2003 Toyota Corolla
For the most part, servicing a Toyota is simple. A cooling system drain on the block makes it easier to change the coolant every 30,000 miles. The returnless fuel system means the filter and pressure regulator are part of the pump assembly, which can be easily reached under the back seat. Unfortunately, the valves are adjusted by replacing the lifters, and that's definitely not a simple job.
Most of the service bulletins for this car deal with relatively minor issues, but there are several related to emissions failures. MIL illumination at cold-start in freezing temperatures, with codes indicating misfire, lean operation or a faulty oxygen sensor, may be caused by a leaking intake manifold gasket. A revised fuel filler tube is available to correct MIL illumination with EVAP codes, and special diagnostic procedures are available for troubleshooting a shift solenoid malfunction (P0770).Some oxygen sensor codes may be caused by a faulty PCM, and there is a very helpful bulletin that describes how the oxygen sensor monitor works. An improved drive belt tensioner is available, and an improved headlight switch also is available to prevent the headlights from turning themselves on while the vehicle is parked, killing the battery. The only recall for this car is to address loose rear axle hub bolts.
The Corolla name has been around since 1968, and part of every model's appeal has always been low cost of ownership. This model's gas mileage is 30 to 38 mpg, so expect owners to hold on to them for a long time.
