1989 Toyota Carina II Break review from Belgium
"Very reliable, maybe a bit boring if you're a mechanic"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I replaced the ignition wiring at 180000 km.
I replaced the rear shocks at 200000 km.
I replaced the front part of the exhaust last year.
Recently I have a bad case of shimmy, but it's not caused by the tire balance, I suspect the brake parts.
General comments?
For what I paid for it, I don't think I'll be able to find another car as reliable, safe to drive, easy to understand and simple to maintain as this.
Comparing to my 1977 Chevrolet Impala which always needs some work and a lot of attention (if it isn't the brakes it's the cooling system) the Toyota is far superior for mechanics and part design, but I think all Japanese cars are.
I wonder what my Impala would have looked like technically If it were designed by Toyota.
Recommended reviews
 | Great value for a little money |
  | 1986 - Carina II 1.6 GL Liftback 1.6 petrol Old faithful |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1995 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Liter 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 141000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 271000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Impala |
| Date of Entry | 21st September, 2003 |