Subject:	transmission
Question:	its a 1999 rs eclipse it was running fine and i get in it to come home and it wont shift , my speed o meter stoped working and my engine servise soon light came on all fluids are ok im woundering if maybe some one did something to it or could it just happen like that
Answer:	Wil, It's possible someone could have done something to it, but they really would have had to know something to screw up such a diverse amount of items. First, I'll assume you have a manual transmission, which is sticky. If I can remember correctly, there some Eclipse RS models that had faulty transmissions. The linkage (control) cable would wear out easily and result in very difficult shifting. You may also have improperly aligned sychronizers. That would result in hard shifting. Incorrect tranny fluid is a possibility as well, but you mentioned you already checked that. Here's a little background on the typical speedometer. The speedometer is driven by a flexible cable connected to the speedometer pinion in the transmission. Speedometers are calibrated in miles per hour and/or in kilometers. The speedometer is driven by a cable in a casing. The cable is connected to a gear at the transmission. This gear is designed for a specific model, tire size, and rear axle ratio. The speed indication of an analog speedometer works on the magnetic principle. It includes a revolving permanent magnet driven by the cable connected to the transmission. There are digital speedometers, but I believe the RS model is anolog, like the one I described above. If there is a problem with the transmission, its very likely the speedometer will act faulty as well. Your check engine like may be illuminated to warn you of this. Typically, the check engine light comes on when there's a problem with the intake or exhaust system, but I doubt you have a problem in that area. Have your transmission check by a qualified technician. From what I can recall, your model of Eclipse came with a decent manufacturer's warranty: Basic: 3 yr. / 36,000 mi. Drivetrain: 5 yr. / 60,000 mi. If your car still falls within these warranty parameters, take it to the dealership ASAP. You may be able to get a new transmission for free if your warranty is still good. Good luck!