1990 Subaru Justy DL review from North America
"A reliable, economical, and peppy winter car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Needed a muffler (big $$$) and exhaust manifold gasket at 45K.
Tires wear out quick but are cheap ($15-30 ea).
Front rotors warp and need to be replaced frequently.
All leak oil where head meets the block, frequently check oil and use 20W-50.
Radiator needs replacing (rusty), but leaks little.
The heater controls broke and must be controlled by under the dash.
The carpet came loose and the seat tears easily.
Windshield cracks when the weather is extremely cold.
Carburettor will not choke in the morning, must rev until warm.
Seat belts recalled and replaced.
Most problems were due to lack of use and abuse since the car is a 'spare'. It is usually used in the winter because of how good it is in the snow.
General comments?
It is an excellent car for a young driver. Gets 40 mpg highway, accelerates quick for a 3 cyl, but won't go much past 80 mph.
It's very economical.
Recommend only the manual, automatic Justys are defective.
If you want a car that is cheap to run, easy to drive, and can have tons of miles put on it, this is it. I'd pick it over a Festiva, Metro, Omni, whatever. It's the best in its class.
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| A rare bargain if you can find it |
|
| Great Mini-Subaru |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 1990 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.2L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 5000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 51000 miles |
| Previous car | Subaru DL |
| Date of Entry | 27th August, 2000 |