Don't buy a Toyota Corolla!!

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Stuart_D

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As you may know, about a month ago I purchased a new Toyota Corolla 1.4 T-Spirit for my wife. I can't deny that it is a very well equipped car and also a nice car to drive. However, in the past 4 weeks some unusual build quality issues have surfaced that are a little worrying. The current list is as follows:

1) Large ever growing gap between the stereo and the dashboard - Toyota have now said that the only way they can rectify this is to replace the whole dashboard!

2) Rear bumper is dropping on one side, such that plastic mountings can be seen through the gap!

3) Trim surrounding the door mirrors has popped off.

4) Black roof trim strips have popped off.

5) Front fog lights not secured effectively.

6) Window seal on drivers door gets trapped in window - thus causing draft and wind noise.

7) Sunvisor rattles!

It does worry me that if the dashboard is replaced it will open a can of worms and other problems will develop. Surely it would be easier for them to give us a new car and keep our current car as a demonstrator?!

My question to you all is - besides the obvious such as a courtesy car; should I be demanding some form of compensation for all of this and if so what is reasonable to ask for?


[img=left]http://www.a2forum.net/stuart.gif[/img=left]Stuart Diamond: A2OC Founder | Forum Administrator

2001 TDi SE:http://www.audi-a2.co.uk/uk1.htm Cobalt Blue Metallic | Open Sky Roof | Kenwood Mask CD | Front Centre Armrest | Front Centre Tray

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Stuart

Reject it now. I think that's what I'll be trying, albeit on a car I've had since February. The dash/radio thing is a known problem on the Toyota OC forum, so much so that Toyota now have a fixing kit on the order list as it's happened to so many Corollas (but not mine-yet).

I still have two "noise problem" (the car, not me before maersk says anything) that the dealer has had many attempts to fix.

I'm going for rejection (doubt I'll get it), followed by an attractive buy-back. Even AutoExpress are on the case and could be running an article on the general downward trend of Toyota products.

At least the dealer is friendly, if incompetent. The last time they had my car they used quarter a tank of fuel on test drives-do I get a penny from them or an aplogy...do I heck!.

Steve - 2002 1.4SE petrol, Silver, black/black interior, Then an identical replacement 2003 A2. Now a Toyota Corolla 1.6 T-Spirit
 
Oh dear, sorry to hear of your woes Stuart. Have you enquired about handing the car back under the sale of goods act or similar and demanding a replacement or money back?
If a new dashboard was to be fitted, I would ask for written confirmation that if any further faults were to arise or existing faults were to remain, that an exchange/refund would be forthcoming.

As was mentioned in the Toyota v Honda thread, it does appear that Toyota are letting their standards slip quite a bit, especially considering the Corolla topped the JD Power surveys on numerous ocassions. Did they get complacent?

Don't drink drive! Not only is it socially unaceptable, it also harms A2's.
Was a 1.4SE petrol. http://www.audi-a2.co.uk/uk14.htm http://www.audi-a2.co.uk/safety.htm
New A2 on order - Ebony Black, Red Leather + many other options.
 
Yes, I'm sure you have. I once rejected a Kawasaki motorbike, using the phrase "not of a standard commensurate with a quality product". It worked.
I have recently phoned Nissan customer services re. the Micra, relatively small problem, but they kept the car 3 weeks. There was a loan courtesy car, brand new (2 miles on clock), but I asked Nissan what goodwill gesture they were prepared to make, they have supplied a voucher for the next 2 services free, and an apology.
It pays to try.
It's your hard earned, and you are entitled to get what you are led to expect in their advertising.
Good luck.
 
Its interesting how the down turn in Quality has happened since full production of the Corolla/Avensis moved to the UK. I am a strong believer that British Engineering ability is the best in the world, however after working in the automotive sector for 7 years, I can honestly say that our manufacturing quality leaves much to be desired. I have been fortunate enough over the last few years to spend time working in both Germany and Japan, and have noticed a considerable difference in the attitudes of the workers compared to ours. What concerns me personally is that the new Accord is made in Swindon.

Kaine
 
Well there you go!
Japanese stuff always starts and goes well but .......................................
I beleive build quality (even in Japan produced factories is not up to scratch)
I think even FORD (spit curse) are better in that respect. You still have to Fix Or Repair Daily though.
 
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