Used 1997 Toyota Corolla Consumer Reviews
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My car has high mileage
Myriam, 04/03/2016
updated 10/03/2019
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
28 of 28 people found this review helpful
Happy that my Corolla has 446000 miles and runs well. I absolutely love my Corolla!
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An Old Reliable Friend
Tom, 09/15/2015
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
23 of 23 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1997 Corolla back in 2005 with under 60,000 miles. Today it has over 266,000 miles. The car has been a stalwart companion over the last 10+ years. Up until 2 years ago the only maintenance items were changing the brakes, battery and tires. I will say the A/C broke a few years into the purchase, and I never got it fixed, but you get used to that. Over the last few years had to put an alternator, serpentine belt, spark plug wires and starter; but considering the first 180,000 miles of ownership went so smooth, I guess it is to be expected. I would recommend this car to anyone who is looking for something simple, no nonsense and needs a reliable ride.
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Best car ever.
kelli B., 08/22/2010
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
I bought this car 3 years ago with 193,000 for 500 dollars. I know crazy. It has never left me walking. I have done minor repairs, new distributor cap and new plugs and wires, new tires and battery. I drive this car 120 miles a day 4 days a week sometimes more. It now has 239,500 miles and I hope it keeps on going. It truly is a gem and I got a steal. It made my 500$ back long ago! I want another one! I drive a 4 door Dodge 3/4 ton diesel so tjis car saves me so much money running back and forth to work! Sometimes I'd really Rather be in my Toyota than that Dodge!
Love this car
kathy Shaver, 04/26/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I have had this Corolla for two years now. It was going to be a temporary car until I found something fancier. Well, I'm still driving it and loving it. I have had expensive cars for 38 years, Mercedes, BMW Jags, and they have all been expensive to maintain. This is the most basic one I have ever owned but it's one of the most reliable and least expensive one to run especially with the new gas prices. It has enough get up and go for heavy traffic and I never feel like I will be stranded like I did when I was driving a Jag. There is nothing I don't like about this car.
Great Car !!
Jasmine, 10/06/2015
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
19 of 21 people found this review helpful
I bought this car two years ago with 227,000 miles on it ! Yes I know , a lot lol . This car is very durable . Only repairs I've made were the brake lights , tires , and struts . My car now has 266,000 miles on it and it and still runs like new !
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Keep on making them rollas
Brandon Wilson, 09/19/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
My 1997 Corolla has been the only car that I ever owned and no doubt that I will probably let this baby go anytime soon. I had this car for 6 years and it's got over 215,000 miles on the original motor and automatic transmission. I purchased this car on 6/2003 with 52,352 miles at a dealership. The only major service work done on my corolla was a valve cover gasket, timing belt, and a water pump. Other than that, this car has never left me stranded on the road.
Love what you do for me!
HiMilesDriver, 02/11/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1997 Toyota Corolla from a rental car company. It is a 4-door automatic. It came with 24k miles and I've put another 70k on it since then. I have had NO unexpected mechanical problems with it (other than the time my husband ran down the battery by leaving the keys in it all night!)I would still feel comfortable driving it on a trip. I would recommend this car to anyone, especially for a student going to college who will be driving back and forth a lot.
Safety outweighs fun!
DrPhil321, 11/16/2010
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
It's 2010 and I got this car over a year ago, has 70,000 miles. No problems! Looks old, and I'm 6'2" so it's hard to fit in it. The A/C also poor. This is a point A to point B car.
AWESOME!
Fatina, 01/06/2010
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 11 years and the only major work done is timing belt, water pump and starter. I have a little over 218,000 miles and it just keeps on ticking.
2nd corolla, love this one even better...
Mark Miller, 06/18/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in 2003, and it has been a solid, reliable purchase. No surprise there, as my first corolla (1981) lasted 14 years. The car is simply "a corolla"-built to last. I am surprised by the zip it has, and it handles very well through the corners, and is surprisingly quiet and smooth on the highway. In mixed driving, I get 32-36 mpg consistently. It's good for the daily commute, but I don't think I'd take it across country. Nonetheless the front seat is very comfy and it just has an all-around good feel to it. Paint has faded a bit off the back bumper, but otherwise, it still looks and feels great. I can't say enough good things about this car. Thought about selling it - but, naw!
Wow! Toyota Corolla!
Lil Bit, 08/04/2019
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Well where do I start! My Mom brought here 1997 Toyota Corolla LE in 97, which was 22 years ago! I was 15 years old and now I'm 37... So, my Mother always told me the goal of a car note is to pay it off and drive it until the wheels falls off...so I've kept with that in mind when I purchased my first 2006 Corolla...5 years later I paid it off traded for positive equity and purchased a 2010 used Nissan Rogue in 2013, which is paid off and I currently drive and here we are in 2019. So, let's fast forward 2019, my mom's trustee Corolla was still ticking until we smelled fumes of gas, my mom parked it for a while, and eventually, I was trying to convince my mom to just trade the car in! It's too old I would say! Give it up! My mom refused to give up her Corolla, and would tell me how good her car is, just needs fixed! So, I got a certified mechanic to come to the house and check "Bettsy" out! The mechanic checked her out, and said my mom needs a new battery and exhaust! He also, changed my rear brakes on my 2010 Nissan Rogue. After the mechanic finished, I was mentioning to him, that my mom should Trae her car in blah, blah, and how old her car is...and he stopped me and said what! Your mom's car is great, and told me that he would buy my mom's Corolla right now, if she wanted to sell and would buy it vs my 2010 Nssan Rogue! I was in shock, I was like huh...he said yes! Your Mom has Avery trustee and reliable car! One of the best! Sorry for the log read, hence why I came acorss this site, I said let me see for myself and based on so many wonderful reviews, I'm glad to say I was wrong about my Mom's 1997 Toyota Corolla! I'm going to get it fixed for her so she can keep going 22 more years!
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Great Car
Mixie, 01/12/2004
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I have never had even one problem with this car. It is the most practical, durable car, and I wish I didn't have to part with it ever. It is the number one worry-free car. As long as its taken care of properly, it will far outlast any other car.
Corolla Rolls On and On
Chris, 04/24/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle new in 1997 and have used it primarily for work trips which are now 66 miles one way. The Corolla has 264,000 miles on it and has never broken down and has received normal maintenance. No engine problems whatsoever though it uses one quart of oil every 2,000 miles, similar to another reviewer's experience. Only recurring problem is the exhaust manifold has been replaced twice. Minnesota salt? The car is roomy enough but the comfort level becomes quite average after a while. Still - very economical at 38 mpg in the summer, 30 mpg in the winter (highway)
Love my Yota
Rich Pacacha, 01/08/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car with 150000 miles on it. I do bank courier deliveries in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio with the car. I now have 329000 miles on it and have not had any engine or transmission problems. Power flush both components every 100000 miles. Replaced front wheel bearings, timing belt, and battery. I have been using Amsoil synthetic oil since day of purchase. Add 18 oz oil every 2,000 miles. This is the car that will break my heart when it quits. Smooth, quiet, comfortable, no squeaks or rattles and gets 35 mpg combined all winter and 39 mpg in the summer. Wish they were all this reliable.
Amazing Economy Car
yooper42985, 01/23/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I inherited my Corolla in 2004 with 114k miles shortly after moving away to college. It isnt sporty or sexy, but it was a far sight more reliable than the 1984 Grand Prix it replaced. The car now has 170k miles. In this time, aside from oil, tranny fluid, tires and brake pads all I have had replaced is the radiator, shocks/springs, and strut mounts. The radiator was actually still working fine, even with a whole rusted clear through it. But out of prudence, I decided to have it replaced. Gas mileage is great (24 city/32 highway), although I believe the newer Corollas are better with new technology. Not as good as a civic hatchback, but way more car. I have the 4 gear auto tranny.
Most reliable & economical car ever
Kieron, 08/25/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in March 2001 with 60,000 miles on it. I live in Ft. Lauderdale so the ice cold A/C is a boon. I work the summers on Cape Cod so every year this little beauty runs the 1550M distance each way without a problem. The mileage is just approaching 140,000. I replaced the clutch at 100,000 (usually a driver induced problem). I have had one leak in a steering hose and that is it. I replaced the belts as a precaution at 130,000 and replaced the front pads at 135,000, the garage told me the rears didn't need changing yet!!! Loaded down with all my gear for the summer it goes fast enough to put me at risk of big speeding tickets and returns 36+MPG. An absolutely world class car.
The Corolla is a Warrior
Edith Gipson, 05/13/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
No one has to tell that Toyota is the best car for the money. I bought my Corolla new in 1997 and have now passed it on to my son after purchasing a 2009 Camry. This car was so cute at first, then the paint begin to fade and the interior became a bit worn, but I never had to use public transportation... not ever. This little car has seen me through a lot and I'll always give the Corolla thumbs up. When I bought my new car, I couldn't help but lay my hands on "Ms. T" and say thanks for the ride. I had to replace a few minor parts, but nothing really major. Keep the oil changed every 3000 miles and this car keeps rolling. It should be in the car hall of fame.
Most reliable car I ever had
Aum, 01/04/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car was amazing. My dad bought it used in 98 with only 5k miles on it, then gave it to my mom later, and then passed it on to me. I just sold it last week because of insurance cost, but this car is worth every penny. Never gave any member of my family any trouble, only did oil changes, and changed the timing belt after 102,000 miles. Everything else is original other than the tires.
Luv it more every day
jhub, 06/05/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Only owned car for 3 months. The more I drive it the more I love it. Have had to replace a couple of engine mounts to take care of vibrations. Has 105000 miles so we have alot of life. The clear coat is coming off some parts but it's a '97. Gas mileage is consistantly 31 mpg (auto trans). That is great with gas at $4.10 per gallon. My kids find the back seat very comfortable. Only complaint is it needs usable cup holders front and back. Over all great little car. But it is little. Trunk is large for such a small car. We installed window tint on back windows which really helps keep heat down inside car. A/C works great, very cold. Handles very well in all conditions. Love it.
1998 COROLLA LE, black
guitartec, 07/13/2014
updated 01/15/2020
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
1998 COROLLA LE AUTOMATIC. I bought it in Sept 2012 with a confirmed 98K on the odometer with the intent of keeping it for MANY years to come. I drive 100 miles per day, so I want the ride quality top notch (well balanced). Due to this, I personally installed a new Bilstein suspension, including new "normal ride height" springs, all greasable good quality fittings, super heavy-duty inner tie rods and polyurethane bushings. I did this because the orig. suspension was sagging a bit making it tough to get over the bump at the foot of my driveway. UPDATE 7/2016- All the greasable front-end parts wore out very quickly (within 2 years) so I replaced all the Mevotech X-Factor parts with ProForged parts. Just replaced the exhaust manifold and downpipe and ordered new wheels and tires. Did all this for its 200k birthday (and to pass inspection). UPDATE 1/2017- All the Mevotech X-Factor parts are gone out of the front end. They were worse than the original greasable components. The Proforged front-end parts are doing a great job of surviving the rigors of winter in New England, but are finally starting to show signs of wear. The Corolla is going strong but is starting to use about a half qt. of oil a week. Can't complain. ME WHINING.... I spent considerable money trying to make this car a smooth highway driver. It is much better than when I got it, but even with alloy wheels and excellent well-balanced tires, the car simply has certain speeds where it harmonically vibrates, which is noticeable by its steering wheel shake. All I can say is my 92 Subaru Legacy wagon had the best steering feel of any car I've ever owned. UPDATE 1/13/2018- 98 Corolla LE is still running well at 230k miles. There is something loose in the front end, but it's winter, so it'll have to wait til it's warmer to wear out. Remember, this car drives about 98% highway every day. It should go 300k no problem. We'll see. UPDATE 12/2018- I sold the Corolla LE with approx. 235k on the odometer. It still ran just fine, but I needed a bigger car. I found a mint 99 Camry XLE with 82K. It's smmoooottthh on the highway and while the gas mileage isn't nearly as good (26-27mpg), it's a better car for me. I will say this... after owning the Corolla LE and now this Camry, I cannot believe how different these two cars are. Literaly like they are from two different companies. It's like a Subaru and a VW, but while they are vastly different, you can see some similarities.
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The Best Car Ever
Sophia, 06/06/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I, unfortunately, was forced to sell my car 6 months ago because of a move. It was the best car ever! My mom purchased it new in 1997 and she passed it on to me with 30,000 miles in 2000. I drove it on long trips, long commutes, and stop and go traffic for 8 years and it NEVER gave me any trouble. The only thing I changed on it is the battery after 9 years of use and the tires because of normal wear and tear. I did regular maintenance on it to make sure it stayed happy and that's all I needed to do. I miss that car so much. If you get a chance to get one, buy it, you will not be disappointed!
Amazing
eesseJ, 10/01/2009
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is my third vehicle this year and by far the best. the second i got in this car and started driving it i was in love. I no longer am wasting gas as i did in my truck, cause getting more then 18mpg is almost orgasmic to me. If your looking into corolla's for your kids first cruiser, your 8th wonder or whatever, seriously buy one because you will not regret it at all.
Long life
rothkclark, 08/13/2010
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great car. Sold it in June of 2010 in order to buy an SUV. Great MPG and lasted! There was nothing wrong with it when I sold it. Had 194,000 miles and ran almost perfect. Sold it for $1,800 even though KBB listing was $2,200. Overall, it was great.
Corolla, Not a Bad Little Car
Robert Gould, 08/18/2010
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I was the third owner of this Base Corolla with 97,000 miles. It was a little beat up, but in great running condition. Had to put a timing belt on at 100,000 miles, put some speakers in the back"only came with two up front" and cd player. I have not had any mechanical problems, runs well and rides like a compact. The Clear Coat finish was flaking a bit on the roof and truck when I bought it and has continued, not sure if it pays to have it fixed. I payed $4800 in February 2009. Overall this car is nice, not very big and does not ride like our 96 Camry. Good cheap car.
Corolla with no repair bills!
LauraJWHIT, 03/15/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had great luck with my Corolla! I follow the manufacturers guidelines for routine maintenance. Most of the many miles I put on my car are highway miles. Other than oil changes, tuneups and new tires, I've only replaced the brakes - and that was at 98,500 miles! The mechanic didn't believe they were original. I've yet to replace a muffler or anything else! What a well built car!
best car yet
gone with the wind, 06/18/2004
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is the first toyota car I have ever owned, and I would be hard-pressed to buy anything else. I had a lot of problems with all of my GM automobiles. This car has always gotten me where I wanted to go. Toyota is definitely a more reliable car than GM. Why would you buy anything else?
Great Car!
Chrissie, 06/19/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1997 Corolla when I turned 16, as a first car. I've put that car through a lot of abuse (rare oil changes, squealing tires, etc.) and I've never had a bad problem with it. It's held up beautifully. I was even rear-ended by a brand new Cadillac, and the Cadillac was totaled, and my Corolla had a slight scratch on the rear bumper...it was amazing. While it's not the most fancy car, it's certainly the most reliable, well built, and all around practical car. I highly reccomend the Corolla, especially as a first car, because it holds up so well, and needs little to no matinence.
Review of the Toyota Corolla 1997 DX
florence walton, 06/27/2003
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
No problems; battery needs replacement at this time. Small dent, hardly viewable, on right front fender. Car has been utterly reliable, easily driven, easy to care for.
my car
gus, 10/12/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
the corolla is a great car for anyone. It gets from point a to b wonderfully and it is very reliable. i've had mine for a little more than a year, its got over 100000 miles, and all i've had to do besides change the oil is put in a new battery and a belt that had worn out.
Very Reliable
nmyrmel, 01/16/2003
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for 2 and half years and it hasn't had any trouble at all. Just change the oil and go. Decent acceleration for a 1.8 liter engine.
Better than a Ford
prevaly, 05/03/2003
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is the most reliable car out there. I had this car for a long time. It never gave me any problem. I did not have to change anything on this car. I had the car oil change every 4,000 miles and it still run smoothly. I had a 98 ford before and it gave me nothing but problem. if you want reliable car pick a toyota.
Great Car
VicArcega, 11/29/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've been driving this car for the past 3 yrs. It has never caused any problems whatsoever, and I've been communting to and from school pretty much every day. It still runs very well, and is very responsive. Drivers seat is very comfortable as well as the back seat. Trunk has a good amount of space, I just had to install a trunklight, no problem. Speakers were kinda low quality. The one problem I had was the door locks broke, but the dealer had that fixed in no time. Its a very reliable car, and I would recommend it to people looking for a realiable used car. It's very practical for a student/teenager.
My Karen
yourburningpizza, 06/25/2020
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've owned many various types of vehicles in my life and none of them have lived up to my 1997 Corolla. I bought this car in 2015 with 136,000. Today it is just about to hit 215,000. Besides the general routine maintenance that is expected, this car has never disappointed. I do a lot of traveling for work and have never hesitated to make the trip. My corolla has been back and fourth from arizona to south carolina, criss crossing the united states numerous times and still running as smoothly and dependably the day i bought it. It even feels great to drive, with a very simple and practical look and feel in the driver seat. It has a roomy and tasteful interior that has aged just as well as the overall design of the vehicle itself in my opinion. This is the best car I've ever owned and i cant emphasize that enough. I never intend to get rid of it.
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A total gem
steve, 10/30/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought the car after having to replace nearly all the parts on a 1995 Ford f150 [junk]. Since owning it, I have changed the oil every 3500 to 5000 miles and just recently did some work on it. I had a 125,000 tune up, and the battery died after 10 years. The timing belt is still good, it is like a cockroach, I do not think it will die. I have 127,000 miles on it and expect to go 300,000 with ease. Thought of getting a new one, but why, this car is amazing and what auto manufacturers should be producing. The 125,00 tune up was radiator flush, spark plugs, etc. And the mechanic said I could probably have gone to 150,000 and even then maybe not. What a car, love it love it love it.
My Flying Dove
Lendsy, 03/29/2017
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
My 1997 Toyota Corolla is such a wonderful car. I've had her ever since 2009, (2017 present). She has never broke down on me, including multiple times traveling from SC to FL and back. My car has had an oil leak ever since I bought it, I can't afford to repair it so I've just kept adding oil when needed. Other than that I've had power steering fixed and belt changed within these 8 yrs of owning her. Right now she's at 234,872 miles and still going strong.
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500 miles per week commute
rshots2001, 04/04/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is by far the best, most reliable car I've ever owned. Bought it in 2000 with just 27,000 miles. Now at 248,000. Have only replaced brakes and an AC condenser. Still gets 36-39 mpg on highway. Great in winter with quality directional snows all around. Expect to get at least 350,000 out of this one!
Best car I've ever owned
Diane, 07/16/2007
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used from a rental agency, with 20K miles on it. It has been the sole transportation for myself and my 2 children for the last 10 years. The only repair I've had to make was a starter replacement. Nothing else but scheduled maintenance. The car is comfortable and totally reliable, even at 210,000 miles. Has a very solid feel, handles well at all speeds, reasonable acceleration, 33-35 mpg even at interstate speeds.
Almost Flawless
pat, 04/08/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A member of my family bought this car new in 97. I took ownership in '05 with 130K miles. This car has never been a problem!! Besides scheduled maintenance there has been little work done. It now has 190K miles on original wheel bearings, axles, exhaust, alternator, starter, engine, tranny, you name it. We have never seen a Check Engine light or had any sort of breakdown. I would drive it cross-country tomorrow if I had to. The only problem that has come up, besides just starting to use oil (1 quart in 2000 miles) is that the AC wont work in cool weather to defrost the windows but works fine in summer heat. Absolutely the best car I've ever owned.
Affordable Dependability
Jim40, 01/31/2004
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've had this 1997 Corolla since December 1999. It's a well built, dependable car. Good styling, cranks every time, well-designed inside and out. It's easy to manuever in traffic and it's very easy to park. We have no plans to sell it; we'll keep it for many years to come. We traded an '87 Ford Taurus for this car. The Taurus gave us nothing but trouble. It was always in the shop for mechanical repairs. We've have never had to put the Corolla in the shop. Keep up the good work, Toyota!!
Good, reliable, no frills drive
nycjen, 03/14/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
If you dont feel the need to impress folks with the car you drive, this car is a cheap and reliable one to drive and way easier to find parking spaces in than trendy SUV's!
good
coolpopulargirl, 06/03/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very good and comfortable even though small car
I wish toyota would bring the exact same care back
Mark585, 10/02/2019
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I owned one for 13 years until it because it got totaled in a rear end accident. It had 220,000 miles on it and it ran great. Only one time did I have to take it to the shop to fix something. Most of the work I could do myself. I had to replace a couple of alternators and one starter motor. The front wheel bearing was the only thing the shop needed to replace.
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97 Corolla CE Great
flatoyce, 04/07/2007
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Starts and runs great and smooth every time. General maintenance only: oil changes, transmission fluid, anti freeze, new battery, etc. Would definitely buy again but think this car will run forever.
Reliable despite very basic maintenance.
Amit M., 10/03/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the car new - 5 sp. manual transmission. The car now has over 130K miles on it. Never performed any of the manufacturer-recommended scheduled maintenance. Change oil every 7000 miles (need to add a quart every 2000 miles or so). Haven't yet changed the timing belt. Original battery died after 10.5 years. Replaced front brakes and spark plugs at 100K miles (neither was probably necessary). I've been commuting 120 miles each day for over an year now - get 37-40 mpg on highway during winter (Connecticut), 42-45 mpg on highway during summer! I do keep my speed in check. Used to get lower mpg when they used to add MTBE instead of ethanol in the fuel.
Great Little Car
Pies De Plomo, 10/27/2002
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very Good Car,You Can Depend On This Car Good Economy, Needs A Litle More Pep But Once You Are On Your Way It Goes Really Good, Brakes Are Not Very Good And They Lock easily, Air Condition You Can't Find A Better One.
Great, Reliable Car
97 DX, 06/12/2008
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My dad bought this car new in 1997 and babied it ever since. I just bought it from him with only 87000 miles on it. The only thing he did was change oil every 3000 miles, replace timing belt and front brakes. I haven't even had this car long enough to determine my miles per gallon but I'm sure it will be outstanding. Great car for the money and very reliable. A+++
Can't Go Wrong!
Larry d, 06/11/2003
1997 Toyota Corolla CE 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It's hard to kill a Corolla of any year!
6 years later - still strong
RRP, 07/18/2003
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for over 6 years now. Unfortunately, I will need to part with it as the kids are older and don't fit comfortably in it any longer. I have only changed the tires on my car, nothing else. I change the oil of course. I loved this car and am sorry that I must part with it.
Great little car
Scott Libbee, 09/09/2006
1997 Toyota Corolla DX 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought new in 97' Change oil every 4k. Changed plugs at 30k and 60k along with timing belt. Replaced front brake pads. That is it!!! Very reliable car. Have 88k trouble free miles. Plan on driving for 10 more years. Get over 30 MPG all the time. The fact that I don't need to keep on buying new cars all the time is helping me pay for daughters college Education. Way to go Toyota!!!
Worst Car I've ever driven!
Kevinster, 05/18/2016
1997 Toyota Corolla 4dr Sedan
3 of 23 people found this review helpful
I admit this car has its place... and it's not with me. I've driven quite a few cars and I would consider myself a "car guy", so I'm going to base my review on that. Apart from the quite ugly exterior there's not much to talk about there. Upon entering the car you'll notice it sits VERY low to the ground and for a "family sedan" you would be surprised. A nice amenity it has is that it has power windows, and the amenities stop there. Although the interior has some decent soft touch plastics, you'll notice it's not very inviting. The look is very bland. One thing I'm surprised on is that it has no cupholders. The seats feel like you're sitting on an old sofa and the rear seats seem to be missing headrests. It has a radio with a tape player; so nothing out of place for that year of vehicle. Now for the drive. The suspension feels okay, and I can say that's the best thing about the car. It's not so soft, but it does soak up a bit of the bumps in the road. Steering is quite bad and has very little direct response, but most people could live with it. Now, the acceleration is my main issue here: it feels like it has none. You practically have to floor it to even get moving to speed and there is just no enjoyment in driving this car. The brakes are also quite unresponsive. If you actually enjoy driving this is NOT the car for you. If you could care less about what car you drive, want something cheap and to get to point A to point B I suppose this car is okay. But with how low it rides, how small it is, lack of cupholders and with the slow moving speeds I would say this isn't a good daily driver.
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