1994 Hyundai Excel Hatchback review from North America
"Peppy, super reliable economy car that goes forever."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A rocker arm nut came loose at 132,500 miles. 15 minutes total fix time.
Timing belt broke at 119,144 miles, it should have been changed at 60,000 miles.
Tie rod ends and ball joints need replacing at 200,000 miles.
Motor mounts needed changing at 200,000 miles.
Back window got small leak at 90,000 miles. Fixed with clear window silicone caulk.
General comments?
This has to be one of the most reliable, efficient cars ever built.
It is VERY quick away from the stop light.
After treating the engine with Teflon, it is getting an average of 47 miles per gallon on the highway. $32 of gas from Virginia Beach, VA to New Orleans, LA; 1070 miles.
The car has no power steering, but feels like it does; the steering is very light.
No air conditioning, no power anything, but for $6,200 new, it was a great bargain and I have loved owning and driving this super reliable car.
Change the oil every 3,000 to 4,000 and the car will drive forever.
Even at over 200,000 miles, the compression of all 4 cyllanders is still almost as good as the day I bought the car new.
Recommended Reviews:
  | No con in this economy car |
| Economical for handy person - avoid automatic |
All 1994 Hyundai Excel reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1994 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 4 miles |
| Most recent distance | 203447 miles |
| Previous car | Suzuki X-90 |
| Date of Entry | 26th April, 2003 |