2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems
Based on the information provided in the search results, here is a list of common problems with the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse reported by owners:
- Sunroof Issues: Some 2002 to 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse models experienced problems with the sunroof getting stuck, potentially leading to water entering the cabin and damaging electrical components. This issue could result in costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
- Manual Transmission Problems: Owners have reported issues with the manual transmission of the Mitsubishi Eclipse. Transmission problems can lead to difficulties in shifting gears, affecting the overall driving experience and potentially requiring expensive repairs.
- Brake System Faults: The brake system in the Mitsubishi Eclipse has been identified as a common problem. Brake issues can compromise the safety of the vehicle, leading to concerns about stopping power and overall braking performance.
- Weak Wheels: Weak wheels prone to bending have been highlighted as a common problem in the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This issue can impact the vehicle's stability and safety, especially during driving conditions that require robust wheel performance.
- Timing Belt Concerns: The timing belt in the Mitsubishi Eclipse is another area of concern. If not replaced in a timely manner, a failing timing belt can lead to significant engine damage, including bent valves, which can be a costly repair.
- Rust and Corrosion: Some owners have reported premature rusting issues with the Mitsubishi Eclipse, which can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle. Rust problems can escalate over time, leading to safety hazards and costly repairs to address the corrosion.
- Electrical Component Damage: Water ingress through the sunroof or other areas can damage the car's electrical components, causing malfunctions and potentially leading to more extensive issues if not resolved promptly.
These common problems with the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse highlight various areas of concern that owners have experienced. Addressing these issues promptly through regular maintenance and timely repairs can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. The car also scored well with EveryAuto users.
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 engine of Mitsubishi Eclipse?
"A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers every Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. With only 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, its performance isn't as sporty as the “Eclipse” name implies. However, it's adequate for city driving. A CVT transmission and all-wheel drive come standard."
Is the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse fast?
Combine this added power with a five-speed manual transmission, and the Eclipse spanks its donor vehicle with a 6.9-second 0-60-mph time. That's not as fast as the quickest Eclipse ('95 GS-T) we tested at 6.4 seconds, but with its broader power delivery, most drivers will likely find it to be the superior engine.
2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mitsubishi Eclipse problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Wheels problems
- Structure problems
- Tires problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
The NHTSA has received 104 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vehicles.
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-09
- VIN: 4A3AE85H52E
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. The contact stated while driving 25-30 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power inadvertently. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact also stated that while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle instead started reversing unintendedly. The contact stated that he turned off and restarted the vehicle and continued driving. The vehicle was taken to a local Pep Boys, where it was diagnosed that the power train needed to be reprogrammed and other repairs needed to be completed. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the steering wheel was locked and the brake pedal was firm. The traction control and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was not drivable. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-15
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG6CR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON REFUELING THE VEHICLE, FUEL LEAKED OUT THROUGH THE FUEL NECK DUE TO RUST. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-29
- VIN: 4A3AC54H52E
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE. WHILE IN PARK, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THERE WERE MULTIPLE FRACTURES ACROSS THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4A3AE45G12E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAUGHT FIRE OVER NIGHT WHILE PARKED IN MY DRIVE WAY. WOKE UP THE FOLLOWING MORNING TO FIND THE DASH BOARD MELTED, WINDOWS SMOKED OUT, FRONT WINDSHIELD CRACKED AND DRIVER SIDE DOOR BURNT. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-31
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD ON MY 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CRACKED SEVERAL YEARS AGO. I HAD NO IDEA WHAT HAD HAPPENED, AS I WAS NOT INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. I HAD ASSUMED THAT IT POSSIBLY GOT TOO HOT FROM THE SUN ONE DAY. I WAS APPALLED TO HEAR THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. PARTS OF A CAR SHOULD NOT BREAK IN TWO OR THREE PIECES. MITSUBISHI SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR ISSUES. I HAVE TO TAKE A BITE IN THE VALUE OF THE VEHICLE, THE FUNDS SHOULD COME OUT OF MITSUBISHI'S POCKET, NOT MINE! I ALSO AM HAVING ISSUES WITH THE PAINT ON THE SPOILER. THE PAINT HAS STRANGELY DISAPPEARED AND THE PART HAS TURNED WHITE. IT'S WEIRD! AGAIN, I FEEL THAT IF MITSUBISHI HAD A PROBLEM WITH THEIR PAINT JOBS, THEY SHOULD FIX THEM! *JS
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-24
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A BABY TREND CHILD RESTRAINT SEAT, MODEL NUMBER: TJ94128 (NA), AND MANUFACTURED JULY 7, 2012. THE CHILD SEAT WAS BEING USED IN A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHILD SEAT LOWER LATCH CONNECTOR FAILED TO LOCK DURING THE INSTALLATION OF THE BASE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHILD SEAT WOULD BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE INFORMATION WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-21
- VIN: 4A3AC34G02E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY LEFT TURNING SIGNAL WOULD NOT RETURN TO THE OFF POSITION AFTER TURNING AND THEN OUT OF THE SUDDEN MY HEADLIGHTS ON HIGH BEAM WOULD STAY ON PERMANENTLY, LOW BEAMS WOULD NOT START . MY TURNING SIGNAL STOP WORKING AND NOW MY CAR WONT START. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-11
- VIN: 4A3AC54H02E
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION STOPS FUNCTIONING DUE TO WAVE/CUSHION SPRING FAILURE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-16
- VIN: 4A3AC44G42E
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WE WERE DRIVING AND CAR JUST DIED. BUT IT STILL WANTED TO START JUST ACTED LIKE DIDN'T HAVE GAS. TO BUT WE JUST FILLED UP. SO WE FIGURED FUEL PUMP. REPLACED IT AND NOTHING STILL SO THEN WE CALL A DEALER AND HE SAYS MOST COMMON THING THAT HAPPENS IN THESE CARS IS COMPUTER GETS FRIED. *JS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-22
- VIN: 4A3AC54HX2E
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING NORTHBOUND ON 95 IN VIRGINIA (ABOUT 20 MINS OUTSIDE OF RICHMOND) MY 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE'S ACCELERATOR BECAME STUCK. THE CAR ENDED UP OVERHEATING AND THE BRAKES FAILED (THE FRONT DRIVER ROTOR ACTUALLY RIPPED APART) BEFORE I PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4A3AE45G52E
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE APPROACHED AN INTERSECTION DRIVING 15 MPH WHEN HE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN HIM. BOTH VEHICLES WERE INOPERABLE AND WERE TOWED FROM THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED THREE CRACKED RIBS AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. THE POLICE WERE ALSO CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,500. MITSUBISHI WAS CALLED WITH SAME INFO. UPDATED 11/03/2011 *LN *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-16
- VIN: 4A3AC54H32E
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER CHECKING OUT SERVICE ENGINE CODES P0456 AND P0457 (EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM LEAK DETECTED) I FOUND THE FUEL FILLER NECK TUBE AND ALL VENT LINES TOTALLY CORRODED THROUGH. THE VEHICLE IS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE AND THIS ASSEMBLY IS LOCATED IN THE REAR RIGHT SIDE WHEEL WELL. DRIVING AREA IS THE NORTHEAST AND FOUND SAND AND DEBRIS PACKED ALL AROUND ASSEMBLY WHERE TUBES MAKE A 90 DEGREE TURN THROUGH A SUPPORT/PROTECTIVE BRACKET. I REPAIRED WITH A NEW FUEL NECK ASSEMBLY (PART NO. MR73836) PURCHASED FROM A LOCAL DEALERSHIP AT A COST OF $200 FOR PARTS ONLY. NO FUEL HAD YET LEAKED OUT BUT WOULD HAVE IN A SHORT TIME IF THIS PART WAS NOT REPLACED. DEALER STATED THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT RECALLED FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT OTHER MITSUBISHI MODELS AROUND THIS SAME YEAR HAD BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS SAME CONDITION. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-15
- VIN: 4A3AC44G32E
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 2002 ECLIPSE COUPE, OK THIS IS A MAJOR PROMBLEM, HOPE SOMEONE WILL LISTEN THE WHEELS (RIMS) CRACK ON THESE CARS "CHEAP" BOTH FRONT WHEELS AND DRIVERS SIDE BACK WHEEL. IF YOU HIT A POTHOLE YOUR GONNA PURCHASE NEW WHEELS. I AM A SINGLE MOM MY KIDS RIDE IN THIS CAR. MANY OTHERS HAVE "COMPLAINED" DO SOMETHING BEFORE YOU ARE SCRAPPING CHILDREN OFF THE EXPRESSWAY.....THESE WHEELS ON THE 2002 ECLIPSE ARE DANGEROUS AND EXPENSIVE TO KEEP REPLACING I CAN NOT AFFORD IT,, *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-05
- VIN: 4A3AE85H72E
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS, TIRE BEGAN LOSING AIR. TOOK TO THE TIRE DEALER AND NO TIRE PROBLEM WAS FOUND. TWO WEEKS LATER TIRE WOULD HOLD NO AIR, RETURNED TO THE TIRE DEALER AND THEY FOUND THAT THE WHEEL WAS CRACKED AND WOULD NOT ALLOW THE TIRE TO HOLD AIR. I HAD TO PURCHASE A NEW WHEEL AND A NEW TIRE SINCE RIDING ON LOW / NO AIR DAMAGED THE TIRE. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-01
- VIN: 4A3AC84H12E
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RIMS WERE BENDING ABNORMALLY AND CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO SHAKE EXCESSIVELY. THE RIMS WERE REPLACED FOUR TIMES TO NO AVAIL. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE MANUFACTURER BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 116,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 05/03/11*LJ
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-10
- VIN: 4A3AE85H72E
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH THE DRIVER OBSERVED THAT THE DASHBOARD COVER SUSTAINED EXCESSIVE CRACKS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT; HOWEVER, THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED DUE TO THE UNAVAILABILITY AND UNCERTAINTY OF THE PART. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4A3AE45G92E
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER CONVERTIBLE. THE VEHICLE EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND THE DRIVER WAS KILLED AS A RESULT. THE CONTACT WAS NOT GIVEN A DIAGNOSIS AS TO WHAT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO EXPLODE. A POLICE REPORT IS AVAILABLE IF NEEDED. THE MITSUBISHI MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 1/28/10 *CN THE CONSUMER NOR THE DECEDENT HER HUSBAND OWNED THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER HUSBAND DIED TRYING TO HELP THE OTHER OCCUPANT WHO DID OWN THE VEHICLE THAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, THE VEHICLE RAN OFF THE ROADWAY ON THE LEFT INTO THE MEDIAN. THE VEHICLE THEN RE-ENTERED THE ROADWAY AND RAN OFF THE ROADWAY ON THE LEFT A SECOND TIME. THE VEHICLE STRUCK THE MEDIAN BARRIER CABLE FACE AND A BRIDGE PIER. THE VEHICLE THEN CAME TO REST IN THE MEDIAN FACING NORTH AFTER THE COLLISION. UPDATED 02/03/10
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-01
- VIN: 4A3AC44G92E
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THERE IS A MAJOR DEFECT IN THE DASHBOARDS OF MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE'S (YEARS 2000-05). THE DASHBOARD WILL CRACK AS THE CAR HITS UNEVEN ROAD SUCH ASH POT HOLES. IN THE HEAT AND COLD ALTHOUGH COVERED AND PROTECTED FRO DIRECT SUNLIGHT THE DASH WILL EXPAND AND RETRACT IN SIZE CREATING SMALL FRACTURES THAT CAN CRACK. ONCE THE CRACKS BECOME LARGE ENOUGH PIECES WILL EITHER FLY OUT TOWARDS THE DRIVER OR FALL INTO THE HEATING AND COOLING DUCTS CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE CARS BLOWER MOTOR. IT IS ALSO POSSIBLE FOR PIECES OF THE DASHBOARD TO SHATTER AROUND THE PASSENGER AIRBAG DURING A COLLISION CAUSING FATAL DAMAGE TO THE PASSENGERS OR DRIVER. THIS IS NOT A CASE BY CASE BASIS BUT ON EVERY 2000-05 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE I HAVE COME ACROSS. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-05
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE THE LIFTBACK DOOR SUDDENLY FELL. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE LIFTBACK DETACHED FROM THE LEFT PISTON AND VIOLENTLY SLAMMED SHUT. THE PISTON ASSEMBLY HAD TO BE WELDED BACK INTO PLACE. *JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-04
- VIN: 4A3AC54H42E
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I BOUGHT A BLACK 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE IN 2004. THE PAINT JOB SEEMED FINE BUT SOON I REALIZED THAT MY PAINT IS DISSOLVING OFF MY CAR! THE CLEAR COAT IS ALMOST COMPLETELY GONE AND I AM AFRAID MY CAR WILL SOON START TO RUST. I HAVE SEEN MANY OTHER BLACK ECLIPSES WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THAT THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT APPLY THE BLACK PAINT OR THE CLEAR COAT CORRECTLY ON THE BLACK 2002 ECLIPSES. I FEEL LIKE THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY DID NOT MAKE THEIR PRODUCT TO LAST. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-01
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WAS CRACKED. MY TIRE WOULD SLOWLY DEFLATE SO I PURCHASED A NEW TIRE THINKING THIS WAS THE PROBLEM. THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS, MY TIRE CONTINUED TO LOOSE AIR. SO I WENT BACK TO TIRE COMPANY AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT IS WAS NOT THE TIRE BUT A CRACK IN THE RIM. SO I PURCHASED A NEW WHEEL AND NOW AFTER A FEW MONTHS I HAVE A BENT RIM. THESE WHEELS ARE VERY EXPENSIVE AND I CANNOT AFFORD TO CONTINUE PURCHASING NEW WHEELS IF THIS CONTINUES TO HAPPEN. I WOULD JUST PURCHASED A WHOLE NEW DIFFERENT SET OF WHEELS IF I HAD THE FUNDS AVAILABLE, WHICH I DO NOT. *TR
STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-02
- VIN: 4A3AC44G72E
- Components: STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: I HAVE A BLACK I GUESS YOU CAN CALL IT BLACK AND WHITE 2002 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE. THE CLEAR COAT IT COMPLETELY OFF AND THE BLACK PAINT IS JUST ABOUT GONE. I HAVE RUST SPOTS COMING THROUGH NOW. IT FIRST STARTED ON THE HOOD ABOUT A YEAR AGO AND NOW IT IS EVERYWHERE. I ALSO HAD TO REPLACE TWO OF MY RIMS BECAUSE THEY WERE BENT. NOW I HAVE A SHIMMY IN MY STEERING WHEEL WHEN I GET UP TO 65MPH THIS STARTED ABOUT A YEAR AGO ALSO. I HAVE GOTTEN NEW TIRES AND RIMS ON IT HOPING THAT WOULD HELP THE PROBLEM BUT IT IS JUST AS BAD AS IT WAS LAST YEAR. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: AFTER HAVING MY CAR WASHED AND DETAILED IN LATE MAY OF 2008, I NOTICED A WHITE DETERIORATION OF PAINT ON THE HOOD. OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS THE DAMAGE HAS SPREAD OVER THE HOOD AND THE TRUNK OF THE VEHICLE LIKE A FUNGUS. I RECENTLY WENT ONLINE TO RESEARCH THE PROBLEM AND DISCOVERED HUNDREDS OF MITSUBISHI OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS. MOST HAVE STATED THAT MITSUBISHI HAS BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM AND WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DEFECT AS THE CAR IS "NO LONGER UNDER THE 36 MONTH WARRANTY PERIOD". MANY OF THE COMPLAINTS HAVE NOTED THE COST OF REPAIR AS HIGH AS $3,500 - 9,000 TO REPAINT THE CAR. TO REPAIR THE CAR COULD BE MORE THAN THE KELLEY BLUE BOOK VALUE FOR SOME OWNERS. I HAVE FOUND NO INFORMATION AS TO WHETHER OR NOT A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT HAS BEEN FILED, HOWEVER, A GENTLEMAN IN PA IS ORGANIZING CONSUMERS TO INITIATE A CASE. THERE ARE SEVERAL WEBSITES THAT HAVE BEEN CREATED (IE: DEADECLIPSE.COM; MITSUBISHISUCKS.COM) AS A FORUM FOR HUNDREDS OF DISSATISFIED CUSTOMERS TO VOICE THEIR DISAPPOINTMENT WITH THE COMPANY/PRODUCT. IT SEEMS UNUSUAL THAT WITH HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS CIRCULATING ABOUT THE MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT (CLEAR COAT PAINT) ON MANY OF ITS MODELS, THE NHTSA HAS NO RECORD OF INVESTIGATION OR RECALLS. PLEASE CONSIDER THIS A FORMAL COMPLAINT AND INITIATE A FORMAL INVESTIGATION. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU. PLEASE CONTACT ME AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THANK YOU. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A BLACK, 2002 MITSUBISHI, ECLIPSE GT AND THE PAINT IS COMING OFF. THE ROOF AND THE HOOD PAINT IS ALMOST DOWN TO THE BASE METAL. I HAVE ALSO SEEN OTHER ECLIPSE WITH THE SAME ISSUE. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-06
- VIN: 4A3AC44G62E
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THAT I'VE HAD TO REPLACE MY RIM DUE TO THE LIP BENDING BACK CAUSING THE TIRE TO DEFLATE. BOTH TIMES IT WAS ON THE FRONT TIRE. LOOKING AT ALL THE OTHER COMPLAINTS THIS IS A COMMON DEFECT WITH THE MITSUBISHI RIMS WHICH RESULTS IN DECREASED STEERING CONTROL AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESS BEFORE SOMEONE GETS SERIOUSLY INJURED. *TR
2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
- 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: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- 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 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
Positive 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
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The bang for the buck with this car is unbeatable! You get a 3.0 lt V6 and a unique, eye-catching design for 20Gs. When I drive my car home after work, I forget about my daily stress and have some fun.
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The car that I bought is a light blue color. Whenever I drive by a mall or a public place, people always turn to look. The interior is great because it is very unique, and I have made a few adjustments. I have also made different modifications to the engine.
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My 02' Eclipse is a joy to drive. It handles well in all types of weather, definitely drives like a sports car, gets great gas mileage, and looks great as well. There have been no repairs required to any working parts, just regular maintenance. It looks good, feels great, and is priced right for anyone. There is plenty of room for luggage as well.
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This is our second Mitsubishi. The first one was a Diamanta. We got a GT with a manual transmission (which is a must to experience the full power of the V-6) and the premium package. I love the sport leather seats and dashboard design. However, it's important to note that this is a two-person car only; the back seat is way too small for anyone who is not in a car seat. I do think that Mitsubishi should do something about their lifters, as they tend to go bad after 70k (right after your powertrain warranty runs out) and your tight ride starts smoking. You can count on this - just ask any long-term owner of a Mitsubishi. Overall, it's a very, very, very fun car to drive!
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Congratulations on your new 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT! It's great to hear that you already love it. The car looks amazing, and it's no surprise that people on the street are commenting on it and watching it drive away. The interior is also impressive, with its leather and design. While the controls could be improved, it's important to remember that appearance isn't everything. This car has a lot of power and is incredibly fun to drive. It easily outperforms most other cars, although it does have a slight impact on fuel economy. While it's true that Mitsubishi makes these cars cheaply, it's still a great choice. Although the previous owner had to replace the clutch, I still highly recommend it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems:
2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Major transmission problem | Mitsubishi Eclipse 3G Club
Dec 29, 2014 ... I have a 2002 mitsubishi eclipse GT v6 It is all stock and has about 125k miles. ... My guess would be wave spring too,as that is a common issue.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Questions - 2002 mitsubishi eclipse - CarGurus
Feb 9, 2012 ... Are there any common problems with the car that you know of? 0 person thinks this is helpful. 199,645. dandyoun. 12 years ago. Best Answer.
Q&A: 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS - New Belts & Air Conditioning ...
Nov 8, 2010 ... The other common issues are even the compressor clutch seizing or alternator bearing seizing causing this issue. This is not hard to diagnose.
2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Reliability - Consumer Reports
No Detailed Data Available. Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire that is sent to subscribers. In the questionnaire, we ask ...
Buck Hegmann 2024-08-27
I also own a 2002 Acura RSX, as well as my Eclipse. Although I loved the car at first, I feel that it needs a lot of improvements. Compared to the RSX, it has less torque and comfort. However, to my surprise, I loved the factory radio as it sounds great. The Eclipse has a lot of extra room that could have been avoided. After driving the RSX and then getting into my Eclipse, I noticed that it is a rough ride.
Cullen Yundt 2024-08-11
The car performs exceptionally well. However, there have been some issues with the interior, such as cigarette plugs pulling out, seatback adjusters giving out, and window motors falling apart. Despite these challenges, we have had the car serviced under warranty multiple times. Overall, I am confident in the car's performance and capabilities.
Alexzander Russel 2024-04-28
When I hit a guard rail at 65 MPH head on, no airbags deployed. This was due to the lack of sensors in the car, which I discovered after researching the issue. As a result of this experience, I have decided not to purchase a Mitsubishi again.
Miles Quitzon 2024-02-20
I rent cars frequently for business purposes and had the opportunity to try out this car. I was initially excited to see it available as it is quite attractive. The shiftable automatic was fun to use at first, but I eventually stuck to the automatic mode. The 4 cylinder model was not very quick and the quality of the car left something to be desired. Unfortunately, both latches for the trunk cover broke after only a couple of weeks. The ergonomics were also not a high point. In conclusion, if you're looking for a stylish car at an affordable price, this is a great option. However, if you're looking for a reliable everyday car, you may want to consider something else.
Roy Howe 2024-01-16
I bought this car because it looked sporty but not the sports car price. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with my purchase. The 5-speed is fun to drive, but that's about it. After only a couple of weeks, the supports on the trunk lid broke and wouldn't hold it up. Then, the rear wheel bushings went bad almost immediately. It seems like this car may not be very reliable. Additionally, it took 3 months to get the warranty work done.