2006-2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Fender: A Guide to Fitment, Part Numbers, and Replacement
Learn how to spot hidden damage on used fenders and why a genuine OEM part is critical for proper panel gaps on your 4th-generation Eclipse.
- A used OEM fender is highly recommended over a new aftermarket one to ensure proper fitment and even panel gaps on the 4th-gen Eclipse.
- When buying used, thoroughly inspect for hidden body filler, rust on the inner lips, and damage to mounting tabs.
- The fenders are interchangeable between Coupe and Spyder models for all years 2006-2012.
- Some 2007 models were recalled for a weak front crossmember (NHTSA 06V-334), which can affect front-end alignment and should be checked.
- Expect to have any replacement fender, new or used, professionally painted to match your car's specific color.
Symptoms of a Damaged Fender
Because a fender is a non-mechanical body panel, symptoms of failure are always visual or audible. There are no associated fault codes or electronic warnings.
- Visible Damage: This is the most common symptom and includes dents from impacts, dings from car doors, long scratches, and cracks or breaks in the panel, especially after a collision.
- Rust and Corrosion: Bubbling paint or visible orange/brown rust is a clear sign of failure. This often starts on the lower edge behind the front wheel or along the wheel arch lip where moisture and road salt collect.
- Poor Panel Gaps: Uneven or wide gaps between the fender, hood, door, and bumper can indicate that the fender itself is bent or that it was installed improperly after a previous repair.
- Noise: A rattling, vibrating, or scraping sound from the front of the car while driving could be caused by a loose fender or a damaged fender liner rubbing against the tire.
Buying a Used 2006-2012 Eclipse Fender: What to Inspect
For a vehicle like the 4th-generation Eclipse, sourcing a clean, used OEM fender is often the best choice. It guarantees the fitment that cheap aftermarket parts often lack. Before buying, perform a thorough inspection.
Inspection Checklist for a Used Fender:
- Check for Previous Repairs: Look at the back (inside) of the fender for any signs of bodywork. Look for rough textures, overspray, or anything that isn't smooth factory paint. Run your hand along the front surface; any waviness or ripples suggest it has been repaired with body filler (Bondo).
- Inspect All Mounting Points: Carefully check every hole where a bolt would go—along the top edge, the front where it meets the bumper, and the rear where it meets the A-pillar and door. Ensure none of the tabs are bent, cracked, or broken.
- Look for Hidden Rust: The most critical areas for rust are the lower rear edge (behind the wheel) and the inner lip of the wheel arch. Peel back any rubber trim if possible and check for bubbling or flaking. Surface rust can be treated, but rot that goes through the metal means the fender should be rejected.
- Minor Dents vs. Major Damage: Small, shallow dents can often be repaired by a paintless dent removal (PDR) specialist before painting. However, sharp creases or deep dents compromise the metal and are much harder to fix perfectly.
Warning: Be cautious with new aftermarket fenders. While steel aftermarket parts are available, they may not have the same precise shape as an OEM part, leading to alignment issues and uneven panel gaps. Fiberglass aftermarket fenders, such as those from Duraflex, often require significant prep work like sanding, trimming, and filling to fit properly and are not guaranteed to be a perfect match out of the box.
Known Issues and Recalls
While there are no recalls specifically for the fenders, a notable recall impacts the front-end structure to which the fenders are mounted.
NHTSA Recall 06V-334: Front Crossmember Weakness
Certain 2007 Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder models were recalled for an improperly stamped front crossmember. The metal in the right rear portion could be thinner than specified, potentially leading to a crack or break over time. This could allow the lower control arm to separate from the crossmember. For a fender replacement, this is important because the crossmember is a foundational part of the front-end assembly. If it is damaged or misaligned, achieving proper fender and bumper alignment may be impossible.
Fender Replacement Overview
Replacing the fender on a 2006-2012 Eclipse is a manageable DIY project for someone with basic tools and patience. The key challenge is not the removal, but the careful alignment during installation.
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
Basic Steps:
- Preparation: Park on a level surface. It is highly recommended to remove the front wheel for better access.
- Remove Fender Liner: Remove the plastic clips and any screws holding the fender liner inside the wheel well.
- Remove Bumper Bolts: You will need to at least partially unbolt the side of the front bumper cover from the fender.
- Locate and Remove Fender Bolts: The fender is held on by several bolts. Their locations are generally:
- Along the top of the fender under the hood.
- Inside the door jamb (open the door to access).
- At the front, connecting to the bumper and headlight area.
- At the bottom, connecting to the rocker panel/side skirt.
- Install New Fender: Carefully position the new fender.
Pro Tip: When installing the new fender, thread all bolts in loosely at first. Do not tighten them. Gently adjust the fender to create even panel gaps with the hood, door, and bumper cover. Once you are satisfied with the alignment, tighten all bolts securely.
Cost of Replacing a Mitsubishi Eclipse Fender
The total cost depends heavily on whether you choose an OEM or aftermarket part, and if you require professional painting and installation.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM Fender | $120 - $170 (unpainted) | Genuine Mitsubishi part offering guaranteed fitment. |
| New Aftermarket Fender | $70 - $170 (unpainted) | Steel replacements. Fitment can be a gamble. |
| Used OEM Fender | $100 - $250+ | Price depends on condition and color. May save money on painting if you find a color match. |
| Shop Labor (Installation) | $150 - $375 | Based on 1.5-2.5 hours at a typical body shop rate. |
| Shop Labor (Painting) | $300 - $500+ | Cost to paint a single panel. Some online vendors offer pre-painted parts for an additional ~$200. |
OEM Part Numbers and Compatibility
The fenders for the 4th-generation Eclipse fit both Coupe and Spyder (convertible) models for all years from 2006 to 2012.
| Position | Part Number | Supersedes |
|---|---|---|
| Left (Driver Side) | 5220B681 | N/A |
| Right (Passenger Side) | 5220B682 | mn186598 |
Part numbers confirmed from multiple OEM parts sources. The part number mn186598 was the original number for the right-side fender but has been replaced by 5220B682.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to paint a used fender?
Almost always, yes. Even if you find a fender from a car with the same color name, factors like sun exposure, production batch, and age mean the color will not be a perfect match. For a professional finish, the replacement fender should be properly prepped and painted to match your vehicle's exact paint code by a body shop.
Will a fender from an Eclipse Spyder (convertible) fit my coupe?
Yes. The front fenders are identical for both the coupe and Spyder models across the entire 2006-2012 generation.
Can I really replace a fender myself?
Yes, if you have basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches) and are comfortable with minor disassembly of the bumper and wheel well. The most difficult part is patiently aligning the new panel for even gaps before tightening the bolts. If you are not concerned with perfect cosmetic results, it is a straightforward unbolt-and-rebolt job.
What tools are needed to replace an Eclipse fender?
You will typically need a socket set (likely 10mm and 12mm), a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver or trim removal tool for plastic clips, and a jack and jack stands to safely remove the wheel for better access.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5220B681 (Left/Driver Side) 5220B682 (Right/Passenger Side) mn186598 (Superseded by 5220B682)
Material: Steel. Fits 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe and Spyder models.
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:
- Symptoms of a Damaged Fender
- Buying a Used 2006-2012 Eclipse Fender: What to Inspect
- Inspection Checklist for a Used Fender:
- Known Issues and Recalls
- NHTSA Recall 06V-334: Front Crossmember Weakness
- Fender Replacement Overview
- Basic Steps:
- Cost of Replacing a Mitsubishi Eclipse Fender
- OEM Part Numbers and Compatibility
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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