One problem related to transmission failure has been reported for the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I was driving home from work on the highway when my transmission went out of gear I was in the process of passing a long line of trucks and had to pull off into the left side breakdown lane and was nearly hit by numerous cars due to sensors in the car shutting the transmission off due to transmission failure. I have replaced 4 transmissions in the last 2 years and am getting rid of this car as soon as possible. Its a very reliable car except for the transmissions, they are total junk and Mitsubishi should recall all of them. They definately are a safety hazard and I have had transmissions lock up on me going through intersections just about colliding into other vehicles. Im surprised that car hasnt caused a wreck yet.