Faults:
This car was well maintained by the previous owner. Since I have bought it, a few things have gone wrong.
I had to replace one headlight, which I understand is common. Not really a big deal.
The rear struts need replacing now. If they hadn't gone bad now, they would have eventually I am told.
The only thing I am concerned about is that the rear left brake has frozen up. Is this a common problem with tempos? I'm having the brakes replaced soon. The car is still drivable, I hadn't even noticed the brake was frozen until I took it in to see about the struts.
Also, a sensor (park-neutral sensor?) is going bad. It won't start or even try to start sometimes. If I put it in Neutral and then back to Park, it will start.
The car also makes a rattling noise when it is stopped or going at speeds below 25 MPH. I have yet to have this problem checked.
General Comments:
I really like this car. It is my first car and I only paid 1200 for it.
The interior is simple and easy to clean. It has a very basic radio and cassette system, but it is of good quality. I have had no trouble with it yet.
I really like the automatic belts. I haven't had problems with those, probably won't.
Overall I have found this car to be fairly reliable. A few things to fix and it should be right as rain. It may not be the fastest car I've driven, but performance wise, It's all I need.
18th Nov 2004, 15:33
I'm curious about the modifications you spoke of. I have a 1993 Tempo GL that is only my work car, but I wouldn't mind tinkering with it. It is one of the few cars I've had that runs noticeably quicker on high-octane gas. I also have a low-restriction air filter, but I noticed no change in pep from it. Sport muffler did seem to add some pep though, or at least sounds like it did! Looks like poop though. Solid body and decent red paint, but I bought it after it was hit into a tree, and has cracked windshield and bumper. All in all, I like Tempos more than I used to. Later! Oh, if you wanna, post some more details about the "mods". -Bye!