1990 Geo Prizm
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 37 |
| 1991 | 46 |
| 1992 | 50 |
| 1993 | 77 |
| 1994 | 134 |
| 1995 | 96 |
| 1996 | 61 |
| 1997 | 50 |
| 1998 | 11 |
| 1999 | 24 |
| 2000 | 7 |
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2002 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
11% of complaints: structure — 4 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: seat belts — 3 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: power train — 3 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: exterior lighting — 3 distinct reports on file.
FIRE5% of complaints: service brakes, hydraulic — 2 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE
Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
Campaign 10E002000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1990 Geo Prizm — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 10E002000 (suspension) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1990 Geo Prizm reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1990 Geo Prizm is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 1990 Geo Prizm?
The most-reported component is structure:body:door, accounting for 11% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1990 Geo Prizm have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.