Faults:

The only problems with the car is that it needs the O2 sensor replaced for the first time in the six years.

The headliner hangs above the drivers side.

The rear shocks are very week after the miles on it and needed replaced to hold passengers.

General Comments:

All of the major parts of the car are in fine running condition after nearly 200,000 miles.

Still able to handle the high demand driving the is put upon it.

Rides smooth and silent.

Faults:

- Fuel efficiency light came on around 75,000 miles. Mechanic hooked it up to computer and found that two EGR sensors needed to be replace. Cost about $500.

- Tires needed to be replaced at 55,000, but that's to be expected.

- Cup holder under stereo broke and fell out.

General Comments:

Overall, this car has had very little wrong with it in the six years I've owned it and it's very fuel efficient -- a blessing as gas prices soar. It's not the most sexy or powerful car or the best to steer, but I bought this car for reliability and it's delivered. I feel like I could easily get another 80,000 miles out of this car.

The fuel efficiency light problem was a minor headache. The mechanic had to hook it up to a computer, which cost $80 in itself. But over six years of ownership, one medium-sized repair isn't that big of deal.

Faults:

Two alternators.

One starter.

Headliner starting to come loose.

General Comments:

This has been the best car I could ever imagine to buy I have driven this car cross country and back several times. This is the fully loaded Prizm It came with every option possible from the leather seats to the power sunroof. I have this car serviced every 2500 miles and I guess it has paid off. This car has so many miles, but you wouldn't know by driving it. I love the fact that I have the four speed automatic and not the three speed its keeps the engine running at a lower rpm. I have never seen another Prizm fully loaded this is the only one I have seen others with select options maybe leather and no sunroof or sunroof and no cruise, but never one with everything. The only thing I had any complaints about is the limited 105hp on this engine It's a little snappier than the 1.6 but not by much. I test drove and new 2006 Corolla and the power difference amazed me the Corolla felt like a sports care compared to the Prizm.

Faults:

Left outer CV joint/boot failed (replaced)

Starter failed (replaced)

Heater core leaked (replaced, $800+)

Front/rear brakes pads wore out (replaced)

Battery failed (replaced)

Trunk sill plastic trim piece came loose (re glued)

Wheel covers came loose and were lost

Tape deck failed

General Comments:

This car has been maintained by the book (severe service schedule).

The 3-speed automatic transmission is beginning to exhibit vagueness/hunting on deceleration/coasting. This may be the next big item to go.

Overall, this vehicle is a decent, get-around-town appliance. On surface streets its acceleration, handling, braking, and noise/vibration are acceptable. It is a different matter on the open road. The car is hard pressed to cruise above 65 mph with considerable engine noise (high rpm).

The speedometer is optimistic with an indicated 30 mph being an actual 25 mph, and an indicated 65 mph being an actual 60 mph.

Fuel economy is about 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

The engine is tight and does not burn oil. The car has passed every emissions test.

Handling is secure and predictable, if not sporty.