Seats are not the most comfortable for longer trips. They seem to cause me to hunch over and my low back and neck will get sore after being in them for a couple of hours.
Shortly after I got the car there was a recall on it for the shift linkage on the transmission.
At 100000kms I had to change my spark plugs, plug wires and distributor cap.
At the same time I replaced my water pump.
Again at the 100000km mark I replaced my timing belt.
My alternator went at about 130000kms.
I have loved owning this car. It continues to be great on gas. The only mechanical "failures" have really just been due to regular wear and tear.
I changed my first set of brake shoes at 283000kms! I haven't even had to change a light bulb on this car yet.
It is a very reliable car.
When you do have to buy parts for this car however, expect to pay through the nose. I had to pay $102.00cdn a piece for brake rotors on the front.
If I was in the market for another economy car like this I would definitely consider another Suzuki powered unit like the Swift/Chevy Aveo.
Just go for re-manufactured parts. I found rotors, pads, and drums for about $150 - and yes, I live in Canada. Bought struts for $140 and I'll get $16 back when I bring in the spent ones. Just one brand new strut was going to cost me $120.
As said before go with aftermarket places such as Canadian Tire, Autospot, Hotspot, NAPA, etc.
I just changed out my front end on my 97 Geo with 262,000 km and the cv axle cost $ 69.00 reman, hub bearing $ 54.00 new (a massive bearing),
hub seals $ 8.00 & $ 16.00 a pop, lower control arm w/balljoint (comes as a unit) $ 79.00 new Moog. All Canadian prices in Toronto.
Rotors should cost no more than $ 30-40 and pads approx. $ 25.00.
These cars are DIY wonders, especially with the 993 cc engines and 5 speed manual trannys.
The only real problem I've encountered is rust on both sides of the sheet metal support structures for the lower control arms. I had to cut it all out and re-weld new metal in, this is not for the faint of heart.
This was caused by the DPO (dreaded previous owner) who took out the front splash guards and didn't cover up the holes that the plastic snaps for the guards went into.
It allowed lots of tinworm (salt, saltwater) into the structures, rotting them out.
Rotors at AutoZone in northern Illinois = $13.00
Lifetime brake pads for front at AZ = $16.00
Brake Caliper for front at AZ $40.00
Cat. Coverter from Parts America = $109.00.
I have over 200,000 on my 1996 4cyl 5 speed
These cars are very easy to work on when they need routine
maintenance like brakes, mufflers etc.
My original exahust system lasted until 160,000 miles, the after market replacements will typically last less than 2 years regardless of what brand or model of car you buy them for.
This is my third Suzuki built Chevy product, all long life!
I received my GEO Metro LS 1996 as a pay it forward gift. It has been a great car!! - Takes me to work and back home. I have some work to do on it. It's got 113,000 with only small problems - I have noise coming from belt system at start up when it warms up it stops. Noise from brake system (pads I think???) Which I had replaced not long ago. Runs great - Gas 45 MPG its great. I am going to fix it up, and when time comes I will pass it forward to someone in need as I was when I got this great little car!
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