2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT review from North America
"Overall, great all around car with good looks, but have some money if you keep it beyond 120k miles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The radiator blew at about 105,000 miles for no apparent reason.
The mass airflow sensor failed and had to be replaced at about 100,000 miles - a few hundred dollars.
I had to replace the front right wheel hub/bearing assembly at 128,000 miles.
At about 130,000 miles, the hood latch cable snapped and cost $200 to fix. (this can be prevented by lubricating the latch assembly every now and then ;)
Watch out for potholes because they will destroy the 17" alloy rims and you'll be pulling a few hundred out of your pocket to replace those.
Make sure that if you're replacing your brake rotors yourself, to match them up exact because it seems some of the after-market rotors for this car are thicker than they originals.
As a reminder, you are supposed to replace the timing belt at 100,000 miles and this is an interference engine so if the belt breaks during operation, you're screwed. I've made it to 132,000 miles without a new one so far (about $800 to get it changed at the dealer) but I don't feel good about it.
General comments?
The interior is very nice and surprisingly comfortable. I'm 6'2 and, with the exception of a somewhat difficult entry, have enough room. Back seat is rather small, but if you want a big back seat, this is the wrong car to begin with. With the V6 and a manual transmission, it is indeed quick and a pleasure to drive in most conditions. It has about zero traction in snow, but I suppose that's expected. Handling is reasonable for being one of the heavier cars in it's class. Better tires certainly wouldn't hurt.
The upgraded Infinity sound system is actually pretty good in this car unlike some of Mitsubishi's other vehicles.
Recommended reviews
| A terrific bargain, but not quite a racer; it can be with a little help |
| Patience and a bad memory help me be a semi-satisfied customer. |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2000 |
| Year of manufacture | 2000 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 SOHC V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 32 miles |
| Most recent distance | 131254 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Grand Am |
| Date of Entry | 19th March, 2006 |