1989 Toyota Corolla All-Trac Wagon review from North America

There is plenty of rust along the bottom body panels and doors. I try to remove it every year, but it keeps coming back.

Exhuast system components only last 2 to 4 years. They have been expensive to replace, except for the muffler due to its warranty.

Gas tank/fuel pump braket rusted out when the car was 10 years old and had 150,000 miles. Repairs cost 500 dollars (all new parts, cheap labor).

The alternator finally went at 170,000 miles and cost 300 dollars to replace (new parts, cheap labor).

Even with its rust problems, this car is very good. It does not burn oil. The motor has never had any major service done to it (no headgasket replacements, rebuilds, etc.)

The radiator is the original.

The power steering, axles, CV joints, and UV joints are the originals.

The transmission is the original.

The clutch is the original!!!

It still gets decent gas mileage (30 miles per gallon).

The car has never left me stranded, even when the alternator was going. It would still start, eventually.

The all wheel drive system (with locking center differential) is handy in the snow or on muddy dirt roads.

The rust problems are probably partially due to it being a Maine car, and a lot of salt goes on the roads in the winter.

I think it is too bad that Toyota stopped selling all wheel drive and station wagon Corollas in the U.S.

I would buy a new one if they were still made. Instead, I have to settle for a Subaru.