Corolla over 100K miles

[ron177]

Hello everyone,

I am a college student and in need of a reliable used car. I would like to purchase something in the next month or so. I have done *some* research and it seems that the best ratings are generally given to Honda (in the first place), Toyota (usually in the second place although very close to Honda), and Hyundai Elantra (in the third): in terms of reliability, durability, gas mileage, availability of parts and mechanics, and the cost of repair. Nissan and Mazda are also good cars in this category: i.e., reasonably priced cars for a college student.

Used Honda is really overpriced in the US and so I am turning to a Corolla most likely 1998 to 2002. My budget is $5000 to $6000. I don't need any monthly payments so I am going to buy the car in cash which hopefully would help me find a better deal. The cars I am looking at on Craigslist and other similar websites seem to have 100K+ miles on them. I think if I do a very thorough search I might be able to find something around 120K or 130K. So I wonder if some of you can help me with the following questions:

1. What is the average lifespan of this generation of Corolla -- considering if they were taken care by the original owner/s, if they were maintained properly? What is the average lifespan for a Corolla that *was not* maintained properly?

2. What are some of the general problems Corolla of this generation has when it reaches 100K+ miles? Do the timing belt, water pump, transmission, and other things have to be changed? How much does the total cost entail? I heard something about the rear brakes on Corolla not being very good. Any truths to that?

3. Finally, do you recommend a Corolla over other cars mentioned above? Do you think it would be wiser for me to spend this money on a different car, that is, a Camry, a Hyundai, an Altima, or a Mazda?

Appreciatively,

Ron

[fishexpo101]

For that price range - you should be able to find a number of makes and models that fit in that range. The key is which is going to be the most trouble free. Unfortunately, I don't have a crystal ball - so I can't tell you for sure.

But in the 8th gen Corolla line - the ones that seem to be trouble free are the 2001 and 2002 model years. The last two made in that generation. Generally by this time, most of the earlier "kinks" have been worked out - though, your mileage may vary. Key to long life is good maintenance. If the car was well maintained, getting another 100K miles from a car with already 100K on it is very possible. If the car was badly abused - could be looking at a ticking time bomb, could run another 100K miles and die, or drive 100 yards and drop the transaxle.

Biggest problems for these model years were EVAP related. Generally, the car runs well, just the EVAP system is positioned in such a way where the VSV valves and/or vacuum hoses could be damaged over time. Doesn't hurt the car, but is a major annoyance when you have to smog the car. The earlier models in this generation (1998-2000, but especially the 1998-1999 model years) were prone to heavy oil consumption. Not all cars consume oil, but the ones that did, consumed an excessive amount. The only fix for that was to rebuild the engine. All model years could develop oil leaks by the timing chain tensioner - some cars have this problem, some do not. No timing belt - uses a chain, that should last the life of the engine with good maintenance. Aside from that - the 1ZZ-FE engine is pretty tough. The 2000+ model years added variable valve timing to the engines (VVTi). 4-speed automatic transaxle is highly recommended over the 3-speed - if you have to get an automatic. Otherwise, the 5-speed manual is well liked. Some complaints about a heavy clutch - but generally that is an adjustment issue.

As for the rear brakes - not any different that other cars with front disc, rear drums. Rear brakes being a problem is the first I've heard.

Compared to a Camry or Altima - that is a little different class of car. They are going to be bigger, roomier, but also heavier. You could not get me to touch a Mazda, based on previous experience. Hyundai is the rising star of the group. More "car" for the money, but they are still fighting that back history and label as a "cheap" manufacturer. Their warranty is much longer than others in its class. Nissan is pretty nice to drive, but can get pricey to fix. Honda, like you mentioned, tend to carry a price premium - plus I feel their interior appointments (compared to the same model years of the 8th gen Corolla) are pretty sparse. Hondas also tend to have greater service requirements (shorter intervals) than a comparable Toyota - if you go by the manufacturer's recommendation.

[PhatRoyale]

Your best bet would be to get a 2001 or 2002 model as earlier model cars were prone to oil burning.

The life span varies, it usually comes down to whether or not the car was well maintained.

The engine uses a timing chain so you don't have to worry about breakage.

If the car was properly maintained, I don't forsee you having to change anything other than the normal wear and tear items.

ebay and autotrader is another good source you can find.

[ron177]

Originally Posted by fishexpo101

Biggest problems for these model years were EVAP related. Generally, the car runs well, just the EVAP system is positioned in such a way where the VSV valves and/or vacuum hoses could be damaged over time. Doesn't hurt the car, but is a major annoyance when you have to smog the car. The earlier models in this generation (1998-2000, but especially the 1998-1999 model years) were prone to heavy oil consumption. Not all cars consume oil, but the ones that did, consumed an excessive amount. The only fix for that was to rebuild the engine. All model years could develop oil leaks by the timing chain tensioner - some cars have this problem, some do not. No timing belt - uses a chain, that should last the life of the engine with good maintenance. Aside from that - the 1ZZ-FE engine is pretty tough. The 2000+ model years added variable valve timing to the engines (VVTi). 4-speed automatic transaxle is highly recommended over the 3-speed - if you have to get an automatic. Otherwise, the 5-speed manual is well liked. Some complaints about a heavy clutch - but generally that is an adjustment issue.

As for the rear brakes - not any different that other cars with front disc, rear drums. Rear brakes being a problem is the first I've heard.

Thank you for this rather thoughtful response. I do not know what is the EVAP system. How much does it cost to change/fix the VSV valves and/or vacuum hoses -- if they're damaged?

So I take it that Corolla 2000 and above should not have problems with oil, correct?

The only reason I am considering a bigger car (Camry and Altima) is that they might be sturdier when they reach 100K+ miles -- when compared to Corolla. That's my logic but maybe I am incorrect here!

[randini667]

I went with the 2001 Prizm, to save the extra money. They are supposed to be built in the same factory as the corolla. Mine burns oils ack. Just a side note for you.

-Randy

[Shawn5800]

Get a 2000-2002- Prizm. Save yourself the money of getting the re badged vehicle. Same thing. Then bank the rest of the cash. So worth it.

[frankliniii]

I went with a 02 prizm due to the fact it was cheaper than the corolla and was looking for something with low maintanence, didnt want to change a timing belt. Was looking at 01's and 02's due to better engine. Saved a thousand or two dollars on mine, got it with 103000 miles, new clutch installed before i bought it. Getting 39mpg and only regular maintenance and one axle seal had to be replaced.

[mr1114]

$5000 should purchase a vehicle that is in excellent condition mechanically and cosmetically. I am new to Toyotas and I couldnt be happier with my Corolla.

[omairtheman1]

I'm selling a 2002 Camry Stickshift with 100k miles on it... for 5K!!! the car is black and fairly clean and also made in japan and has a timing chain and works... PM me if you're interested

[zythr]

What's the main issue(s) with the 93-96 models? Reason asking, I like the Wagon. Thanks

[blb]

Picked up a '99 Prizm for my daughter with 78,000 miles for $2300. Uses about a quart of oil every 1200 to 1400 miles. Not a big deal. Very reliable vehicle so far. Buy from private owners instead of dealers....save big bucks and you get to talk to the owner.

[mr1114]

Originally Posted by blb

Buy from private owners instead of dealers

I second that.

[zythr]

Dealers can have good deals too.