Some items to keep a very close eye on:

Radiator fan (Low speed setting tends to stop working and if left unchecked, may destroy the A/C compressor). Get it replaced if a scan gauge II tool confirms that the low speed setting is no longer operational

Front suspension bushings. The crappy rubber factory ones only last 50K miles. If you haven't replace them, do so as fast you can. Sloppy steering feeling, poor tire wear, etc are a symptom of worn down bushings. Get Urethane bushings...They are more expensive but last 4 times as much. Well worth the money.

Clutch and flywheel. Weakest link in the MCS transmission. Replacement between 70K-100K or much earlier than that is not uncommon. Recommend going aftermarket with a Clutchmasters FX200 or FX300 flywheel and clutch kit setup.

Power steering fan.

Coolant thermostat


Engine mount

 

A follow up on my dads post. the car is close to 72,000 miles and still has not had any major issues and I continue to love driving the car. I have been driving it for 3 years and I love it to death. It continues to get looks at my school and people keep asking me about it. My younger brother will be driving to car after this summer. I hope he maintains it as well as I have.

 

i just turned 52k on my 2004 MC. Performance is still spot on though I'm sure I'm well overdue on an oil change. The noisy runflats drive me nuts, but the peace of mind of having them is keeping them on the car (for now).

 

good story =) i feel the same way about my '02. i still get looks and people thinking its new.

 

'02 - 37K miles. Looks new. Goes fast. Kids still say "we love that new car smell"!

 

on an off note... Chico, CA is awesome, i grew up just north of Chico. GREAT TOWN< good people, good school.