Avoid: 2003, 2001, 2000 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2011 (few owner reports)
12 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 14 model years, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has 1,897 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 95 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are service brakes and wheels. 2001 drew the most complaints (316), 2005 the fewest (6).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mitsubishi Eclipse vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $5,249–$9,194.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 | 42 |
| 2008 | 71 |
| 2007 | 107 |
| 2006 | 99 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2004 | 14 |
| 2003 | 166 |
| 2002 | 104 |
| 2001 | 316 |
| 2000 | 314 |
| 1999 | 138 |
| 1998 | 161 |
| 1997 | 170 |
| 1996 | 189 |
Highest: 2001 (316 complaints). Lowest: 2005 (6).
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and model type.
Frequently cited, especially in reviews and for FWD models.
Shared concern with other Mitsubishi/Nissan models, with a noted class action lawsuit regarding premature failure.
Noted as a significant drawback affecting drivability.
Mentioned as a negative point.
Due to rear window design.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Eclipse. Individual model years are broken down above.
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