The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine (Code G, 4G64 G) is a sporty coupe that demands precision in its maintenance regimen. Proper lubrication is critical for preserving the integrity of this high-revving engine, ensuring that internal components like the turbocharger and valve train receive adequate protection against wear. Selecting the right synthetic motor oil helps manage operating temperatures, reduces sludge formation, and extends the vehicle’s service life. Beyond the engine, maintaining the transmission, cooling system, and braking systems with the correct fluids prevents costly repairs and ensures the car handles with the agility Mitsubishi is known for.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides 25,000 miles of protection and superior engine wear defense.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers extended protection up to 20,000 miles with enhanced cleaning power.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An economical choice that outperforms conventional oils and resists sludge.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for engines over 75,000 miles to boost detergency and reduce wear.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns to keep the engine clean.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – A reliable replacement that outperforms many OEM-branded filters with premium media.
- WIX Oil Filter – A widely available filter that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed OAT formula protecting against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option requiring mixing, offering protection up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heat and heavy use, providing reserve protection for automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed for smooth, shudder-free shifts and excellent cold-weather performance.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Protects synchronizers and seals while resisting rust in manual gearboxes.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers stable viscosity and excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Keeps seals soft and prevents leaks while offering superior heat resistance.
Using the correct viscosity and specification is vital for this specific engine configuration. The 2.4L 4G64 G engine requires a 5W-30 oil grade for optimal performance in varying temperatures. The oil capacity for this engine is 4.5 quarts when including the filter replacement. For the drain plug, a torque of 26-32 ft/lbs is recommended after the refill is complete to ensure a proper seal without damaging the threads.
Choosing the Right Oil for Your Driving Habits
For owners seeking the absolute maximum protection, the AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil stands out. This formulation is designed to provide up to 25,000 miles of protection between changes. It is particularly effective for drivers who subject their Eclipse to severe service, such as frequent towing, extreme temperatures, or long commutes. The oil offers 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to conventional standards, ensuring the engine maintains its performance characteristics over a longer period.
If you prefer a balance between extended service intervals and cost, the AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is an excellent choice. It guarantees up to 20,000 miles of protection. This oil features 37% more cleaning power than AMSOIL’s OE Synthetic Motor Oil, helping to keep the engine running smoother for longer. It also provides protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), a common concern in modern engines that can cause catastrophic damage.
For those who value a product that rivals the performance of standard OEM fluids but with superior synthetic benefits, the AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is ideal. It fights sludge and deposits effectively with a 100% synthetic formulation and is trusted by professional engine builders. It guarantees protection up to 15,000 miles or one year.
Owners of 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipses with significant mileage on the odometer should consider the AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil. Unique chemistry tailored for vehicles over 75,000 miles includes boosted detergents and dispersants to clean the engine and reduce sludge by 67%. It also features enhanced anti-wear additives to help older engines last longer and perform better, guaranteeing protection for 12,000 miles or one year.
Complete Fluid and Filter Recommendations
An oil change is not complete without a high-quality filter. The AMSOIL Oil Filter offers a filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns. This high level of filtration allows for lower restriction, keeping engine parts well-lubricated while capturing wear-causing contaminants. If you prefer a widely available filter, the WIX Oil Filter uses premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters. For those seeking premium performance, the WIX XP Oil Filter also offers improvements over OEM-branded filters with premium media.
The cooling system requires special attention to prevent overheating, which can be detrimental to the engine. For a pre-mixed solution, the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant provides protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. It uses a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that is phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, making it compatible with various cooling system materials. If you prefer to mix your own, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is a concentrated option that greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion.
Transmission health is crucial for the power delivery in your Eclipse. For automatic transmissions, the AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid offers reserve protection during heavy use and abuse. It remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring smooth operation in winter. The AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is another excellent option that promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts and guards against leaks.
If your Eclipse is equipped with a manual transmission, it requires AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube. This fluid features outstanding cold-flow properties and protects brass synchronizers while inhibiting rust and corrosion. It is friction-modified to ensure excellent seal compatibility.
Brake safety is paramount. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. For the power steering system, the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks.
About the Vehicle
The 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is the third generation of this iconic sports coupe, known for its aggressive styling and engaging driving dynamics. This model year is particularly notable for its availability with the robust 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (4G64), a platform that shares its lineage with the legendary engine used in rally cars and high-performance applications. This engine is celebrated for its reliability and ability to handle increased power levels, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who look to modify their vehicles. The Eclipse was designed as a competitor to the Toyota Supra and Nissan 240SX in the sports coupe market, offering a blend of performance and style at a more accessible price point.
Owners of this generation Eclipse often appreciate its balanced handling and the responsive nature of the 5-speed manual transmission, which provides a direct connection between driver and road. The vehicle’s compact dimensions and sport-tuned suspension make it a favorite for canyon carving and track days. While the 3.0-liter V6 engine offered a different character, the 2.4L four-cylinder provides a lively and efficient driving experience that rewards an engaged driver. The 2004 model represents a peak in the design evolution of the Eclipse, featuring a refined exterior with sleek lines and an interior focused on driver-centric ergonomics.
Whether used as a daily driver or a weekend toy, the 2004 Eclipse benefits greatly from regular maintenance with premium synthetic lubricants. The engine’s tolerance for high RPMs and its role as a staple in the enthusiast community mean that keeping it in top condition is a priority for many owners. Proper fluid maintenance not only extends the life of the engine but also ensures that the vehicle retains its reputation for reliability and performance. By utilizing high-quality AMSOIL products, owners can confidently maintain their vehicle’s specifications and enjoy the driving experience that the Eclipse was designed to deliver.