSE AND THE BRAKES FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 61,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-06
- VIN: 4A3AL25F98E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE REQUIRED A LONGER STOPPING DISTANCE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V337000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 03/18/16*LJ *CN
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-23
- VIN: 4A3AL25F78E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO STOP AND THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD HAVE TO BE PUMPED TO EFFECTIVELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE DEALER FOR THE INTERIM REPAIR UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V337000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER WAS TO INSPECT, CLEAN AND FLUSH THE ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT USING HIGH GRADE BRAKE FLUID ACCORDING TO THE RECALL REMEDY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-22
- VIN: 4A3AL25F48E
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V337000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO PROVIDE THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE AND AIR PRESSURE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,155.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-01
- VIN: 4A3AL35T78E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS/BRAKING ISSUES. TWO RELATED ISSUES. ISSUE NUMBER 1. THERE ARE 3 LIGHTS THAT ARE ILLUMINATING ON THE DASHBOARD CONTINUOUSLY UNDER ALL CIRCUMSTANCES (DRIVING, PARKING, BRAKING, IDLING, ETC. - THEY NEVER TURN OFF) THE LIGHTS ARE THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT, THE ABS LIGHT AND THE ICON OF A VEHICLE WITH SKID MARKS. ISSUE NUMBER 2- ADDITIONALLY, THE ABS SYSTEM TURNS ON WHILE BRAKING AND THE ABS BRAKING SYSTEM IS JIGGING THE BRAKE MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO BRAKE SAFELY. THIS HAPPENS WITH A FORWARD BRAKE, AND WITH BRAKING WHEN GOING INTO A TURN BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-21
- VIN: 4A3AK24F48E
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PLEASE VERIFY IF THIS VEHICLE HAS TAKATA AIRBAGS THAT ARE BEING RECALLED FOR SAFETY REASONS. IF THIS VEHICLE DOES HAVE THE TAKATA BAGS, WHAT PROCEDURE DO I FOLLOW WITH THE MITSUBISHI DEALERS TO CORRECT THIS SERIOUS PROBLEM. THANK YOU. S THOMPSON
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I HAVE A MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE AND IT KEPT GOING TO THE LEFT SIDE WHEN YOU DRIVE IT, EITHER IN TOWN OR ON THE HIGHWAY. IT START HAPPENING AFTER THE 2 MONTH FROM THE DAY I BOUGHT IT. THE DEALER SAID THEY FIXED THE PROBLEM BY MAKING AN ALIGNMENT, BUT THE SAME THINGS HAPPENED AFTER 2 MONTHS AND I WENT TO THE DEALER ABOUT THIS ISSUE ABOUT 4 TIMES IN 1 YEAR AND AFTER THAT THEY TOLD ME WE CAN'T DO ANYTHING IF THIS PROBLEM KEPT OCCURRING. SO I STOPPED GOING UNTIL A WEEK AGO I WAS IN CRASH BECAUSE THE CAR MOVED TO THE LEFT OF THE STREET AND I HIT A WALL. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- VIN: 4A3AL35T08E
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE VEHICLE HAS GOODYEAR EAGLE RS-A TIRES, SIZE P245/45R18. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN AUGUST OF 2007 AND BY DECEMBER OF THE SAME YEAR, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE RIPPED AT THE SEAM. A FEW MONTHS LATER, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH. IN JULY OF 2008, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE RIPPED. ON AUGUST 20, 2008, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE FAILED IN THE SAME MANNER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS UNABLE TO ASSIST AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO SPEAK WITH THE TECHNICIAN AT THE PLACE WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. ALL OF THE TIRES HAVE BEEN REPLACED EXCEPT FOR THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,583.
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 20, 2005, to February 13, 2009, and 2007-2009 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured December 23, 2005, to February 13, 2009. Due to corrosion inside the antil-lock brake system (ABS) unit, one or more of the internal valves may seize. In a braking event that uses the ABS, a seized valve would increase brake pedal travel and reduce braking ability.
- Consequence: A sudden reduction of braking performance may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, flush and clean the ABS hydraulic unit using high grade brake fluid, free of charge. If the inspection shows that the valves may seize, the ABS unit will be replaced. The recall began on July 21, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-004.
Negative 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
Positive 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder car reviews
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This car is so much fun! It has power and pizazz. After driving a Corolla for 12 years, I was looking for something different -- and I definitely found it!
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Congratulations on your new Mitsubishi! It's great to hear that you've had such positive experiences with this brand in the past. Your new 2007 GT convertible sounds like a fantastic choice, with its low mileage and stylish red and black design. I hope you have a wonderful time driving it this summer and making new memories. Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm for Mitsubishi with us!
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I own an Endevor and the quality of that made me look at the Spyder. I'm so glad I chose this car! The speed and handling are fantastic, and while it's not the most spacious car, it's perfect for me. Overall, I've had no problems with it. My wife loves driving it too, and my friends are always impressed with the sleek, sexy look and the amazing stereo. Plus, the convertible top drops down so smoothly and tucks away in the trunk.
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I've only had my '07 Eclipse for a little over a month, but I'm already blown away! The design is really nice, especially the back end. The front end could use a little spicing up, but that's just a minor detail. The interior design is nothing short of great, and the sound system is dynamic. The top is easy to open and close, and it tucks away seamlessly. Although the 4-cylinder leaves a little to be desired on power in takeoffs, I bought it for fuel economy, so the trade-off is more than okay. As a motorcycle rider, I can say that this car is just as much fun, and I don't even have to put my feet down at a stop sign!
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The 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is a great car! It's one of the best cars I've ever owned. Some of my colleagues have said that it's a car for girls, but I completely disagree. The only way I would consider it a 'female' car is if it were painted in a color like purple or pink.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder problems:
2007 Eclipse Spyder GS Convertible Top Issues | Mitsubishi Eclipse ...
May 7, 2021 ... My post was "How many and where are the safety sensors that stop a convertible top from opening on a 2008 eclipse spyder?" My convertible ...
I am thinking of buying a Mitsubishi eclipse gt 4g 2007. any common ...
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.
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Top 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems · The Sunroof May Become Stuck Closed or Have Difficulty Moving · Rattle Noise From Clutch · Exterior Door Handle May Break.
2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse: Life Expectancy, Reliability, and Mileage
Jun 13, 2012 ... All Eclipses from the factory are either GS (4 cylinder) or GT (V6), and then regionally they can make changes (typically SE, etc). The RS ...
Mitsubishi Eclipse Questions - Transmission Problems? - CarGurus
Aug 23, 2014 ... mitsubishi eclipse spyder gts common transmission problems. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse GTS. -. Maintenance & Repair. Transmission 1 Answer. 3 days ...
Other years of Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder
Are you having problems with your 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse spyder?
Justen Glover 2024-11-21
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my '07 Eclipse Spyder that I bought in June. It was great until I had an incident in September where one of the rear Bridgestone tires separated the tread at only 2,400 miles. It was quite scary, and I'm grateful that it wasn't on the front where I could have been injured. Unfortunately, when I went back to the dealer, they said it wasn't covered under warranty and directed me to Bridgestone. Although Bridgestone did replace the tire, they didn't cover the damaged rim. It's frustrating that Mitsubishi put defective tires on their new cars, and I wish the dealer had been more receptive to this dangerous condition. Despite this, I still love my vehicle, but I don't trust my life to the tires anymore. I've decided to use my own money to replace all four tires now. Thanks for listening to my story!