2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse engine is stalling?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the fuel system to ensure that fuel is reaching the engine adequately; inspect the fuel pump, filter, and injectors for any blockages or failures. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system, examining the spark plugs and ignition coils for signs of wear or damage, as a weak spark can lead to stalling. The air intake system should also be inspected; a clogged air filter or vacuum leaks can significantly hinder engine performance. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into specific issues affecting the engine. Finally, assess the engine for any mechanical problems, such as faulty sensors or unusual noises, which could indicate deeper issues. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling problem, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's performance.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse engine to stall?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or malfunctioning fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a crucial role; faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or the ignition control module can disrupt the ignition process, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Airflow problems, often stemming from a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor or throttle position sensor, can also create an improper air-fuel mixture, resulting in stalling. Moreover, vacuum leaks in the intake manifold or associated hoses can create an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, further contributing to the issue. Engine overheating, which may be caused by coolant leaks or a malfunctioning cooling system, can lead to stalling as well. Electrical issues, including problems with the battery, alternator, or wiring, can disrupt the engine's operation, while sensor malfunctions, particularly with the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, can also lead to stalling. Lastly, exhaust system problems, such as a clogged catalytic converter or exhaust leaks, can significantly impact engine performance. By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the stalling problem in your Mitsubishi Eclipse.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle, especially in high-traffic situations or at high speeds. This unpredictability not only endangers the driver and passengers but also increases the risk of accidents involving other road users. Furthermore, neglecting these symptoms can exacerbate the problem, leading to more severe mechanical failures that could result in costly repairs. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize diagnosing and resolving engine stalling issues promptly to ensure both personal safety and the longevity of the vehicle.

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2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs