The Toyota Corolla is one of the most trusted names in the compact car segment. In addition, the latest model line includes several versatile variants, such as a compact SUV. However, not all model years feature drama-free ownership; These four used Corollas have the highest number of owner complaints, including the 2009 and 2006 Toyota Corolla.
What years of Corolla should you stay away from?
The 2009, 2003, 2002 and 2006 Toyota Corollas are among the most complained about during the model’s tenure, citing problems such as excessive oil consumption and rough shifting. Still, complaints about used models are few and far between compared to comparable cars like the Ford Focus.
For those model years, Car Complaints revealed owner reports of engine and transmission problems. These problems could be more than irritating; could lead to stranded conductors and dangerous component failures. Additionally, some issues could require an engine or transmission replacement, costing drivers thousands of dollars.
Problems with the 2009 Toyota Corolla?
2009 Toyota Corollas have more than 323 owner complaints for engine problems, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Specifically, the most common problem is excessive oil consumption at an average of 100,750 miles.
In several cases, owners replaced the engine to beat the 2009 model’s thirst for oil. Unfortunately, the average replacement cost is about $4,570. In addition to oil hunger, some vehicles will experience a failure to start and a check engine light due to a faulty EVAP system. However, RepairPal reports that some Toyota Corollas examples of the check engine light could be as innocuous as a loose or failed fuel cap.
Is the 2003 Toyota Corolla having transmission problems?
The 2003 Toyota Corolla earned a “watch out for spray” badge from Car Complaints because of its most common problems, namely transmission problems. Owners report that their manual transmission could fail at over 100,000 miles and require a replacement unit or a complete rebuild.
What problems does the 2002 Toyota Corolla have?
The most common problems with the 2002 Toyota Corolla are related to the engine. Like the 2009 model, 2002 Corollas can develop a thirst for oil. Also, your excessive oil consumption problem could occur around 99,200 miles. Tragically, some more common remedies included a replacement motor, which could cost around $2,600.
Is the 2006 Toyota Corolla having transmission problems?
The 2006 Toyota Corolla has documented transmission problems such as stalling or stalling. However, owners report that transmission problems are much less common than engine problems. NHTSA has 194 complaints filed about 2006 Corolla engine problems.
According to NHTSA complaints, the vehicles’ speed control problems have led to about 39 crashes. Also, some models may have engine cooling issues, which could lead to overheating and possible engine seizure.
What are the best model years for Toyota Corolla?
Although the 2009, 2003, 2002, and 2006 Toyota Corollas all have issues, Toyota’s sedan model remains one of the last words in responsiveness and reliability. Still, potential owners who want a Corolla with fewer owner complaints should consider a 2012 or 2016 Corolla.
Both models earned a “seal of awesome” from Car Complaints for drama-free ownership.
