1994 Chevrolet Corsica 3.1
Summary:
A very good all around car
Faults:
We purchased the car in December 1999 from a public auction. For the first 35000 or so miles the only money put into the car was a full tune-up and fluids change at the very outset (I never buy a used car and trust what the previous owner had in it, even if it was just worked on that same day) and the regularly scheduled fluids.
At about 149000 or so one of the power steering hoses developed a minor leak, which we endured for about a month until I had to change it, approximately $35.00 for the part and less than an hour of my own time.
At about 163000 the coolant overflow return line, which is a hard line that runs in front of the front bay of cylinders, actually rusted through and developed a nasty leak. This was fixed, albeit temporarily, by cutting the hard line and using a $3.00 length of fuel hose. The actual part to do the repair properly is $70.00 at the dealer.
And at about 155000 the car started having rough idling problems, annoying, but endurable. No one has been able to diagnose it, as I have had 3 different diagnoses from 5 separate mechanics. Again, a minor annoyance.
Other than that, I agree the car uses brakes quickly, but some of that is attributable to my driving and my driving environment, as well as the unusually heavy curb weight of the vehicle (almost 4000 lbs empty). Also, the engine is peppy, but not very economical, only around 16 city and 24-25 highway.
General Comments:
This car is a very nice, very reliable 4 door sedan.
It is not, however, a good family car, as it has very little room in the back seat and the trunk space is limited.
It's performs, well, like a 4000 lb 4 door sedan.
The transmission is geared okay, nothing special, but it has been trouble free for 50000 NYC miles.
It is not the easiest car to work on, but not too difficult either, and parts, if needed, are very cheap.
This car fits many roles, a good beater who will take any abuse and keep going, a nice "small" sedan for those who take better care of their cars, and an all around people transport.
It does not dazzle in any area, but it is a good, all around vehicle.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 23rd July, 2002
28th Sep 2007, 19:22
I call my Corsica my baby too. It's so poor and beat up looking though, but it's still drives hard and strong! after 13 years of life.