1996 Geo Metro review from North America
"I hate this car and will get rid of it as soon as possible"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The timing belt wore out at 68,000 miles. This caused the belt to slip on the pulley and required to be towed to the mechanic.
Timing belt crank shaft pulley retaining bolt snapped shortly after new belt was installed. Dammage to crank shaft end resulted in $1,300 worth of repair.
Disk brake rotors worn out at 120,000 miles.
Fuel injector and Electronic Control Module(ECM)failure at 120,000 miles. Fuel injector cost $450 to replace and ECM new cost $2,500 to replace. I purchased a used ECM for $175. Car ran for another 50 miles before leaving me stranded. The fuel injector is dumping fuel down the throttle body. I have not yet repaired this problem.
General comments?
I purchased this car for very little initially three years ago -- $1,350. It immediately doubled in cost regarding repair to the timing belt pulley. Although it ran fine for the next three years (60,000 miles), it has broken down again and repair costs are near equal to its value. I maintain my cars very well and treat it like I want to own it for a long time. This car is a lemon though. When running it gives me good gas mileage and performance, but when it breaks down problems are major and not for the weekend mechanic to do.
Recommended reviews
| I love my Geo! |
|
| A low performance bargain |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 4 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 120000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Hardbody Pickup |
| Date of Entry | 23rd April, 2004 |