2009 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.
Social links
Common 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Mitsubishi Eclipse 2009, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Problems:
- Owners have reported difficulty shifting gears in 1990 to 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse models, indicating potential transmission issues. This problem can significantly impact the driving experience and may require professional attention.
- Brake System Faults:
- The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse, known for its 2.4-liter base engine, has been associated with brake system problems. Issues with the brake system can compromise safety and driving performance, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and inspection.
- Weak Wheels:
- Weak wheels prone to bending have been identified as a common problem in the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This issue can affect the vehicle's stability and safety, emphasizing the need for proper care and potentially wheel replacements to ensure safe driving conditions.
- Engine Noise:
- High-pitched engine noise, particularly in V6 models, has been linked to the oil filter shield rubbing against the drive belt. This issue can lead to belt damage and affect the engine's performance, necessitating immediate attention and potential repairs.
- Coolant Leak:
- Mitsubishi Eclipse engines have been reported to have water pump issues leading to coolant leaks. Addressing coolant leaks promptly is crucial to prevent overheating and engine damage, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs.
- Oil Leaks:
- Oil leaks or seepage around the oil pan have been observed due to degraded liquid gasket material. Addressing oil leaks promptly is essential to prevent engine damage and maintain optimal performance, underscoring the significance of regular inspections and maintenance.
- ATF Leakage:
- Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) leakage, often caused by degraded transmission pan gasket material or axle seal issues, can lead to transmission problems. Timely detection and repair of ATF leaks are crucial to prevent transmission damage and ensure smooth operation of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by Mitsubishi Eclipse 2009 owners highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and attention to potential issues to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance 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.
What is the recall on the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
Recall Alert: 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 2007-2009 Eclipse...
- Vehicles Affected: Approximately 75,000 model-year 2006-09 Mitsubishi Eclipse sports cars manufactured April 20, 2005, to Feb. ...
- The Problem: Corrosion inside the antilock brake unit may cause one or more of the internal valves to seize.
Are Mitsubishi Eclipse expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost for a Mitsubishi is $535, which means it has above average ownership costs.
Is Mitsubishi Eclipse 1999 reliable?
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 ...
2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
- 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 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
Positive 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse car reviews
-
Awesome design, smooth powerful 4 cyl that gets good mileage, cool interior, great sound system...You must feel great driving this car! I store mine for the Winter, my 4X4 truck is needed here in Michigan's Winters
-
I am so glad to hear that your daughter and her passenger are okay after such a scary accident! It's amazing that they only walked away with minor scratches. It's great to know that the car you bought for its safety rating and airbags lived up to its reputation. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with Mitsubishi and their excellent car.
-
Great car! It handles like a much more expensive sports car with sporty styling. The acceleration is fantastic for a 4 cylinder and it truly makes for a fun drive. It's a 2 door hatchback that makes you excited to go anywhere. I couldn't be happier with it.
-
This vehicle is very comfortable and enjoyable for long distance driving. However, there are a couple of things to note. Firstly, even with the air temperature dial set to max cool, there is a significant amount of warm air coming in through the vent around the petals. This may be due to the outside air duct running close to the exhaust and picking up temperature from that. To avoid this, I engage the interior circulation mode, which eliminates the air flow. Secondly, the vehicle tends to oversteer or plow when making hard turns.
-
I've had this GS 2008 for about 3 years now and it's been a great, dependable car. I have no complaints at all and I'm really happy with my little baby, haha.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems:
2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems · Manual Transmission Shifting Difficulty · Airbags may not deploy as expected · Wheels may easily be bent or damaged.
GUIDE: Common Problems/Concerns | Mitsubishi Eclipse 4G Forums
Jan 26, 2012 ... GUIDE: Common Problems/Concerns · Concern: Rattle under vehicle. · Concern: Air Blower not working, no air coming out of vents. · Concern: Noise ...

What are the main problems with the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse? : r ...
Dec 22, 2022 ... I couldnt find much about it online so im wondering what the main issues owners of this car ran into and if theres anything i should know before ...
2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Q&A: 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS A/C Compressor & Evaporator ...
Jun 23, 2015 ... This is a pretty common failure point but is fairly easy/inexpensive to fix. So that I know the level of detail to provide, do you do your ...
Ethel Abbott 2025-02-19
I have driven 500 miles so far and have been impressed with the looks, handling, Fosgate sound system, tire quality, and interior design. However, I am disappointed with the noisy engine and lack of sound dampening. Perhaps this is why they offer a 650 watt stereo. Additionally, I dislike the fact that if you get a flat tire, you cannot use flatfix as it will interfere with the tire sensors. Furthermore, the electronic code for the key seems unnecessarily complicated and may lead to the need for assistance. Despite these issues, I remain confident in the overall quality of the vehicle.
Darrin Lockman 2024-10-19
Overall, I'm really pleased with this vehicle. While the interior could use a bit of sprucing up, it's generally fine. I particularly love the blue dash at night. The only real downside is that, for a small car, it's quite heavy and has a turning radius more akin to a Super Duty Pickup. So, be sure to give yourself plenty of room when trying to fit into a parking space!