Overview and Common Failures
Body and Interior The paint coating is very weak, and chips begin to rust almost immediately. Corrosion is easily detected on edges, joint points of parts, or around the windshield. The materials used in the interior are inexpensive, but they have a high resistance to wear. Owners complain about the poor quality and squeaky plastic, as well as the lack of noise insulation. Electrical problems are also common, often caused by oxidation of the wiring contacts.
Engine The 1.1-liter engines G4HD and G4HG have a bad reputation due to frequent overheating. The units 1.3 G4EH, 1.4 G4EE, and 1.6 G4ED are much more reliable and only have minor issues with the ignition system and idle speed. It is important to keep the fuel filter and timing belt clean, as a break can cause valve damage. Diesel versions are very rare and are often criticized on forums rather than praised.
Transmission The 5-speed manual transmission M5EF2 is installed in the 1.1-liter engine and has a similarly low lifespan. The 5-speed manual transmission M5AF3 comes with more powerful engines but is similarly weak. These transmissions often require overhaul and bearing replacement before reaching 80,000 km. The 4-speed automatic transmission A4AF3 is much more reliable and performs well at high mileage. However, the differential bearings are prone to slipping.
Suspension The suspension is reliable and can last up to 100,000 km under city driving conditions. However, when subjected to more substantial loads, the shock absorbers and bushings may fail. The brakes are weak, and the components have a short lifespan, including the rear drum brakes. The steering rack is quite reliable, and the power steering system rarely causes problems. However, the 1.6-liter models before 2005 had problematic electric power steering.
