What problems are there with a 97 eclipse gst?

Answer 1

Usually the past driver :)

Timing belt must be replaced every 60,000. To be safe, do it long before (ie 40-50k). Its an "interference" engine which means it self-destructs if the timing belt breaks. Very expensive to repair when that happens.

If you buy a clean, untouched Eclipse, they are very dependable as long as you heed the timing belt advice.

If some teenage or early 20's kid has tinkered and beat on the car, look elsewhere. The engine is very capable and solid, but teenage kids are known for going too far and increasing turbo boost to the point of engine damage.