The brakes have always been a problem, the front discs wear unevenly causing pulsation/vibration when braking even after replacement of all components. Maybe the dealership would have been able to supply new parts?
Replaced the alternator at about 100k miles in 2002 during a long freeway drive in the summer heat.
The electronic ignition control module failed after the car was parked for a couple weeks; it was strange because the car started and ran fine, but then stalled and wouldn't restart. This was the most costly repair - the replacement control module cost $250.
This has been a great first car, and I will probably hold on to it until something serious goes wrong. The annoyances about this vehicle are the non-reclining front bench seats, (why a car left the factory without adjustable seats makes no sense), and the brakes, mentioned before.
The 2.5l engine and 3-speed auto transmission have always been well-maintained and have in return been reliable. The engine burns almost no oil at 135k and the transmission still shifts smoothly and performs as well as when I bought the car. The car has no fluid leaks, all power equipment and options work fine.
Fuel consumption is OK for a car its size: 30mpg consistently, down to a minimum of 24 for city driving during the Minnesota winters.
Keep the maintenance up and you can expect at least 250,000 miles on the odometer before any major repairs are needed. These cars may not be pretty, or fast, but they are reliable.
I had the ignition module go out as well. My father replaced it, which was apparently very difficult since it was behind the engine and low. However, the replacement was only $80.
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