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2002 Toyota Corolla

Introduction:

The 2002 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It features a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with 120 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. Overall, the Corolla is praised for its low ownership costs, spacious interior, and solid build quality, though it has some drawbacks such as a lack of power and basic interior materials.

Engine

1.8L 4-Cylinder Engine

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Causes coolant and oil leaks, resulting in overheating and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Torque Converter Lockup Clutch Failure: Causes shuddering, slipping, and loss of acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter and transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: Results in difficulty shifting gears or a complete loss of clutch function.
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder and hydraulic line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Shocks Failure: Causes excessive bounce and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace shocks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure: Power loss, flickering headlights, and battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $350 - $600+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 07V340000

  • Starter Failure: Difficulty or inability to start the engine.
  • Solution: Replace starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V201000

Exterior

  • Plastic Bumpers Fading: Loses color and becomes brittle.
  • Solution: Repair or replace bumpers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

  • Window Regulator Failure: Power windows may not operate or fall off track.
  • Solution: Replace window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking: Develops cracks and breaks over time.
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or repair with epoxy.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

  • Door Panel Sagging: Detach from the door frame due to weak clips.
  • Solution: Replace clips or repair panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Toyota Corolla is a reliable vehicle with relatively minor issues. The engine and transmission are generally trouble-free, while the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components have some common problems that are not overly expensive to fix. However, the severity of these issues can vary depending on the specific parts affected and the severity of the damage.

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