Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 6 | −84% | — | AC & Heater | Good |
| 2000 | 19 | −58% | — | Airbag | Good |
| 1999 | 23 | −52% | — | Transmission | Good |
| 1998 | 33 | −21% | — | Engine | Average |
| 1997 | 63 | 2.2× | 1 | Engine | Avoid |
| 1996 | 88 | 2.8× | — | Airbag | Avoid |
| 1995 | 109 | 3.6× | 1 | Airbag | Avoid |
* Complaints compared with the median Metro year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Geo Metro problems
Latest Geo Metro recalls
Power train › Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle. The shift lever appears to be in "park," but can easily be moved from the "park" position without the use of the key, transaxle lever detent button, or depressing the brake.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the shifter assembly. Until the vehicle is serviced, owners are advised when shifting to "park," always apply the park brake before releasing the service brake.
Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Drum
The rear brake drums were not correctly machined. As the vehicle is driven, loss of wheel clamp load can result from this condition. Once clamp load is lost, all tire loads are directly taken by the wheel studs. This loading can cause fatigue failure of the wheel studs.
Remedy: Replace rear brake drums.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Geo Metro should you avoid?
1995, 1996 and 1997 — these years have the most complaints relative to other Metro years at the same age, led by air bags problems in the 1995.
What is the best year for the Geo Metro?
2001 has the fewest complaints compared with other Metro years at the same age, followed by 2000 and 1999. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Geo Metro problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the air bags (77), brakes (42) and engine & cooling (37). Airbag complaints peak in the 1995 model year.
How many recalls has the Geo Metro had?
2 recalls across 1995–2001. The model year with the most is 1995.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.