Faults:
Brake pads replaced at least 3 times within ownership, as well as rotors twice (rotors replaced due to neglect to replace brake pads)
2 different leaks sprung in coolant hose due to getting old and brittle, replaced and/or bandaged up.
All 4 tires replaced twice.
Power steering pump replaced.
Cv joints replaced.
Front left drive axle replaced.
Front boots replaced.
Spark plug wires, cap, and rotor replaced.
PGM-FI light comes on due to fast idle valve's new manually set idle at 1200 rpms due to old age, as opposed to original idle in ecu (not an issue, idle valve not worth replacing)
Alternator and battery replaced once.
Left back window latch replaced.
Hood holding stick rejoined to chassis.
New clutch (more due to neglect than poor original clutch)
ECU beep errantly goes off if any door opened while car is running, disabled beeping.
Fuel injectors cleaned twice.
Springs in all 4 wheels very stiff and make the car bottom out easily if not careful (can be overlooked and still driven this way)
Full muffler assembly replaced
General Comments:
Very nimble, responsive, rubber bandy first gear that slings you out of many disasters quickly, can easily out quicken performance cars off the line or pass them for a short period.
Gives the illusion that you're going faster than you really are, thus making you think you can pass people when a lot of times you can't.
Very decent to OK gas mileage, depending on how you torque the car around, 22-30 mpg city, 30-35 highway, rough estimates.
Rewarding handling with good tires.
Almost V8 like torque conversion in first gear for a V4.
A blast to drive when kept up, and makes you realize that you don't need torque and horsepower to have fun! The car only has around 119 hp, and trust me, that's all you need!
6"2" and never had a problem with legroom in the front seat. Still room to spare!
Very good quality materials on interior, actually worth touching up and using armor-all. No cracks.
Cruise control.
Lock feature which does not allow you to lock your keys in the car most of the time, because driver door does not lock from inside - brilliant idea, don't know why more American cars don't have it.
Mini vtec feel at 3700 rpms in first and second gear, engine not becomes slightly more aggressive
3rd Jun 2006, 17:08
V4? This person seems to have a limited knowledge on cars.