As for reliability, the Eclipse was rated "average" by Consumer Reports
magazine, which gives the nod to Honda and Toyota but still shouldn't cause too many alarm bells to ring for pre-owned buyers.
Recalls are sometimes an ensign of how dependable a vehicle may be, and on this front the Eclipse did very well. Transport Canada shows only one recall, number 2003277, affecting 635 2004 model year vehicles. The problem? "On certain vehicles, the fuel return line hose fitting on the electric fuel pump may be restricted, causing excessive fuel pressure to build up in the fuel injection system. Excessive fuel pressure may result in the fuel return hose becoming dislodged, resulting in fuel leakage. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire," or so the government agency says. Yes, the "fire" part does
soundthe alarms, but keep in mind all recall notifications draw attention tothe direst of potential outcomes for liability reasons, and the car you're probably looking at most likely has had this recall corrected.
One thing to keep in mind as well, there are plenty of pre-2003 Eclipses available for sale in Canada, some customized to the max. All of these have been imported to Canada from the U.S. or Japan, and therefore you should be wary before laying down cash to buy what looks to be a great deal. Check with your dealer first, to make sure that parts will be easily accessible and that servicing the car won't be a problem.
So, if you're looking for all-out performance, you may be happier in a Celica or RSX, but for cruising the boulevard with a favourite tune pumping away in the six-disc changer, a 2003 through 2005 Eclipse is a solid choice, especially if the one you choose happens to have a top that folds down.
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| As for reliability, the Eclipse was rated "average" by Consumer Reports magazine. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Recalls are sometimes an ensign of how dependable a vehicle may be, and on this front the Eclipse did very well. Transport Canada shows only one recall, number 2003277, affecting 635 2004 model year vehicles. The problem? "On certain vehicles, the fuel return line hose fitting on the electric fuel pump may be restricted, causing excessive fuel pressure to build up in the fuel injection system. Excessive fuel pressure may result in the fuel return hose becoming dislodged, resulting in fuel leakage. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire," or so the government agency says. Yes, the "fire" part does
 |
| If you're looking for cruising the boulevard with a favourite tune pumping away in the six-disc changer, a 2003 through 2005 Eclipse is a solid choice. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
One thing to keep in mind as well, there are plenty of pre-2003 Eclipses available for sale in Canada, some customized to the max. All of these have been imported to Canada from the U.S. or Japan, and therefore you should be wary before laying down cash to buy what looks to be a great deal. Check with your dealer first, to make sure that parts will be easily accessible and that servicing the car won't be a problem.
So, if you're looking for all-out performance, you may be happier in a Celica or RSX, but for cruising the boulevard with a favourite tune pumping away in the six-disc changer, a 2003 through 2005 Eclipse is a solid choice, especially if the one you choose happens to have a top that folds down.