Faults:
Due to knee problems, was forced to sell my fully restored classic Suzuki Samurai, and wanted to locate a decent 2004 or 2005 Hyundai Accent, which took over a year to do, as so many Accent owners are happy with their cars, and do not sell them.
This Accent has higher mileage than I wanted, but was a one owner vehicle with totally clean CarFax, so I had it checked out by a professional mechanic before purchase.
It needed a new timing belt, and the water pump seal was beginning to leak, so I had all belts replaced, new spark plugs and new water pump installed; this was voluntary; just good sense?
I also replaced all four tires after purchase, and had an oil change and transmission flush. Again, just routine maintenance on a car of this age and mileage.
General Comments:
Why go back to 2004 or 2005 you might ask?
I prefer having a real temperature gauge instead of an idiot light, so that if there is a cooling problem, I will see it in progress instead of boiling over in traffic. Also, the newer cars now have low tire pressure warning electronics, which I do not want, either. If we cannot be responsible for keeping tires properly inflated, then we probably shouldn't be driving?
As for all the other electronics and gadgets on the newer cars... to me they are just annoying and distracting. Technology has dictated choosing a 2005 or earlier car to me.
As for the Hyundai Accent - it is remarkably quick, extremely fuel efficient (averaging 30 MPG, with the automatic transmission), the turning radius is magical, and it slips through tight places like a greased eel. Granted, the seat comfort is lacking, but that can be nicely remedied with a car cushion, and sheepskin seat covers.
The stock sound system/radio is really good, though would have preferred a CD to a tape player. I wanted a basic, easy to drive and park car, without electronics, if possible; lack of power windows, locks, mirrors, etc. is pleasing to me, as there are fewer items for later repair.
In all, the 2005 Hyundai Accent is a great driving car, easy on maintenance costs, and in the deep black colour, it is stunning looking, also.
6th May 2014, 01:28
I am a proud owner of an Accent. I purchased mine with 34000 miles on it and just hit 180000. I honestly beat the tar out of this car. I've taken it off road, on sand, on dry lakes, and on quad trails. Even have gone airborne and taken it over 120 (not easy). This thing will not die. My old Ford was an embarrassment to all cars compared to this. All I've had to change were the timing belt and the alternator. Getting ready to do some major mods to it to crank the power up a bit, and I hope to have my car for another 7 years of fun driving.