Thinking about buying a Corolla

[lemonlime]

I am looking for a reliable car after having gone through so many in such a short time so am looking toward getting a 1998 Corolla which I've seen for sale.

I just wondered if you guys could make me aware of anything I should look out for. Any issues specific to the Corolla.

Also, the car I am looking at has a bit of rust.



Does it look bad?

Thanks

[PhatRoyale]

You'll definitely need to replace that fender.

Bubbling means the metal is rusted all the way through.

[zythr]

What cars have you previously owned? Corolla is a very good choice, but some years are better than others. I'd look at either the pre 98 model or one starting from 2000. The one you're looking at, did not have a front stabilizer bar, and the oil issues (burning, etc) so that is something to consider.

[visch1]

The oil usage in the ‘98 thru ‘01 or ’02 can be a considerable problem and it seems to happen after 50K miles. Recommended oil changes at 3-5K with a good synthetic seems to help preventing varnish, sludge/gel from plugging the oil ring drain holes in the pistons. I recently purchased a ’98, actually driven by an 88 year old lady with 51K real miles which seems to be in fine shape. I was concerned about leaky seals and gaskets but after 500 miles they seems OK. I’m doing a Kreen Oil cleaning and the oil color so far is what I’d expect without the treatment and holding the same level. This I don’t understand as I’d expect it darker. Not complaining just an observation.

[ttwinston]

Are you still in England? I don't think they have the same motors there but you may want to check around, they may be in the same motor family and therefore susceptible to the same problems. That being said I just purchased a 98 Corolla. I am new to Toyota ownership myself, there have been many in my family though. From what I have read, and I hope is true, how the car was treated during its break in period is key to the oil burning issue. If the oil was changed on time and with quality oil and filters, the chances of the problem showing up is reduced, not eliminated though.
I was a die hard Subaru owner but the 23mpg was just killing me with a 65 mile round trip commute each day.
Good luck.
And by the way, I am loving my car. 137,000 miles and at the moment no signs of oil consumption.