2001 170 k reliabiltiy??

[jamesmetairie]

if i buy a 2001 Corolla LE with 170,000 miles, 5 speed what are some of the common problems to be expected?

[jdmccright]

Miles are more important than the age. 170k mi over 7 yrs translates to over 21k mi/yr...higher than normal (~15k mi). Things I would check are:

1) Does it have a timing belt or chain? If belt, when was it replaced last?

2) Brakes. When were they last serviced? When was the fluid changed last?

3) Tranny clutch. When was it last replaced? I would expect it to be replaced maybe once with those miles. If not, it's probably gonna be due soon.

4) Oil seal leaks. The seals around the camshaft, crankshaft, and oil pump will likely be the original parts. They'll be brittle and may already have cracked, causing oil leakage. Look on the belt side of the engine for oil leaks. If the timing belt was replaced, ask if those seals were replaced as well...good shops would have.

5) Wheel bearings and CV shafts. Check for excessive road noise sich as rumbling that gets louder with speed. Turn the wheels to the lock and listen for clicking sounds to indicate worn CV joints. Jack up the front of the car one side at at time & give the wheels a good wiggle to check for looseness.

6) Power steering. Check for leaks or looseness in steering.

7) Electrical. Check all the door locks, windows, power seats, and lights for operation.

8) A/C. Check that it provides good cold air while the car is in motion (it may warm slightly if it is still).

9) Coolant. Check the coolant level...if its low, look for whitish deposits near the radiator hoses and where they connect to the engine. Also look at the fluid (while it is cold!) for an oily sheen. If you see it, there's a problem with a leaking head gasket...not good!

I'm sure I'm missing stuff, but this is what I had time for now...overall these cars are pretty reliable, but the few REAL maintenance items above should not be ignored. Good luck!