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Geo Prizm Problems

The Geo Prizm is a compact sedan produced from 1989-2002, essentially a rebadged Toyota Corolla manufactured at the NUMMI plant in California. With 1,590 complaints on record, the Prizm has issues primarily involving air bags and seat belts characteristic of its era. The Toyota engineering provides a reliable foundation. For budget-conscious buyers seeking dependable transportation, the Prizm offers Corolla reliability at lower used prices due to the less-recognized brand name.

1,590
Total Complaints
9
Total Recalls
14
Model Years
4
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1994
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1998 2000 2001

Common Problem Categories

Air Bags 354
Seat Belts 214
Structure 132
Engine And Engine Cooling 130
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 116

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2002 6 0 0 0 Good
2001 18 0 8 0 Good
2000 18 0 0 0 Good
1999 66 0 28 8 Average
1998 22 0 2 0 Good
1997 126 1 32 6 Average
1996 136 1 54 4 Average
1995 260 1 80 4 Below Average
1994 346 1 100 14 Avoid
1993 190 1 50 4 Below Average
1992 150 1 24 0 Average
1991 144 1 6 6 Average
1990 108 1 10 4 Average
1989 0 1 0 0 Good

Geo Prizm Years to Avoid

1994, 1995, 1993

Best Geo Prizm Years

2002, 2001, 2000

Frequently Asked Questions