Toyota Corolla review

1993-1997 Toyota Corolla	Best-selling model in the world, Corolla was introduced in Japan in 1966 and more than 30 million Corollas have been sold worldwide by 2007. Currently, the Corolla is one of the most reliable cars on the road. Very economical and inexpensive to maintain. Holds value very well, very popular model; easy to sell. Front-wheel drive. Transversely mounted engine, disk brakes in the front, drums in the back almost on all models (only XRS model from 2005 offers all four disk brakes). ABS is available as an option, but rare to find. Parts are moderately priced. Very simple car; easy to service. Any independent garage can work on your Corolla. In NHTSA frontal-impact crash tests, the 2003-2008 Corolla scored 5 stars for the driver and front passenger. In frontal offset crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2003-2008 Corolla received "Good" overall rating.
1998-2002 Toyota Corolla
2003-2008 Toyota Corolla. Photo: Toyota Canada

Interior

2008 Toyota Corolla. Photo: Toyota Canada. Click for larger image

Inside you will find classic Toyota's style: everything is simple and convenient. I'd even say, too simple. Driver's place is comfortable. There is enough room even for a tall adult (I'm 6'2 and had no problem to fit in). The pedals, the shifter and lights/wipers controls are exactly in place where you need them to be. The interior quality is good but you can tell that this is an inexpensive car. Some engine noise is noticeable at acceleration. Trunk is fairly spacious for a small car.

Engine

2006 Corolla 1.8-liter engine. Photo: Toyota Canada

The 1993-1997 Corolla 4A-FE DOHC engine was very simple, reliable, durable and economical workhorse. This engine will never give you a problem if you maintain it well.
From 1998 Corolla comes with newer engine: 1.8L 16 valve model 1ZZ-FE. It has lightweight aluminium block and aluminium head.
Tuned intake manifold allows the engine to perform smoother.
No more timing belt - chain is used instead - less maintenance. Models after 2001 come with variable timing for better efficiency.
This engine also appears to be very reliable. It has adequate power and is very economical. This engine runs very smooth at any speed range, I'd only mention that it's a little more noisy compared to the previous model.

Transmission

The automatic transmission is relatively trouble-free.
Few tips to keep your transmission last longer:
- Normally, while driving the overdrive should be "on".
- Try to avoid overloading your transmission (e.g by towing a heavy trailer).
- Never shift to the Reverse or Parking until the car comes to a complete stop.
- Check the transmission fluid level periodically and always check your parking space for leaks. Change the transmission fluid according to Toyota maintenance schedule.
- Always use proper transmission fluid.
Manual 5-speed transmission is very durable and really fun to drive.

Weaknesses

Only minor problems: the 1998 - 2002 model may have problem with leaky water pump or noisy serpentine belt idler. Luckily it's not very expensive to fix. Also, in my opinion, the interior is made too simple.

Overall

I think the Corolla is a perfect choice if you want a small reliable sedan. It is very simple, economical, has a very smooth ride and can last forever if you maintain it well. The Corolla, in my opinion, is one of the most reliable vehicles in its class. Just recently, I happen to came across five years old Corolla with almost 400,000 km (248,000 miles) - it was a driving school car. Generally, it was still in a good shape, just a couple of minor problems.

What to look for when buying a used Corolla

Definitely check the used car history records - there are so many cars out there after accidents, with rolled back odometers, returns from rental companies, etc.
Follow this link: How to check car history records by VIN number
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- Check the automatic transmission, it might be excessively worn if the car has been previously abused.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a Toyota dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Black soot in the exhaust may indicate excessive oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash your car regularly, wax it once in a while to keep the car body shiny and protected from harsh environment.
- Frequent oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Change transmission fluid regularly.
- Take care of minor problems as soon as you can, so they won't cause serious problems and an expensive repair later.
- Always check your parking space for leaks, and if you find one, get it fixed as soon as you can.
- Try to avoid overheating the engine - it may cause serious problems.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in the garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.
- No matter where you service your Toyota, try to stick with original Toyota parts; they are reasonable priced.
Check more car maintenance tips

Toyota Corolla Specifications (2004 model)

Links

Repair Manual for your Corolla

If you want to find more technical information about you car such as repair manual, check engine codes description, electrical diagram, diagnostic procedures, vacuum line diagram, fluid type, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, etc. follow this link: Where to find repair manual

by Vlad Samarin