2003-2008 Toyota Corolla: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Toyota Corolla
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our reliability study for this generation Toyota Corolla includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Toyota Corolla .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The A/C warning light may flash and the compressor clutch may fail to engage due to a faulty clutch relay. (2002-04)
Battery:
The battery dies because a faulty headlight switch is unable to turn the lights off and an updated switch is available. (2003)
Battery:
Whenever the battery is too low to start the vehicle, the relay for the daytime running lights (DRL) becomes damaged and a revised relay must be installed. (2003)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may illuminate due to a faulty air/fuel ratio sensor. (2005-06)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on because of a very small leak in the evaporative emissions system charcoal canister. (2005)
Check-engine light:
Excessive sulfur odor on cars with a 1ZZ-FE engine, usually accompanied by a check engine light (and trouble code P0420) must have the PCM (engine computer) reprogrammed or replaced. (2003-04)
Suspension noise:
A tapping noise that seems to be coming from the dash is actually from the upper suspension mount for the spring on which insulating material must be applied. (2003)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $350 |
| Alternator | $660 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,550 |
| Brakes | $370 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $450 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $990 |
| Exhaust System | $265 |
| Radiator | $380 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,610 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $350 |








