Faults:
The car was almost without fault until it was over 140,000 miles, except for the typical muffler, tire and electrical cable replacements.
The manual 5-speed transmission and the clutch have never needed replacement and still function as if it were brand new!
Between 140,000 and 219,000 miles (1999 through 2001) is when about one problem per year started.
The radiator was replaced first.
After two trips out West on some very bad dirt and clay/washboard roads, the struts had to be replaced.
During 2001, I put about 50,000 miles on the car with 3 trips out West and 2.5 trips to Florida, so naturally more things went wrong.
The generator was replaced on a trip to southern Florida.
The engine went out about 198,000 miles and was replaced with a rebuilt engine warrantied for 3 years.
Finally, the arm of the windshield wiper lost its position, but that even still functions.
General Comments:
The air intake manifold's seals were installed incorrectly, when the engine was replaced, but the car still went up 10,000 ft. mountains operating on 3 out of 4 cylinders.
The manual transmission makes this 4 cylinder car operate like a 6 cylinder one, when it comes to quick starts and passing.
Because the back seat disengages and can go flat for storage, it provides the storage convenience of a station wagon.
Gas mileage surpasses most others, even the newer cars with about 35 city and 40 to 45 on the highway.
28th Jul 2004, 19:50
Is it for sale.