1996 Geo Metro from North America
Summary:
Simple, Fun, Efficient Transportation
Faults:
Headlight Switch Failed: The Metro is equipped with Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) which turn on when the E-Brake is retracted. My headlight switch has never functioned, but the DRL's do provide adequate light at any speed, so this hasn't been an issue.
Fan Switch Failed: The 5-position fan speed control switch only activates the fan in the last two settings. No biggie... these settings are fine for me.
CV Joints: My CV joints have recently started making some clicking noise (165,000 miles) and will need to be replaced soon.
Headliner: The fabric headliner separated from it's foam backing over the last year and began sagging into the cabin headspace. I simply removed all the fabric and left the backing foam sheet in place... looks fine to my eyes!
General Comments:
It's funny, reading through my list of "what has gone wrong" you might think this is a poor choice in cars. However, my opinion is quite the opposite.
The car has been mechanically reliable and dependable, only requiring oil changes and the occasional fuel-up. In a mix of in-town and freeway driving I average 50MPG!
Even better, the car provides surprisingly good room (driver and passenger) for such a small car. The seats are comfortable, controls easy to find and intuitive to use, visibility good in all directions.
My passengers are always surprised to find that a 3-cylinder car can be so "spunky". The Metro does handle well!
Overall, I'm pleased to own such an efficient, easy to work on, well-designed and cheap-to-own little car.
I think of this vehicle as a two-seater motorcycle with the added bonus of plenty of storage, lockable doors, air bags, a windshield and a heater. From that perspective, this GEO rocks!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th June, 2006
24th Apr 2009, 14:18
Hi, just informing you that the 3 cylinder metro was not offered in automatic. The 3 cyl. only had the 5 speed, which was a good idea, I can't imagine what that would sound like with the auto trans. I currently own a 96 metro with a 4 cyl. auto and I love it.