2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse Problems & Reliability

Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! If you’re cruising down memory lane or just happen to be a fan of early 2000s rides, you’ve probably come across the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse. This sporty little number was quite the head-turner back in the day, with its sleek design and promise of a thrilling drive. But like any car that’s been around the block a few times, it’s not without its quirks and issues. In this post, we’re diving into the common problems that owners have faced with the 2000 Eclipse and taking a closer look at its overall reliability. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about its legacy, we’ve got you covered. Now, let’s be real—no car is perfect, and the 2000 Eclipse is no exception. From transmission troubles to electrical gremlins, this model has had its fair share of challenges. But don’t let that scare you off just yet! We’ll also explore how these issues stack up against the car’s performance and longevity. After all, some Eclipse owners swear by their trusty rides, claiming that with a little TLC, this car can still deliver a fun and reliable driving experience. So buckle up as we navigate the ups and downs of the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse, and see if this classic coupe still holds its charm in today’s world.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • The Sunroof May Become Stuck Closed or Have Difficulty Moving

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse seems to have a bit of a hiccup with its sunroof, which might get stuck closed or have trouble moving. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for everyone, it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you’re considering this car, especially if you love cruising with the sunroof open. Overall, it’s a small issue in the grand scheme of things, but worth checking out if you’re eyeing an Eclipse from this year.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Manual Transmission Shifting Difficulty

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has been known to have some issues with manual transmission shifting difficulty. Drivers have reported problems with gears not engaging smoothly, which can be frustrating and impact the overall driving experience. While not every Eclipse owner experiences this, its something to keep in mind if youre considering this model.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Rattle Noise From Clutch

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse is known to have a few issues, with one of the more common complaints being a rattle noise from the clutch. This problem can be annoying and might indicate wear or a need for adjustment, but it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker for the car’s overall reliability. Many owners find that with regular maintenance, the Eclipse can still be a dependable ride despite this quirk.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Brake Pedal Pulsation

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has been known to experience brake pedal pulsation, which can be a bit annoying and might indicate issues with the brake rotors or pads. While this problem doesn’t necessarily mean the car is unreliable, it’s something to keep an eye on, especially if you notice it getting worse over time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the braking system in good shape and ensure a smoother driving experience.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Charging system may stop working due to fuseable link

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a known issue with its charging system, which can stop working due to a fusible link problem. This can be a bit of a headache since it affects the car’s ability to maintain battery charge, potentially leaving you stranded. While it’s not the most common issue, it’s definitely something to keep an eye on if you’re driving or considering buying this model.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Airbags may not deploy as expected

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has had some issues with airbags not deploying as expected, which is definitely a concern when it comes to safety. While this problem might not affect every vehicle, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering buying one. Overall, it’s important to weigh this potential risk against other factors like performance and maintenance history when assessing the car’s reliability.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Wheels may easily be bent or damaged

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse seems to have some issues with the wheels, as they can easily be bent or damaged. This could be a concern if you’re planning to drive on rough roads or hit a lot of potholes. Overall, while the car might have some cool features, you might want to keep an eye on those wheels to avoid unexpected repairs.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Body Prone to Rust From Road Salt

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a known issue with the body being prone to rust, especially in areas where road salt is commonly used. This can be a significant concern for long-term durability and maintenance, as rust can lead to more serious structural problems if not addressed promptly. Overall, while the Eclipse might offer a fun driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of this rust issue and consider regular inspections and treatments to prevent it.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • The front lower ball jount may fail

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a known issue with the front lower ball joint potentially failing, which can be a significant concern for drivers. This problem might affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, especially if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and inspections can help mitigate this issue and keep the Eclipse running smoothly.

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Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Fluid Leak From Suspension Strut

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse has been known to experience fluid leaks from the suspension strut, which can be a sign of wear and tear over time. This issue might affect the overall reliability of the vehicle’s suspension system, potentially leading to a less smooth ride and the need for repairs. If you’re considering this model, it’s a good idea to have the suspension checked out to avoid any surprises down the road.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Vibration from clutch when starting out from a stop

Analysis:

The 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse is known to have some issues with clutch vibration when starting from a stop, which can be a bit annoying for drivers. This problem might indicate wear and tear on the clutch components or a need for adjustment, but it’s not uncommon for a car of this age. Overall, while the Eclipse has its quirks, many owners find it to be a reliable ride with regular maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Driveline vibration

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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