Mitsubishi Eclipse ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (1990–2011)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Mitsubishi Eclipse we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Eclipse across generations.
Average Score
70/100
Best Year
2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Score 78
Weakest Year
1991 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Score 62
Every Mitsubishi Eclipse Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A fun, affordable coupe that requires careful consideration and a proactive maintenance approach to avoid significant headaches.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Rust & Corrosion · Electrical System
A stylish coupe that offers a spirited drive, but demands a vigilant eye on its electrical system and suspension to avoid escalating repair bills.
Top risks: Electrical System · Suspension & Steering · Engine (V6 only)
A stylish, often overlooked coupe offering good value, but requires careful inspection for common electrical and corrosion issues.
Top risks: Electrical System · Body/Corrosion · Suspension Components
A fun, affordable coupe with a solid powertrain, but expect to address common suspension and electrical upkeep.
Top risks: Suspension & Steering Components · Electrical Systems (Minor) · Automatic Transmission (V6)
A mechanically sound but aging sport compact with a few electrical quirks and suspension concerns, demanding diligent pre-purchase inspection.
Top risks: Electrical System · Suspension & Steering Components · HVAC System
A fun, aging coupe that requires diligent attention to specific maintenance items to avoid moderate-to-major repair costs.
Top risks: Engine (V6 Timing Belt) · Exhaust System / Emissions · Suspension & Steering Components
A potent, stylish classic that rewards enthusiasts with deep pockets or strong DIY skills, but can punish the unwary.
Top risks: Engine (4G63T Turbo) · Structural Rust & Corrosion · Electrical System
A fun, stylish coupe that requires a committed owner willing to address its known mechanical and electrical weaknesses.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Electrical System · Suspension Components
A stylish, fun-to-drive coupe that can be a solid performer with a manual transmission, but the automatic is a deal-breaker for long-term peace of mind.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Rust and Corrosion · Engine Oil Leaks & Sensors
A high-reward, high-maintenance classic that demands informed ownership to truly enjoy.
Top risks: Engine (4G63T) · Body/Structure Corrosion · Electrical System
A high-risk, high-reward classic that demands a committed owner and diligent maintenance.
Top risks: Engine (4G63T) - Thrust Bearing/Crankwalk · Electrical System · Turbocharger & Boost System
A beloved classic that delivers driving thrills, but requires a diligent mechanic or enthusiast owner to avoid major financial pitfalls.
Top risks: Structural Rust & Corrosion · Automatic Transmission Failure · 4G63 Engine 'Crankwalk'
A beloved cult classic demanding a dedicated owner and a healthy maintenance budget.
Top risks: Engine (4G63 Turbo) · Automatic Transmission · Rust and Corrosion
A head-turning, fun-to-drive coupe, but be prepared for its unique maintenance demands and potential costly repairs.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine (4G63T only) · Electrical System
A stylish, affordable coupe with a major Achilles' heel in its automatic transmission; manual is paramount.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Body & Chassis Rust · Electrical System
A stylish, budget-friendly coupe that demands careful scrutiny of its automatic transmission and V6 engine history before purchase.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · V6 Engine (6G72) · Electrical System
A fun, affordable coupe held back by an often-fragile automatic transmission and critical maintenance needs.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine Timing Belt · Catalytic Converter
A cult classic that can be a rewarding project or a money pit, entirely dependent on prior care and your willingness to invest.
Top risks: Engine (2.0L Turbo 4G63) · Electrical System · Rust and Corrosion
A high-risk, high-reward proposition best suited for the mechanically savvy enthusiast.
Top risks: Engine (4G63T Turbo) · Rust & Body Corrosion · Electrical System
An iconic '90s sports coupe offering exhilarating performance, but prepare for consistent maintenance and potential system overhauls due to age and design complexities.
Top risks: Turbocharger & Associated Systems (4G63T) · Rust and Body Corrosion · Electrical System Degradation
A fun, affordable classic for the enthusiast, but be prepared to address its specific, age-related vulnerabilities.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Engine (4G63T) · Rust & Body Corrosion
A fun, affordable coupe, but the automatic transmission is a looming financial hazard.
Top risks: Automatic Transmission · Rust and Corrosion · Electrical System
Problems That Follow the Eclipse Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Electrical System
Appears in 14 model years · 64% of generations
Automatic Transmission
Appears in 10 model years · 45% of generations
Rust and Corrosion
Appears in 4 model years · 18% of generations
Suspension & Steering Components
Appears in 3 model years · 14% of generations
Engine (4G63T)
Appears in 2 model years · 9% of generations
Engine (4G63T Turbo)
Appears in 2 model years · 9% of generations
Structural Rust & Corrosion
Appears in 2 model years · 9% of generations
Rust & Body Corrosion
Appears in 2 model years · 9% of generations