Faults:

Hydraulic brake balance valve has failed this year. 200€ at the dealer.

Was previously in the family since new, so past servicing is known:

Engine overhaul due to low oil running at 180000km.

2 radiators.

1 clutch.

Dealer/shop can improve, both on price and quality.

General Comments:

Comfortable, roomy and time resisting!

Engine pulls well, and overall 40MPG UK (7,0l/100km) makes it a nice 2nd car.

A bit less informative handling.

Reliable, seems to last forever.

Battery drains very quickly, if some light is left on.

An oil check is essential; the 4AFE engine consumes a bit (0,5l/1000km).

Faults:

Radiator needed replacing at 102000 miles.

Following a timing belt change the water pump failed.

Rear anti roll links replaced.

Engine mount (front) replaced.

General Comments:

The purchase of the car was a quick decision as my previous car had been written off. I did not put a lot of thought into it.

I have since grown to love this car. I drove 200m a day 5 days a week for a year to work and back. This was mostly motorway and I did not drive slowly... trust me!!! I have since got a job closer to work and the mileage is less.

This car is awesome. It performs well in all areas. OK... you're not going to attract women with it... but if she's a keeper she won't mind!

Took it to Italy and back last year. Not a hi-cup...

I would recommend this car, although I guess they are becoming scarce due to the age.

I see that the first generation Avensis is closely related. This may be a very good buy.

Faults:

Absolutely nothing - this car is bullet proof.

General Comments:

There is no sign of rust, even after 14 years parked outside.

I have owned this car for 3 years and it has never let me down.

I replace the oil once per year, and refill the screen wash every 3 months.

Economical; to run. Very reliable. Doesn't rust.

Plenty of power.

If Toyota continued this model, I would buy another.

Faults:

Alternator belt exploded at 150ks - Although that was my own fault for not servicing it properly.

I fear the suspension may also be shot. The ride is rather harsh and there is a faint suspension rattle.

Steering wheel shudders and anything over 110kph, although this may be a problem with the tyres, that the repair shop couldn't find.

General Comments:

This is an awesome car. It has the same chassis, engine and gearbox from a Celica, but has the benefits of four doors.

At old age however, the handling is not what it should be. It can be quite understeery when cornering too fast and it has quite awful torque steer.

However, the car has more than enough power for day to day running and having a short shift gear box is brilliant. Not so much fun around the city, but I feel that's just a problem with manuals in general.

The driving position will give you a sore back on longer trips as the driving position is designed for short skinny people... That may be why it has what can only be described as a make up compartment, the perfect size for your lady's lip-stick.