1993 Toyota Tercel LX review from North America
"This car is a cancer"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Oil pan disintegrated
Rust was present after first year owned. (Had to argue with dealership to repair.)
Gas cap door lever and trunk open lever seized with rust.
Muffler rusted out.
Gas smell prevalent in interior of car from early on.
Oil valve seized open and replaced (twice) as it was going through large amounts of oil.
Alternator replaced at 17500km
Low oil indicator light does not come on until almost completely devoid of oil.
Oil is (black) after only a few kilometers.
Lastly, one of the pistons is ruined hence copious amounts of black exhaust and it is going through a top up of oil ever two days.
General comments?
I thought I could keep this car for a long time as I am very diligent in upkeep for it.
I was very frustrated at dragging this car into the garage ever couple of weeks.
I will unload this lemon and get a car of another make. For the record, Toyota Tercel's are NOT reliable. I am very disappointed with this make and model of car.
Recommended reviews
| Reliable, economical, and well constructed |
|
| This car is great for a first car or anyone wanting a small, economic vehicle |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1993 |
| First year of ownership | 1993 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 2 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 2 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 52 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 182550 kilometres |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 11th September, 2003 |