zeekat
Well-known member
I have a red 2002 ... just like everyone else here ... yes rust is the main beef with me too ... and those rear brakes. I just re-did the rear brakes completely last fall ... should cover me until burial time. On the red ones, I find that the paint was too thin. Also the black window trim is rust prone. Only other problems: failed rear ABS sensor, a/c magnetic clutch seizing up, and replaced oxygen sensor 2 years ago. Mechanically, the car has been fairly solid (except rear brakes). Also, check the oil pan ... unfortunately it's too thin ... replace mine about 5 years ago ... scratched my head on that one. Funny thing is that my exhaust is still original ... go figure.
If you can find one that has 0 rust ... good ... then remove the rear hatch badges and fiberglass up the holes, rustproof, and paint.
Gas mileage is so-so for a 4 cyl ... I find I get 32-35 mpg ... the gearing is a bit tall which hurts the gas mileage a bit. Space is great inside.
Some 2002's have notchy clutches ... not an issue for 2003s. Go for 03s and avoid the 02s if you can.
Other than that, I still love the car ... just wished I didn't have the premature rust problems.
My 3 cents ...
If you can find one that has 0 rust ... good ... then remove the rear hatch badges and fiberglass up the holes, rustproof, and paint.
Gas mileage is so-so for a 4 cyl ... I find I get 32-35 mpg ... the gearing is a bit tall which hurts the gas mileage a bit. Space is great inside.
Some 2002's have notchy clutches ... not an issue for 2003s. Go for 03s and avoid the 02s if you can.
Other than that, I still love the car ... just wished I didn't have the premature rust problems.
My 3 cents ...
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