2007 Yaris - Engine Vibration

[bry1023ny]

I test drove a 2007 Yaris Sedan with the 5-speed manual transmission several days ago. I was overly impressed with the car; however, I have one concern. During the test drive, when i opened the hood (with the engine running) I noticed a bit of engine vibration. Interestingly, during the test drive up until that point I could feel no vibration coming from the shift knob, the steering wheel, or the seats. I let the car idle for several more minutes and when I inspected the rear seats and the trunk I noticed the rear seats were vibrating a little bit.

My question for you guys is -- is this normal for the 1.5L VVT-i engine? Would the fact that I was idling the car for several minutes cause the car to exhibit this vibration? Is this common for these type of cars and/or fuel-savings?

In retrospect, I once test-drove a Honda Civic HX and that car vibrated much more. Even the shift knob would vibrate incessantly at idle.

Any ideas? Will this smooth out over time? Thanks guys!

[91MR2quickNA]

As far as I know, the 1.5L 1NZ doesn't have balance shafts to counterbalance the engine vibration. Most of the vibration is controlled through the motor mounts. Engine vibration is normal due to the nature of the internal combustion engine. Most midsized sedans have liquid motor mounts to help counter this. I'm not sure if the Yaris has a liquid MM.

V banked engines (60, 72, or 90 degrees) vibrate more than I engines. However, long stroke I4s also exhibit harsh vibrations, which is why the 2AZ has balance shafts.

[stuts]

Originally Posted by 91MR2quickNA

As far as I know, the 1.5L 1NZ doesn't have balance shafts to counterbalance the engine vibration. Most of the vibration is controlled through the motor mounts. Engine vibration is normal due to the nature of the internal combustion engine. Most midsized sedans have liquid motor mounts to help counter this. I'm not sure if the Yaris has a liquid MM.

V banked engines (60, 72, or 90 degrees) vibrate more than I engines. However, long stroke I4s also exhibit harsh vibrations, which is why the 2AZ has balance shafts.

WOW this is some good explanation I learn something new everyday bry1023ny just to let you know I have vibration on my automatic as well I did not expect this when I first got the car but it is not a big deal at all you get use to it