Used Toyota Corolla Estate 2001 - 2007 reliability review

Name: Used Toyota Corolla Estate 2001 - 2007
Rating: 3
Author: Stuart Milne

Practical and reliable load-lugger

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Used

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(2018 - 22)

How we test cars

What should I look for in a used Toyota Corolla?

Toyota has a reliability and customer satisfaction record that most companies would kill for, and in general the sturdy build quality with which most models left the line is still evident many years later.

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Having said all that, a visit to the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency website (www.vosa.gov.uk) shows that all is not rosy. There have been some serious concerns with the brakes, including the risk of the brake fluid leaking. Passenger airbags have given problems too and there is the chance that they may activate when turned off. Check the website and make sure that, if a recall was required, the work has been carried out.

While engines, gearboxes and interior trim enjoy a solid reputation, the Corolla estate can suffer a few annoying niggles such as condensation in the rear lights and squealing brakes. These glitches aside, this is a very reliable car.

Tips & Advice

Don’t miss a recall

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Check for outstanding recalls

Many cars are recalled so that faults can be put right. Recall work shouldn’t cost you a penny, and they’ll make your car safer or more mechanically robust. Checking if your car has been recalled is easy

Choose the right breakdown cover

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About the writer

Name: Stuart Milne

Title: Digital editor

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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.

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