Used 1991 Geo Prizm Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1991 Prizm, so we've included reviews for other years of the Prizm since its last redesign.
Take care of it and it will last a long time.
carol97, 03/01/2014
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Hatchback
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used in 2012. It was in bad shape when I got it due to prior owners neglect. I put a lot of work into it a little at a time. I wanted an older car I could fix up. New windshield, new brakes, new thermostat (wasn't heating up the interior of car). interior door knobs, new battery, new starter, new serpentine belt, the radiator hose had a leak but I got that fixed right away. The headlights were the old type, so I upgraded to the best bulbs on the market. The bulbs were 50 bucks each, and well worth it. It runs great now, and haven't had anymore problems with it. It is a basic car with NO computer stuff. It gets me from 'point' A to B, and I don't have a car payment.
Still driving my 1990 Geo Prizm
Wayne Trail, 09/13/2018
updated 09/21/2022
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Here it is 2018 and the car is still going strong. Never stranded me. 238000 miles. (To the Moon!) The Edmunds menu below only goes back to 1990. I bought the car in October of 1989. **it is 2020 and Edmunds sent me a message to update my review. I am still driving my little Geo Prizm and I still love it. **2021 and still going. I've been driving it for more than half my life. **2022 had the head gasket replaced, but it's still rolling. Still my commute car.
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chuck, 01/31/2008
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used from sister in law in 2002. Have put very little maintenance into it but it seems like the engine will run forever, never fails even in cold desmoines winters. Great gas mileage, only thing is need to replace exhaust pipes cat converter, just can't seem to justify getting a newer car when this keeps going and going, I love my geo!
The Phatty G-Ride
The Planet, 09/02/2004
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is quite possibly the greatest car ever built. It handles like a Porsche, and has the sophistication of a Crown Vic. I will continue to buy these cars for the rest of my life, even if they are now made by Chevy. I do wish that Geo was still around, because there is much pride beaming from the faces of Geo owners when they look at their grill and see that geodesic-esque symbol that sreams, "Hey look at me! I am QUALITY!"
Great Car!
Nick, 10/02/2008
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has been the best investment i've ever made! It has 263,500 mi and still running strong, doesn't burn oil, starts right up, even spins the tires pretty good, all while getting great gas millage! I've only replaced the exhaust manifold (cracked), and the starter. Everything else (as far as I can tell) is still straight from the factory.
MOST RELIABLE FOR THAT LAST 11 YEARS
Prizman, 05/01/2002
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new in 1990. FOr the last 11 years, it has been the most reliable car I have seen. Eleven years later, it has 245675 miles and still going strong, original clutch, roginal transmission!!! I sure got my money's worth out of this car. I am sure I will get 300Kmi with no problems.
reliable for 12 years in northeast cold
beanpotm, 07/12/2002
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
bought this geo prism in 1990, new and have had wonderful luck with it. I am a petite female and I have always found it was extremely comfortable to drive. Still very responsive. I have 111,000 miles, and it was never garaged throughout some tough winters. I now have a little rust underneath panel, still running great.It has never broken down or been in accident
Great Little Car
Don Ho, 08/18/2002
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in 1991. Drove for 11 years. Meticulously maintained. Never let me down. Always started. Can't say enough about engine performance. 130 HP mated well to a 5 speed manual. Extremely good handling in turns (low profile tires) and an excellent highway runner. Car was so reliable, I wanted to sell it to someone I knew. Sale took place recently, and I miss it already.
Rating 1991 geo Prism GSI
Pat , 09/02/2003
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Terrific car! No problems, just normal maintenance. Runs like a top and has plenty of power. Handles extremely well. Just keeps going and going.
It's 23 years old, can't be too mean...
kenwid1988, 12/24/2012
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought this car in 2010 for $1,000. It is thee most basic thing on the block. The only upgrade it has is it being automatic, oh and it having A/C. This poor thing has been used and abused. It has 244K miles on it. Whines like a 5 year old. But all and all, if you want to buy something that will get you to school, has nothing on it, and does not want performance, then this is for you. They are very cheap to buy. And it has Toyota parts. Good car to have if you really want to down size.
my car
menden, 06/25/2002
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i do not like this car it is not very relable, comfortable, or built very well. I would not recomnd it the only good thing about it is its gas milage. It often overheats or will not start on warm muggy days.
geo prizm LSI
Glenna , 01/17/2004
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased new 12 years ago. Enjoyable to drive and comfortable for all. New transmission put in a year ago, and recently painted. Defective rear defogger. Better traction needed for snowy weather. Car damaged in 2 auto accidents, fully repaired, performance not affected. Good tires, good care, reliable.
Best Car I've ever had
Mark, 11/26/2008
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My dad sold me this in 1997 and it's now 2008 and the car is still running great. Yes, it has needed new radiator, battery, etc but the drivetrain has been great. Highway mileage is about 40 mpg, city (San Francisco, CA) about 22. I have 199,200 miles on it. It's got rust on it (car was in Michigan from 90-2001) but the rust slowed down after moving to CA. Knock on wood but I'm hoping this car lasts me to at least 250,000 miles.
GREAT LITTLE CAR
greatlittlecar, 12/30/2007
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I married my wife 11 years ago, she owned a 1990 geo prism. We later learned it had been previously wrecked. About two years ago (2005) I was rear-ended in it. The insurance company totaled it out, but we bought it back and repaired it. The only problem I have with this car is that it will not die. It now has over 306,000 miles on it and still runs great. I change oil every 10,000 and use the cheapest I can buy. I have did this since 100,000. I would like a new car but see no reason to get rid of our Geo.
The best car purchase EVER! Still going.
bethlgrace, 05/29/2010
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first bought it I was grateful that my drivers' door worked and that my car has AC, and 3 years later and real minor work done, it is still going strong and I thank GOD for that. Fuel Economy is really good and I have replaced the tires once and the windshield once and need to do it again. Utah debris on the roads is horrible. The AC still going strong, radio could be better, my car is an automatic, wish I had a stick, but oh well. My car now has 93,500 miles or so. I try to take good care of her. She gets me to work and home and not to forget from Oregon to Utah and maybe back again.
Just Won't Quit
Reb, 08/16/2002
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Geo Prizm used with 114000 miles on it in 1994. It now has 188,000 miles and keeps on going. I live in the upper midwest where we have lots of snow and salt so there is moderate rusting, but this car has been extremely reliable. It heats up on cold days almost immediately and has good handling for such a light car. Great gas mileage and the engine feels like it's going to last forever.
Love My Prizms
luvmyprizms, 10/19/2002
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my 1st 90 Prism in 91 with 5K miles. Gave it away in 99 with 130K miles to a fiend in need. It ran great and I had no major repairs. I think it would have run until the body gave out. Only problem was it went thru mufflers fairly fast.
Great First Car
firstcar, 11/07/2002
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I agree with the other comments here. This has been a very reliable car, I am never concerned. The only problem I've had with it is the rusting exhaust system. I live in the Midwest and I've replaced the muffler twice in the past four years. My car has 120K miles on it and I would drive it for another 3 years if I wasn't tired of it already.
Good College Car: Geo Prizm
smjordan, 07/02/2003
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had some problems with this used car, but nothing is perfect. Overall, I'd say my Prizm has been reliable and I feel confident that it will last forever as long as routine maintenance is performed. Body rusts.
The best car I've owned in many ways
james3363, 05/15/2004
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great resale value, but I'd never sell it -it's too good a car to me!
Prizm good...
matt, 04/03/2007
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car, it's been no problem so far, and the mileage is awesome! Its' just a little 1.6 liter, but for having 152k miles on it, it drives like a champ!!
One of my better used vehicle purchases
ForsythSO, 05/03/2003
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been very relable over the years. The only problems were a mysterious hole in the radiator one month after purchase and the substandard brake system. The brake system was changed in the next year's model so that was taken care of. I had to have the entire brake system overhauled twice and replace the booster once over ten years use. But I have been a little rough on it too.(I found out it can go over 100 MPH)
Love IT!!!
Steve, 04/10/2008
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A friend gave me this car almost two years ago. It has never let me down. A/C quit for no reason I know of, perfect one day and now nothing happens, may be a fuse or relay. Burns no oil, but has a few leaks. Rides well and is quiet. Original engine, clutch, and transmission at 222,000 miles. Gets 33 to 40 mpg in mixed driving. I love it and hope it never dies. I have had brand new cars I have not liked this much!
Good Car
bigreid07, 03/29/2002
1990 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been a very good starter car car for me. Anyone that is looking for a cheep, reliable car for their high school child needs to look at this one...unless they have really long legs!
Great Car
NSE, 05/08/2008
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Over almost 12 years of service this car has never let me down. Besides going through exhaust systems every 40K miles it has never had any significant problems in almost 170K miles.
I love it.
Carol, 02/22/2022
1990 Geo Prizm 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Found this car a 90 hatchback, 5 speed in Denver. It had been in a field near Grand Junction. It must not have been used for a long time cause there was a wasp nest in the rear view mirror. I had to put in a windshield, FULL brakejob, over time, a thermostat, a radiator, muffler work cause carbon monoxide was leaking in to cabin. I wasn't even aware! If you get this car, check your muffler for rust! I had the CV joints replaced over time and a few sets of tires. All season tires not recommended. Those tires suck. Get something with some grip. I love zooming around in it. I couldn't drive it for several months due to a back injury. I got in it tonight...it fired up on the third try. I'll be driving it alot more now cause of the insane gas prices. I did the math and I swear I'm getting 37.1 mpg in town. My SUV only gets 13 mpg.😆 My old Geo has been more dependable than my new SUV. The dealer offered us $100 for it. I laughed at him and kept the Geo.
Never Underestimate the Prizm
fiddlinpickler, 06/08/2012
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got "Marie" from my grandma my senior year of college in 2009 with 40k miles. After sitting for 2 years it started right up after being jumped. All Marie needed was a battery, dist cap & tires. Did the driver axle at 50k. Drove from Cleveland to Denver with my life inside - she didn't miss a beat. Did the exhaust at 55k, timing belt, h20 pump and radiator at 70k and passenger axle at 75k. Maintenance + Repairs averaged $80/mo. Great in the elements. One icy morning I got rear ended while sitting at a stop light by a 02 Outback Wagon going 25mph. Outback suffered massive damage and was totaled. Marie drove away with a busted taillight. Her bumper sticker says "Now Salvaged Subaru was Here".
great little car
jwr1950, 05/26/2002
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Runs very good. For small car has a lot of get up and go. Comfort is quite good. When you shut the doors it sounds solid, something usually found only on foreign cars.
Great car-goes & goes
Sisco, 07/16/2002
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this little Geo for my 16 year old and it just won't quit! Been through 2 wrecks & a teenager. It has not let us down even with these high miles. It does not burn oil. Great value and highly recommend.
GREAT COMMUTER CAR
2002Firebird, 11/09/2002
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ive had this car for a while and now im running on 298,000 miles ive only changed little things alternator belts fuel filter ect. has had less probs than my newer cars only car i can really depend on. gas milage is great leaks 0 oil. wish it was a litte faster but the cool thing is its the same as a toyota carolla of the same year.. just little differences the brakes, exhaust ect all say toyota no wonder its so reliable go go GEO-TA :-) ever heard of any other geo going that long?
Worth every penny
MsNicksFan, 01/20/2003
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the car over 6 months ago after reading many good reviews and have been happy with my purchase! Runs & starts every day, VERY reliable - I would trust this car to take me anywhere.
wonderful first car
care, 02/07/2004
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a new care today, so it's time to leave my review of my faithful Geo Prism (nicknamed "Chloe"). I bought this car 3 years ago, and it was simply a wonderful 1st car. It gets amazing gas mil. and handles well. It never once broke down on me, and there's 150,000 miles on it now. I got new tires for it so it actually handles well in winter weather now. It's roomy. It's cute (if you dig the boxy car look). Never had to replace breaks. The only thing that went wrong was the coolant system. The engine overheats in the summer unless you put the heat on. It can be fixed with an electric fan or something, but I was too lazy to get that done. :o)
very happy
Rachel Ofallon, 03/05/2003
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my car for 8 11 years now and I am very pleased. No major problems and very good gas milage. Wish it was more stylish.
good car
prizm, 07/29/2005
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car.Thankful that toyota made it and Geo just rebadged it as a chevy.the best Gm product you can buy.have 180000 miles and still running
I wish it would die....
woozle, 03/22/2003
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
...so I can buy a new car. Have had car for 10 years and it has been excellent automobile. Only major repair was cracked exhaust manifold (common problem from what I understand.) I want to get a new car, but can't justify selling geo.
Good enough, but not great.
raybo, 01/11/2007
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had this car for over 3 years until I decided that I had enough of taking it to the garage. I bought my Prism when it was 7 years old with 79,000 miles. When I got rid of it, it had 133,000 miles on it. Right away, the exhaust needed to be replaced. Then I had a stream of minor to moderate repairs to be made during the 3 year period including replacing the ignition, starter, and radiator. Also, from day one the rear view deforosters never worked. Towards the end I had a few too many minor problems. The car made far too many creaks & squeaks while on the road. I also felt too much like I was in a tin can. I guess I expected more from a Toyota twin.
Best Car EVER
Beth77, 11/02/2021
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 91 Geo Prizm used in 97, from its original owner, when I was 19. I drove it until I was 35. The only work it ever needed, until it gave up, was two new starters. It sat for four years, long story, and started right up with a hot battery. Would probably still be driving it but something was wrong with the valves and the mechanic who 'fixed it" glued the valves open and Bruenhilda finally gave up one me.
Keeps going and going and going
James Lyon , 11/06/2024
1991 Geo Prizm 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in February I went thru gave it a good tune up the power steering doesn’t work the fluid leaks faster than I can put it in does have hole in muffler but getting ready to fix both things it had been sitting about 6 months checked all the hoses I think the way they look they were put on at a later date but the first time I drove the car I loved it even though I knew it needed a tune up I bought this car to fix up so I know I’m gonna keep it awhile
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
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not what your looking
dylba, 05/13/2002
1991 Geo Prizm GSi 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I hate my car! last year it broke 5 times! My kids complain that the rear seat is not comfortable and the front is not either!