2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review
Price Estimate: $2,204 - $3,447





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Bigger engines, intriguing styling, newfound refinement.
Cons
- Moderate road noise, low-grade materials, no turbo motor, no ABS on GS.
What’s new
Mitsubishi's 2001 Eclipse Spyder is all-new inside and out and based on the recently redesigned Eclipse Coupe, embodying a youthful image and providing a sporty drive. But the turbocharged engine is no longer on the menu.
Edmunds says
Though more grown up and better equipped than the previous generation car, the current Eclipse lacks the spunky personality of its predecessor.
For sale near Columbus, GA
5 listings
- 138,082 miles
- 2 accidents, 6 owners, personal use only
- 6cyl manual
- Ramsey Corp (824 mi away)
- Rear Bench Seats
- Soft Top
- 2nd Row Bucket Seats
Close
Located in West Milford, NJ
RAMSEY CORP IS HOME OF AUTO LOAN SPECIALIST ! THIS VEHICLE COMES WITH A 3 MONTH WARRANTY EXTENDED WARRANTIES AVAILABLE. FAMILY OWNED, COMMERCIAL LENDI...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (17 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 4A3AE55H41E005298
Stock: 13833ABG
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-04-2025- 200,000 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, personal use only
- 4cyl manual
- Texas Auto Credit (1,259 mi away)
- Rear Bench Seats
- Soft Top
- 2nd Row Bucket Seats
Close
Located in El Paso, TX
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
23 Combined MPG (20 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 4A3AE35G41E004020
Stock: 004020
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Vehicle overview
Since 1996, the Eclipse Spyder has delivered edgy, top-down styling and inspiring performance at bargain prices. With a triple-layer power top and designer bodywork, the Spyder was an instant hit - selling at the rate of 1,000 units a month. The second-generation Spyder receives enhanced four-cylinder engine performance, a refined V6, sophisticated technology and a new image.
Mitsubishi calls the new Eclipse's styling "geo-mechanical," with a swell in the hood that rolls across the upper fenders, a lateral accent line and ribbed contours in its doors and front fascia.
Inside, styling is one part futuristic and two parts sporty with a dash of luxury sprinkled in. With a twin-cockpit design, the interior is symmetrical and functional, with some components appearing to be melded into the dash while others protrude aggressively. Materials include soft-touch appointments with titanium-finish details that look rather cheap.
The Spyder is offered in two trim levels -- GS and GT. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine found in the GS model now produces 147 horsepower. This six-horsepower gain over the 1999 model feels even more substantial because the power peak is 500 rpm lower in the rev range. The GT model comes equipped with a thoroughly responsive 3.0-liter V6 engine making 200 horsepower. The old Spyder's turbo engine has been dropped in favor of the more refined V6. Regardless of engine selection, a five-speed manual transmission is standard fare. For those desiring an automatic tranny, Mitsubishi offers a new four-speed Sportronic automanual transmission that allows drivers to change gears without using a clutch.
The 2001 Spyder also rides on a revised suspension, with large-diameter front struts, a strut tower brace and a multi-link rear suspension incorporating stronger tubular steel arms. A stiffer sub-frame and a longer wheelbase also debut. Safety improvements include front-seat force-limiter seatbelts and front seat-mounted side airbags that are optional on the GT model. Traction control is offered only on the GT with an automatic transmission, which leaves us wondering why it isn't available with the manual. And why can't buyers of the GS models get antilock brakes?
With all these improvements, the Spyder's value hasn't been lost. Standard equipment on every 2001 model includes power windows and door locks, an engine immobilizer and anti-theft system, microfiltered air conditioning, height-adjustable driver's seat, CD player, auto-off headlights, 16-inch wheels, cruise control, remote keyless entry, lumbar support, and dual accessory power outlets. Step up to the GT and receive the V6 engine, 17-inch wheels, improved brakes and wider tires.
Hardcore Eclipse fans will be upset that Mitsubishi has dropped the turbo this year, focusing instead on attracting middle-market buyers. There's certainly no denying the huge leap that Mitsubishi has taken with the 2001 Eclipse Spyder. From styling to drivetrain, the car is totally different from anything that's previously worn a "Spyder" badge.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Georgia
$156/mo for Eclipse Spyder GS
Eclipse Spyder GS
vs
$154/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Reliability
The 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 8 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
8 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 15V338000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- SR-15-005
- Manufactured from:
- 2005-03-18 to 2000-01-19
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 459618
- Defect Description:
- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2000-2005 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 5, 1999, to December 17, 2004, 2001-2005 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured January 19, 2000, to March 18, 2005, 2001-2005 Chrysler Sebring vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Corrective Action:
- MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
- Recall Number:
- 04V428000
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-07-01 to 2004-08-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 100432
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION.' THE BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH REMOVABLE AIR BAG WARNING LABELS AFFIXED TO THE DASH AND TO THE SUNVISOR DO NOT MEET THE SIZE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Corrective Action:
- MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN WILL MAIL A CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION LETTER CONTAINING A WRITTEN DESCRIPTION AND A GRAPHIC OF THE BI-LINGUAL DASHBOARD AIR BAG WARNING LABEL. IN ADDITION, ALL CURRENT 2000-2004 NATIVA OWNERS WILL ALSO RECEIVE REPLACEMENT AIR BAG ALERT LABELS FOR THE SUN VISORS. THIS RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH OR APRIL 2005. THE NOTIFICATION TO THE NATIVA OWNERS IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL OR MAY 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI CARIBBEAN AT 1-787-251-8715.
- Recall Number:
- 01V069000
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-02-20 to 2001-02-22
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 192
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A BULGE IN THE FUEL TANK CAUSED BY THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS RESULTED IN THINNING OF THE MATERIAL DURING A WELDING OPERATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Defect Consequence:
- FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 26, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
- Recall Number:
- 01V011001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-01-01 to 2001-01-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 277227
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. A HOSE WAS MIS-MANUFACTURED AND COULD WEAKEN OVER TIME, WHICH COULD RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID.
- Defect Consequence:
- FLUID LEAKAGE FROM THE COOLER HOSES CAN CAUSE TRANSAXLE DRIVEABILITY PROBLEMS AND SMOKE IF THE OIL CONTACTS THE FRONT EXHAUST PIPE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HOSE ASSEMBLY FOR THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER. OWNER NOTIFICATION MAILING WILL BE PHASED OVER A FIVE-MONTH PERIOD STARTING MARCH 26, THROUGH JULY 23, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
- Recall Number:
- 01V005001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-11-09 to 2000-11-09
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 47
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A NUMBER OF INCORRECT DRIVER SIDE SEAT MOUNTING BOLTS WERE INSTALLED INTO VEHICLES.
- Defect Consequence:
- THE REAR ANCHOR BOLTS SECURING THE DRIVER'S SEAT MAY NOT PROPERLY SECURE THE SEAT AND COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF DRIVER INJURY IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SEAT MOUNTING BOLTS AND THEN REPLACE THE BOLTS IF NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 15, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MITSUBISHI AT 1-800-222-0037.
- Recall Number:
- 00V320001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-08-09 to 2000-08-28
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 10510
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE OUTER LAYER ONLY OF THIS 3-LAYER FUEL RETURN HOSE DOES NOT CONTAIN THE DESIRED OZONE PROTECTION DUE TO A PROCESSING ERROR.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS HOSE IS CONSIDERED TO BE INADEQUATE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL RETURN HOSE.
- Recall Number:
- 00V299001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-05-03 to 2000-07-24
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 6037
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE HARNESS FOR THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH A NEW PROTECTIVE SHIELD CAUSING A GROUNDED CIRCUIT.
- Defect Consequence:
- PROLONGED WIRING HARNESS CONTACT WITH THE HEAT SHIELD WILL CAUSE THE WIRING INSULATION TO WEAR AND EVENTUALLY TO GROUND OUT. THIS COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO DIE-OUT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL RE-ROUTE THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR HARNESS.
- Recall Number:
- 00V225001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-01-01 to 2000-06-24
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 228294
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A NUT IN THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY WAS NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED, RESULTING IN SYMPTOMS RANGING FROM STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION TO STIFF STEERING, AND IN THE WORST CASE, NO ABILITY TO TURN LEFT.
- Defect Consequence:
- A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE VEHICLES AND REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY IF A LOOSE NUT CONNECTION IS FOUND.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 7 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
One powerfull Spyder
5 out of 5 stars#1Spyder, 09/27/2009
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
This is my first Mitsubishi - a 2001 eclipse spyder convertible and I couldn't ask for a nicer ride, with lots of power. I have done a few upgrades and wow!, this v6 kicks but, but you gotta do a couple of things to wake the motor up. My ride has about 300 foot pounds of torque. This car is like a dream to drive anywhere. With a sound system upgrade how could you not look an think wow a … performance sounding, stereo pounding, sleek styling car.
I love my little car
4.75 out of 5 starsmjstone323, 10/19/2010
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
I bought this car because I wanted something that wasn't falling apart - I had driven beaters my entire life and I just wanted something nice. Bonus for the convertible top! And it's got a pretty comfortable back seat - hard to find that in a convertible. I have only had to make minor repairs in the 5 years I've had it. It's just a wonderful car, so much fun to drive, and I get a lot of … compliments. I would recommend it to anyone.
01Spyder
4.88 out of 5 starsINMichael, 03/27/2002
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
My only complaints are, the center counsole doesn't lock, so you can't keep anything vauleable in it if you park it with the top down, and with the top up it creates really bad blind spots.
Fun Ride
4.75 out of 5 starschicubsgal31, 10/24/2006
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
I have had this car for almost a year now and have had no problems whatsoever. It is very fun in the summer, but able to keep warm in the winter as well. Leather seats a must with the convertible. I drive back and forth from home to school, a 200 mile drive, every weekend and it handles great on the interstates.
2001 Eclipse Spyder Highlights
GS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,407 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $156/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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