Toyota Corolla Sedan 8th Generation 1998-2002 (E110) Review

Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Used Corolla Sedan 8th Gen

Read in this article:

8th Gen Toyota Corolla: What Owners Say

  • It's a thoroughbred Corolla. To some, this may not mean a lot, but for consumers looking for a reliable and economical family sedan, this is a product that will meet your daily needs and expectations.
  • Owners appreciate the 1ZZ-FE engine's respectable performance and impressive gas consumption, regardless of what transmission it is mated to.
  • A fully independent front and rear suspension mean that the E110 Toyota Corolla driver gets enjoyable driving dynamics and relatively impressive comfort levels, further enhancing its appeal as a daily driver.
  • ABS was not included as standard, so there will be a few examples out there without it. Buyers should avoid cars running around without this crucial safety feature or the optional side airbags.
  • Overall, there is not much to get the driver and passenger excited. The eighth-generation Corolla features a fairly basic interior layout with its use of fabric, plastic, and polyurethane trimmings. Again, let's acknowledge that this is to be expected with Corollas of this era, but it is a flaw nonetheless.
  • While the 1ZZ-FE is a notoriously reliable engine, owners are frustrated by the fact that with age, it can start to consume a hefty amount of oil due to the design of the piston rings, and suffer oil leaks through the timing-chain tensioner O-ring.

Eighth Gen Toyota Corolla Facelift

Although the 8th-gen Corolla's lifespan only covered five years, it was given a pretty extensive 2001 visual update, but no significant mechanical alterations were made. With this facelift, Toyota did away with the VE trim and introduced the S. This was not a replacement for the base model, but rather a sporty variation introduced to help make the model more appealing to younger consumers. The CE was also demoted to the base-level offering but with few redactions to the list of standard features.

2001-2002 Corolla 8th GenFacelift Front Changes CarBuzz
2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Front Changes

Considerable changes were made to the front of the E110 generation. This includes a new set of headlights1, front grille2, and lower bumper, all of which have been shaped to create a sportier appearance3. The headlights and grille are now slightly larger while the lower bumper features three trapezoidal air intake openings positioned alongside one another.

2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Rear Changes CarBuzz
2001-2002 Corolla 8th gen Facelift Rear Changes

Changes made to the rear are a bit less noticeable. The taillights are largely the same apart from the backup lights, which are now circular1.

2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Side Changes CarBuzz
2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Side Changes

In profile, you get a clear view of the Corolla's updated front bumper1and headlights2as well as the new wheel-design options3.

2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Interior Changes CarBuzz
2001-2002 Corolla 8th Gen Facelift Interior Changes

Changes to the updated Corolla's interior are also few. The instrument cluster gets a redesigned instrument cluster featuring a new tachometer displaying the increased rev limit1. A new radio face is also applied to the dash2, while the recirculation and defroster controls for the HVAC system are changed from a slider to a pair of buttons3.

Engine, Transmission and Drivetrain

In the USA, the 8th-gen Toyota Corolla was only available with the renowned 1ZZ-FE naturally aspirated 1.8-liter inline-four gasoline engine, which could be had with a manual or automatic transmission to drive the front wheels.

1.8L Inline-4 Gas DOHC 1ZZ-FE
120/125 hp | 122/125 lb-ft
Horsepower
120 hp
Torque
122 lb-ft
Transmission
Five-speed manual, three/four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD

全铝结构的1 zz-fe是16-valve dual-overhead cams. Fuel is delivered via a multipoint injection system, and Toyota's VVT-i variable valve-timing system was introduced in 2000. With the addition of this, all models had their power output increased from 120 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque to 125 hp and 122 lb-ft. 2001 and 2002 models' torque figure creeps up to 125 lb-ft. The front wheels are driven via your choice of a five-speed manual, three-speed automatic, or four-speed automatic transmission, the autos being of the traditional torque-converter type. Common issues that you can expect to encounter with the 1ZZ-FE include excessive oil consumption and oil leaks from the timing chain tensioner.

1998-2002 Toyota Corolla 8th Gen Real MPG

The 8th-generation Toyota Corolla delivers exceptional fuel-consumption results. The most frugal of the lot is the five-speed manual model with the pre-VVT-i engine with city/highway/combined EPA estimates of 28/37/31 mpg. With VVT-i, this only becomes fractionally worse with estimates of 27/34/30 mpg. The heaviest of the lot is the three-speed automatic model without VVT-i with its 24/29/26 mpg estimate. The four-speed automatic drivetrain sits closer to the three-speed in the city environment but it boasts a better highway estimate, giving it a better combined figure. Real-world owners have shown that the most frugal model to own may be the non-VVT-i five-speed manual with a claimed combined mpg figure ranging from 36.3 to 37.3 mpg. The worst of the lot is the pre-VVT-i three-speed automatic model, which achieved a range of 25.6 to 30.5 mpg. Bear in mind that these figures are sourced from drivers whose driving patterns are not monitored or controlled by the NHTSA and may produce results that vary greatly. Regardless, the quoted figures are still in line with what the EPA officially estimates.

EPA mpg (city/highway/combined) Real-world combined mpg*
1.8 inline four five-speed manual 28/37/31 36.3-37.3
1.8 inline four VVT-i five-speed manual 27/34/30 31.8-37.5
1.8 inline four three-speed automatic 24/29/26 25.6-30.5
1.8 inline four VVT-i three-speed automatic 25/30/27 28.8-30.3
1.8 inline four four-speed automatic 25/33/28 31.3-32.5
1.8 inline four VVT-i four-speed automatic 26/36/30 30.3-32.6

* Real-world mpg and MPGe figures are provided by the EPA. Once a car has been on sale for a significant period of time, the EPA gets real-world figures directly from the customer base. These figures are then provided on the EPA website. Real-world figures are not available for certain models due to a lack of sales, or not enough people partaking in this after-sales survey.

Safety

The E110 Corolla was awarded good ratings by the NHTSA. In the frontal-crash section, a four-star rating was awarded for both the driver and passenger sides. In the side impact, the driver and rear passenger sections were given three stars. On cars fitted with the optional side airbag, the driver's section is upgraded to four stars. For the rollover test, it gets four stars.

All trims come standard with automatic multi-reflector halogen headlights with daytime running lights, hydraulic power steering, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for the front seats and rear bench, and child-protector rear lock doors. CE and VE models benefit from intermittent windshield wipers. Optionally available for all cars are side airbags and ABS. The CE and LE can have integrated child seats and cruise control fitted as an option. With the Touring package, the CE trim also gets the stabilizer bar which is standard with the LE. The facelifted S trim features the same safety equipment as found in the CE.

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Driver):
(4/5)
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Passenger):
(4/5)
Side Crash Rating (Driver):
(3/5)
Side Crash Rating (Passenger):
(3/5)
Rollover Rating:
(4/5)

Sedan with side airbag

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Driver):
(4/5)
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating (Passenger):
(4/5)
Side Crash Rating (Driver):
(3/5)
Side Crash Rating (Passenger):
(3/5)
Rollover Rating:
(4/5)

8th Generation Toyota Corolla Sedan Trims

在整容之前,8代花冠佤邦s available in VE, CE, and LE trims. All cars offer a short list of standard features that consists of halogen headlights, 14-inch steel wheels, cloth seat upholstery, and a couple of storage compartments. All cars also feature a four-speaker radio/cassette deck, but electric windows and door locks, air-conditioning, and other comfort features are available optionally. When updated, the VE was discontinued while the S was introduced as a sporty alternative and bridged the gap between the CE and LE.

而不是一个特别版,丰田在troduce a TRD package available for all 1999 Toyota Corolla trims. This included a high-performance 304 stainless-steel free-flow muffler, which was available with the OEM tailpipe or a more bold bullet-shaped tip. Furthermore, a seven-piece body kit by Molly Designs, 16-inch TRD alloy wheels with Nitto NT-450 Extreme tires, and Eibach lowering springs were made available.

VE
1998-2000
Engine
1.8L Inline-4 Gas
Transmission
Five-speed manual or three-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD

The VE is as basic as the eighth-generation Toyota Corolla can get, particularly if there are no optional extras fitted. Without any ticked boxes, all you get standard on this are 14-inch steel wheels, tinted glass, cloth-trimmed reclining front bucket seats and a rear bench with adjustable headrests, full carpeting with a cloth headliner, and dual visor-mounted vanity mirrors. With the Extra Value Package, the VE gets air-conditioning and the Deluxe AM/FM radio and cassette system with four speakers and the dash-mounted digital quartz clock. Additional options include an electric rear-window defogger, mudguards, and an All-Weather Guard package which adds a heavy-duty version of the electric rear-window defogger and starter, plus heater ducts for the rear seat. This trim can be had with the five-speed manual transmission as standard or the three-speed automatic transmission at an additional cost.

CE
1998-2002
Engine
1.8L Inline-4 Gas
Transmission
Five-speed manual or three-/four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD

在整容之前,CE来配备ything found in the VE plus a 60/40-split and folding rear seat, a center console and console armrest with an integrated sunglasses holder, electrically adjustable door mirrors, black protective body-side moldings, a remote trunk opener, a digital dash-mounted quartz clock, the Deluxe radio and cassette player mated to four speakers, a rear-window defogger, manually tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and remote trunk release. 14-inch steel wheels are retained, but wheel covers are fitted as standard. The Touring package adds unique wheel covers, color-coded rocker panels, rear mudguards, and white finishes for the instrument cluster. Further optional extras include the All-Weather Guard package, and cruise control. Not much changes with the facelift, but the four-speed automatic option is no longer available as the three-speed self-shifter takes its place. Models fitted with the auto get an auxiliary power output.

LE
1998-2002
Engine
1.8L Inline-4 Gas
Transmission
Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD

The LE is the premium Toyota Corolla sedan 8th-generation model as it features all of the CE's kit plus color-coded body-side moldings, side mirrors, and door handles, washer-linked variable intermittent windshield wipers, the CFC-free air-conditioning system, a cloth-covered center console armrest, an ignition-key light, and a tachometer with an LCD display for the outside temperature. It also comes standard with the Power package, which includes electric windows, door locks with a two-turn unlock system, and electrically adjustable door mirrors. The LE can also be selected with the Touring Package Plus, which adds alloy wheels. This trim is available with the five-speed manual transmission as standard but the four-speed automatic is available.

S
2000-2002
Engine
1.8L Inline-4 Gas
Transmission
Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Drivetrain
FWD

The S trim was put together in a bid to attract younger and more vibrant consumers. To do this, it comes fitted with sporty wheel covers for the steel wheels, red illumination for the instrument cluster with a unique LCD outside-temperature gauge, trim-specific sports cloth upholstery, and a synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optionally available for this model are alloy wheels, the All-Weather Guard package, sunroof, ABS, side airbags, and the deluxe audio systems. The five-speed manual transmission is standard, while the four-speed automatic is optional.

Eighth Generation Toyota Corolla Features

VE CE LE S
ABS O O O O
Cruise Control N/A O O O
Front Side Air Bag O O O O
MP3 Player O O O O
Power Mirror(s) N/A O N/A N/A
Sun/Moonroof N/A N/A O O

Interior, Trim And Practicality

Toyota Corolla Sedan 8th Gen Interior Overview Toyota
Toyota Corolla Sedan 8th Gen Interior Overview

The eighth-generation Toyota Corolla offers respectable cabin and cargo space. The front headroom and legroom figures of 39.3 and 42.5 inches, respectively, offer enough room even for those taller than six feet. The rear is more compact with this with its 36.9 inches of headroom and 33.2 inches of legroom. A trunk capacity of 12.1 cubic feet is impressive for the compact-sedan segment as it accommodates four medium-sized suitcases with some space to spare. All cars feature the same grade of Light Charcoal, Pebble Beige, or Black fabric upholstery contrasted by soft plastic and polyurethane. Owners have noted that if the cabin is well-looked after, there's no reason why it shouldn't last for hundreds of thousands of miles.

VE CE LE S
Fabric S S S S

1998-2002 Toyota Corolla E110 Maintenance and Cost

The eighth-generation Toyota Corolla receives a minor service every 5,000 miles, which includes an oil and oil filter change and tire rotation. At 30,000 miles you will be required to replace the engine's air filter and coolant. Spark plugs only need to be renewed at 120,000 miles. Toyota doesn't specify when you need to conduct an oil change for the automatic transmissions but we strongly recommend that this is done every 60,000 miles. If your car is fitted with air conditioning, the filter will need to be exchanged every 15,000 miles. A major service for the E110 Toyota Corolla's 1.8-liter inline-four may cost $800 direct from the dealership, while a private shop should cost in the region of $500.

Eighth Gen Toyota Corolla Basic Service

An oil change for the Corolla's 1ZZ-FE may cost about $120 at Toyota's dealer network or $75 if you go independent. If you wish to change the oil yourself, this will cost about $55 for 3.9 quarts of the 5W-30 synthetic oil type, including the filter. A set of spark plugs will cost $45, while a new air filter will cost $20.

8th Gen Toyota Corolla Tires

VE
Tire Size::
P175/65R14
Wheel Size::
14" x 5.5"
Spare Tire::
T115/70D14
CE
Tire Size::
P175/65R14
Wheel Size::
14" x 5.5"
Spare Tire::
T115/70D14
LE
Tire Size::
P185/65R14
Wheel Size::
14" x 5.5"
Spare Tire::
T125/70D14
S
Tire Size::
P185/65R14
Wheel Size::
14" x 5.5"
Spare Tire::
T115/70D14

Check Before You Buy

There were two 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla recalls issued throughout the generation's lifespan but they are limited to models sold in the Gulf area. Five more recalls are noted, but these are related to aftermarket parts.

  • Some 1998 and 1999 Corollas sold in the Gulf area were recalled for the incorrect use of lug nuts that could fall off over time.
  • 2000 model-year Corollas from the Gulf area were recalled for a faulty speed control device that could cause the accelerator to get stuck.

No airbag recalls were issued for the 2000, 2001, or 2002 Toyota Corolla.

Some of the fault codes that you may encounter when you run an OBDII scan include the following:

  • P0101 or P0105 are the codes you'll see when your manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor fails.
  • P0500 indicates a fault with the 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla's speed sensor.
  • The P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304 fault codes mean that a misfire is detected. The last number indicates which cylinder is affected. P0505 means that there is an idle control system fault.
  • A fault in the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system could bring up the P0440, P0441, P0446, P0450, P0453, or P0498 fault codes.
  • Oxygen sensor-related problems will be highlighted by the P0141, P0030, P0130, P0133, and P0137 fault codes. Air-fuel ratio inconsistencies from the 1998 to 2002 Toyota Corolla's powertrain will bring up the P0170, P1135, P0134, or P0174 codes.
  • Mass air flow (MAF) sensor problems will bring up the P0101 or P0171 fault codes.
  • P1300, P1305, P1315, and P1310 are ignition-system faults.
  • If you are having problems with the 2001-2002 Toyota Corolla's VVT-i system, you'll likely see the P0135, P1346, or P1656 fault codes. Camshaft position faults may be highlighted by the P1340 fault code.
  • An intake air temperature (IAT) sensor fault will bring up the P0110 code.
  • P0330代码你会看到如果你遇到公关oblem with a knock sensor.

1998-2002 Toyota Corolla E110 Common Problems

1ZZ-FE 1.8-liter Inline-Four Engine Problems

If the 1ZZ-FE is routinely maintained and not abused, it should never cause any engine problems in the 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla. With that in mind, the most common problems that you can be faced with include high oil consumption and timing-chain tensioner problems, this item leaking oil being the most common.

The reason why the 1ZZ-FE suffers from high oil consumption is due to a series of design flaws. The unit uses small pistons, which are compensated for by upsized rings. As the rings wear, excess oil starts to seep through. This was addressed by the brand with a six-year/100,000-mile warranty until the design was improved in 2005. This won't result in significant damage to the engine initially, but if you let the rings wear too much, you'll begin to lose compression. You'll know that your rings are starting to wear if you find that the engine starts consuming a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. If left unchecked for too long, the Corolla will develop problems such as a misfire, smoke from the exhaust, fouled spark plugs, and poor engine performance. Unfortunately, there is not much that you can do to resolve this issue but if it occurs, Toyota's rebuild kit permanently fixes the problem. This is a costly procedure, though.

Timing-chain tensioner oil leaks are due to a worn O-ring which is something you can expect every engine to struggle with over time as it ages and the seal starts to crack. This is a relatively small issue that is quick and affordable to repair. You'll know your ring has started to wear when you start to see oil seeping from the tensioner housing. Burning-oil smells and smoke from the engine bay may also be noticed.

The auxiliary drive belt's tensioner is known to be problematic after some time. This could be due to a worn tensioner or pulley, both of which are relatively inexpensive to fix. You'll notice that this part is on its way out when it makes a rattling or squeaking noise. This will be louder under acceleration.

General wear and tear will be encountered with the 1ZZ-FE. Rattling and vibrations are standard characteristics, but if it gets too violent, you may need to look at the rear engine mount. Rough idling is likely due to a dirty throttle-body unit or idle-air control-valve problem, which can just be cleaned out rather than replaced. This fault could bring up the P0120 or P0221 code.

After 100,000 miles, you may also encounter cold start/starter/starting/ignition problems. You'll know this is the case if you turn the key but the starter doesn't swing. Usually, this is due to a faulty starter solenoid, but in some cases, you will need to replace the entire starter.

1 zz-fe plasma-sprayed袖子,这意味着that it cannot be rebuilt by boring the sleeves if it suffers sleeve damage. It is also susceptible to warping if it overheats, so make sure that your engine and coolant levels are always perfect. Low coolant levels or cooling-system problems will bring up the P0125, P0115, or P0128 fault codes.

Mileage:Although the warranty covers the motor for 100,000 miles, you may only notice wearing piston rings closer to 150,000 miles. Timing-chain tensioner oil leaks are likely to start occurring after 150,000 miles. The accessory belt drive tensioner may start to wear after 100,000 miles. Starters may start to go faulty after 100,000 miles.

Cost:Rebuild kits for the 1ZZ-FE may cost $1,000, but if you factor in labor, you could be looking at spending over $1,500. Including the replacement o-rings, resolving the timing chain tensioner oil leaks may cost up to $150. Restoring the accessory belt drive tensioner may cost in the region of $200. Cleaning out the throttle body and idle air control valve should not cost more than $325 if you take it to a private workshop. Installing a new engine mount should cost $400. A new starter, including the cost of fitment, may amount to $550.

How to spot:Wearing piston rings will increase oil consumption. Timing-chain tensioner leaks will lead to spots of oil dripping onto the ground while parked. You may also notice a smell indicating a burning-oil problem or smoke from the engine compartment. A rattling or tapping noise from the engine that becomes more evident as you accelerate is likely due to a weakening accessory drive belt. Harsh engine vibrations mean that you have an engine-mount problem that will require the part to be replaced. A dirty throttle body unit and idle air control valve will result in rough idling. A failure to start may mean that your starter has worn out.

Less Common Problems And Problem-Free Areas

Some issues that are unlikely but possible to occur on the eighth-generation Toyota Corolla include weak door handles that may fall off and a malfunctioning radio. It's also likely that you will encounter a Check Engine Light problem that is caused by a worn gas cap or other exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) malfunctions and blockages. The P0172 or P0401 codes may be displayed. Some owners have reported that the Corolla suffers from a flickering airbag light, which resulted in some of the airbag fixtures needing to be replaced. This could be signified by the P1650 fault code. A small number of owners reported problems with the front-end suspension that results in impaired handling characteristics.

You are unlikely to come across the following issues:

  • In terms of the braking system, problems with the 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla's brake booster or proportioning valve are not common at all.
  • The interior equipment of the Toyota Corolla, including the air-conditioning, electrical door locks, and power window are not known to give any problems.
  • Problems with the automatic or manual transmission, gear shift/shifting, the manual's clutch and gearbox, the neutral switch, or reverse selection are unlikely to be present in the 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla if it is well-maintained. If you happen to come across any problems relating to this, you can expect to see the P0770, P0766, P0755, or P0750 fault codes.
  • There should be no problems with the Corolla's catalytic converter, other than the usual wear and tear. If any faults do arise, you can expect to see the P0136, P0420, P0421, P0422, or P0426 fault codes.
  • Although the EGR system can give issues, fuel filter and -pump problems are rare in the Toyota Corolla.
  • In terms of body issues, headlight, hood-latch, radiator, or rust problems are not prevalent on the Toyota Corolla.

Which One To Avoid

There isn't really a problematic year to be concerned about when it comes to the eighth-generation Toyota Corolla, but the pre-facelift models should be cast aside as they do not feature the VVT-i engines. According to the EPA, these are more frugal, but without the valve-timing system, they are down on power by just a bit. VE and CE trims should be overlooked as well as they feature a very sparse list of standard features. The VE in particular is a poor choice because it could not even be had with ABS at all. If you encounter a model that has not been fitted with the optional side airbags, we'd recommend that you continue your search as this is a vital safety feature nowadays. While there is nothing inherently wrong with the three-speed automatic, it is a dated transmission that lags behind the four-speed when it comes to performance and economy.

Which One To Buy

The facelifted LE Toyota Corolla would be the best horse to bet on as it has the longest list of standard comfort and convenience features to enhance its value and appeal. The 1ZZ-FE also benefits from the VVT-i system, which offers improved performance. Both the five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions have proven their worth if looked after, so this depends entirely on your personal preference. You should only consider examples that have been fitted with ABS and the side airbags for their improved safety. Also, ensure that the cars have been maintained on a routine basis.

8th Gen Toyota Corolla E110 Verdict

The eighth-generation Toyota Corolla maintains the nameplate's reputation for dependability, affordability, and frugality. For its era, the E110-gen model also excelled in its safety equipment, making it a segment leader. It is by no means the most exciting product to be offered by the American arm of the Japanese manufacturer at the time, but if you are looking for a straightforward commuter, this generation of the budget compact family car should not disappoint.

Corolla 8th Generation (E110) Alternatives

If you're shopping for 1998-2002 Toyota Corolla you should consider these alternatives
Back
To Top