Mitsubishi Eclipse Engine Timing Belt Tensioner Guide (2005-2012)
Learn about this critical part to prevent catastrophic engine failure in your 4th generation Eclipse.
- Do not drive your Eclipse if you suspect the timing belt tensioner is failing; engine damage can be catastrophic.
- Always replace the tensioner as part of a complete timing belt kit, including the belt, idlers, and water pump.
- For maximum reliability, choose a premium aftermarket brand like Gates, which often uses OEM-quality components.
- This is a complex repair that should be performed by a professional mechanic to ensure timing is set correctly.
Is your Eclipse making a strange noise? It could be the timing belt tensioner.
A failing timing belt tensioner is a serious issue that should not be ignored. The tensioner is a hydraulic part that can leak oil and lose its ability to keep the timing belt tight. When it gets weak, the timing belt can become loose, which might cause a rattling, ticking, or grinding noise from the front of the engine. This sound often gets louder as the engine warms up or as you increase RPMs. If you hear these noises, it's time to get your engine checked immediately.
Warning: Do Not Drive with a Bad Tensioner
Driving with a failing timing belt tensioner is a major risk. If the belt slips by even one or two teeth, it can cause poor engine performance, misfires, and check engine lights. If the tensioner fails completely, the timing belt can snap or come off, causing the pistons and valves to collide. This results in catastrophic, and very expensive, engine damage. It is strongly recommended to stop driving the vehicle until it can be repaired.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tensioner for Your Eclipse
When replacing the timing belt tensioner, it's highly recommended to replace the timing belt, idler pulleys, and water pump at the same time. These parts are sold together in kits and wear out at a similar rate. Since the labor to access the tensioner is extensive, replacing everything at once saves you from paying for the same job twice. Here's a look at the available aftermarket brands.
Premium Brands: Gates & SKF
Gates: Gates is a top-tier brand often considered the gold standard in the aftermarket. They are a supplier for many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and their kits are known for high quality, often including the same components used at the factory. For the Mitsubishi V6, it's important to ensure the hydraulic tensioner is from a quality manufacturer like NTN or Koyo, which are often included in Gates kits. Many mechanics and experienced owners recommend Gates for its reliability.
SKF: SKF is another well-respected brand known for its high-quality bearings and engine components. While not as commonly discussed in forums as Gates, their parts are engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications and are a solid choice for a reliable repair.
Mid-Tier & Economy Brands: Dayco & GMB
Dayco: Dayco is a popular mid-tier brand that offers a good balance of quality and cost. They have a long history of supplying both OEM and aftermarket parts. While some users have noted that Dayco belts can feel looser than OEM Mitsubishi belts, they are generally considered a dependable choice for a standard replacement.
GMB: GMB is often considered an economy option. While they are a known OEM supplier for some parts like water pumps, forum discussions show mixed reviews for their tensioners. Some users have reported premature failures with GMB tensioners in other vehicle makes, citing issues with materials or design. Given the critical nature of this part, it may be wiser to invest in a premium brand unless you are on a very strict budget.
Pro Tip: Check the Hydraulic Tensioner Design
For the V6 (6G75) engine, there have been reports of issues with certain aftermarket hydraulic tensioners. Quality OEM and aftermarket tensioners (like those made by NTN) have a smooth, symmetrical cylinder body. Some lower-quality versions have extra metal at the bottom and are not symmetrical; these have been linked to premature failure and knocking noises. Always inspect the new part and compare it to the old one.
Cost of Replacing the Timing Belt Tensioner (2005-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse)
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hydraulic Tensioner Assembly | $69 - $179 |
| Shop Labor (Tensioner Only) | $219 - $322 |
| Recommended: Aftermarket Timing Belt & Water Pump Kit | $200 - $450 |
| Recommended: Shop Labor (Full Kit Replacement) | $319 - $469 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location and the specific repair shop. Labor for a full timing belt kit replacement is often higher than for just the tensioner, but it is the recommended procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace just the tensioner or the whole timing belt kit?
You should always replace the entire timing belt kit. This includes the timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and often the water pump. All these parts are in the same area and require significant labor to access. Replacing them all at once is the most cost-effective and reliable repair.
What happens if the tensioner fails completely?
Complete failure allows the timing belt to go slack or break. This will cause the engine's pistons and valves to hit each other, resulting in bent valves, damaged pistons, and a destroyed engine. This is known as a catastrophic engine failure and is extremely expensive to repair, often requiring a full engine replacement.
Is this a DIY job?
Replacing the timing belt and tensioner is an advanced, difficult job. It requires special tools, precise alignment of timing marks, and a specific procedure to set the tension correctly. Mistakes can lead to immediate engine damage. For most owners, this job is best left to a professional mechanic with experience on Mitsubishi engines.
Are there any recalls for the timing belt tensioner on the 2005-2012 Eclipse?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not find any recalls specifically for the engine timing belt tensioner on the 2005-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD164533
This is a hydraulic auto-tensioner assembly. It applies pressure to the timing belt tensioner pulley to maintain correct timing belt tension across all engine operating conditions. The 4-cylinder (4G69) and V6 (6G75) engines use different part numbers, so ensure you order the correct one for your specific engine.
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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:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is your Eclipse making a strange noise? It could be the timing belt tensioner.
- Warning: Do Not Drive with a Bad Tensioner
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tensioner for Your Eclipse
- Premium Brands: Gates & SKF
- Mid-Tier & Economy Brands: Dayco & GMB
- Pro Tip: Check the Hydraulic Tensioner Design
- Cost of Replacing the Timing Belt Tensioner (2005-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse)
- Frequently Asked Questions
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