2002 Toyota Avensis 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Very expensive shell

Faults:

Engine stopped at 85000 miles

Engine light was orange. Euro care said I could still drive. Stop if light turns red. Engine blew.

Dealer very reluctant to help. Told me I'd have to wait for an hour or two until he could look at car. Then said no courtesy car available as warranty was not valid. Only covered until 60000 miles.

Have to buy new engine even though car is only 2 years old.

General Comments:

Car went really well. Very smooth drive.

Cannot believe that it broke down with no warning.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th August, 2004

7th Aug 2004, 15:06

The engine did not fail without warning. As you said, the engine light came on prior to failure.

If the leasing company insisted you drove the car with a warning light on and the engine cooked as a result, surely they should be paying for a replacement engine.

24th Aug 2004, 07:21

It seems pretty clear to me that if a warning light comes on, you get the car looked at. What was probably a trivial fault turns into a new engine. Yes the advice was poor, but can you honestly say you felt comfortable about ignoring an engine warning light? I wouldn't!!

8th Feb 2006, 10:12

Hi there, just a short comment on warning lights. Orange warning light means journey may continue, but have it looked at as soon as possible. Red means stop immediately and don't restart until having the problem rectified.

25th Nov 2009, 14:45

I have just bought a 2002 Avensis here in Norway, and so far am very pleased with it.

It only has done 44,000 kms with one owner and is in lovely,almost new condition in silver.

Of course the newer models are a bit nicer to look at, but there you go, you pays your money and takes your choice.

The last Carina did 360,000 kms before giving up because of rust after 26 years, so no complaints there.

27th Apr 2011, 10:50

There is only an orange engine management light! I suggest you go to a different garage as they clearly have no clue what they are talking about.