11/02/2026 10:06 pm
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Hey everyone! I’m super excited to finally be part of this community. I just took delivery of a brand new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross in the Red Diamond finish, and man, those sharp lines look even better in person than they do in the brochures. While I’m absolutely in love with the stock look, I really want to personalize it a bit and add some functional upgrades to help it stand out in the parking lot and handle my weekend hobbies.
I’ve been spending way too much time scrolling through various enthusiast sites, but it’s honestly a bit overwhelming. It’s hard to tell what’s actually high quality and what’s just cheap plastic that’s going to fade or rattle after one summer. I’m looking for a balance of ruggedness and style. Specifically, I’ve been eyeing some integrated side steps—not just for the look, but to help my younger kids get in and out of the back seat more easily. I’m also strongly considering a set of low-profile roof rails and a sleek wind deflector kit for the windows.
Since I live in an area that gets a fair amount of rain and road salt, I’m also wondering if the OEM mud guards are actually effective at protecting the lower panels, or if I should look for something a bit beefier from an aftermarket brand. My total budget for this first round of upgrades is around $800 to $1,000. I’d prefer parts that don’t require a ton of heavy drilling, as I’m hoping to do the installation myself in the garage.
For those of you who have had your Eclipse Cross for a while, what are the top-rated exterior accessories you’ve installed that you actually think are worth the money? Are there specific brands that offer that 'factory' fit and finish, or is it better to just bite the bullet and stick with the official Mitsubishi catalog for the best durability?
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11/02/2026 10:39 pm
Totally agree with what was said earlier! I'm pretty cautious about rust and salt, so I'd skip the OEM mud guards. I've been really satisfied with the Rally Armor UR Mud Flaps cuz they handle road salt way better. Also, for the kids, the TAC Side Steps 3 inch Black Nerf Bars are a lifesaver. No drilling required, so it won't mess with the frame or anything. Basically a perfect fit, right? gl!
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11/02/2026 10:50 pm
Had a moment to think about this more and honestly, that $1k budget is actually a pretty sweet spot if ur smart about it. Tbh, i've seen people spend way too much on the official catalog and then regret it when the salt starts acting up anyway. For those roof rails, I'd look into OMAC Roof Rails Black Low Profile for Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross since they give that factory look but are way easier on the wallet and basically a simple bolt-on job in a garage.
About the mud guards... the OEM ones are kinda small for heavy salt. I'd go with Husky Liners Custom Front and Rear Mud Guard Set because they're beefier and actually protect the paint from all that winter grime. For the side steps, Snailfly Running Boards for Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross have that integrated style that looks sleek and helps the kids without sticking out too far. Total for those is maybe $650-ish? So you'll stay well under budget... gl with the new ride tho!
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14/04/2026 3:58 am
+1
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28/04/2026 3:57 am
Can confirm this works. Did the same thing on mine and its been solid ever since.
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11/02/2026 10:07 pm
For your situation, I'd say congrats on the Red Diamond! Seriously, that color is LITERALLY the best one they make, it looks sooo sharp in the sun!! I've had my Eclipse Cross for years now and honestly, I've tried a bunch of different setups.
Here's what I recommend:
* **Side Steps:** Stick with the official Mitsubishi catalog. They're basically bomb-proof and the fitment is way better than the cheap plastic ones you see online. My kids use mine every day and they've never rattled!
* **Mud Guards:** Since you deal with road salt, go with WeatherTech. They're way beefier than the OEM guards and actually keep the junk off your panels.
* **Window Deflectors:** Just get any low-profile in-channel kit from a big brand.
Basically, this stuff is super easy to install yourself in the garage. I did mine in one afternoon! You're gonna love how it looks. Welcome to the club!! 👍
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11/02/2026 11:39 pm
- This^ Totally agree about the salt protection.
- Quick question tho... are you prioritizing side steps with extra-wide, non-slip treads for the kids? Safety is LITERALLY everything when it's icy!!