Introduction

1993 - 1997 Toyota Corolla	Best-selling model in the world, Corolla was introduced in Japan in 1966 and more than 27 million Corollas have been sold in 140 countries by 2004. Currently, the Corolla is one of the most reliable cars on the road. Very economical and inexpensive to maintain. Holds value very well, very popular model; easy to sell. Front-wheel drive. Transverse mount engine, disk brakes in the front, drums in the back almost on all models (only XRS model from 2005 offers all four disk brakes). ABS is available as an option, but rare to find. Parts are moderately priced. Very simple car; easy to service. Any independent garage can work on your Corolla.
1998 - 2002 Toyota Corolla
2003 - 2006 Toyota Corolla

Interior

Classic Toyota's style: everything is simple and convenient. I'd even say, too simple. Driver's place is comfortable. There is enough room even for tall adult (I'm 6'2" and had no problem to fit in). The pedals, the shifter and lights/wipers controls are exactly in place where you needed them most. The interior is not noisy. Dashboard panels fit perfectly. The trunk is normal size (it's a small car though) and folding rear seats down can increase its volume. You will enjoy more the interior design in models from 2003; it's more spacious and stylish. Especially the instrument panel illumination:

The engine

The 4A-FE DOHC engine (upper picture 100 h.p 1.6L, 16 valves, 1993 - 1997 Corolla) is very simple, reliable, durable and economical. This engine will never give you a problem if you maintain it well. From 1998 Corolla comes with newer engine: 1.8L 16 valve model 1ZZ-FE (lower picture). It has lightweight aluminium block and aluminium head. Tuned intake manifold allows the engine to perform more evenly. No more timing belt - using the chain instead allows to reduce maintenance cost. Models after 2001 come with variable timing for better efficiency. This engine also appears to be very reliable. It has impressive power (120 h.p) and really low fuel consumption. The engine runs very smooth at any speed range, I'd only mention that it's a little more noisy than previous model.

Transmission

The automatic transmission is relatively trouble-free.
Few tips to keep your transmission running longer:
- Normally, while driving the overdrive should be "on".
- Try to avoid overloading your transmission (e.g when towing too heavy trailer).
- Never try to shift to the Reverse or Parking until the car comes to a complete stop.
- Check the transmission fluid level periodically and always check your parking space for leaks. Change the transmission fluid according to Toyota maintenance schedule.
- Always use proper transmission fluid.
Manual 5-speed transmission is very durable and really fun to drive. The clutch and shifting feeling is excellent.

Safety and Reliability ratings

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Corolla has a four-star frontal collision crash test rating for 1994-2002 models and five-star for 2003-2005 models. For more details, visit the NHTSA web site.

As of reliability, the Corolla, in my opinion, is one of the most reliable vehicles in its class. Just recently, I happen to came across five years old Corolla with almost 400,000 km (248,000 miles) - it was driving school car. Generally, it was still in a good shape, just a couple minor problems.

Weaknesses

Only minor problems: the 1998 - 2002 model may have problem with leaky water pump or noisy serpentine belt idler. Luckily it's not very expensive to fix. Also, in my opinion, the interior is made too simple.

Overall

I think the Corolla is a perfect choice if you want a small reliable sedan. It is very simple, economical, has a very smooth ride and can last forever if you maintain it well.

What to look for when buying a used Corolla

Definitely check the used car history records - there are so many cars out there after accidents, with rolled back odometers, returns from rental companies, etc.
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- Check the automatic transmission, it might be excessively worn if the car has been previously abused.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a Toyota dealer before buying a car; in worst cases repair might be quite expensive.
- Black soot in the exhaust may indicate excessive oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash your car regularly, wax it once in a while to keep the car body shiny and protected from harsh environment.
- Frequent oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
- Change transmission fluid regularly.
- Take care of minor problems as soon as you can, so they won't cause serious problems and an expensive repair later.
- Always check your parking space for leaks, and if you find one, get it fixed as soon as you can.
- Try to avoid overheating the engine - it may cause serious problems.
- At least once a year have your car inspected in the garage on the lift (e.g when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g brakes, steering, suspension) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at one of those fast lube places; the car must be on the lift.
- No matter where you service your Toyota, try to stick with original Toyota parts; they are reasonable priced.
Check more car maintenance tips

Toyota Corolla Specifications (2004 US model)
Dimensions: 
             Overall length: 178.3 (4529mm)
              Overall width: 66.9 (1699mm)
             Overall height:
                        LE, S: 57.7 (1466 mm)
                            CE: 57.5 (1461 mm)
                 Wheelbase: 102.4 (2601 mm)
 
Wheels and tires: 
                                   Wheel size: 6.0 x 15 inches
                                       Tire Size: P185/65 R15 (CE) 195/65 R15 (S, LE)
Maximum Towing Capacity:        1500lb (680kg) 
Engine:                
                              1ZZ-FE 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder, in-line twin-cam, EFI
                             16-valve, VVT-i, aluminum alloy block and head
                            130 hp @ 6,000 rpm. 125 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Performance 0 to 60 mph:         9.3 sec (with automatic transmission) 
Fuel Economy: 
                With manual transmission: city: 32MPG (7.4 L/100km)
                                                 hwy: 40MPG (5.9 L/100km)
   With automatic transmission: city: 29MPG (8.1 L/100km)
                                               hwy: 38MPG (6.2 L/100km)
Recommended Fuel:       87-octane unleaded 
Fuel Tank Capacity:       13.2 US gallons (50 liters)
Engine oil capacity:       3.7 quarts (3.5 liters)