Not too much... granted, I've only had it for 3 years. There was an incident where it was leaking gas pretty badly and I had to take it in. The mechanic said that my rubber ring thing around the tank opening had gotten hard and cracked, which caused the leak.
I also had to have my brakes fixed this winter... they were squeaking even when I wasn't breaking. Which I thought was strange. It cost me about $400 to fix.
This was my first car, so I really haven't had anything to compare it to... but I like it. The gas mileage could be better... I think I'm getting like, 20 miles to the gallon. I drive really fast though, so that could be the problem.
I had it repainted a couple of years back, so it looks great. When the sun is shining it's all glittery and cute and I absolutely love it. It's a little rough on the highway and something could be done about the noise problem, but again, that could be due to my driving.
Also, it turns like a friggin monster. I can take sharp turns at whatever speed I want (usually about 40 mph) and I've never worried about flipping over or skidding or anything. I would like more power...it's tough trying to get up steep hills. I'm the girl that always tries to beat everybody at the stoplight, and I only win about half of the time.
If you're looking for a good, reliable first car, I would definitely suggest a Neon. I've never broken down on the highway or stalled at a light or been stranded in a parking lot because it wouldn't start up. Which I'm pretty happy about.
The squeaking breaks was caused by worn pads. They're designed so they squeak when worn down, even when not breaking, to "warn" the driver that they need replaced.
After just a few words I thought you must be a girl.
Then you confirmed it.
I love your technical language "my rubber ring thing".
Please send some more comments, you're such fun to read.
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