2002 Toyota Echo

The 2002 Toyota Echo is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability. It was only offered with a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine (108 hp, 105 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners typically praise its excellent gas mileage, nimble handling, and simple design, making it a practical choice for city driving. Common complaints include its basic interior, limited cargo space, and somewhat unrefined engine noise.

Engine

1.5L Inline-4 (1NZ-FE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gasket or the front crankshaft seal. Visible oil spots under the car and a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or front crankshaft seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and failed emissions tests.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor (O2 sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, check engine light, poor acceleration. Can be caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on the number of coils/plugs replaced)

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delays when shifting gears, harsh or jerky shifts, and slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, or internal wear and tear. A transmission fluid flush may help in some cases, but a more serious repair or replacement might be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) to $1500+ (transmission replacement)
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high while accelerating but the vehicle does not accelerate accordingly.
  • Solution: Usually caused by worn clutch packs inside the transmission. Requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, and decreased handling stability.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on parts and labor)
• Noisy Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises when driving over bumps. Can be caused by worn sway bar bushings or ball joints.
  • Solution: Replace worn sway bar bushings or ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, difficulty starting the engine, and a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly drains even when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical component that is causing the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $75 - $200+ (Diagnostic) + repairs depending on component.
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Possible solutions include repairing or replacing the window motor, switch, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and around the rocker panels, is a common issue.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Rust inhibitors can help prevent further corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or the use of a dashboard cover to prevent further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ (dashboard cover) to $500+ (dashboard replacement)

Recalls:

• Recall Number: 05V224000
  • Description/Symptoms: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK FUEL INLET CHECK VALVE WAS IMPROPERLY PRODUCED. AS A RESULT, WHEN THE VEHICLE IS SUBJECTED TO A SEVERE REAR COLLISION, THE CHECK VALVE MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY, RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK.
• Recall Number: 02V317000
  • Description/Symptoms: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER WINDOWS, THE MASTER POWER WINDOW SWITCH ON THE DRIVER’S DOOR MAY EXHIBIT INTERMITTENT OPERATION OR BECOME INOPERATIVE. CORROSION OF THE SWITCH ELECTRICAL CONTACTS MAY CAUSE THE SWITCH TO OVERHEAT, WHICH COULD RESULT IN SMOKE AND, POTENTIALLY, FIRE.

Summary

The 2002 Toyota Echo, while generally reliable, has some common issues. Engine issues like oil leaks and oxygen sensor failures are manageable with relatively low repair costs. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission, can be more costly. Suspension issues are typical for a car of this age, and electrical problems can also occur. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. The overall cost and severity of these issues range from minor maintenance to potentially expensive repairs, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing.