This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse powertrain problems
moderate 5 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
When does it fail?
Of the 5 powertrain complaints filed for the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 19 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This is a service newsletter (Tech Talk) that was sent out to dealers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
Re Mitsubishi eclipse, 2006, 8,000+ miles. With no prior signs or odors, rpms fluctuated in 5th gear at 65 MPH reduced to 30 MPH. Vehicle was pulled over and then would not proceed in gear. Taken to dealership and told clutch was worn; parts were replaced. Failure was blamed on driver, but there is reason to believe the clutch was faulty from start. *nm
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 5 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 5 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 17,708 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.