CarComplaints.com Notes: There must have been something in the water at the plant where they built the eighth generation Corollas, especially the 1998 and 1999 model years.
Outside of a few engine related issues for the 1999, these are about as dependable a car as you’ll find. And remember most of these cars have 200k miles on them by now. But good luck finding one; owners say they want a new car, but can’t justify trading in their Corolla because the darn thing just keeps rolling.
Belt tensioner made a terrible loud knocking sound, almost like a diesel. I've made the mistake to get a cheap ebay replacement and had to fix it again just after 3 months. If you want to keep the car longer, get the OEM part even though it costs around $165.00. I replaced the belt too since you have to take it off anyways.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
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Belt tensioner made a terrible loud knocking sound, almost like a diesel. I've made the mistake to get a cheap ebay replacement and had to fix it again just after 3 months. If you want to keep the car longer, get the OEM part even though it costs around $165.00. I replaced the belt too since you have to take it off anyways.
- Martin S., Sylmar, CA, US