1990 Ford Laser GL review from Australia and New Zealand
"A long-lived, reliable, cheap running car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Had to replace the ignition module at 220,000 km. Got worse and worse at starting on cold mornings, replaced the battery, then later it gave up starting entirely. Replacement was about NZ$200 for module (I installed myself).
Driver's seat's lost a lot of it's comfort and some light oil leaks (but what would you expect for it's experience level?)
General comments?
Brilliantly reliable car. Turns over first time, perhaps just small issues with the fast idle.
Good power for a 1.6. The transmission is well geared for the engine, and while not a racing car, reassuring, smooth power is behind the accelerator.
Done a lot of kilometers in it now and it's still going strong. The 400km Dunedin to Christchurch trip costs below $30 in gas. A great buy.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1990 - Laser Ghia 5 door hatch 1.6 petrol As per usual for Ford, this Laser Ghia is a rugged and reliable little runabout without problems |
| Cheap, Cheerful and Ultra-Reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 174000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 240000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 23rd February, 2004 |