2003-2008 Toyota Corolla Prices Paid and Buying Experience

sandman46

The Sandman

mcdawgg

NO. Just the fabric is different.

anlina

Thanks, mcdawgg.

anlina

I'm considering two options:

A loss leader Corolla CE priced at $12388 + tax and fees.

A Corolla S with side air bags and Extra Value package for
$16500 out-the-door.

Any thoughts?

sandman46

Think you will be happier with the S model personally. At 1st look the CE is a better buy $ wise but over the long run, think you'll be glad you bought the S model. More creature comforts with a bit of a better look especially the interior. Seat fabric is very nice and the hardware seems to have a better look than the bare boned CE model. Even the LE model is a better choice.
I think in year 3 of ownership if not earlier, you'll be glad you bought the upgraded model.

The Sandman

anlina

Thanks, Sandman. I agree with you...but I was thinking that since the 09 Corollas will have ABS standard (we can't get them in California now) and they may have better rear end crash test ratings...I could spend as little $ as possible now on the CE and then trade it in for an 09 -- unless I absolutely loved the CE and decided to keep it. I'd get after-market cruise control installed on it, BTW. That would give me time to re-evaluate how important ABS really are to me. :confuse:

I just read your member description, and I see you own a Civic LX! That's the third option I've been considering.
Found one for $18K out-the-door. I've never spent so much money on anything in my life! Feel free to convince me it's worth it.

cargo1

Hi anlina: Can you please let me know what dealer is offering the Corolla CE at $12388 ? Is it for automatic transmission? Does it include destination charge and the $1000 customer rebate? I live in Northern Calif. and would appreciate any info on Corolla good deals. Thanks.

anlina

cargo1,

I'm very sorry -- I was mistaken. The dealer had said they'd be running the same ad this weekend as last week --
but they had more than one ad. The one they're repeating this weekend is for $12988. Out-the-door price is $14244.

It's in Pasadena, southern CA.

Do you know what a "loss leader" is? It's when they advertise a few cars (usually CE) for an unusually low price. They expect a lot of people to show up and only a few will get them. That's my understanding of it.

The weird thing is, I found one for $12915 (o-t-d $14313, which doesn't add up to me) -- and they still had it available several days later. You never know.

You can find out about them in the weekend classifieds -- they run special ads on them.

Hope this helps.

cargo1

Thanks, anlina, for clarifying. Yes, I know what a 'loss leader' means. I'll be using email-a-thon buying method. Info on good deals would be my *approximate* target, with the understanding that prices differ regionally. Thanks to the education on these forums, I won't physically show up for the 'loss leader' ads at any one specific dealer only to be treated with their bait-and-switch tactic. I haven't seen such good 'loss leader' deals in Northern Calif, though.

surejuju

Seems to me if you can shell out $18k now, then any of the S, LE, or Civic LX would be a good choice. However, buy a CE now, install an after-market cruise control and then trade it in in less than one year seems like a not so good thing to do. You'll lose $3,200 in depreciation alone. Why not put your hard-earned $14k in a CD and then you'll have way over $20k ($14k+interest+CC install+$3.2k+operating costs) to buy a Corolla (any style with ABS) or a Civic in a year? Of course, this is from a purely financial point of view.

surejuju

I had a pretty pleasant experience when I bought my loss leader. See my earlier post:

#1607 of 1720 2008 Corolla CE (AT) for $12,995 in Southern California by surejuju Aug 03, 2007 (10:43 am)

I think you'll have to prepare to leave right away if the dealer starts to play game with you. I bought my Ford Escort (10 yrs ago), Camry, Sienna all this way in the past.

sandman46

Wait to buy...or buy a model with cruise already installed. Or put the $ into a 6 month or 1 year CD as it's clear you don't know what you want. To buy and trade in a year or two is just foolish unless you wanna lease for those two years. Maybe a better option in your case anyways. Can always buy the car if you really like it at lease end.
Don't settle when buying a car...you'll regret the decision at some future point. And all that stuff is not worth it mentally. Better to get what you want and be happier down the road!

The Sandman

(P.S. - I do drive a Civic LX and couldn't be happier. Could've bought a cheaper Corolla or Elantra but I knew I'd be unhappy down the road. Now I have a smile on my face whenever I drive my Civic. Is it worth it...H-ll yes!)

anlina

Sandman, I appreciate your kind reply.

I've ruled out the Corolla CE. But...(maybe I should stop researching!), I'm now debating between the Corolla S,
Civic LX and the Mitsubishi Lancer ES.

I've read a lot of negative consumer reviews on the Civic (the most common complaint is lack of rear visibility). The most common complaint on the Corolla is the awkward steering wheel placement.

Do you have any thoughts on this?

Thanks again,

Anlina

sandman46

Good friend bought this car. Great looking and he says it drives nicely but the mpg's are low for this class. Only drawback he says. And since there aren't many on the road, bet you could swing a sweet deal. Could always wait on the '09 Corolla but they will be MSRP for the 1st few months at least. Still think the Civic would be ideal. Have you checked out the Elantra? Good value for the money.

The Sandman

haocorolla

Dear all:
I have seen so many pages of information here and I am getting dizzy...After the reading I even thought about going to fly to fitzgerald mall in Maryland and drive back a corolla (as the prices there are good and nonhaggling)....

Now for real: What should I ask for a price in local Michigan (close to Detroit) for a Corolla LE, auto transmission, with the ABS, and the side airbags options? Dealer information and negotiating strategy will be very welcome. Thank you..

jlawrence01

You are going to leave one of the MOST competitive auto markets to fly or drive 500 miles. It does not make a lot of sense to me. There are at least 15-20 Toyota dealerships in the general Detroit area.

You are looking for one of the Corolla configurations that is in the greatest demand (and least likely to be discounted). You see what is available in the Midwest by reading the board. See what the local dealers can offer IN PERSON. You'll get a better price but don;t expect much discounting.

haocorolla

Thanks for replying. I just think the price at Fiz is so good that no local dealer could match this price. For instance, a Corolla LE with auto, abs, side airbags costs only $15456 + TTL. While at a local dealership, they are marked at least $17500. Their invoice price would be likely at $16800 somewhere. Even if I can get the invoice price locally, (this is hardly possible), essentially I am paying $1500 more for the car. This qualifies for a vacation to DC and drive back:) Any thoughts?

surejuju

Maybe you can contribute the leftover money and get an overnight stay in the Lincoln Bedroom at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue?

ana2

Got my Corolla LE with side airbags Oct 27. I bought the alarm from the dealer for $295 as the dealer told me if I install in other place, it will void the warranty.
Here is the price
car price $15988 (before 1000 rebate which expired on Oct 31)
alarm $295
documentation fee $55
License fee +Registration+ tire fee $179.75
tax $1266.20
-rebate $1000
=16783.95

the MSRP is $18101 .
it has VV,BE,CT
I got a silver one.

If I spent more time, maybe I can do better, but it seems hard to get a silver or white one. most of them are black.
I don't like black. If I want a black one, maybe I can save $100 more. But I didn't want to spend too much time on it and I want a white or silver. I am quite satisfied with the price I got. It is not the best, but good enough

anlina

Can you say which dealer you got it from?

Thanks!

ana2

Several dealers gave me around the same quote price. But only toyota of Orange has silver one. So I got from them. But you need to go there to negotiate to this price as they will not give out low price over phone or email

anlina

Thanks!

If it's not too much trouble...could you tell me the names of the other dealers who gave you the same price? I want a silver one too, so I may need to try several places.

Thanks so much.

surejuju

FYI, Toyota of Orange also gives out $ (not much) for referrals and other extras if you ask.

anlina

How's this for a price:

08 Corolla S, automatic
Extra Value Package #1
Side Airbags

Out-the-door price (including rebate): $16,134.30.

Thanks in advance!

sandman46

Sounds like a great price if you don't mind living with the old tech from Toyota. Personally, I'd wait till the new Corolla debuts just to see what you might be missing. It'll definitely have 16" shoes and air bags all around as well as ABS standard...have to keep up with the competition. But if you really can't wait & the Civic just isn't your thing...go for it!
Seems like you've been on the fence with buying for awhile now. Might also want to consider waiting till the last week of the year as it's realllllyyy slow from what I've heard. We bought during the last week of November when Thanksgiving fell in the last week about 6 years ago and were the only shoppers in the dealership. Luckily they wanted to move a unit and they had the exact car the wife wanted...got a killer deal. Between that time and the end of the year, most people are so preoccupied with gift buying that car buying takes a back seat. Dealers still need to move merchandise, so it's a great time for buyers. Good luck & keep us posted.

The Sandman

surejuju

Found this from a car buying tips site - just to stir up things even more.

"BEWARE OF "FIRST MODEL YEAR" LEMONS
There is secret car makers don't want you to know. Nearly all models, regardless of brand, suffer significant quality control problems during the first 12-24 months of manufacturing.
It's impossible to work out every problem in a complex new machine before it's actually built. This means that automobiles built during the first (or even second) year after introduction are "guinea pigs." During these first two years the manufacturer is learning about a lot of little problems that need to be refined. "First model year" quality problems exist when a brand new model is introduced and when an existing model is made "all new" with major design changes.

CAR BUYING TIP: Only purchase models that have been in production for at least two years. These cars have much fewer initial and long term reliability problems. "First model year" problems affect both new and used car buyers. Let someone else work out the "first model year" bugs.

Of course it's tough to wait. New car buyers want their "new car" to be as up-to-date and "new" as possible. Just remember that new automobiles become "old" very quickly. You're better trading some of that "new model excitement" for the significantly better quality of an established model."

My 2004 Sienna has lower reliability ratings by Consumer Reports than those made the years before and after.

anlina

Thanks, Sandman. I probably could wait...but I need to get on with my life, so to speak. I've been without a car since August when my 98 Civic (with only 27K miles) was totalled.

Found another S with a 6-CD changer as well as side air bags for $16,250 out the door. This one's a sure thing, whereas the dealer who's offering the one for a little less is sounding a little flakey at this point.

anlina

surejuju,

Yes, I know! I was concerned about that -- plus the fact that I might not like the 09 Corolla's design at all.

Thanks for making me feel better about getting an 08!

anlina

Well, I got the Corolla S tonight for $16,134 out-the-door.

They talked me into a 3 year extended warranty for another $700.

Thanks to everyone for your help!

Anlina

surejuju

Congratulations anlina ! I'm sure you'll be very happy with your S.

P.S. Not so sure about the 3 year extended warranty tho - I thought one of the main reasons you wanted a Corolla was for its reliability? I fully expect my CE to be free of major repairs the first six years at least. Again, I would just put that $700 in a CD for six years, or buy something special for your S.

mcdawgg

"P.S. Not so sure about the 3 year extended warranty tho - I thought one of the main reasons you wanted a Corolla was for its reliability? I fully expect my CE to be free of major repairs the first six years at least. Again, I would just put that $700 in a CD for six years, or buy something special for your S."

Completely agree! I would cancel it.

anlina

thanks surejuju -- and I appreciate all the information you've provided me.

I'll rethink the extended warranty -- I thought it was an exceptional deal, but now I hear that a lot of dealers are discounting them!

Best,

Anlina

anlina

Thanks, mcdawgg. I probably will do that.

Anlina

sandman46

Congrats on your deal. Totally agree about the warranty...buy the CD!

The Sandman

irismg

I think it's a good idea. Go for it. While you're in the area, or online before you even go, check out the Carmax in Laurel, Maryland and compare prices that way, too. They are one of only 2 Carmaxes in the country that sell brand new Toyotas. But I agree about Fitz, as well.

Only thing, I would call either one of them first and tell them you're coming. I did that for the Carmax and he said to call him when you make your travel plans, he'll take care of you. Second, and this is an option I didn't have, take someone with you to help drive, because 12 hour drives are NO FUN even in good weather.

anlina

Thanks, sandman!

Anlina

haocorolla

Thanks for the advices. I am checking on the local dealers and see how good they can match with the prices from Fitz.

If I am going for online buying, I might go for carmax at Kenosha, WI (close to Chicago) as it will be a shorter drive for me from Detroit....

luvhh

Hi everyone -- last night I walked out door with LE Corolla 08, $14,972.00. What do you guys think? This was in Maryland.

hfzeus

Since you provided almost no information, how can we tell? What options did you get? What was the sticker and what dealer did you use?

If it was a stripped 5 speed, you were ripped off. If it was a loaded LE, you did well.

luvhh

Oh, sorry about that. It is a loaded LE, automatic transmission. I wish I had the invoice in here, but it has everything except a sun roof. (and not ABS brakes).

surejuju

I'd say you did great ! You paid about $500 over what I paid for CE (auto) just over three months ago. How did you get that price?

markber

You got an awesome deal. I just bought the exact same car from a dealer in Madison Wisconsin for $15.095.00 except mine has tan interior. I wish I would have saw your post 1st.

haocorolla

ah...how could you make it? This OTD price also includes the tax, title and license? I don't think it is possible...I think the invoice price is even higher than that, not to mention adding the TTLs..

Anyway to make it happen in Detroit area, Michigan?

haocorolla

same question: How did you get this price?

haocorolla

Is this also the out of the door price? Seems too good to be true:(((

luvhh

Okay, once again, sorry about that, because I left out a MAJOR part of the deal. I had a trade for which they wanted to give me $500.00. I took it to another Toyota dealership and they also wanted to give me $500.00. It was a 1996 Toyota Corolla, 166,000 miles, but the roof was dented in. It almost looked like somebody had bounced a basketball on top of it. Also the left passenger door would not unlock, and it needed struts.

Anyway, to back up a bit, I had already decided that I would purchase the LE for $15,000.00 and how they worked out the number would be up to them. They could lower the price or up the value of my trade but either way I was not going to pay a penney over $15,000.00. So after dealing with six different dealerships, and walking out of the one where I ended up getting it from 3 times, they finally ended up giving me $1,200.00 for my trade and of course the $750.00 rebate. So, yes, it was out the door for $14,972, but if you add my trade back in, it would have been $16,172.00 -- I guess then it's NOT so good of a deal?

surejuju

For comparison purpose, I saw this over the weekend (from Toyota of Pasadena):

2008 Corolla LE, Model #1822, MSRP: $17,395, Auto, PDL, PW, $14,188 after $1,000 rebate, 5 at this price. For Southern California, I think all the other stuff add up to abut $1,500 so it would be about $15,700 out of the door.

The CE's are now $12,388 so the prices are coming down.

skiguy02920

I have TWO separate questions:

1) TWO local dealers tell me that toyota itself has stated that the basic corolla front disk and rear drum brakes are so good that going to the 4 wheel antilock brakes is a waste of $$ and gains nothing in safety. Thoughts?

2) ONE local dealer says Antilock brakes best and offers the following:

2008 Corolla LE in indigo blue
C T Carpet Floor Mats/Cargo
A B anti-Lock Brakes
B E Side & Curtain Airbags
C K All Weather Guard
V V Audio Value Package

MSRP $18,471, dealer's Invoice $16,930
Will sell to me for $16,185 plus $200 document fee plus tax, title and tags which includes the current $600 back from toyota.

is this close to a good deal, assuming that ABS are what is recommended?

thanks.

kyfdx

Both dealers are most likely trying to sell you whatever they have on hand..

That said, my vote is for ABS.. Regardless of how good the standard brakes may be, they can't do what ABS does..

luvhh

I guess the prices are coming down anyway because of the brand new 2009 is supposedly so a different car, they will want to get rid of all 2008's? But maybe that's further down the road when the 2009 actually comes out that they will want all the 2008's off the lot.