History/Description: There’s an all-new Toyota Corolla hitting the market for the 2014 model year which means the last-generation model, sold from 2009 to 2013, has transitioned fully into used-car territory.
That last-generation model was the Corolla’s 10th generation, and was sold to us Canucks in a largely unsurprising number of configurations: all models were 4-cylinder powered, fitted with a manual or automatic transmission, and were front-wheel drive.
Look for a 1.8L, 132-horsepower 4-cylinder engine on most models, and a 2.4L piece with 158 horses on the top-end XRS model. Nomenclature sees the CE designation worn by basic models, with S and LE models populating the range in order of ascending levels of feature content.
Said feature content, depending on the model you’re considering, included alloy wheels, fog lamps, power accessories, remote access, air conditioning, cruise control, and a sunroof. Bluetooth, USB audio connectivity, and a large audio display screen were available.
Common Issues With A Used Toyota Corolla: Many owners reported faster-than-expected wear of the factory tires on newer Corolla models, so be sure to have these inspected for signs of excessive wear. An ABS light illuminated in the instrument cluster may be caused by a bad electrical connector within the braking system.
Obtain both remote key fobs from the seller, and ensure that each work properly.
A small, perhaps one-second long squeal at startup may result from using a low-quality serpentine belt, or not having the tensioner on said belt tightened properly. This is a minor issue.
Another minor issue relates to the trunk release latch system. Be sure the trunk on the Corolla you’re considering opens from the release lever inside the car, or the remote key fob if equipped. If not, some adjustment and lubrication may be required.
Check the footwells for signs of moisture or mildew, possibly caused by a leaky window seal or sunroof drain tube allowing water to run down the inside of the window pillar.
Finally, note that numerous owners have complained of “fragile” paint that chips and scratches easily. This complaint is common on many used vehicles, though shoppers are advised to spend a few minutes inspecting the finish on the Corolla they’re considering for signs of abnormal wear.
That last-generation model was the Corolla’s 10th generation, and was sold to us Canucks in a largely unsurprising number of configurations: all models were 4-cylinder powered, fitted with a manual or automatic transmission, and were front-wheel drive.
Look for a 1.8L, 132-horsepower 4-cylinder engine on most models, and a 2.4L piece with 158 horses on the top-end XRS model. Nomenclature sees the CE designation worn by basic models, with S and LE models populating the range in order of ascending levels of feature content.
Said feature content, depending on the model you’re considering, included alloy wheels, fog lamps, power accessories, remote access, air conditioning, cruise control, and a sunroof. Bluetooth, USB audio connectivity, and a large audio display screen were available.
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| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
Common Issues With A Used Toyota Corolla: Many owners reported faster-than-expected wear of the factory tires on newer Corolla models, so be sure to have these inspected for signs of excessive wear. An ABS light illuminated in the instrument cluster may be caused by a bad electrical connector within the braking system.
Obtain both remote key fobs from the seller, and ensure that each work properly.
A small, perhaps one-second long squeal at startup may result from using a low-quality serpentine belt, or not having the tensioner on said belt tightened properly. This is a minor issue.
Another minor issue relates to the trunk release latch system. Be sure the trunk on the Corolla you’re considering opens from the release lever inside the car, or the remote key fob if equipped. If not, some adjustment and lubrication may be required.
Check the footwells for signs of moisture or mildew, possibly caused by a leaky window seal or sunroof drain tube allowing water to run down the inside of the window pillar.
Finally, note that numerous owners have complained of “fragile” paint that chips and scratches easily. This complaint is common on many used vehicles, though shoppers are advised to spend a few minutes inspecting the finish on the Corolla they’re considering for signs of abnormal wear.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
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