Faults:
Head gasket went at 79000 miles. The thermostat had failed and the temperature meter was reading incorrectly, the small coolant capacity quickly disappeared. Cost 350 pounds to repair. Gasket had to be custom made and cylinder head had to be skimmed. Lost confidence with the car and sold it one month later.
Clutch shuddered every time and worn synchromesh, even at 61000 miles. This apparently was a common fault with this model. Handling was also below par.
Rotary fan blower switch failed, only worked on position 3 and 4. Heated rear window switch also failed, common with the 1989-1992 models. Replacements obtained from breakers yard.
Dash mounted clock bulb failed, easily replaced by levering off the walnut trim to access the clock unit.
Electric windows and sunroof operated very slowly. Needed regular oiling. The motors weren't powerful enough, common fault on this model.
Very difficult for self maintenance. All components tightly packed in engine compartment and main fuse box awkwardly located. Fuel cut off switch accidentally triggered when upgrading stereo.
General Comments:
This model was fully loaded, previous owner specified every option. Came with air conditioning, full leather interior and all electrics. Everything worked fine whilst I owned the car.
Honda 1.6 engine provided excellent performance, comparable to modern 1.8 petrol engine and one of the best back in 1990.
Leather seats were very comfortable. Air conditioning coped exceptionally well during very warm summer 2003.
18th Jan 2005, 02:04
120,000 on the clock and you expect it to be reliable. Most cars are pretty well worn out at that mileage. Considering the Rover K-series 1.4 develops 105hp, of course it's going to wear quicker.
Pretty poor review in my opinion.