Category: Toyota

2006 Toyota Corolla Review

Since 2003, when Toyota decided to completely revamp its Corolla model, there hasn’t been much change to the car itself apart from the price. Combined with the fact that there are other cheaper, better driving competitors, the all-time selling automobile has lost some of its luster.

The 2006 Corolla is no less a car than previous years, as it has gained a certain amount of loyalty among Corolla owners. With its conservative, yet desirable approach, the Corolla’s excellent engineering has been something car owners look for in an automobile. However, people are looking at the price of a car more than ever before and the Corolla, while adding very little over the past few years, has risen in cost. Consequently, the 2006 Toyota Corolla is not seen as competitively priced as loyal customers would expect it to be.

The versions of the Corolla are still the same, with the basic CE, the LE, which includes more features, and the sportier in comparison S, and the XRS, which is actually sporty. The CE comes equipped with 15-inch wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat, a four-speaker CD stereo, includes air conditioning, power mirrors, an outside temperature gauge, 60/40-split folding rear seats. In addition to this, the LE has a remote key-less entry, six-speaker stereo, a faux-wood trim, white-faced gauges and power windows and locks.

The S and the XRS don’t have power windows but do have a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a lower body kit and a rear deck spoiler, smoked headlights and fog lights, which adds to its sporty appeal. The XRS also has sport seats, a firmer suspension, cruise control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system, along with a 164-horsepower engine, 16-inch alloy wheels, and four-wheel antilock disc brake. The Corolla was a “Best Pick” by the IIHS and received five out of five stars in the NHTSA’s crash tests and four stars for side impact protection.

Under the hood, all models except the XRS have 126-horsepower, 1.8 liter four cylinder engines. The VVT system assures good acceleration and one can choose between a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual transmission. The XRS is more powerful with its 164 horsepower 1.8 liter engine with a VVTL-I (Variable Valve Timing and Lift) coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, as an automatic is not available.

Although the 2006 Corolla has offers fuel efficiency in the 25-31 MPG range, which is always a plus, many safety features, very reliable, and a very nice, comfortable interior, there are some major drawbacks. When the price goes up for just the basic features, along with and uncomfortable driving seat position and its bland personality, someone may be likely to find another option more suitable for their needs. Overall, Toyota could have made more improvements to justify the price increase and retain loyal customers rather than pushing this model out for the sake of it.

About the Author

This 2006 Toyota Corolla review can also be read on helium.com as it was originally submitted there to build up a more diverse author portfolio.

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

2004 Toyota Corolla Review

The Toyota Corolla has the distinction of being the all time top selling car, having sold over 25 million automobiles. The overall changes made from the 2003 Corolla went a long way towards assuring that this trend would continue. As the saying does, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, and the 2004 Corolla is an example of this. And after all, it was a good size, better braking capacity, increased production and an improved exhaust system.

There are still three versions, the value-minded CE, the sporty S and the classy LE. Most of the current changes come with the S class, which includes special suspension tuning, front and rear underbody spoilers, fog lamps, smoked headlights, side rocker panels, and color-keyed molding on the side. Some of the options are aluminum-alloy wheels, a spoiler and wider tires than the CE. The S also has a leather wrapped steering wheel and a sportier looking speedometer.

Standard for the CE is the outside temperature gauge air conditioning with a clean-air filter, intermittent wipers, power mirrors, a tilt steering column, a tachometer and a CD stereo system. The LE has the same but in addition includes remote key-less entry and vertical driver’s seat height adjustment, a wood-like center instrument panel power windows and locks, and color-keyed power mirrors.

The Corolla fits five people, although four fits more comfortably. It features cloth upholstery, has a cargo volume of 13.6 cubic feet and a 60/40-split rear seat. Other than the fact that a new color has been added, the 2004 model is exactly like the 2003. This should not necessarily be considered a bad thing when the previous year’s model was a much anticipated release. The 2004 model was aimed more towards those who delayed buying the 2003 model and therefore very little changed.

Under the hood there is a 130 horsepower, 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-I (Variable Value Timing), which can be installed with either a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual. In terms of safety, daytime running lights and dual stage front airbags are standard, whereas anti-lock brakes and side-impact airbags are optional.

As stated earlier, the Corolla is one of the most popular cars on the market and the 2004 version looks as if it’s going to continue this trend. The price may be a little higher than many are used to but it’s still very good value in terms of reliability and fuel economy. Although it doesn’t handle as well as some of the newer vehicles, it offers a smooth ride nonetheless and will satisfy most people’s expectations.

About the Author

This 2004 Toyota Corolla review can also be read on helium.com as it was originally submitted there to build up a more diverse author portfolio.

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

2003 Toyota Corolla Review

The Toyota Corolla has been around for quite some time, which suggests that it has been a car that the public has grown accustomed to. But the eagerly awaited 2003 version has been completely overhauled. This is probably the most luxurious and biggest model of the Corolla thus far, which equals more interior room. The quality of the build is substantially better than the previous year as well.

The Corolla has been one of the most reliable models for Toyota and these improvements look to keep it that way. It has come a long way since 1968, when the first Corolla came from Japan, learning from its mistakes and quickly improving upon them. All the while, the Corolla has been dependable and economical, even though the 2003 is a little more expensive that it has been in the past.

Although still considered a compact car, it’s just big enough to be considered a sedan by some. The size is good enough for most people, especially those looking for good value, but its accommodation may not be suitable to someone over six-feet tall and the backseat can hardly fit three people, although there are three seat belts.

There are three versions of the Corolla: the CE, which is the most economically appealing, the more stylish S, and the LE, the most extravagant of the three. All come with a manual five speed transmission, power steering and brakes, filtered air conditioning, rear defogger, delayed dome light and cup holders AM-FM-CD four-speaker stereo, intermittent windshield wipers, daytime running lights, power mirrors, outside temperature gauge, remote trunk lid and fuel-filler releases.

The CE is almost undistinguishable from the S and LE physically, with the only noticeable difference being the more narrow tires and simple black side molding, not to mention some other options. Although it only gets 29 MPG in the city and 33 MPG (standard transmission) on the highway, this is much better than standard American cars. Also, the Corolla is a little bit on the noisy side for a smaller car, which can be a turn-off for some people.

In a move that’s reminiscent of previous cars, the suspension of the Corolla has been switched from an independent rear suspension to a torsion-beam style suspension. This is assumed to give a better ride and lower cost to build while losing a little bit of the handling.

Although the cost of the 2003 Corolla may be a little bit more than one may expect, the changes make it worth it and still a bargain. The fact Toyota continue to make improvements to the Corolla range is testament to the reliability it has shown through the years and the 2003 Corolla is no different in this respect.

About the Author

This 2003 Toyota Corolla review can also be read on helium.com as it was originally submitted there to build up a more diverse author portfolio.

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

What Truck Lifts can do to your Trucks

Truck enthusiasts define Truck Lifts as an automobile system that is composed of springs that’s used to raise a vehicle. The process involves suspending the body, frame and power train of the truck’s wheel. That could make your truck look good.

Most truck drivers want their truck to be lifted because it lessens the jarring of the automobile while some just simply want to improve the look of their truck. After all, truck lift kits have become tremendously popular among people who wish to give their automobiles a unique or beefy look. Truck enthusiasts definitely want to make heads turn. They monster-size their rigs with a beefy truck lift kit for imposing style and impressive handling.

Truck lifts is very necessary if you’re planning on taking your vehicle off-roading. By suspending your truck, you gain additional clearance from the ground, which protects the underside of your vehicle from bulging rocks, sharp inclines, and foreign objects in the road. If you have ever bottomed out, either off-roading or heading up a steep driveway, you know from that disconcerting scraping sound that hitting the ground is bad for your automobile. Accelerated automobile wheels keep a close contact with the road surface; thus making your driving safer and an enjoyable one at all times.

With the perfect lift kit, you’re free to tackle even the toughest trails. Each truck lift kit at Truck Lifts Direct is built for your vehicle and includes all the parts you need.

Suspension upgrades gain you clearance for bigger tires, control for adverse terrain, and stronger parts to handle the abuse of real-world off-roading. Unfortunately, lift kits are also complicated systems, so be careful and it must be well engineered for safety and performance. With this, you need to find truck lift kits that are easy to install. Another thing would be that you have to keep in mind when searching for the perfect truck lift kit are the ups and downs of the change in ride height.

For instance, adding a lift kit and larger than stock wheels and tires can affect the vehicle’s tow hitch. You may now need a new rear bumper because of the change in ride height. Also, in some extreme cases, the trailer tongue can’t even reach the hitch. With long trailers, such as a four-horse stock trailer or a boat trailer, you may be able to mate trailer and hitch, but the trailer angle from front to back could be enough to cause the trailer to scrape the rear end on the road.

With these factors to consider, all you need to do is to search online shops for the perfect lifts for your truck! These sites are just a click away! Doing so would be extremely easy. Just remember lift kits are also complicated systems, so be careful and it must be well engineered for safety and performance.

About the Author

See different Truck Lift and other vehicle parts like Truck Bumper and Diesel Truck Performance for vehicle owner’s needs.

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Brake Safety – Some Warning Signs 1

Your car’s brakes may need maintenance or repair. When was the last time you checked the brake fluid, or even bothered to think about it? For some reason when it comes to car safety, brakes top the list of systems that need monitoring, however, many people are oblivious to the signs that indicate a problem. You can check online to find out some of the warning signs from sites that are concerned with cars, but there is no better way than to take your automobile to a brake specialist.

At the very least, for both new and used cars, you must have your vehicle’s braking system checked once a year. This should include a thorough inspection of brake lining wear, brake fluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses and brake lines, brake and dash warning lights, as well as taking the car for a test drive to detect other potential brake system problems.

Keeping your car in optimum condition is so important and whether it is old or very old, used or new car you might be thinking of trading up or buying something more reliable and with the newest safety features. Online searching is easy, particularly with sites like OzFreeOnline.com where they have thousands of cars classifieds for your inspection. All you need to do is register, become a member, select all the criteria you want for your new car and begin an advance search. Believe me you will be astounded at the numerous amounts of cars you can view online around Australia. Free car advertising is also available to get your used car visible nationwide to get more potential buyers and get it sold fast.

Vigilance is required to alert yourself and recognize the danger signs of brake problems in your automobile. For instance, other warning signs may include an illuminated brake warning light, brake ‘grabbing’, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing. Sometimes it’s only a few miles between a soft brake pedal and a pedal that goes ‘flat’ to the floor. You can easily protect yourself from brake failure by watching and listening for a few simple clues. Of course, the only way you can be certain is to have your brakes checked at an authorized workshop such as autobrakeservice.com.au, ABS is the largest brake and clutch specialists and they have workshops in every major city that provides quality services to Australian cars.

Noise is one of the leading indicators that something is ‘off beam’ with brakes. Any out of the ordinary sound is often a sign that brakes have worn to the point they should be safety checked, so watch for a grinding noise, and if your brakes throw off brake dust on your wheels, look for a sudden increase or decrease in dust. Finding small metal flakes on the wheels is a clear sign that brakes must be checked. Remember, whether its brand new or an used automobile, checking your brakes every once in a while insures you of a safer drive.

About the Author

OzFree Online Cars offers free Registration as Individual or Dealer,Buy cars Classifieds cars for sale services and cars classifieds services- Visit Oz Free Cars at http://cars.ozfreeonline.com

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post

Brake Safety – Some Warning Signs 2

A lot of cars have been involved in accidents because of brake failures, one leading indicator is the feel of the brake pedal, so if your car pulls left or right when braking, or if the front end shakes, then these are definite signs of excessive brake wear. If the brake pedal in your automobile begins to feel spongy, it could be a sign that air has entered the brake system or fluid is low. Do not ignore these warning signs!

A spongy brake pedal, together with a decrease in brake fluid, may also indicate brake wear, so when you check the brake fluid reservoir, make sure it’s topped off. If not, then brake fluid is most probably remaining at the wheel to fill the space caused by wear. Most vehicles purchased from car auctions experience this kind of problems because of being stocked for a long time in car garage or showrooms. Simply replacing the brake fluid and letting it flow throughout the wheel by pumping the brake pedal a few times before your run the used automobile helps in ensuring safety for you and your passengers.

Many new cars have ABS (Automatic Braking System) which initiates a rapid- fire pumping sequence to the brakes, keeping the car straight during sudden or hard braking. If the ABS light illuminates on your instrument panel, then it’s likely that the wheel sensors have detected excessive build-up of metal particles from the brake system. Most cars are designed to shut down the ABS when excessive particle build-up occurs, but a shutdown ABS does not prevent you from stopping, it just means that the ABS feature isn’t working. Most used cars don’t have ABS installed with them and safe driving and proper brake maintenance is adviced to avoid accidents.

Wheels should be pulled and brakes checked once a year by an experienced brake specialist. You must take care when deciding on a brake technician because you must be certain of their expertise. At rdabrakes.com.au, who is the largest supplier of disc brake rotors and brake drums for cars in Australia and New Zealand, they have experts who can fit your vehicle with high quality, high performance braking components. Whether it’s used car or not.

It’s not uncommon to replace brakes after 20,000-30,000 kilometres. An inspection typically includes the rotors, calipers, drums, pads, pistons and brake lines. Brake systems should be flushed and brake fluid replaced every two years. By doing your online search at OzFreeOnline.com for technicians available to do the job, you will source just the right company who can provide superior service, safety and peace of mind.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture in the system and becomes acidic after two years or 35,000 kilometres. Check your owner’s manual or ask your technician to see what kind of brakes your car has and how they are adjusted. For example, most drum brakes are self-adjusting by backing up or engaging the emergency brake.
Check out the used car values of second hand cars or see the availability of ABS for brand new cars if your planning to buy a new car. You can also request for the cars history, when you buy used cars, and trace whether the vehicle had some problems with its brakes.

Regardless of care, brakes should most likely be replaced every 40,000- 50,000 kilometres, but of course, how and where you drive will greatly influence when your brakes must be replaced.

About the Author

OzFree Online Cars offers free Registration as Individual or Dealer,car advertising Classifieds used cars for sale services and used cars australia services- Visit Oz Free Cars at http://cars.ozfreeonline.com

Feb 03, 2010 | 0 comments | View Post