1994 Geo Tracker Convertible review from North America
"It's a fun, reliable vehicle that's cheap to operate"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I had to replace the muffler at 150,000 miles.
The turn signal and multi-function switch on the steering column failed at 175,000 miles.
The water pump failed at 195,000 miles.
General comments?
This is far and away the best vehicle that I have ever owned. It's nimble, economical (for an SUV), and reliable as a stone. I found the acceleration to be reasonably quick, and the handling (in dry weather) to be better than one is lead to believe. The two-wheel drive versions (like mine) are lighter and have a lower center of gravity than the 4-wheel drive models. If equipped with mud and snow tires, even the two-wheel drive models get around well in the snow. All-season radials will NOT do the job. The vehicle is moved around by the wind, which is not surprising given it's tall profile, light-weight, and short wheelbase. One must use care on low-speed, off-camber corners in the rain, as it is easy to spin the vehicle if you jump on the gas in the middle of the turn. The ride is rather rough, and the interior noise is higher than in a larger, better-insulated vehicle.
I liked this vehicle so much that I bought a 2003 version. My daughter now drives the 1994 model. I have no doubt that if I had continued to drive the '94, it would have made 250,000 miles. It doesn't smoke and uses very little oil. I have always used synthetic oil, and feel that this has contributed to the engine's long-life.
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| Fun to drive.. hell to wreck in. |
| Cute little 4x4 with a bite! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1994 |
| First year of ownership | 1994 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 8-valve 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 235000 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru Justy |
| Date of Entry | 26th May, 2003 |