Mitsubishi / Eclipse / 2003
2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse problems
Owners have filed 158 complaints about the 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse with NHTSA. Structure accounts for 20.3% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of power train at 13.9%.
Complaints158
Crashes18
Fires8
Injuries15
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Structure 20.3% · 32
Power train 13.9% · 22
Visibility 7.6% · 12
Engine and engine cooling 7.6% · 12
Air bags 6.3% · 10
Tires 5.7% · 9
Unknown or other 5.1% · 8
Electrical system 4.4% · 7
Severity
Of those complaints, 18 describe a crash, 8 describe a fire and 15 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 10 model years of the Mitsubishi Eclipse in this data, 2003 sits 7th by complaint volume. 1995 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 4 in the last three years against 15 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 38,973 miles.
In owners' own words
Purchased brand new 2003 Eclipse in 2004. I am experiencing paint delamination and it's spreading rapidly. Went to the Mitsubishi dealer after finding out many others are experiencing this problem. They took pictures and said they will contact Mitsubishi. I was notified the next day that my car has been declined any help due to expiration in warranty. Structure · reported at 32,000 miles
I noticed recently that a section of the roof on my car was whitish in color. Quite apparent as my car is black in color. I have heard and read from many sources that this issue was prevalent in 2003 models and obviously mine is not exempt much to my disappointment. I hope that Mitsubishi steps up to the plate to correct this manufacturer defect. Structure · reported at 60,000 miles
I purchased a black 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse and the entire car looks terrible because of peeling paint and white spots all over it. I was told by an auto body specialist that it because of a clear coat failure. I have taken really good care of the car and it is garaged in the winter. Mitsubishi needs to take responsibility and repaint my car. Structure
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…