Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Radiator

2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Radiator — Purpose, Care, and Replacement

Based on Mitsubishi Motors’ Eclipse Cross Service Manual (Group 14A – Cooling System, 2017/2018), the model uses a liquid‑cooled engine with a front‑mounted aluminium radiator and twin electric fans. The Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue and the owner’s manual cooling‑system section both list the radiator assembly and cap as service items on GK‑series Eclipse Cross vehicles. A radiator is therefore fitted and fully relevant to the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.

On the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the radiator is the heart of the liquid‑cooling system. Mounted up front behind the grille and teamed with electric fans, it dumps excess heat so the 1.5‑litre turbo petrol (and 2.2‑litre diesel in some markets) runs at a stable temperature, uses less fuel, and treats the engine oil and turbo kindly. Coolant leaves the engine hot, passes through the aluminium core and fine fins, and returns cooled via the thermostat to keep things sweet under the bonnet.

Keeping the radiator happy is simple preventative maintenance. Use the correct Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (blue), mixed to spec, and replace it at the interval in the owner’s manual (typically up to 160,000 km or 7–8 years for long‑life coolant, then shorter intervals). A quick inspection at every service pays off: look for green/blue crust on end tanks, dampness around hose necks, a whiff of coolant after a drive, or a temperature gauge that creeps in slow traffic. Don’t forget the radiator cap, a tired cap can cause boil‑over and air pockets.

When it’s time to replace a tired or damaged unit, a quality OE‑equivalent radiator restores cooling performance with no dramas. The smart move is to do a complete job:

• Flush the system thoroughly, then refill with the correct premix or distilled‑water blend.
• Renew upper and lower hoses, clamps, and the thermostat if age or kilometres suggest it.
• Check the condenser and fans for debris, and straighten bent fins carefully.
• Bleed air properly (heater on HOT) or use a vacuum fill tool to avoid airlocks.
• If fitted with the CVT, inspect the coolant‑to‑transmission heat exchanger and hose connections.

A well‑looked‑after radiator helps the air‑con work better on scorching Aussie and Kiwi days, stabilises idle in traffic, and protects head gaskets and plastic end tanks from heat stress. If the car tows, sees dusty roads, or idles for long shifts, tighten up inspection intervals and give the core a gentle rinse from the engine side out. That little bit of care keeps the Eclipse Cross running cool and reliable for many kilometres. No worries on trips.

Popular questions

How often should the coolant be changed on a 2017 Eclipse Cross?
Mitsubishi’s long‑life blue coolant can last up to about 160,000 km or 7–8 years, then changes are typically more frequent. Always follow the owner’s manual for your exact engine and market. If the vehicle tows, idles a lot, or sees dusty roads, consider shorter intervals.

Use the correct specification coolant, mixing types can reduce corrosion protection and shorten water‑pump and radiator life.

What are common signs the radiator needs attention?
Watch for a temperature gauge creeping up in traffic, coolant odour after a drive, dried green/blue residue on end tanks or hoses, low coolant level, or fans running constantly. The heater going lukewarm at idle can also hint at air in the system or flow issues.

If any of these show up, stop and have it checked to avoid head‑gasket drama.

Can the car be driven with a small radiator leak?
It’s risky. A “small” leak can become a big one quickly, especially on hot days or uphill. Top‑ups only mask the problem and can introduce air, causing hotspots. If a leak’s evident, arrange a repair or tow to a workshop to protect the engine and turbo.