Faults:
First thing, the transmission went on me after 45 days from buying the car and had to park it for 2 months. Finally got the money to buy a used transmission and had a friend of my Dad's put in in cheap. (Total cost $740)
Replaced the battery a month and a half later. (Total cost $91.92)
General maintenance oil change and engine flush as well as radiator flush and fill. Both were much darker in colour than they should have been and actually seemed to run better after having them done. Scary! (Total cost $108.49)
Next was a royal kick in the...Well, here's the deal. Car is running fine one minute. The next will barely start and when it does won't stay running unless you keep the gas pedal depressed. Car's computer showed error in EGR valve. OK, fine. That was replaced and the car still did not run. It was found to be the, (are you ready), timing belt, timing belt tensioner, pulley system for the belt and the water pump. Also, had a minor hole in the radiator and just had it epoxied. (Total cost $2196.20)
Some of the clear coat has started to peel, but not a big deal. Can't tell driving down the street.
General Comments:
My fiance and I bought his car in April of 2004 and have only driven it for 2/3 of that time and already spent half the car cost in repairs.
The car is beautifully styled and is comfortable to both sit in and drive.
Not a lover of large cars at all, but I love this car. The repair costs so far are a damper, but the car handles just as well or better than my previous car in quick corners and picks up speed better than my smaller, previous vehicle.
Only thing I would change is the colour. I have a beige metallic kinda colour. I read a review on here about a guy who has a black one and people think he is a secret agent or something. There are a few LHS's in town and saw a sweet looking black one yesterday and would love to have one.
27th Jun 2007, 14:02
When your timing belt went, did you have to replace the whole engine? Mine just broke and I think it was because of my water pump. When I talked to a mechanic, he said I'd have to replace the whole engine, so I was just wondering.