You’ll want to avoid the 2006-2009 fourth-generation Eclipse models, which suffered catastrophic brake system failures with 94 NHTSA complaints for 2006 alone, plus dangerous steering defects. The 2001 model logged 13 recalls and 315 complaints centered on transmission failures. Additionally, steer clear of the 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross—the 2018 saw 58,900 units recalled for HU-ECU software defects disabling emergency features, while 2019 models experienced persistent electronic malfunctions. Understanding the specific failure patterns across these problematic years will help you make a safer purchasing decision.
Early Fourth Generation Eclipse (2006-2009): A Cascade of Critical Safety Issues
The 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse stands out as one of the most problematic model years due to a series of catastrophic brake system failures that prompted multiple safety recalls. You’ll find the ABS hydraulic units are prone to internal corrosion, causing valves to seize during activation. This increases pedal stroke length and reduces braking effectiveness without warning, directly elevating crash risk. The 2006 models face an additional critical defect: faulty brake booster and master cylinder assemblies with compromised crimp joints that can separate, resulting in total brake system loss. Some drivers reported needing to depress the brake pedal multiple times before the system responded, with brake pressure loss occurring while driving. With 94 NHTSA complaints for 2006 models and 42 for 2009, these braking issues represent severe safety concerns. Similar to how Subaru faced class-action litigation over engine defects in their 2013 Outback models, the Eclipse’s brake failures led to significant owner complaints documented by federal safety regulators. Like the BMW M3’s tendency toward costly rod bearing failures, Eclipse owners should anticipate expensive repairs that can strain budgets beyond routine maintenance expectations. Mitsubishi initiated recalls beginning May 2005, offering free inspections and replacements through dealers.
The 2018 Eclipse Cross: First-Year Production Failures and Electrical Nightmares
While earlier Eclipse generations struggled with brake system failures, Mitsubishi’s 2018 Eclipse Cross introduced a completely different category of defects centered on software-controlled safety systems. You’ll find the HU-ECU software defect particularly concerning—it can reset during operation, disabling automatic emergency braking, ABS, and ESC functions. Mitsubishi recalled 58,900 units to address these safety system failures.
Beyond software issues, you’re facing significant engine performance problems. Owners report excessive oil consumption—up to 1 liter per 5,000 km—likely caused by faulty turbochargers and primitive oil ring design. This leads to clogged catalytic converters and sensor failures post-warranty.
The 2018 model required constant dealership visits for software updates, sound system malfunctions, and inadequate heater output. The corrected H/U-ECU software became available when the recall began on October 16, 2018. Experts universally recommend avoiding this rushed first-year production model.
Transmission and Engine Problems Plaguing Specific Eclipse Years
Among all Eclipse model years, the 2001 stands out as the most problematic, earning CarComplaints.com’s worst rating due to catastrophic transmission failures that left thousands of owners stranded. The NHTSA documented 13 recalls and 315 complaints, with investigations targeting transmission reliability and safety defects. You’ll encounter engine cutouts from melted wiring harness insulation contacting heat shields, directly affecting transmission control systems.
Manual transmissions from 1995–2008 suffer from synchronizer gear binding caused by burrs on splines, while clutch failures produce rattling noises requiring up to $111 in diagnostic fees. Automatic transmissions, particularly in GTS variants, experience wave spring failures that send metal fragments through valve bodies, causing complete transmission destruction. The 2003–2004 models demonstrate mis-shifting when warmed up, with jerking motions and unintended neutral activation compromising drivability. These early-generation transmission troubles mirror patterns seen in contemporary vehicles, where the first model iterations often experienced the most severe and costly failures. Similar to the Eclipse’s transmission woes, other manufacturers like Nissan faced class-action lawsuits over CVT defects in their 2013 Rogue models, highlighting industry-wide transmission reliability concerns during this era. Brake system failures were particularly prevalent between 2006 and 2009 models, with 170 complaints filed regarding faulty service brakes that exhibited spongy pedals and ABS malfunction.
Why the 2019 Eclipse Cross Still Deserves Caution
Despite Mitsubishi’s redesign efforts, the 2019 Eclipse Cross exhibits reliability issues that warrant serious consideration before purchase. You’ll face fuel gauge inaccuracies that leave drivers stranded without warning, forcing manual mileage tracking to prevent running out of gas. The collision mitigation system recall reveals software flaws causing prolonged braking, potentially increasing rear-end collision risk. Tech functionality issues plague the infotainment and Mitsubishi Connect systems, requiring repeated calibration and service visits. Consumer reports show divided reliability ratings, with early model “teething problems” affecting electronic components and driver aids. You’re also paying nearly $2,000 more than competitors without clear advantages. The vehicle’s lack of star ratings from safety agencies raises additional red flags for potential buyers evaluating crash protection. Without thorough recalls addressing these concerns, you’ll likely bear out-of-pocket repair costs while experiencing lower resale values than segment rivals.
Additional Mitsubishi Eclipse Model Years That Should Raise Red Flags
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse stands as the single worst model year in the nameplate’s history, accumulating 13 NHTSA safety recalls and 315 consumer complaints—more than any other Eclipse variant. Critical failures include wiring harness insulation melting against heat shields, causing engine stalling, and fuel tank defects creating puncture risks and potential fires. Transmission failures average $2,200 at just 82,000 miles.
The 1999 Eclipse presents severe Eclipse model problems with transmission repairs averaging $2,500 and clutch replacements costing $2,000 at only 62,000 miles—exceptionally low mileage for such expensive drivetrain failures.
Fourth-generation models (2006–2012) devastated Mitsubishi Eclipse reliability through performance downgrades: eliminating turbocharged engines, dropping AWD options, and offering only 150-162 hp base engines. These compromises triggered declining sales and eventual discontinuation. Owners also reported steering control loss during operation, creating dangerous driving conditions that further damaged the vehicle’s safety reputation. Multiple units were affected by airbag recalls, compounding the safety concerns that plagued these later Eclipse models. Similar to the Buick Enclave’s power steering problems, these steering defects significantly undermined consumer confidence in the Eclipse’s safety and reliability.
