Is the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross reliable?

It’s generally considered average for the compact SUV class, with good results for owners who keep up with CVT fluid service and routine maintenance, but it has some recurring complaints around infotainment and CVT drivability.

What are the most common 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross problems?

Frequently reported issues include CVT hesitation/shudder feel, infotainment/Bluetooth glitches, brake noise or quicker wear, and interior rattles or higher road noise.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2018 Eclipse Cross?

Costs are typically moderate for the segment; the biggest factor is staying current on CVT service and using the correct fluids, plus budgeting for tires and brakes like any compact SUV.

What are the best years to buy for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

Many shoppers prefer later model years after early production updates, but a well-maintained 2018 can still be a good buy if service records are strong and common issues have been addressed.

What should I check before buying a used 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

Test drive for CVT shudder or hesitation, verify CVT fluid/service history, confirm all infotainment features work (Bluetooth, camera, touchscreen), inspect tires for uneven wear (especially on AWD), and check for brake noise or steering vibration. For deeper ownership confidence, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the exact maintenance schedules to follow for long-term reliability.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

82/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: B

A practical, value-driven compact SUV offering commendable reliability, provided you address its initial model year quirks.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:software.
Outscores the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (moderate severity).

Should You Buy the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross offers a compelling blend of value, standard AWD, and generally robust mechanicals, making it a smart buy for the budget-conscious. While its first model year presented some minor electrical and CVT software quirks, these are largely manageable, positioning it as a surprisingly dependable choice in the compact SUV segment.

Biggest Strengths

Reliable 1.5L turbocharged engine
Standard Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system
Solid chassis and suspension components

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)moderate

Infotainment and Electricalminor

Brake System Wearminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Outlander Sport, 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross, and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system that detects pedestrians. Due to incorrect software, the FCM-ECU (Electronic Control Unit) may apply braking for longer than needed, even after a pedestrian is no longer detected.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vehicles equipped with a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system and 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Eclipse Cross vehicles and 2017-2018 Outlander vehicles equipped with an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system and/or an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system. The software for the Hydraulic Unit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may be incorrect, possibly preventing the intervention of a safety system such as automatic emergency braking, Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), or the Brake Auto Hold (BAH) function when any of these systems are in use.

What breaks on the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Click any year for its full report.

All Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross years ranked →Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross years to avoid →Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross common problems →

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