19th May 2006, 15:12
I have to Rio Cincos a 2002 (32,000 trouble free miles) and a 2004 (8,500 trouble free miles also). I was disappointed to hear the bad reviews. Some want to blame the problems because it's "Korean" made or being cheap. First of all the country of origin has nothing to do with reliability. Even the most expensive car companies have a "lemon" here and there. All in all though you can't beat them... cheap basic transportation. The long warranty should cover most people for the length of ownership or pretty darn close.
I do have a complaint though. It seems to have a low front end. There is not much ground clearance. Took some getting used to.
3rd Jan 2011, 12:19
The MILEAGE is very important. If it has over 60,000, it may need a timing belt (pricey if you have a shop do it) and 2004 is pretty old for $4500. My colleague at work just bought a mint condition 1998 Pontiac Bonneville for $3500. He had a GM dealership check it out, and was told it was 100% flawless. It had only 69,000 miles. It was certainly a bargain. In a small economy car, $4500 should buy a newer model and a higher quality model. The later model Ford ZX-2 sport coupes are one of the best bargains around in a small car. As a mechanic, I'd definitely recommend that you look at domestics. Later model Japanese cars have lost any hint of reliability. A Chevy Cavalier, Dodge Neon, Ford Focus or Ford Escort are excellent choices, as are the Pontiac Sunbird and Grand Am. In a small truck, the Ford Ranger is bullet proof, and can easily make 300,000 miles.
30th Mar 2006, 15:27
Well I am sorry for your bad luck, I have had no problems with my Rio and I love it to bits...