Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, specific generation, and prior ownership.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentConvertible top mechanism failures
Top fails to operate, emits three beeps, motors fail, related wiring/harness problems. Diagnosing and repairing is reported as difficult and costly.
- Very frequentElectrical problems and faulty connectors
Issues range from speedometer/tachometer failure, random warning lights, gear indicator failure, to complete instrument cluster blackouts. Problems are often intermittent and linked to loose or corroded connectors.
- Very frequentDiscontinued parts scarcity
Difficulty sourcing various parts, including convertible-specific weather stripping, window trim, EGR valves, and other mechanical components. Leads to expensive repairs or reliance on used parts.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPoor visibility
Thick roof pillars and small rear window create significant blind spots, exacerbated in the Spyder by the soft top.
- RecurrentCheap interior material quality
Hard plastics break easily, interior trim pieces fall off, piano black surfaces scratch.
- RecurrentLack of performance/sportiness
Despite sporty looks, described as sluggish, with front-wheel drive torque steer, poor handling compared to rivals, and a large turning radius. The 4-cylinder models are particularly criticized.
- IsolatedEngine problems (3rd Generation, 2001-2005)
Reports of oil pump failures, thrown rods, and general engine failure, particularly in the 2001 model year.
- IsolatedWinter driving concerns
Low ground clearance and front-wheel drive (despite the V6's added front weight) make it a poor choice for heavy snow and ice without dedicated winter tires. Convertible top leaks in rain are also reported.
The version owners recommend
GT Trim (V6): The V6 engine (3.8L in later generations) is consistently recommended over the 4-cylinder for its superior torque and acceleration, which also provides better weight distribution for winter traction. The GT trim is associated with a premium sound system (650-watt) and is considered the only version with adequate power, though still not considered fast by modern standards.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Celica, Saturn Sky Redline, Hyundai Tiburon, Volkswagen CC and Mazda3.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, specific generation, and prior ownership. For the third-generation (2001-2005) and fourth-generation (2006-2012) Spyder models, feedback is mixed to negative. These later models are frequently described as stylish and fun for cruising, with the V6 GT trim praised for its torque and sound system. However, they are overwhelmingly criticized for a lack of true sportiness, characterized by sluggish acceleration, front-wheel drive dynamics with torque steer, poor visibility, and cheap interior plastics that break easily. Significant and recurrent concerns focus on convertible top mechanism failures, electrical gremlins, and the growing difficulty and expense of sourcing discontinued parts. In stark contrast, a single, detailed report on a well-maintained 2008 Spyder GT with over 100,000 miles describes it as the "most reliable car I've ever owned," having required only routine maintenance and minor repairs. This highlights that owner experience is profoundly shaped by vehicle condition and maintenance history, but the dominant narrative warns of potential reliability nightmares, especially for neglected examples.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a stylish, affordable cruiser rather than a true performance car. Compared unfavorably to the Saturn Sky Redline in terms of actual horsepower and driving engagement, with one owner noting the Eclipse GT's horsepower underrating and superior aftermarket support. The Toyota Celica is mentioned as a more reliable and sensible alternative within the same segment. It is also referenced alongside the Hyundai Tiburon as a similar front-wheel drive, sporty coupe/convertible option, with both noted for parts scarcity.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for a consolidated list of recommended configurations. Isolated suggestions include: opting for the V6 GT model, adding convex blind-spot mirrors to mitigate poor visibility, and using quality winter tires for cold-weather driving.
General recommendations
Only suitable for buyers who prioritize distinctive styling and open-top cruising over performance, reliability, or low running costs. Essential to purchase only after a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, with particular attention to the convertible top mechanism, electrical systems, and undercarriage rust. Must have a significant maintenance and repair budget set aside, as parts are becoming discontinued and repairs can be complex. Not recommended as a primary vehicle for students or those with limited budgets and no repair space/tools. Strongly advised to avoid examples with known electrical or convertible top problems, as diagnostics and fixes are reported to be expensive and frustrating. The vehicle may be acceptable as a second car or fair-weather project for a hands-on enthusiast.
Remarks
The owner experience is bifurcated between a small number of meticulous long-term owners who report excellent reliability and a larger group reporting chronic issues, suggesting maintenance history is the single most critical factor. The third-generation (2001-2005) models appear to have more severe and fundamental mechanical concerns (engine, wiring), while fourth-generation (2006-2012) models suffer more from complex accessory failures (convertible top, electronics) and parts obsolescence. The community feedback indicates these cars are now entering the "project car" phase of their lifecycle, where they are affordable to purchase but potentially very expensive and frustrating to restore and maintain properly. Analysis based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions spanning model years 1996 to 2012.