1994 Ford Aspire Base review from North America
"Best bang for the buck... who needs a civic?"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front Brakes were the first thing to go, I think I did them at 75000kms, and I just did them again at 185000kms.
The Front Crank seal went at 100,000kms, but I had it done at no extra cost when I did the timing belt. The crank seal might have been from over-revving the motor...63 what?
Battery went after 6 years.
Fuel Pump went at 180,000kms. This part was very pricey from the dealer, but I put a used one in for $150 CDN
I am sure that the only reason the fuel pump went is because I always drive it around with little or no gas in the tank.
Replaced both control arms (balljoints), the first one at 70,000kms and the second one at about 175000kms.
Drivers side window regulator has broken twice now since I have owned the car.
Just recently replaced both front wheel bearings, and one of the side in the rear (all at around 190,000kms)
Back brakes are still good.
Handbrake cable is stretched.
This car attracts many dents of all sorts.
General comments?
I love this car. Many people see this car as a piece of crap, but they are wrong.
This car has lasted well beyond its expected life for me. It starts every day, runs the sames way (no bad days)
Many of the parts I have replaced have been as a result of abuse. Aside from this, the car is awesome, I couldn't ask for any more out of this little car.
This car is cheap on gas, it runs a 17.8 quarter mile, and it runs better and longer than most civics I have seen.
The motor may be powerless, but at least it doesn't smoke. I do the oil changes every 4000kms, since I have had it, and it burns less than half a litre between oil changes.
Recommended reviews
| 1994 - Aspire Base 1.3 5 speed Great powertrain, with much to be desired!! |
| Lots of expensive little problems |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3L Manual |
| Performance marks | 4 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 55000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 194000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Cabrio |
| Date of Entry | 20th October, 2002 |