Toyota Corolla Hatchback (2000 - 2002) 1.6 VVTi GS 5d Auto (2001/51) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Is says I am looking for cheap reliable transport.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Who cares?

Would you buy this car again and why?

Never again. Horrible engine reliability.

What are you likely to buy next?

Another nail I can drive into the ground. I am looking for a diesel auto but these are quite rare and diesel in general is overpriced, in my opinion.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,050

When did you buy the car?

January 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. It was pretty good value, very good condition with genuine low mileage.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It was in my price range and automatic, not many competing vehicles at the time or I wouldn't have bought a Toyota.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly and refreshingly honest.

What's it like to drive?

OK, no major surprises or instability. Usual FWD behaviour, understeer if pushed, no traction from standing start. ABS wasn't up to much either but it did work.

What's it like to park?

Easy, good visibility.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The first sign of problems occurred within a month of purchase. The oil light came on and alarm bells immediately started ringing. The dealer said this engine consumes 1 litre of oil per 600miles. When I challenged this they said this is normal and 'within specification'. The last time I drove the car I was cruising on the motorway and experienced sudden loss of power, MIL flashes and I look out of my rear view mirror at a cloud of smoke the size of a barn. The engine is misfiring. I take the spark plugs out and one is partially destroyed, oily, and covered in metal fragments. Piston rings have obviously gone. Completely unacceptable on a 105k engine. How does Toyota maintain their reputation for reliability?

What's most practical about your car?

Pretty easy to work on. Can carry decent loads with split rear seats. Fuel economy OK if driven conservatively.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The radio is alright.