Buying 2nd Hand Celica

[Dann]

Hey there!

I'm looking to buy a second hand Celica, I've been looking on and off for a while now. My problem is my first car which I bought almost 2 years ago (Aygo Sport) is still under warranty and I'm really nervous about going for an older car. Here's what I'm looking at...

2001 Y Reg TOYOTA Celica 1.8 VVTi

3 Doors, Manual, Coupe, Petrol, 70,000 miles, Red.

Air conditioning, ABS, Alloy wheels, Radio/CD, Computer, Electric mirrors, Foglights, Adjustable seats, Immobiliser, Adjustable steering column/wheel,Full Leather & Sunroof. Insurance Group:13, £6,995.

So my question is...is there anything I should look out for, is it a timing belt or chain on this model? Either way when will it need replacing? Are there any common faults or replacements needed at this age/milage or in general? I'm really nervous about taking the leap so all help and advice is greatly appreciated.

Also what are they like to park? Having an Aygo as a first car was a dream as I am awful at parking and the Aygo is great

And finally..are they expensive to run? I know most things would be compared to the Aygo but anything will help, I only do about 7k miles a year anyhow.

Thanks in advance

Dann

[sotal]

Nice car, I haven't got the gen 7 but the gen 6 is dead easy to park - you'll get used to whatever you drive though.

The VVTi's have a timing chain so no real worries there.

Common faults:

crappy alloy wheels - look out for corrosion

weak boot struts, if it has a spoiler they should have SP stamped on them otherwise they will fail soon.

I think they had a problem with oil consumption on the 140bhp model - not sure on the details with it - and oil consumption on it's own isn't a problem - just make sure you keep on eye on it and keep it topped up.