1994 Chevrolet Beretta Base 3100 review from North America
"This one can steal your heart"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator died after jump starting a corolla (probably my fault)
Heater Core leaked, replaced for $120.
Leaks Coolant, top it up once every 3 months
Probably heater core leak. (again)
Left-turn flasher does not flash anymore.
Car overheated once and a coolant pipe sprung a leak. This was due to a bad coolant temp sensor. Replaced sensor and pipe.
Radiator fan sometimes does not come on (temp rises above 50%). I turn on the A/C to force it to come on.
Normal wear (plugs, brakes, A/C freon)
Shocks and Struts are very weak, Will not replace now...
Wiring is a bit low quality on this car, a few electrical problems (radio, clock, turn signal)
Doors freeze in the winter, handles can easily break off if forced.
Dashboard is warped with the Florida sun.
No car repair shop can set the alignment right!
(its only a little off)
Check engine light comes on when decelerating from 55mph, this is due to a bad EGR valve and/or a blocked EGR passage. (Tried cleaning the passage twice to no avail)
Water leak from unknown location, rear carpet gets about a half inch of water. Front carpet is soaked too.
General comments?
Love it even though it has quite a few minor problems. Learnt to live with them.
Get between 19 and 21 miles/gallon in the city.
Styling is cool.
Overall quite reliable.
Very good acceleration when floored, gets upto 110mph easily. (governor is set at 110)
Very strong body, however there is a know issue with missing side panel reinforcement on this year model.
Recommended reviews
| Unbeatable value with a little style to boot |
|
| Well rounded car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1994 |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 94000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 115000 miles |
| Previous car | none none |
| Date of Entry | 26th April, 2006 |