Additionally, many owners report satisfaction with the overall size of their Echo- saying that despite its small footprint, it's surprisingly easy to get in and out of, and that it offers plenty of room. Many journalist reviews on this car from the past touch on this point as well. Though not a huge machine, Toyota packaged the Echo properly to maximize space.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Echo good marks in crash testing too- another surprise given the car's size. Smaller cars tend to do more poorly in crash testing, though the Echo has occupant protection nailed down.
Though most owners love their Echo's safety and space, some aren't as in love with the cycloptic, centre-mounted instrument cluster as others, and most complain of the car's difficulty in tracking straight ahead in heavy winds.
On a test drive, be sure to note the proper operation of all interior systems, including air conditioning, the stereo, lights, wipers and horn. Run through the climate control temperature selector and ensure it moves freely and without undue resistance, or you may need a revised mechanism inside the dash to remedy the problem.
Be sure to note the feel of gear shifts on models with an automatic transmission, as well as the feel of the clutch on vehicles with a manual. Any clutch slippage or rough operation from an automatic gearbox should be investigated and called into pricing negotiations.
Recall items included a vacuum line which could limit the effectiveness of the brake booster, leading to increased stopping distanced in cold temperatures. As well, a leaky seal in the braking system was recalled as it could allow air into the brake fluid, which increases stopping distance and reduces safety.
Finally, a recall was issued to address a problem with snow and ice build-up in the rear wheels that could damage the brake lines. Your dealership or the vehicle's previous owner should be able to advise you of the performance of recall-related work. As these issues all deal with braking, they're very important to address.
On a test-drive, apply the brakes sharply and note the vehicle's behavior and brake feel. A brake system in good shape should pull the vehicle down from speed quickly, confidently and in a straight line. If the pedal feels spongy or requires lots of pressure before stopping power arrives, it could indicate a problem.
Shopping around, chances are you'll find Echo to command a price premium over similar Korean or American cars- though you can confidently expect problem-free operation for years to come. If you're after a cheap-to-run little machine, it seems to be money well spent.
photo:Toyota
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Echo good marks in crash testing too- another surprise given the car's size. Smaller cars tend to do more poorly in crash testing, though the Echo has occupant protection nailed down.
Though most owners love their Echo's safety and space, some aren't as in love with the cycloptic, centre-mounted instrument cluster as others, and most complain of the car's difficulty in tracking straight ahead in heavy winds.
On a test drive, be sure to note the proper operation of all interior systems, including air conditioning, the stereo, lights, wipers and horn. Run through the climate control temperature selector and ensure it moves freely and without undue resistance, or you may need a revised mechanism inside the dash to remedy the problem.
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| 2005 Toyota Echo |
Be sure to note the feel of gear shifts on models with an automatic transmission, as well as the feel of the clutch on vehicles with a manual. Any clutch slippage or rough operation from an automatic gearbox should be investigated and called into pricing negotiations.
Recall items included a vacuum line which could limit the effectiveness of the brake booster, leading to increased stopping distanced in cold temperatures. As well, a leaky seal in the braking system was recalled as it could allow air into the brake fluid, which increases stopping distance and reduces safety.
Finally, a recall was issued to address a problem with snow and ice build-up in the rear wheels that could damage the brake lines. Your dealership or the vehicle's previous owner should be able to advise you of the performance of recall-related work. As these issues all deal with braking, they're very important to address.
On a test-drive, apply the brakes sharply and note the vehicle's behavior and brake feel. A brake system in good shape should pull the vehicle down from speed quickly, confidently and in a straight line. If the pedal feels spongy or requires lots of pressure before stopping power arrives, it could indicate a problem.
Shopping around, chances are you'll find Echo to command a price premium over similar Korean or American cars- though you can confidently expect problem-free operation for years to come. If you're after a cheap-to-run little machine, it seems to be money well spent.
photo:Toyota
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