1993 Geo Metro from North America - Comments

The MAP Sensor went out at 175,000 miles.

I replaced the water pump and gasket at around 200,000 miles when the gasket developed a leak.

I had some problems with inside and outside door handles.

Without a doubt, this has been the most reliable, longest-lasting, fuel-efficient, enjoyable car I have ever owned. It is also my first imported car, after owning 6 or 7 American-made. The engine has never used oil (a small feat for 215,000 miles) and it drives and handles just like the day I bought it. I can always expect to get 53 or 54 miles per gallon on trips. I have changed the oil and filter every 2,000 miles and replaced the timing belt several times (just preventative maintenance). I am sad that this 3-cylinder car is no longer available in this age of high-priced fuel.

It really is a great little car. I really wish I could find one of the 3 cylinder versions. The only ones around here are the hatchback 4 cylinders. Did they ever make a 3 cylinder sedan?

You give this car a "10/10" rating in everything?

What did you drive before, a moped?

Some might consider this an ideal vehicle, however I lost a close friend when his Metro was struck by a shopping trolley at Tesco.

And you're superstitious.

In reply to the individual who asked if my previous vehicle was a MOPED, on the contrary. My previous cars were Chrysler 300, Olds 88, Pontiac GTO, Pontiac Grand Prix, Ford Thunderbird, and Ford Ranger XLT. My '93 Metro gets high marks simply because it is uniquely reliable, the bucket seats were designed for comfort more than "style", and it is so economical to drive and maintain. As meticulous as I am about maintaining my vehicles, I have NEVER owned a car (before the Metro) that lasted for 200,000+ miles without needing some sort of engine repair. I am confident it will make it to 300K. Also, if your comment about the "moped" is in reference to the small 61 cubic inch motor, think again. It will smoke the tires any time I want it to. Basically, it's a matter of priorities. I no longer belong to the school of thought that I require 300 horsepower to transport me. I have another air-conditioned Metro as well (a '95 LSI). I have a bumper sticker in each that reads: "Laugh all you want. 54 mpg amuses me too."

Can you please tell me where I can get one of those bumper stickers?

As the author of the sticker, I made my own using my computer. Taped one inside the back window of each Metro. So actually, it's a home-made sticker. It's the weirdest thing, though. Most people got a good laugh out of it, and a few others actually showed an emotionally-charged animosity over it, I guess, because the fuel prices are kind of a sensitive issue. Fills 'em with rage. I finally decided to remove them for the sake of protecting my property. The ones that reacted negatively, strangely enough, tended to be types that choose to drive a huge, gas-guzzling 4 x 4 pickup with a big bad dog in the back. What's up with that? Do they feel their image is threatened by the changing times?

I've driven Metro's since gas was around a buck a gallon. I'm 6'2", 200 lbs bare butt naked, and I've never felt like I had to prove anything to anybody.

Enjoy your Metro's!

My 1994 4 door metro is very reliable and economical.It's fun to drive and easy to park. It is however, kinda embarrassing to own! Ned Flanders (the Simpson's neighbor) owns one and seems like a typical metro owner. I drive defensively in this tiny car. I fear I may die if hit in this car as it doesn't even have a driver's air bag. Why do so many people claim to change oil and filter every 2,000 or 3,000 miles when the owner's manual suggests changing them every 7,500 miles? The engine will outlast the rest of this car.I'm thinking about buying a real car like the 2006 Honda Civic, but it's tough to dump a metro that won't quit.

I wouldn't worry too much about the Ned Flanders stereotype. I'd be more embarrassed and ashamed paying $90 to fill up a gas-guzzler! Personally, I've always bucked the trend, whatever it may be, and have enjoyed being a free spirit all my life. I am, however, intrigued about the concept of using hydrogen as an automotive fuel. But that's a whole different story. And regarding changing the oil every 2,000 to 3,000 miles... It's just a little favor I do for any car I own. I know I don't have to do it, but it just stands to reason, the newer the oil, the less wear on the engine. Maybe that's the reason I haven't had any engine problems. And your concern about getting hit is a concern I share with you. Guess we can't have it both ways. I look at it this way. They're safer than riding a cycle, and they tend to be more fuel efficient, too. I own several Metro's and I believe the later body style ('95 & up) to be the stronger design. I could be wrong, but the door posts seem beefier, as well as the doors, fenders and hood. I try to drive defensively, no matter what vehicle I'm driving. You have to assume that the oncoming car may drift over in your lane. Another thing I've done ever since I began driving 40 years ago, is when I come to a green light, I look both ways as I approach the intersection. That habit has saved me more than once. Knock on wood, have never had an accident.

I considered adding a 1.5 inch pipe steel cage to my 93 XFI to protect from front and side collisions, but I haven't done it yet since it might bring down my MPG too much and be totally insane.

-Dave, Toledo, OH

I purchased my first new Metro in 1992. Sadly it died at 188,000 miles. Perhaps I should have changed the timing belt and changed the oil more often (usually about 20,000 mile intervals). In 1998 I purchased another new metro. I have taken better care of this one since I will not be able to purchase a new one. I drive these vehicles every day during the work week and I travel a lot. The mileage is awsome and I would never own any other vehicle for my work related transportation needs. Strange enough, I also own an H3 Hummer luxury edition with the off-raod suspension package and 5 speed tranny. This is my weekend/vacation vehicle and yes I do go 4-wheelin quite often. I am looking for two bumper stickers. One that says, "My other car's a Hummer!" and another that says, "My other car's a Metro!" I will admit that they make quite a contrasting sight sitting in the driveway together, but I like em both!

Charles.