Faults:
Since I have owned the car, several things have gone wrong. Cosmetically, though the upholstery and seating have held up very well, all four of the cloth panels on the doors have begun to become loose.
The black coloring on the air conditioning panel, as well as, the power window panel has begun to wear to white, as well.
On the exterior, though there is no rust and this car has never seen a garage, the front bumper paint is beginning to peel off. The color of the car still is there, but the gloss has receded.
Mechanically, the car has been fairly sound. Every single time, it starts right up; however, there are a few notable problems.
When the temperature falls below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the engine knocks after about 10 minutes of driving. The car doesn't lose any power, and can be driven normally as long as the radio is turned up to cover the annoying nature of the click.
The car shifts rough between the first and second gears, as well.
The master cylinder on the brakes makes noise, though the brakes still stop the vehicle on a dime.
The power window motors/regulators have all gone bad, too.
The automobile also idles rough, and once in a blue moon cuts out temporarily at stoplights; however, it has never actually stalled and left me having to start it back up.
The gas gauge has also broken, though the light will still come on to tell you you need to visit the local gas station within a few more miles of driving.
Finally, the air conditioning does not work. The fan blows the appropriate amounts of air on all four speeds, it just isn't cold. Heat works better than our 2005 Altima, though.
General Comments:
If you are looking for a car that you know will start right up and send you on your way from A to B, this is the car for you.
It is very sporty looking, and has plenty of passing power.
The stereo is amazing, and has a bass that will turn heads in any given situation.
The cruise control is very nice, as is the large moonroof.
Really, anything that has gone wrong with the car is cosmetic and would merely be a luxury if it worked. I purchased the car for a very low price, under the motto that nothing used is perfect, from cars to computers.
I really think power locks should come before power side view mirrors, though.
The dashboard looks very classy when lit up at night, too.
The alloy wheels, chrome tipped exhaust, and spoiler/fin make the car look even sportier than before.
Overall, I love the car and would buy a new one in a heartbeat.
18th Jul 2009, 15:54
I know these problems are most inconvenient, but if that is your only concern after almost ten years of service, then that's not bad. Try going to your local parts store to pick up four new window regulators (that's all you need) Also, you can't really just skimp out on maintenance repairs on you car due to "poor economic times", what happens when your car REALLY breaks down? Then you have no way of getting to your job. Your car should be at the top of you economic budget list, because without it, you cannot make any money.