I'm looking at buying a 2001 corolla Allex model with 200,000 kilometres on it. I know the current owner has had it since about 70,000k and has serviced it regularly themselves. They've also got the past four years of papers showing the warrants with all mechanical notes. Price is $2500 NZD (about 1600 USD last I checked). It's very tidy, however my only hesitance is I've heard the 2001 model burns a lot of oil. He said he has noticed it burns a bit, but really not much and that you would only need to top up every 5-8,000 k. Do you think this is a good or risky buy? It drives well and from my visual inspection of the car and engine it looks good. Just a regular beater get around. Cheers.
Try and get it for close to NZ $2000 after a mechanic gives it a clean bill of health. Cars with that mileage may burn oil but as long as it’s not too bad, you should be okay if it’s just your beater car.
Don’t expect to use it as your daily driver, putting 10,000-20,000kms each year, as you’ll have to spend too much to keep it in shape.
It got around 125k miles which I think as a low mileage for Toyota corolla (specially considering the age). As the above comment says, check with a mechanic, they usually burn oil and if it is not that much, you should live with it. Check out rust on the car too. They also have timing belt which should have been replaced once so far, was this done?
Bty, Is it automatic or manual?
Thanks guys. Will take it to a mechanic then. There is rust on the wipers and in the well with the spare tire, which he said there is a small leak in. However most of the material has been replaced and it looks in ok condition. Drives really smooth and he said has never overheated etc. oil burning is my main concern but will get a thorough check. Belt has been replaced. Would it otherwise be high maintenance for the next 30-40,000 kms? Was thinking if I change the fluids it should be ok. Oil does look a little dirty however, nowhere near as clean as my 2015 corolla.
Also, it is auto