Looking at buying a 2000 or 2001 Corolla...What problems to look for? - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

plain · 05-07-2006, 10:35 AM

Ok so my fiance looking at buying a Corolla. The two we have in mind is a 2000 Corolla for $4300 with 70,000 miles and the 2001 has 60,000 miles and they want $5400. I am planning on going with her to look at them today or tomorrow. I am wondering what major work needs to be done, if any at all or if there is anything that I should look for that has been replaced or needs to be replaced and hasn't been by the previous/current owner. They are both automatics. I just want to make sure she isn't buying anything she is going to regret.

Thanks for any information you can help me with.

Paul

***falnfenix*** · 05-08-2006, 08:26 AM

she should buy my corolla.

JZ TWINS · 05-11-2006, 01:35 AM

One thing to look for is to see if the serpentine belt needs changed. The timing chain tensioner leaks frequently. On the 00, see how the smog numbers look. Factory cats on these cars are $$. Beside the basic stuff you look for in a used car.

ToyotaMan1281 · 05-11-2006, 03:21 AM

check the tires and tire pressure, change plugs and wires, air filter, check all guages etc are working right make sure auto shifts smoothly, change oils, check brake lights and headlights, check emergency flashers, clean the car up and u will be good to go, oh yea check all belts and windshield wipers

im sure i missed something lol other people will pitch in

tashirosgt · 05-11-2006, 10:53 AM

I'd be interested in hearing from other members whether those mileages and prices sound typical, To me the prices sound low, but I haven't bought a car from a dealer recently. Better read some articles about how to detect those cars that were flooded in the hurricanes.

ToyotaMan1281 · 05-11-2006, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tashirosgt

I'd be interested in hearing from other members whether those mileages and prices sound typical, To me the prices sound low, but I haven't bought a car from a dealer recently. Better read some articles about how to detect those cars that were flooded in the hurricanes.

actually the prices do sound low for the milage, etc. Id check out any body and/or flood damage on them

***REN69*** · 05-11-2006, 06:16 PM

Get the 2001, much better looking IMO as the updated headlights came out for the 2001-2002 model.

stubborn1 · 05-12-2006, 11:41 AM

First thing I would ask for are maintenance records. Even if you do your own work, it isn't that hard to save receipts to prove it.

Second, if you are serious about the car - spend $75-$100 and have a mechanic you trust give it a complete overview. THere's a lot more they can see once they get the car on the rack and start snooping around.