Faults:

Replaced alternator around 60k. Zero problems... none.

General Comments:

This 1997 Tercel replaced my 1993. The 1997 is a much better car. Power steering, factory air, twin cam engine, 5 speed, cloth interior, etc.

My 1993 was the entry level car; vinyl seats, 4 speed, single OHC. Great little car. Bought it new, drove it 35k.

Saw the 1997 body style and all the extra's: traded-in the 1993 and drove the new 1997 home that same day! I still own the 1997. Best car I have ever owned.

The dealer never saw it again after the 15k service. I do all my own maintenance, have a service log of every oil change, tune-up, etc. I replaced the timing belt at 53k, plus the other 2 drive belts, changed all fluids: trans. grease, anti-freeze, flushed the brake and clutch systems, new plugs, fuel and air filters.

By the way, the twin cam 1.5 uses shims to set the valves, they are not hyd. Also note: the 1993 engine has 3 valves per cylinder and they are adjustable! Two intake valves, one exhaust, with set screws and lock nuts. I have checked my valve clearance's five times over 86k, and they are always within factory spec. It's my opinion that many Tercel's have been abused and not cared for properly. Hey, people! The Tercel only holds 3 quarts of oil! There is zero room for neglect! I have always changed my oil and filter way more often than most people would, and at 86k plus there is no smoke, no leaks, and when I've had the valve cover off, it's very clean, zero sludge! No real secrets here: just use only Toyota Red Antifreeze and distilled water. Drain and fill every three years, four tops.

Bottom line for me: I rely on my Tercel, so I tune it once every year. I don't care what the miles are. A new, fresh fuel filter once a year is way cheaper than new injectors! Brake fluid absorbs water, which rusts the iron parts and pits the alum. ones. Brake fluid is cheap! I've gone through one set of front pads and 1 set of rear shoes. Re-packed the rear wheel bearings.

I'm not bragging here. I love my car. I treat it well and believe in preventive maintenance!! I will have owned it fourteen years this October 19th, 2010. And yes, my next car will be a Toyota!

Faults:

The brake fluid lines seem to be flimsy, and have ruptured a few times in the past year.

General Comments:

I love this car; It's incredibly, insanely reliable, and it won't leave me with a hole in my wallet after buying gasoline. It is better for the environment and absolutely adorable.

Faults:

Recently, my Tercel has been burning fuel (since about 170,000 miles). This never was a problem before. I'm losing about 1 quart every 3 months. I replaced the original timing belt at 111,000, nothing was wrong with it. I had the belts on the alternator get loose, but the replacement was inexpensive. I've had to replace sparkplugs twice since about 140,000 miles. I've had to periodically replace the calipers and rotors. Not sure if that was the car or less than scrupulous mechanics... Otherwise no major problems.

General Comments:

I get amazing gas mileage... from 37 to 44 miles per gallon depending on the driving conditions. It handles well. the engine is quiet. Have not had any transmission issues in 178,000 miles. I've driven the car from NY to California and back 3 times, and many other long distance trips around the eastern US. Car has ample power. I wish Toyota hadn't discontinued this model!