2005 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 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2005, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Wiring Issues:
- Wiring problems have been highlighted by some owners, indicating potential electrical issues that may affect the car's performance and functionality.
- Water Pump Concerns:
- Some complaints mention problems related to the water pump, which is crucial for the cooling system of the vehicle. Issues with the water pump can lead to overheating and engine damage.
- Coolant or Antifreeze Leaks:
- Owners have reported coolant or antifreeze leaks, which can result in engine overheating and potential damage if not addressed promptly.
- Check Engine Light:
- The illumination of the check engine light has been a common complaint, indicating underlying issues that need to be diagnosed and resolved to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle.
- Jerking/Hesitation:
- Some owners have experienced jerking or hesitation while driving, which could be indicative of transmission or engine-related issues that require attention to prevent further damage.
These problems with the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2005 can vary in severity and impact on the vehicle's performance and safety. Addressing these issues promptly through professional diagnosis and repair is essential to maintain the car's reliability and longevity.
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 engine is in a 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
The 2005 Eclipse GT features a 3.0-liter, SOHC, 24-valve V6 engine that produces 200 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 205 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The cast-iron block with aluminum head V6 delivers linear power throughout its rev range for quick, smooth and consistent acceleration.
What are the most common problems with the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
According to repairpal.com, the most common issues drivers experience when using Mitsubishi Eclipse Crosses include but are unlimited to:
- Rattling noises from the clutch.
- Difficulty shifting the manual transmission.
- Brake pedal pulses.
- The exterior door handle breaking.
- Airbags not deploying as they are expected to.
2005 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-01
- VIN: 4A3AE75H35E
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN USING AIR CONDITIONING THE WATER COMES IN SIDE MY FRONT FLOOR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4A3AC44G65E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THERE WAS A BURNING ODOR AND A STREAM OF SMOKE EMITTING FROM INSIDE THE PASSENGER DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4A3AC44G85E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: IN THE MORNING, I DROVE THIS MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE 2005 TO WORK(35 MILES AWAY FROM HOME), IT WAS OK. AFTER WORK, I DROVE BACK TO MY HOUSE, ENTERED OUR GARAGE, I GOT OFF THE CAR, I SAW A SMALL FIRE ON THE RIGHT FRONT LIGHTING PLACE, THEN I QUICKLY BACKED MY CAR OUT OF THE GARAGE, THE FIRE WAS GETTING BIGGER AND BIGGER, MY WIFE AND I USE A LOT OF WATER TO PUT THE FIRE OUT... THIS FIRE BURNED OUT THE FRONT LIGHT, BULB, SOME WIRE, AND SMALL PIECE OF RIGHT FRONT BUMPER... THEN I TRIED THIS CAR AGAIN, I COULD DRIVE IT, BUT IT HAS NO TURNING SIGNAL. I DROVE THIS CAR TO 2 DIFFERENT CAR SHOPS, ONE IS A LOCAL CAR SHOP, THEY WORKED ON MY CAR FOR 1 MONTH, BUT THEY COULD NOT FIX IT. THEN I DROVE THIS CAR TO A MITSUBISHI DEALER, THEY WORKED ON MY CAR FOR 2 MONTHS, THEY COULD NOT FIGURE OUT THE EXACT PROBLEM... RIGHT NOW THIS CAR IS STILL WITH NO TURNING SIGNAL, AND I CAN'T DRIVE IT. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: THE RIMS ON THE 2001 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE DENT EASILY AND THE TIRES BLOW OUT OR LOSE PRESSURE AS A RESULT OF NORMAL WEAR AND DRIVING. NORMAL POTHOLES AND BUMPS ARE ENOUGH TO CAUSE DAMAGE. I HAD A BLOWOUT YESTERDAY JANUARY 15TH, 2005. I HAVE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED 2 RIMS AND 3 TIRES AS A RESULT OF THIS. ALL FOUR RIMS ARE CURRENTLY DENTED AS A RESULT OF THIS ISSUE. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL RETAILERS ARE ALL UNWILLING TO REPLACE THEM WITH THE IMPROVED RIMS ON THE 2002 AND LATER MODELS. *NM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- VIN: 4A3AC44G65E
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: MY VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC DOOR LOCKS. I NOTICED THAT IF I CLOSE THE DOOR, LOCK THE DOOR, AND THEN TRY TO START THE CAR... IT WON'T. I HAVE TO UNLOCK THE DOORS BEFORE IT WILL START. *AK ON MY WAY TO WORK THIS MORNING, IN STOPPED, RUSH-HOUR TRAFFIC, I STALLED MY VEHICLE. WHEN I TRIED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, THE STARTER WOULD NOT ENGAGE. KNOWING THAT THERE IS AN IGNITION IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM, I FIGURED THAT I WAS FIGHTING THAT. ALSO, I FIGURED I THAT I MAY NEED TO UNLOCK THE DOORS BEFORE THE VEHICLE WOULD START. SO... I UNLOCKED THE DOORS... NO START... REMOVED AND RE-INSERTED THE KEY... NO START... I OPENED AND CLOSED THE DOOR, REMOVED & RE-INSERTED THE KEY... NO START... I FIDDLED AROUND WITH VARIOUS SEQUENCES OF KEY, LOCKS, AND DOORS, AND FINALLY THE VEHICLE STARTED. MEANWHILE, I WAS HOLDING UP TRAFFIC. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT SEQUENCE FINALLY ALLOWED THE VEHICLE TO START. NOT BEING ABLE TO RESTART A STALLED VEHICLE IN TRAFFIC IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. IF I HAD STALLED IN FRONT OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC, I WOULD BE IN SERIOUS TROUBLE. THIS NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-28
- VIN: 4A3AC44G65E
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING HOME IN MY BRAND NEW 2005 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE, THE ELECTRIC DOOR LOCKS SUDDENLY UNLOCKED. THINKING I MUST HAVE RESTED MY ARM ON THE DOOR LOCK BUTTON, I SIMPLY RELOCKED THE DOORS. FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER, THE DOORS UNLOCKED AGAIN. THAT EVENING, I READ ABOUT THE CAR'S FEATURE THAT WILL UNLOCK THE DOORS IF IT THINKS YOU MAY HAVE LOCKED THE KEYS INSIDE. SO, THE NEXT DAY, WHEN I GOT INTO THE CAR, I WAS CAREFUL TO LOCK THE DOORS AFTER THE DOORS WERE CLOSED. THEN, I INSERTED THE KEY INTO THE IGNITION. BUT, AFTER ABOUT 10 OR 15 MINUTES, THE DOORS UNLOCKED AS I DROVE ON THE FREEWAY. THE NEXT DAY, I TOOK THE NEW (1 WEEK OLD) CAR TO THE DEALER. FIRST, THEY LOOKED THIS PROBLEM UP ON THE COMPUTER AND DIDN'T FIND ANYTHING. THEY TRIED TO REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM, BUT COULDN'T. THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY CLEANED SOME CONNECTIONS, BUT DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THE PROBLEM. AFTER 3 HOURS, I DROVE THE CAR HOME. I DON'T HAVE A WARM & FUZZY FEELING ABOUT THIS. WHAT IF MY DOORS DECIDE TO UNLOCK WHILE MY CAR IS PARKED? NOT GOOD. *JB
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2005 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: MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: MITSUBISHI IS RECALLING 45,988 MY 2005-2007 ENDEAVOR, GALANT, ECLIPSE COUPE, AND MY 2007 ECLIPSE SPYDER VEHICLES. THE BRACKET THAT IS THE ATTACHMENT POINT FOR THE LEFT REAR FUEL TANK MOUNTING STRAP MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY FORMED DURING A METAL STAMPING PROCESS. THE PROCESS MAY HAVE CAUSED THE METAL TO HAVE A SPLIT IN THE AREA WHERE THE BOLT THAT HOLDS ONE OF THE TWO FUEL TANK STRAPS TO THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE IS LOCATED. IN THE EVENT THE FUEL TANK IS FULL AND THE VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO A SEVERE COLLISION, THE BRACKET MAY BREAK AND ALLOW THE FUEL TANK TO DROP DOWN, POSSIBLY CAUSING A FUEL LEAK.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE IF THE LEFT REAR FUEL TANK STRAP MOUNTING BRACKET HAS SPLITTING BEYOND A SPECIFIC LIMIT. VEHICLES WITH MODERATE TO SEVERE SPLITTING WILL BE REPAIRED USING A REINFORCEMENT CAP, A SPECIAL STRUCTURAL ADHESIVE, AND A RIVET TO REINFORCE THE FUEL TANK MOUNTING BRACKET. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
- 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 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
Positive 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
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I've had my Eclipse GTS for over a month and I have to say, I love getting in it every day. This car is really fantastic! It's extremely agile and handles like it's on rails. The power curve is amazing and it's loaded with a lot of low-end torque. Brilliant!
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This is my fourth car with a Mitsubishi engine. The first was a Dodge Shadow, then came a Plymouth Laser, then my first Eclipse (a turbo), and finally my current 6 cylinder Eclipse. These cars are incredibly reliable and the Eclipses are an absolute blast to drive. The only thing that could use some improvement is the stereo system.
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Congratulations on your new Eclipse Remix Edition! Eclipses are known for their great handling, reliability, and fun driving experience. It's great to hear that your previous Eclipse served you well for 150K+ miles over 9 years without any issues. The 2005 model seems to be even better built and comes with an excellent warranty. The Remix Edition is a great value for the money, especially with the option package. As a female driver, you'll appreciate the perfect comfort fit size of the Eclipse. The interior is also well put together compared to the previous body style. It's important to note that regular scheduled maintenance and parts replacement are necessary for any Eclipse, but as long as you handle these tasks responsibly, you'll continue to enjoy your Eclipse for years to come!
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I've always been a Mitsubishi fan and I really wish they still made the 3000GT- that was one hell of a car. I've had my Eclipse for less than six months and it survived the winter with no problems, which is great for a sports car. Mitsubishi offers one of the best warranties around, which is perfect for someone like me who is a broke college student. :)
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I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and driving maneuverability of this car. I am very happy with my purchase.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems:
2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
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Justyn Daugherty 2024-11-11
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your Eclipse! It sounds like you've had some experience with this model, having owned two since 2001. From your description, it seems like this car strikes a great balance between fun and practicality. The leather seats and roomy interior certainly add to the comfort factor. While it may not fit the strict definition of a 'Sports Car', it definitely has a sporty feel to it. It's great to hear that Mitsubishi has improved their build quality since the '90s, and that this Eclipse feels solid and reliable. The 5-speed models sound like they're easy to drive, with a forgiving clutch. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this car!