Toyota Corolla

coolguyky7 · September 2003

Thanks, Sandman! It's unfortunate to hear about the demise of your Corolla. Hopefully this coming summer mine will be replaced with a new Prius. You have to love that 59 miles per gallon in the city.

96accord · September 2003

I was considering buying a Toyota Corrolla 04 and looked through todays LA times and say an Ad for $9989 for 2004 Ce manula transmission. I reach the dealer Keyes Toyota in Van Nuys California and ask the salesman about the advertised special. One sales comes up and asks me whether I am paying cash or credit, then another guy comes and tells me if I was paying cash they would not sell me the car, then a third guy tells me they are sold out as the Ad was run on Friday and the MSRP on a new one was around $ 14000/- and how much was I willing to pay close to MSRP. Then tells me people camp outside the dealership thursday night and line up early in the morning to buy the advertised specials. It was but obvious this was all BS and fraudulent and deceptive business practices. I just cannot understand why does'nt the state government regulate such false advertisements and take action against such dealers.
While I was leaving another salesman comes upto me and asks whether I have been taken care off and I told him I was looking for the special and he said ther're all gone. I am going to send a letter to the DMV and the requisite state authorities about these experiences as such things should be put to a stop.

Does anyone know where and how in the state could I get in touch with and file a complaint.

Thanks

Pat

backy · September 2003

I don't know about California, but in most states ads must state whether the advertised price applies to just one car, or a few cars, or more. Usually for low-ball specials like this, there is small print on the ad that has an invoice number--one invoice number. Meaning that the advertised price applies to only one car. When it's gone, it's gone. Sometimes there might be more than one invoice number. If the ad you saw specified just one or a few cars, then it's quite possible they sold out immediately and I doubt that you have any legal recourse (but I'm not a lawyer). But you can show your opinion of the dealer's practices by taking your business someplace else. I had this problem once with a Hyundai dealer, who advertised a low price on a car. I went down and they did have one left at that price, but I decided to think about it. I called back the next day and they said it had been sold. Then the next day I saw the same ad, called the dealer, and they said oops, they had no cars at that price. So I talked with the sales manager and he agreed to sell the next car they got in stock (with the same equipment) to me at the advertised price.

surjn98 · September 2003

I noticed that on the Camry there was a chirp when activating the alarm. Is this a feature that can be turned on/off in a 2004 Corolla? Thanks!

pimy · September 2003

Scottdude,

It wasn't in my budget when I went shopping, so I haven't looked at the options, etc for the Camry. Imho, the only thing the Corolla has over the Camry (aside from costing less) is gas mileage. I don't know if you've done much research, but my '03 typically runs at the low end of the specified mileage range. There's also the rotten egg smell, although I've avoided that problem by only using the re-cycled air flow option in my car.

If you're tall (>= 5'10) took a closer look at the Camry. My seat placement provides enough room for my legs, but it forces my arms to be completely outstretched, which is far from comfortable. Another note, the 10:30 (45-50 mph) positon on my speedometer is difficult to see because of seat position and my height.

If you have the money, take a hard look at the Camry before you commit. Hth.

V

akangl · September 2003

I didn't buy an 03 Corolla. Bought an 01 instead, however, after a 5 hour drive I was in pain, so I guess it wasn't perfect either, just a lot better.

I've found over the years that unfortunatly, with the exception of a 94 Escort, I've had lots of problems driving small cars. I'm 5'7" and have long legs, driving position is crutial to me since I have back and knee problems.

I currently drive a 97 Ford Explorer and while it doesn't get the best gas mileage in the world (about 18 mpg) I've very comfortable in it.

I am in the process of trying to buy back that said 1994 Escort......since its about to have a birthday at the car lot I sold it to. Other than that car I hate small cars.

fatnugly2 · September 2003

I'm seeing other comments on the driving position on the 2003 Corolla.

I'm 6-2" and yes, I have a problem driving this car for more than an hour. My wife however is much shorter than I. She's barely 5-7" and she hates the driving position even more than I.

Her complaint is pain in her arms and shoulders due to the position of the steering wheel. We haven't been able to find any adjustment that helps either of us.

She now drives our 10 year old 2nd car and feels that I have a raw deal for being stuck with the Corolla.

We knew when we bought it that it wasn't going to
be lexus comfort but this seems like such a simple thing ... Why is the steering wheel so close to the pedals ???

Has anyone else noticed this ????

Push the seat back to give more legroom and you're half a mile from the steering wheel.
Move up closer to the steering wheel and your knees are behind the head rest.

My ONLY other gripe is with the lower seat length. Theyr'e rather short and provide
very little support beneath the thighs.

To balance my negative comments, I quite like the car. Great fuel economy, lots of headroom, good looking interior and exterior. Everything in fact, except that I can't drive it for more than an hour without feeling the need to pop a few Advils.

Has anyone been able to modify theirs to get around these design problems ??

fatnugly2 · September 2003

Scottdude.

What are you looking for in a car?

The Corrolla is a wonderful car for buzzing around town but it's too small and uncomfortable for long trips.

If this is your ONLY car - my recommendation is to pay the extra and get a Camry.

For a second car the Corrola is pretty good.
It's just not a comfortable car on longer runs.

backy · September 2003

Yes, it's a shame that an otherwise great small car, maybe the best overall in today's market, has an uncomfortable driving position for many drivers (including me). If not for that, plus the sulfur smell I have personally experienced when driving a rental Corolla, I think I could be enticed to trade in my Elantra on a Corolla LE. But it would be hard to trade in the very comfortable driving position of my car for the Corolla's.

Re adjustments, check back a-ways on this board; there were posts about using a seat cushion in a certain way (not the obvious way) to help alleviate the seating problem.

pat · September 2003

Use the "Search This Discussion" on the page bar for "cushion" - that gets the posts I think backy is talking about.

calynzea · September 2003

Perhaps the Corolla is best for consumers who are smaller? I'm 5'-4, and I love the position of the steeling wheel/pedals...I have my seat pushed back so I correctly move from brake to gas w/out lifting my leg and drive in the (8'o'clock and 4' o'clock position as recommended for airbags) and love the feel. Yesterday I lowered the wheel and was even more happy w/ the comfort. My left foot even rests on the foot rest- the car feels it was tailored for me. I do feel the seat may be a bit too comfortable...perhaps more lumbar support needed at the back for long trips, but other than that- very happy

johnclineii · September 2003

and all us old folk were taught to drive with hands religiously at 10 and 2. I was regularly SCREAMED AT by driving teachers for having hands at 8 and 4. YOU CAN'T CONTROL THE CAR THAT WAY, they would scream.

Too bad most have gone onto their reward. Would love to correct THEM now!

pimy · September 2003

Imho, the pedals are placed too close together. I usually run into trouble when I wear boots or wide shoes. If you have large/wide feet, take a test drive first to establish your own opinion on the matter.

V

johnclineii · September 2003

...also known as voting with your feet.

Wise advice, too!

acidrain · October 2003

Hi - I need your help. I am a first time buyer and a new mom. I am looking for a car that will last a pretty long time. I do not know much about cars but would like to know before I purchase it. I live in the city, and I am always on the go. What are the cons of this car? Or do you think I should do SUV? Like the Volkswagen or Acura?
Help!!! Thanks

backy · October 2003

Corolla or VW/Acura SUV? That's a pretty big difference, in size and price! If you need a reliable, comfortable vehicle for mostly intra-city commuting, rarely have to carry more than four people (including yourself), don't have a lot of "stuff" to haul, and don't need to tow a big load, the Corolla could be just the thing for you. It would be much easier to park than an SUV, easier to get into and out of (especially wrestling with car seats and infants), is much more economical, and is more nimble in city traffic. It is also a safe vehicle for its size, based on crash-test scores. As for downsides, the only ones I can think of are:

1) Check out the driving position before you buy; some drivers, particularly taller ones, have reported the driving position isn't comfortable. Shorter drivers report it's fine.
2) Some owners have reported a sulfur smell; check this out on your test drive.
3) You won't have the high seating position or mass of an SUV. But that is offset by sharper handling and better fuel economy.
4) Not a lot of hauling capacity. If you need more hauling space than a Corolla, there's a hatchback version, the Matrix, you could check out. Toyota also makes a small SUV, the RAV4, that has pretty good fuel economy.

I recommend you take some long test drives of the Corolla and the SUVs you are considering, even rent them for a few days if you can, so you can get a good idea of how they are to live with.

onlyimports · October 2003

I totally agree with Becky points. A compact car and a luxury SUV differs night and days in your priorities. Anyway, you can't go wrong with a Corolla for a compact car. After owning a 2003 Corolla for 6 months now I think I know what went wrong with the sitting position. The steering wheel has a short neck and placed closer to the panel. The driver seat is fairly high and not much of a incline that make you have a slide down feeling. Being a shorter fellow I don't find it to be a problem but instead give me a better view of the road. If they would make more adjusting position to the seat and a telescopic steering column(a tall order in this class of car), it will clear off some complaints. If you're into SUVs,also look into the RX330 which by the way, was a favourite among the ladies. Just my 2 cents.

acidrain · October 2003

How is the trunk space? Do you think it fits a stroller. You both mentioned that the sitting for driver is not to great. I am 5'10, but I do not drive with the seat totally back, like some of the guys do when they are cruising. Right now its just me and my husband and my 7 month child. I seen the Corolla on the streets and see its kind of small. I agree I need to test drive these cars so that I can make a better choice. I have a question what is the difference in styles??? The LX SE something like that in the corolla. Thanks for the tips!

akangl · October 2003

The trim levels of the Corolla are as follows: CE, that's the base model, S, that's the sporty model, and LE, that's the top of the line model.

I agree that they are a little on the small side. For just a little bit more money than the top of the line LE, you can step into a Camry which is roomier. Just depends on your budget and what you want in a car.

I personally had a 2001 Corolla, loved the gas mileage, but the car ended up being way too small. I bought a 1997 Ford Explorer that was super low miles and although it doesn't get the 40 mpg that the Corolla did (more like 18 mpg with the Explorer) its roomy and my kids are happy and not cramped.

backy · October 2003

The Corolla is actually quite roomy for its size. The trunk is pretty tall and should easily be able to hold a collapsed stroller (bring it along on the test drive and try it). At 5' 10", the driving position could be a problem (I'm 5' 9" and it's uncomfortable for me), so best to check it out. The nice thing about the Corolla's small size is that it's easy to maneuver and park in the city.

Since you are considering VW and Acura SUVs, I doubt that you would be satisfied by the CE with its roll-down windows. The LE is more upscale with power everything and a tasteful faux wood trim interior. Leather is available but somewhat hard to find I've heard.

If you want a bit bigger car and ultimate efficiency, there's the '04 Prius--almost the same size inside as the Camry but as small outside as the Corolla, and over 50 (!) mpg in city driving. It's a gas/electric hybrid. Will be available starting this month, but it should be very popular so supplies may be limited. MSRP starts at $20,000--about the same as a Camry.

rutger3 · October 2003

acidrain: if you like small cars then the Corolla should be on your list, but also check out the Honda Civic or even the Mazda Protege. All these cars are very reliable and priced about the same. You can probably get the Protege a little cheaper, but it's resale value will be less. Test drive them all and see which one you like most. Even the new Toyota Prius should be considered, however it will cost a few thousand more than the others. How about a small SUV like the Honda CRV ,Toyota Rav4, or Subaru Forester. It's not easy choosing a new vehicle.

johnclineii · October 2003

And if you are looking at the Protege, be aware that this is the last year for it, and in fact, the last few months for it. The design is proven and reliable, but the Mazda3 will replace it some time around December....

cheetah222 · October 2003

I just want to sing the praises of my '96 Corolla DX.
I bought it in Feb.'97 as a former rental with less than 15k on it and with the 100k Certified Vehicle Warranty. Price was about 13k.

I'll be honest, everything is not perfect with it right now, but over all I'm happy with the "never-say-die" fortitude and service I have gotten from this car.

My car is the DX 4 Door Sedan and has Power Windows/Locks/Steering/Brakes-Fr.Disc/Rear Drum, Tilt Wheel, AM/FM/Cassette w/4 Spkrs, Automatic 4-spd, Dual Air Bags, and A/C.

The things that I have replaced so far are:

Timing Belts (2)
Spark Plugs (Only 3 sets-Platinum)
Starter (1)
Brakes (3 sets of pads-still have original drums/rotors)
Windshield (1-badly cracked)
Tires (3 sets - 80k rated)
Rotations (Twice a year)
Alignments (3)
Battery (1)
Engine Seals (2-during the 2nd timing belt chg)
Fuel Filter (2)
Air Filter (Once a year)
Alternator Belt (1)
Pump Belt (1)
Hoses NONE
Oil Changes (Twice a year)
Gas Treatment (Once a year/Injector Cleaner)
Tune Ups (3)
Rotor (1 @235k)
Dist. Cap (1 @235k)
Plug Wires (1 set @235k)
Transmission (1 Filter/Fluid Chg @225k)
Radiator Flush (1 @235k)
Head Lamps (2)

Things that are broken but I never fixed:

Passenger side visor clip
Bass/Treble Controller
Main Blower for the A/C and Heater
Rear Quarter Panel Damage from a small accident.

I commute 90 miles each way into and back from Downtown LA everyday. Mostly highway miles, of course, but rough on a car due to all the stop and go traffic that you see on the freeways in California; plus, I have to climb a mountain (The Cajon Pass) to 4300ft to get home everyday, too, which I am sure adds more wear and tear. I am averaging about 55k-58k/yr since I moved into Victorville and began my long commutes. I have suffered 3 rear-end accidents, one of them very major from a freeway hit-and-run (they caught the guy), and one side-swipe (current damage on rear panel).

As you can see from my Maintenance List, I just about downright neglect and abuse my car. Most of the infrequency in service comes from a lack of funds to perform regularly scheduled service, and some from laziness, but I think that this underscores just how great this car truly is.

I am burning about 1 quart of oil every 5000 miles and am averaging 36-39mpg (not bad for an automatic, plus its higher than the rated 34 mpg on this car). I do remember one tank of gas achieving an astonishing 42-mpg when the car had less than 200k on it, and for quite awhile it was consistently hitting about 39-41mpg all the time, but given its age and high mileage, it has now slipped to 36-39mpg.

All I can say is that the 96 model must have been one of most solidly and best built models ever! I am starting to hear a troubling sound when the car is cold and first starts off in the morning (only in motion) and I cant tell if it is coming from a front wheel, a bearing, or some other moving part, so that still needs to be looked at, but it still gets me to and from work daily.

I am looking for a used car to buy by the end of the year and I just hope that I can find one that will serve me as well as this Toyota has. From what I have seen in this forum so far, it appears that the later model Corollas are coming up a bit short in quality, so I am concerned about that, but I will research and go from there. Any suggestions?

coolguyky7 · October 2003

I hear you!

Would you like a green '96 DX with only 75,000 miles? Just kidding! :-)

stevenq99 · October 2003

We traded in our 1998 Isuzu Rodeo for a 2004 corolla s. My wife really enjoys the car. 35-40 mpg around town fairly quiet, and easy to park. If you think you will need more space a Matrix or Pontiac vibe might be a better choice. a folded stroller would not have any trouble fitting in the trunk.

dudleyr · October 2003

Acidrain - don't worry about having diverse tastes in an automobile choice. After all most people that drive the SUV's you are considering would be just as well served with a Corolla. Also just because you can afford more car does not mean you have to - unless you buy a car to impress the neighbors instead of to get from one place to another.

Having said that I think the Prius would be a really nice choice. It gets ever better mileage than the Corolla, but has more room inside. It is much more versitile for baby things because it is a hatchback. There is also a tax decuction for buying a hybrid vehicle right now. It does cost more than a Corolla, but is much less than the SUV's you are looking at.

Too bad they don't make the Corolla wagon anymore that would have been a good choice too. A Matrix is kinda like a Corolla wagon, but uglier(IMO) and without much cargo space, but you can get it with AWD if you are still leaning towards the SUV side of things. Although a Corolla (or any front wheel drive car) with 4 snow tires will be better in the snow than an SUV with standard tires.

civicw · October 2003

at your Toyota dealer. The xB has leg/head room that is on par with big SUVs, you have to sit in one to believe it. Besides the room, the gas mileage is good, it's fully equipped, has excellent fit and finish, and the price is right. One terrific car!

redkey1 · October 2003

I am researching a corolla for my fiancee and would like to get both the sunroof and abs packages, but I have been told by one dealer that you can't get both packages. Is this true, or just a toyota strategy to buy off the lot?

Kirstie_H · October 2003

A major magazine is looking to interview someone who considered buying a Prius or a Honda Civic hybrid, but decided it wasn't worth the extra $3,000 to $4,000 price premium over the regular gasoline versions of the Corolla or Civic.
Please respond by October 22 to jfallon@edmunds.com with your daytime contact info.
Thanks!
Jeannine Fallon
PR Director
Edmunds.com

alpha01 · October 2003

If the dealer wanted to get you that car, they could. Inventory is all regional. In the Central Atlantic region, for example, you can get sunroof/ABS/side airbags easily on LE and S models with auto.

~alpha

acidrain · October 2003

I check the list out to see what car you were refering to, and I did not see it on the list for toyotas???

thx

johnclineii · October 2003

Toyota has high hopes for Scion being what amounts to a marketing division. It began in California, and is spreading nationwide.

See:

http://www.scion.com/drive/photos/drive_xb_photos.html

civicw · October 2003

I don't know if Toyota has started selling the Scion xB in your state yet, check out the Scion site as suggested by johncline. Or call your Toyota dealer (speak with a manager, not salesman) and ask him when the xB will be available. Incidentally, the Scion xB is almost 2 feet shorter than the Corolla, but the leg room equals that in a big SUV!

surjn98 · October 2003

I have a 2004 Corolla and am finding the seat position uncomfortable. I bought this car for commutes as I drive easily 100 miles a day. After 30 minutes, driving gets uncomfortable. I have had other cars and not felt this uncomfortable.
I am contacting the dealer and Toyota about this and recommend other owner's who are having this problem do the same as it is not acceptable. Can anything be done to modify the driver's seat?

dave594 · October 2003

Not sure what you expect to get from Toyota for this problem. Did you test drive the vehicle before buying it? I have an '02 and felt it slightly uncomfortable with the leg position at first. But I got used to it and no problems now.

surjn98 · October 2003

When you test drive for 10-15 minutes, it is not easy to tell how the position will feel when commuting for 45 minutes to an hour. I thought I could get used to it, but it seems difficult. Otherwise, the car is great!

msamitt · October 2003

I am writing regarding an issue with my 2002 Toyota Corolla. I recently had to replace an emissions control device in my car, a charcoal canister due to it being clogged.

My concern is how many clogged charcoal canisters had to be replaced in the 2002 model of a Toyota Corolla. I did contact the U. S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and filed a report regarding the failure on this part and hope that others would do the same. Overall, I don't think people are aware that they can file a report on this type of vehicle part, as they do not think it is related to a safety concern. I would like to get the message out to all Toyota owners that it is very important to file a report on any auto part that fails regardless of the fact that it is covered under the manufacturer's warranty.

johnclineii · October 2003

Charcoal canister failures are typically seen when the consumer tops off the fuel tank again and again instead of stopping at the first pump shutoff.

The fact a part failed does not necessarily mean it was or is defective. Usage can and does affect parts. Some just wear out, others are abused. Some ARE defective.

bahjaus · October 2003

Hi,

I found this used car and would like opinions on the deal:

1997 Corolla CE 74,000 miles, black

AT, AC, Power Steering, Power Door Locks, Power Windows
The car look very nice outside and inside, I test drove it on the freeway as well, and it drives fine as far as I can tell.

Seller wants $5,200.

I would also like to know what is considered a reasonable amount that a mechanic can charge for a car inspection, before I close on the deal.

Thanks.

akangl · October 2003

But I sold my 2001 Corolla CE with 44k on it, a/c, am/fm/cass, manual trans, gold/tan, needed tires, no power windows or anything for $7000 this summer.

Might want to ask over at real world trade in values, Terry is always right on the money with values.

vocus · October 2003

I test drove a 2003 Corolla S back in June when I was car shopping. I found the car comfortable for me, and I am 6'3 and about 275lbs. I only drove it for the test drive (about 10mins.) but had planned to rent one and drive it to see how comfortable it was. I didn't have any problems on my test drive though. Most of my height's in my torso though, so I didn't have the steering wheel distance issue.

I thought the Corolla to be a nice, reasonably roomy, good performing small car. I only chose something else because I got a deal I couldn't refuse at the time. I would have more than likely chosen the Corolla if not for that deal though.

alpha01 · October 2003

OK, so the new Mazda 3 is available with leather, Navigation, 6 disc in dash high wattage stereo, as well as side curtains, and 16 to 17 inch wheels and alloys.

I know the Corolla is NOT a sporting machine, and nor will it likely ever portend to be as a vehicle line, but I dont see why Toyota can't offer some higher trim lines than the current LE or a real sporting model, instead of the lame-o S.

The argument in this forum has previously been perceptions of Toyota cannibalizing Camry sales and/or not having enough interest in upscale compacts, such as a proposed XLE grade. I am hoping the new Mazda 3, with its really unique interior and host of upscale, fun, and technological options, paves the way for change in Toyota's thinking. (The loaded Mazda 3s auto 4door with all of the options at the beginning of this email, as well as a zippy and refined 2.3L 4cyl, stickers at $22595).

~alpha

backy · October 2003

Toyota does have more powerful four-bangers in its arsenal, used in other vehicles and other countries--maybe the 3 will force Toyota to send one our way in a sportier Corolla.

alpha01 · October 2003

Finally, some support. Thanks, Backy. I'm thinking Toyota could shift production of the newly retired (at least in NA) 2.0L VVTi 4 that was used in the RAV4 from 2001-2003. This mill produced a healthy 148 hp and 142 lb. ft, and would add some welcome zip to the already decently peppy Corolla line. If it were my decision, I'd keep the 1.8L in the current CE and LE models, drop the current S model, and introduce the SE and XLE I spoke of in my last post with this 2.0L engine.

~alpha

backy · October 2003

Wouldn't the 148 hp 2.0L engine exactly match the base engine of the 3? But I think the Corolla is lighter weight than the 3, so 148 hp might be more than sufficient--the Corolla is already one of the quickest compacts from 0-60.

If Toyota wants to get serious about a sport model Corolla, they really need to add a serious ground-effects package. The pieces on the current S model look "tacked on" IMO. Add some sportier tailights and grille, and maybe a six-speed 8-) and you'd have one nice little package. Oh, and while they're at it please fix the driving position so regular-sized people like me can get comfortable.

rs_petty · October 2003

Why not just add the 180hp engine from the Celica and Matrix since its already engineered for the chassis. Corolla XRS, 180 hp, six speed...hmmm...

alpha01 · October 2003

sucks. Ok well.. it doesnt suck, but I wouldnt put it in a Corolla, and it doesnt come close to similar Honda engines. Its thrashy and has no torque.

~alpha

doublesix · November 2003

My 2003 LE automatic has about one second of hesitation around 45 mph during acceleration. It does not occur all the time, but about one third of the time. It feels like the car is dragged by something or gets stuck at 45 mph before the speed goes up. Is this normal or is it something that I should be concerned about?

robertp4 · November 2003

I have a 02 Type S Corolla with a rubbing sound coming from the front end. I changed the brake pads, rotors (oem)and rotated the tires. Still hear it. Sounds like the brakes are dragging against the rotor. But the tire rotates freely when the car is on jack stands and the noise goes away. Anybody else with this problem or have any suggestions

dmendel · November 2003

The 5 year warranty against rust damage is now up and I am wondering if I should have the car rustproofed? I live in Ottawa, Ontario -- very harsh, long winters here with lots of road salt. I was considering Metropolitan rustproofing. I know people advise against buying rustproofing/undercoating with a new car, but what about one that is 5 years old and the warranty is up?

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