1997 Geo Metro Base review from North America

Brake booster has failed twice due to an internal vacuum leak.

Heater control fan switch worked only on high speed, I was able to disassemble it and clean the contacts so it works fine now.

Clutch went out (to be expected with high mileage)

Normal maintenance (oil changes, tune ups, timing belt, etc.)

Service engine soon light has come on many times with code P0420 Catalyst System Low Efficiency. I have replaced both oxygen sensors and the catalytic converter ($200 for each sensor... same price whether OEM or aftermarket, another $200 for the aftermarket catalytic converter) and despite the fact the car has received regular maintenance and does not use oil the light continues to come on. This is a problem in my area where emission tests are required and they do check for trouble codes, if you have any codes you fail the test. A technician who said that computer failures are extremely rare in these vehicles quoted about $800 for a computer replacement... apparently it has to be programmed by the dealership when installing since they have the only tools capable of doing that. That appears to be the only thing left that could cause the code to keep returning.

The car is economical and for the most part durable. With 247,000 miles it does not use oil and still runs great, but the cost of some replacement parts can quickly add up to the value of the car. It is one of the easiest newer vehicles to work on yourself. However, I wish I had one built before a scan tool was required for obtaining trouble codes as repair shops will not even look at a service engine soon light for less than $80.00 each time. Not to mention O2 sensors are also cheaper and only one is used.