2002 Toyota Corolla

[Delgado123]

Hey everyone, I'm new here, and new to Toyota, I just recently purchase a 4dr 2002 Toyota Corolla, the car only has about 80,000km on her and is in mint shape. I just have a few quick questions for now, she is 5spd standard, and I'm not used to running a standard without a tach, so what is the best shift speeds for this car? As well is there anyway to check the transmission fluid?

Thanks! -Dillon

[Clayton1984]

1. Everyone will suggest different speeds to shift. For me optimal shifts would be: First = 0-~10mph, Second = ~10-24mph, Third = 24-35, Fourth 35-50mph, fifth = 50+mph. I mainly listen to the sound of the engine when I shift. As a general rule if you take your foot off of the accelerator and the car "brakes" on its own you should have been in a higher gear.

2. It isn't easy to check the transmission fluid level... I only did it when I changed my clutch. You need to have the Corolla jacked up or up on jack stands. There is a large filler cap/bolt on the side of the transmission, the fluid should be filled just enough to where it doesn't leak from the filler hole. Assuming it isn't leaking fluid and it's running fine - I doubt you need to worry about the fluid level.

[expertmax]

For best fuel economy :

1st Gear : 0-20 KPH
2nd Gear : 20-50 KPH
3rd Gear : 50-75 KPH
4th Gear : 75-95 KPH
5th Gear : 95KPH

For performance :

1st Gear : 0-30 KPH
2nd Gear : 30-60 KPH
3rd Gear : 60-90 KPH
4th Gear : 90-140 KPH
5th Gear : 160KPH

This is personal preference. But don't shift too soon (in too low RPMs) because you will create load and decrease fuel economy and you will accelerate the process of carbon deposits in the combustion chamber !