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2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Ryan Davis
2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Report

Overall Score

6.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent public reliability score of 9.7 indicates strong owner satisfaction.
  • No recalls or consumer complaints filed with NHTSA suggest a lack of major defects.
  • Six TSBs have been issued, indicating potential minor issues that may require attention.
  • Combined fuel economy is rated at 20 MPG, contributing to moderate running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse stands as a sporty coupe with a capable 3.8L V6 engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It achieves a combined EPA-estimated 20 MPG. While NHTSA data shows zero recalls and complaints, suggesting a solid mechanical foundation, six Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) hint at potential minor issues that buyers should be aware of. The absence of specific complaint data makes it difficult to pinpoint common failure points, but the overall reliability assessment is positive.

Critical Failure Risk

Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and reduced engine performance. This is a common wear item on many V6 engines.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.4/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a stylish coupe with a powerful V6 engine.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers who demand extensive historical data on common problems.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (S5)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Most Common Issues

1. Ignition Coil Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Brake Pad and Rotor Wear

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Ignition Coil (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.

What transmission does the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, transmission is Automatic (S5). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 Eclipse require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S5).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Ford Mustang and 2012 Chevrolet Camaro.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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