Interior door handles are of poor quality (driver's side handle broke)
Hard plastic dash is prone to major cracking after several seasons of hot/cold.
The lowest of the three engine belts is susceptible to premature wear due to inadequate coverage by the splash guard.
Just replaced the coil pack at 105,000 miles. Rough idle and acceleration, first replaced plugs and wires. Finally diagnosed after noting a multiple cylinder misfire code.
Original struts appeared to wear prematurely. Replaced struts around 89,000 miles.
Adequate power and acceleration. Still getting close to 38-39 MPG on the highway when doing the speed limit and not using the A/C. This car is VERY reliable if routine maintenance is performed.
I've been able to obtain most all parts from local parts stores at very reasonable prices. The engine compartment is very easy to work in and there is plenty of space to complete routine maintenance.
I would have like to see a bit more quality in the interior. (Dash, door handles, etc.)
Overall, I am very pleased with the reliability and performance of the 1997 Hyundai Accent.
Are the coilpacks a known problem on the early Accents? See, I'm looking at a 95 Accent and it experiences the rough idle and acceleration, however once the engine has had a chance to warm up those problems aren't as severe. Think this is also a coilpack problem?
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