1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse Exterior Door Handle: A Comprehensive Guide
Don't get locked out of your 2G DSM—here's what you need to know about replacing your flimsy, broken exterior door handle.
- The plastic exterior door handles on 1995-1999 Eclipses are a notorious failure point; breaking is a matter of 'when', not 'if'.
- No recalls were ever issued for this problem; it's considered a common wear-and-tear issue.
- Aftermarket handles from brands like Motormite/Dorman are the most common and affordable replacement option.
- Replacement is a straightforward DIY job requiring basic tools and about an hour of your time.
Symptoms of a Failing Exterior Door Handle
The exterior door handles on the second-generation (2G) DSM platform, which includes the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, are a well-known weak point. They are made of plastic and become flimsy and brittle over time, leading to eventual failure. If you're experiencing issues, you're not alone. Many owners have had to climb in through the passenger side or even the trunk due to a broken handle.
- Handle feels loose or floppy: When you pull the handle, it doesn't have the normal resistance and just moves freely without opening the door. This usually means an internal plastic piece has snapped.
- Handle requires extra force: You have to pull the handle much harder than usual, or pull it multiple times, to get the door to unlatch. This is a sign that the mechanism is failing.
- Visible cracks or a complete break: The handle itself may have visible stress marks, cracks, or a piece may have broken off entirely, making it impossible to use.
- Door won't open from the outside at all: This is the final stage of failure, where pulling the handle does nothing and you're forced to use the interior handle to get out.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Handle
For a vehicle of this age, finding a new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) door handle from a Mitsubishi dealership is highly unlikely and would be expensive if found. The most common and practical solution is a new aftermarket handle.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
| Attribute | OEM (Original) | Aftermarket (Motormite/Dorman) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic (Known to be flimsy and break) | Plastic (Designed to match original specifications) |
| Weak Point | The plastic pivot points inside the handle are the common failure area. | Can have the same plastic weak points as the original. Some owners reinforce them with epoxy before installation. | 🎬 Watch: How to reinforce your new handle with epoxy.
| Availability | Very rare, likely discontinued. | Widely available from auto parts stores and online retailers. |
| Cost | Was estimated around $60+ years ago when available. | Generally very affordable. |
Pro Tip: Some owners have found that aftermarket handles from brands like Motormite (a Dorman brand) are a suitable replacement. While they are also plastic, they are an affordable and readily available fix. For a permanent solution, some specialty shops machine billet aluminum handles, but these are a much more expensive, enthusiast-grade option.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and other records shows no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the exterior door handles on the 1995-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. The failure is a widely known common problem among owners due to the original part's plastic construction, not a manufacturing defect that triggered a formal recall.
DIY Replacement Guide
Replacing the door handle is a manageable DIY job for most home mechanics and can be done with basic tools. The process takes about an hour.
🎬 See this step-by-step replacement walkthrough for 2G DSMs.- Remove the Interior Door Panel: This involves removing several Phillips head screws (behind the interior handle, in the door pull cup, and on the edges) and then carefully popping the panel off its clips. Don't forget to disconnect the power window switch harness.
- Peel Back the Vapor Barrier: Carefully peel back the plastic sheet inside the door to access the handle's internal mechanism. Try not to tear it.
- Access the Handle: The handle is held on by two 10mm bolts. One is easy to access, but the other is tucked behind the window glass track, requiring a small wrench and some patience.
- Disconnect Rods and Lock Cylinder: You'll need to disconnect the metal rod from the handle to the latch and unclip the lock cylinder from the old handle to transfer it to the new one. This is often the trickiest part due to the tight space. 🎬 Watch: Tips for navigating the tricky lock cylinder install.
- Install the New Handle: Transfer the lock cylinder to the new handle, then carefully guide it into the door, re-attach the rods and bolts.
- Test Before Reassembly: Before you put the door panel back on, test the new handle, the lock, and the interior handle to make sure everything works correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to paint the new aftermarket handle?
Most aftermarket handles, like those from Motormite, come in a standard black textured finish. While OEM handles were sometimes color-matched, the black aftermarket handle is a common replacement and does not require painting unless you want a perfect match.
What are the most common tools needed for the job?
You will primarily need a Phillips screwdriver, a 10mm socket, and a 10mm open-end or ratcheting wrench. Needle-nose pliers and a panel removal tool are also very helpful.
My lock cylinder is stiff. Should I do anything while I'm in there?
Absolutely. While you have the door panel off and the lock cylinder out, it's the perfect time to clean it and lubricate it with a graphite or PTFE spray. This can free up a sticky lock and prevent future problems.
Is there a way to make the new handle last longer?
Some owners reinforce the weak plastic pivot area on the new aftermarket handle with strong epoxy like JB Weld before installation. Additionally, when opening the door, try to pull the handle just enough to unlatch it, then use the edge of the door to pull it open rather than yanking on the handle itself.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MR712045
Fits 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. Also fits Eagle Talon of the same years. Material: Plastic.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse: