2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT review from North America
"Too many problems too soon!!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Glove box lock cylinder fell out after 2 years. Replaced under warranty.
Speaker grille rattles in the back seats.
Shake/shimmy in steering wheel while braking at 50+MPH after 16,000 miles.
Requires resurfacing of rotors and costs $150+. Not covered under warranty after 12,000 miles.
Bad strut at 16,000 miles. Dealer was very surprised to see this occur at such a low mileage. Replaced under warranty.
Immediately after my first fuel injector cleaning at the dealership which was recommended by them, experienced hard starting and hesitation on the first attempt. I had no problems like this before the cleaning. They said the battery was bad and replaced it. Problem resumed and took car back 3 more times in 1 month. Dealer could not duplicate and fix problem. There was nothing else they could do so I almost reported the car as a lemon. After 3 months and 2 bottles of STP fuel injector cleaner recommended by a friend, the problem was resolved.
Popping noises in front end while braking at 20,000+ miles. Dealer said two engine mounts were cracked in the front right side. They were replaced and noise resumed. Dealer said left front strut mount was dry and needed lubrication. Noise still resumes. Dealer said they checked all other possibilities including brakes and can't figure out problem. They stated they need more time so I'm bringing car back. Fortunately, I haven't had to pay for anything because I'm under warranty.
Squeal noises from the rear tires heard after 20,000 miles.
General comments?
Blind spots due to placement of pillars and spoiler.
This car handles well and quick. It has gotten me out of some close calls when other drivers have cut in front of me.
Engine revs too long before switching to first gear (automatic).
The cabin is bleak and cheaply made. It takes up too much room and leaves hardly any space for your legs.
The plastic material on the back of the seats scratch and scuff easily.
The front grille is too low and can't park in places with curbs without scratching it.
I haven't had any problems with A/C and heater so far.
It has a great sporty body design. The fins on the sides are a unique touch.
No major engine or transmission problems yet.
The seats are comfortable, but material is wearing already.
Recommended reviews
| Eclipse - Looks cool, but shoddy workmanship |
|
| A good looking problem |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 20000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 14th March, 2003 |