1996 Geo Metro review from North America

Headlight Switch Failed: The Metro is equipped with Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) which turn on when the E-Brake is retracted. My headlight switch has never functioned, but the DRL's do provide adequate light at any speed, so this hasn't been an issue.

Fan Switch Failed: The 5-position fan speed control switch only activates the fan in the last two settings. No biggie... these settings are fine for me.

CV Joints: My CV joints have recently started making some clicking noise (165,000 miles) and will need to be replaced soon.

Headliner: The fabric headliner separated from it's foam backing over the last year and began sagging into the cabin headspace. I simply removed all the fabric and left the backing foam sheet in place... looks fine to my eyes!

It's funny, reading through my list of "what has gone wrong" you might think this is a poor choice in cars. However, my opinion is quite the opposite.

The car has been mechanically reliable and dependable, only requiring oil changes and the occasional fuel-up. In a mix of in-town and freeway driving I average 50MPG!

Even better, the car provides surprisingly good room (driver and passenger) for such a small car. The seats are comfortable, controls easy to find and intuitive to use, visibility good in all directions.

My passengers are always surprised to find that a 3-cylinder car can be so "spunky". The Metro does handle well!

Overall, I'm pleased to own such an efficient, easy to work on, well-designed and cheap-to-own little car.

I think of this vehicle as a two-seater motorcycle with the added bonus of plenty of storage, lockable doors, air bags, a windshield and a heater. From that perspective, this GEO rocks!