Faults:

I purchased my 97 Eclipse-GS used from the dealership. The only problem that I had after owning the first year, was that the #2 spark plug wire went bad. Once that happened, the car would start and idle for about 3 minutes, and then would die. That happened at around 60,000 miles, and since the timing belt was to be replaced, I had it towed to the shop, and that's when they figured out what the issue was. That cost me $150.

Between 60,000 to 150,000 miles, I replaced serpentine belts, timing belt, water pump. Replaced brake pads, plugs and oil changes; all general maintenance stuff that I can do myself. No major issues with the car. The car is still running strong.

At about 150,000 miles, I had the clutch replaced, master clutch cylinder.

At about 190,000 miles, the power steering pump pulley somehow warped just a tad, so the belt would make this loud chirping noise. I just went on ebay, and got a used power steering pump, and it solved the problem.

Sunroof seal finally failed. 200,000 miles.

At 230,000 miles, the head gasket was pretty worn I would say. The engine started leaking oil from the back of the motor. My mechanic suggested that the head be re-torqued, and that somewhat solved the problem.

In between the 230,000 miles to the current 485,000, I replaced all brake rotors twice, the O2 sensor, the EGR valve, valve cover gasket twice, shocks and struts twice.

At 420,000 miles, the rack and pinion went out. I didn't realize this until it was too late. Power steering fluid would last about a week, then I would hear the moan, it needs more fluid. Once this happens, just replace the rack-in pinion. I learned the hard way, and had to drive the car without power steering for a whole year.

At 470,000 miles, I finally had my mechanic replace the motor.

General Comments:

The car is very reliable. Best car I have ever owned.

Long trips in this car will feel like you just got beat up. It's a comfy ride within city limits. Anything over a 5 hour drive will make you feel like you just went through a wringer. Car is good for people under 5'8"; any taller, and the ride in the car is not comfy.

Horsepower is not much at 140 hp stock. But with an additional after market exhaust and cat-back system installed, the car jumps up another 10 hp.

Without the front upper and rear upper strut bar, the car does not corner well. Invest in the $80 dollars, and have these installed. You won't believe how the car handles after putting these in. The car will corner on a rail.

Faults:

Power steering pump @ 45000.

CV output seal @ 140000.

Headliner coming down since 2002.

General Comments:

Nice everyday driving vehicle, it's quick, reliable and great on gas. Looks good in any color, but not great with wide tires.

Faults:

Where to begin... I have had the car for 8 months now and this is the list of things that has went wrong.

Valve cover gasket.

Oil pan gasket.

Oil sending unit.

Thermostat.

Flywheel.

Rear main seal.

Alternator.

Alterantor bracket.

Temperature sending unit.

Wheel bearing.

Motor mount.

Rotors.

Head gasket.

Headliner is falling.

A/c condenser coil is bad but I have not had a chance to replace due to other repairs!

Went through 3 alternator belts in 3 months.

It also shakes after around 65 mph...don't know why.

I have put over 1k in the car in alittle over 6 months!

I put less than 3k miles on it.

General Comments:

It is very fun to drive when it is actually running.

I put a cold air intake and exhaust on it to give it some extra boost.

I really like the car but I just can't afford it anymore! I will NEVER buy mitsu or dodge (this car comes with a lot of dodge parts on it). Go with something else before you buy this crap!