Common problems to look for

[Hassvn]

Hi all, I currently own a Vauxhall Corsa (1.4 2010) however deciding to sell it and purchase a corolla instead since I've heard the car is incredibly strong and reliable, having far too many issues with my Corsa. 

I'm useless when it comes to cars however I'm going to look at a few over the week, what are common problems to look for? Are parts expensive with corollas and are they as reliable as everyone says they are? Would really appreciate some help! I'm only looking at purchasing a 1.4/1.6l petrol since I'm a young driver and the insurance is reasonable on those models. At the moment I have my eyes set on a 80k mileage 1.4 T spirit, body work isn't the best and front Speakers don't work which doesn't bother me. This will be the first time I'll be (hopefully) buying a car myself too.

Many thanks

[oldcodger]

Hi,

Is that car a private buy or from a dealer ?   

A dealer does  provide some form of warranty if you buy from them,  from a private seller, its buyer beware !

So if its a private sale always get a HPI check first, easily done on the web for a small fee.

Also see and check the log book , service book and current mot before buying, and needless to say take it for a test drive.

The 1.6 has plenty of power, the 1.4 a little slower but not that bad.

Early Toyota engines did have oil burning problems but later 2005/6/7 seem ok

Check the heater works ok as on older models the heater matrix can block up.

Check the gearbox is smooth in all gears, but if original the clutch might be getting  a bit worn and heavy at 80K.

Parts from Toyota can be very dear, like a door seal I'm after is £120 !  but the common service parts like filters and brakes are plentiful and sensibly priced  from good aftermarket suppliers.

[Heidfirst]

If you are looking at a 2004 as in your profile then obviously it is going to be twice the age of a 2010 Corsa & you might have to temper some of your expectations accordingly as it will be a 13/14 year old car.

[T-Sport Novice]

Corolla is a sturdy car, strong as an ox! (I wrote mine off in an accident and still drove home) 

Parts wise, as OC wrote, they can be expensive! I was hussled by Toyota for a few bits as I wanted genuine bits, like the bonnet catch but had all the brakes from afternarket suppliers for 380quid or so. I had a T-sport though with bigger discs etc, so your 1.4/1.6 would be a little cheaper no doubt. 

Take care with buying private though as it can be a mine field! Those issues you mention are not massive but it leads me to think what else is wrong with the car, that may be hidden?

I've recently purchased a wee car, 83k on the clock, seemed perfect, now I've come to find it may need shortly, a clutch, water pump n timing belt, possible starter motor (went funny the other day but eventually started) and an exhaust possibly too. I have no luck with vehicles, keep your wits about you is all I'm saying and good luck