2009 Toyota Corolla Review: A Redesigned Small Sedan With More Problems Than Other Years

Feb 1, 2022

More expensive than other compact cars ranging from $6,959 to $10,358, the 2009 is a bad choice with more complaints than any other year. Common engine problems and water pump failures give the Corolla a shorter lifespan than normal, at only 200,000 miles.

The Good

The optional technology is better and easy to use, fuel economy is great, and the seats are more comfortable than other compact cars.

The Bad

There are several engine problems including overheating issues along with a boring driving experience, and less passenger room than some rivals.

2009 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview

2009 is the first model year for the tenth generation of the Corolla with all-new engines, exterior, and interior choices.
We rate the 2009 Toyota Corolla’s reliability as poor, even though J.D. Power gave it a great rating when the car was new. Engine and air conditioning problems are common as the car ages.
Two engine choices are available. Both are 4-cylinders but the larger one found in the XRS model has good power for the class.
Fuel economy is good, ranking 3^rd out of 30 compact cars from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 30 miles per gallon.
Safety ratings are good for a small car, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The 2009 Toyota Corolla ranks 13^th out of 30 compact cars based on owner reviews. The 2009 model year has more problems than other years, and is one buyers should avoid.

Expert Ratings

Kelley Blue Book

4.4/5

US News

8.4/10

Cars.com

4.3/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Theodore T

Toyota Corolla is a very reliable car.

The car is very reliable, even after 3 previous owners and 2 accidents, it runs great. I have had to only replace and repair a few parts since owning it, but the car will last for a very long as long as basic maintenance is performed. While not the most feature packed, the radio works, the ac blows cold and the heat hot, and the seats are fairly comfortable.

Steven L

That it gets good gas miles.

I like that it is reliable. That is good on gas mileage. What I do not like about it though is that it is a small vehicle.

Velma W

It has low mileage for the age of the car and runs very well..

Our Toyota has been very reliable. It is comfortable to ride in and gets great gas mileage. I like the style also.

Krissi B

The most important time to know about my car is that it is reliable.

Perfect size for just me. I can transport my two dogs. It is small enough for me to feel comfortable. There is a large amount of space inside the car. I've moved a few times using it.

Susan J

Features is the best and must think you should know about your car.

Resale value is good, less maintenance, less wear and tear. I love it because I never had a chance to think about selling it for any drawback.

Galen H

It's a manual transmission car that's a dying breed of cars that's out there. Not too many standard cars out there these days. Very fun to drive with lots of power when you need it.

It's a great four door sports sedan with lots of power and great mileage for the gas. It really fun to drive and a very easy car to maintain. I enjoy working and tinkering with my car.

Jasmine S

It has no mechanical problems and runs perfect. Looks nice too, great color.

Love everything about, good gas mileage, no mechanical problems, great look, perfect amount of space for me and perfect size.

Heather D

It's reliable. It's 9 years old and has needed very little repair work done.

I have no complaints about my Corolla. It's quiet, smooth, fun to drive and gets excellent gas mileage.

Negative Owner Reviews

Eugene M

I get to the destinations in one piece.

The mileage is terrible and very old to my taste. It does not have a nice design or good interior. The windows are not powered and needs to be improved. It's not as reliable as it's supposed to be. The engine show be better and must not consume too much gas.

Candace L

There are a lot of recalls on this make.

I hate the way it looks the color and shape I like how fast it is and how it handles on the road. I hate that it is popular among the community.

Joanne K

I hate American made cars. I am stylish and I like luxury!!

I don't like American cars especially ford products. I prefer luxury brand cars. American made cars aren't stylish enough for me. Right now the brakes need to be changed. I haven't had any major problems out of my car which is a good thing. The next car I am going to purchase will be a Lexus.

Ashley D

That it has constant recalls.

I hate how many recalls have been made on it. It seems that there is always something being recalled.

Marc C

That it has been recalled several times for different issues such as airbags.

I like that it is reliable. I dislike it isn't the best for miles per gallon and it doesn't have many new features.

Roxanne A

It has a.c and heater. And it's really good on gas.

Rusty ,needs wheel alignment, it has AC and heater.. Looks and feel like it was in the flood.. Lights are dim

Abby E

Low mileage but trusted branch and longevity. It gets me from point A to point B.

It's getting older and requiring more repairs and maintenance. It's great that it's lasted this long, but taking more time to keep up. Not as fuel efficient.

Dina S

Car is a second owner and new with complete new everything no issues and get.

I have nothing bad to say about the dealership everything is done properly in a matter of time with good results. Great people skills and they complete work in a timely matter and very good at completely doing the task. The warranty on the vehicle is always good to have on it and schedule is good as well.

What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Corolla Have?

There are more problems with the 2009 Toyota Corolla than any other year, and a lot of them are serious mechanical issues. Big improvements arrive for the 2011 model, making the $1,800 price difference worth the cost.

Engine problems including excessive oil consumption and noise from the engine, are both mentioned by owners at around 100,000 miles. Toyota engines commonly consume more oil than other cars, but the 2009 Corolla has a problem with the piston rings making the problem worse. Checking the oil regularly is important since engine failures can occur if the oil level is too low, costing over $4,000 to replace.

Water pump failures are very common with the 2009 model at around 60,000 miles. The water pump moves coolant through the engine, and when it fails there’s a risk of overheating. Replacing the water pump costs about $850, depending on local labor rates.

Paint defects are another common issue, with failures happening after about 5 years. Paint tends to have issues when the curing process fails, or when the paint is exposed to excessive sunlight. The only solution is repainting the affected panels, costing over $800 per panel.

There are 13 recalls, which is more than other compact cars from the same year. The recalls include brake vacuum ports, accelerator pedals, load-carrying labels, power window switches, air bags, and seat heater wiring. Most serious are pedal problems which may cause unintended acceleration.

How Much is the 2009 Toyota Corolla Worth?

Ranging in price from $6,959 to $10,358, depending on the model and mileage, the 2009 Toyota Corolla is more expensive than other compact cars including the Mazda3 and Civic. When new, the price range was $15,350 to $20,050. Depreciation on the used market is average for the class, losing about 10% of the current value each year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

Base is the stripped down entry-level model with:

15-inch Steel Wheels
Power Mirrors
Air Conditioning
AM/FM/CD Stereo with AUX Jack

LE is next in the lineup and adds:

Power Windows
Power Locks
Body Colored Exterior Trim

S is an upgrade adding:

16-inch Steel Wheels
New Front and Rear Bumpers
Fog Lights
Sport Seating
Leather Steering Wheel

XLE is a luxurious version with improvements including:

16-inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
Wood Interior Trim
Keyless Entry

XRS is the most fun as a performance-oriented model with:

A Larger Engine
17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Sport Suspension
Rear Deck Spoiler

Base

132 HP 30 MPG

View Details

132 HP 30 MPG

View Details

132 HP 30 MPG

View Details

XLE

132 HP 30 MPG

View Details

XRS

158 HP 25 MPG

View Details

How Long Will the 2009 Toyota Corolla Last?

A properly cared for 2009 Toyota Corolla will last about 200,000 miles, which is shorter than other years for the model. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be average for the class, similar to the Civic and Elantra, at $384 per year.

As the 2009 Corolla reaches 100,000 miles, there are a few maintenance items owners may need to address. They include brake master cylinders for $500, steering knuckles for about $600, and A/C condenser costing $550.

Laura K

I have oil changes every 5,000 miles. It has not needed a lot of maintenance. Body has held together nicely.

Monica K

Yes, my 2009 corolla s is very reliable. I travel approximately 17500 miles a year and I can always depend on my little red corolla to get me to my destinations smoothly and problem free. Other than self imposed issues, the corolla s if quite problem free.

Angela T

I haven't had any problems with mine and I have had it for 10 years. Do not expect any problems in the near future either.

Caitlin S

Toyota vehicles are always reliable. Knock on wood, things have been good. Minor issues that come up with normal wear and tear of car (ie. Belt needed to be replaced after 80k miles).

Sandra B

Yes. No problems. Never had any problems with my vehicle. Has performed very good. Reliable and dependable. Drive it daily and it runs like a dream.

Erik N

I have only had one problem with this vehicle and it was a big one the transmission went out at 140,000 miles which I had to replace.

Brigitte T

It is very reliable. Being that the car is ten years old, now any and every problem you can think is noticeable.

Tara O

Yes it is so reliable. Bought it with about 30k miles on it. Have not had one bit of trouble with it. Even last year when parked outside and we had -30 degrees cold blast. Only thing I have had to do is regular maintenance like oil changes, and 60k, 90k, 120k regular check ups.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology in the Toyota Corolla is good for the class and the updated 2009 model has more features than the outgoing version.

Standard features include a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and a 3.5mm AUX port.
Optional upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and an improved 6-speaker stereo system.
Safety features include air bags and antilock brakes. Stability control is standard on the XRS model.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance in the 2009 Toyota Corolla is better than some competitors. The XRS model with the upgraded engine takes only 7.9 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

The base engine is a 1.8L 4-cylinder with 132 horsepower.
An upgraded 2.4L 4-cylinder is available in the XRS model with 152 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Corolla?

The 2009 Toyota Corolla is a compact car and is similar in size to other cars in the same class like the Civic and Sentra. Passenger room in the backseats of the car is acceptable, but not class leading, and some adults may feel cramped. Cargo space is average for the class, fitting 3 to 4 suitcases in the 12.3 cubic foot trunk.

How Does the 2009 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 13^th out of 30 compact cars, based on owner reviews, the 2009 Toyota Corolla is in the middle of the class.

A higher rated competitor is the more affordable Mazda3. Where the Mazda stands out is with fewer complaints from owners, and more practicality with the optional hatchback. On the other hand, the Corolla has more technology available, and better fuel economy. For the 2009 model year, the Mazda3 is a better choice, with less serious problems.

Another close rival is the Honda Civic, which is in the same price range. The Civic has better interior materials, and offers a sportier driving experience. Where the Corolla comes out ahead is with a more comfortable suspension, and more up-to-date technology. Overall, 2009 is a bad model year for both cars, and we do not recommend either of them to shoppers.

Ranks #13 Small Cars by Owners

2009 Volkswagen GTI

4.86

2009 Subaru WRX

4.64

2009 Toyota Corolla

4.23

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota Corolla a Good Car?

No, the 2009 Toyota Corolla is not a good car. Although there’s a combined rating of 4.2/5 based on 542 verified owner reviews, we have found serious engine issues affecting the long-term reliability. The positives include a more comfortable driving experience than rivals, and a long list of standard features. Where the Corolla misses the mark is with more problems than other years, and the electronic steering feels disconnected. Overall, 2009 is a model year to avoid, with the 2011 version being a much better choice for buyers looking for a Corolla.

Laura K

Yes. It has been a great vehicle. Easy to drive, car corners well, has good pickup, and has not needed a lot of maintenance.

Monica K

Yes, the 2009 corolla s has proven to be extremely reliable, gas friendly, and very comfortable. The only issue I have is that given it is a s trim, the bumpers are very low and near the ground requiring careful parking and careful attention to potholes.

Angela T

Yes, reliable, parts are affordable. Great mileage, compact and easy to street park. Great for road trips.

Caitlin S

Yes, I have owned my vehicle for 7 years. It was purchased pre-owned with 20k miles. It is a quality car that retains much of its value over time. The drive is smooth and the gas mileage is great.

Sandra B

Yes the best. Very little maintenance needed to date. Good gas mileage and drives great. Love the way it handles in snow.

Erik N

Yes it is very good for the base model of a corolla but could use at least power windows in this case.

Brigitte T

Yes it is the second best car I have ever owned. I have also owned a 2005 Toyota corolla.They're great on mileage.

Tara O

Yes it is a great car. Has around 140k miles on it and still drives like a new one. Bought it due to at that time a long drive to work, since then I have moved closer and not putting on as many miles. Has been extremely dependable and leaving in Minnesota it handles very well in the snow. Better than the tundra truck we own. It is easy to maintain, just a basic not luxury car but so dependable.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Robert Taylor on July 28, 2022

Excellent Driving Experience

My 2009 Corolla has a mere 42,000 miles on it, has been garage kept and the vast majority of miles are highway miles. Purchased in September 2008, it's going on being an actual 14 years old. This article states that Leather was available in the XLE. It was NOT an option and is not an option to this day. Faux leather has since become an option...but not leather. My Corolla actually has real leather installed by a true specialty company in Nashville Tennessee. I am still driving on the original Goodyear tires. Just be sure to rotate them at regular intervals. This speaks to the quality of the tires, as well as the integrity of the front end and suspension system. It has seen its share of significant potholes by the way. TPMS light occasionally flashes indicating possible faulty TPMS sensors in tires. Dealership will confirm that they need replacement at a significant cost. However, it has been my experience that overinflating the tires to around 45 PSI then releasing excess pressure to exactly 35 PSI magically cures the "Faulty" TPMS sensors. Brakes are yet to need pad or shoe replacements. Had to replace battery twice in 14 years (normal). Immediately had oil changed.from factory oil (then not full synthetic) to fully.synthetic.and change every 7000 miles or so. To change more often defeats the added cost of using full synthetic oil since fully synthetic oil REALLY doesn't deteriorate in a properly functioning engine. Both the proper function of the engine as well as the lack of oil deterioration is evidenced by the constant honey color of the oil as well as the fact that it burns zero oil. Of course I was very carefully to properly break the engine in and change oil after break in period of about 1000 miles. I otherwise ignore the recommended maintenance at certain time intervals because my experience as a mechanical engineer is that Preventive Maintenance is typically a waste of time, money and resources. I rely on predictive maintenance. The JBL premium sound system with 6 disk CD changer and XM/Sirius satellite radio sounds second to none. NEVER take your car through high pressure, generic car washes in order to preserve the integrity of the sunroof seal, paint damage from unknown chemicals and overtensioned aggressive brushes. Always handwash and NEVER give bugs a chance to bake in to front bumper and mirror paint. Bluetooth is one of first introduced and not intuitively obvious how to use. But carefully following instructions has provided flawless operation. In other words, it has been babied but it gives me no reason to think that with continued babying that it won't run pretty much flawlessly for another 14 years and by then it will officially be an antique. Take care of it and it will take care of you. 100% happy with this vehicle.

Marvin on July 22, 2022

It is a reliable car

I have been driving my 2009 Toyota for 13 years, 245,000 miles. No big issues until now, the head gasket is leaking coolant.

Michelle C on June 7, 2021

It is an affordable car with easy drivability.

My vehicle runs well with little maintenance over the years. It does not have a lot of extra features and I had to have sunroof installed which is not as good as manufactured and installed so it is frustrating. Overall the seats are comfortable. Sometimes the drive is noisy due to outside noise. Some of the inside molding has come undone around the door.

Lora A on April 3, 2021

That it is reliable and I can count on it to take me to where I. Red t go.

It's a good car and is very reliable. It's very basic but it runs well and gets me to where I need to go. I do wish it had more upgrades.

Susan D on April 2, 2021

Style and size fits me perfectly (Like) no complaints

Safety is very important to me! I like the smaller size and it is easy to drive it! Reliability is very important and affordability is crucial. It needs the ability to have wheelchair lift added to the roof which it does a Braun Chair Topper!

Dan F on April 2, 2021

It's only got 45,000 Miles on it and I'm currently locked out of the trunk.

Reliable, easy to drive and park. Good mileage and looks nice.

Dolores C on March 31, 2021

Great on gas, compact. Runs smoothly.

I like the brand. Runs great, great on gas, I love the color, it rides smoothly. It is great on miles.

Kim J on March 30, 2021

My car is a sharp blue. Also a sunroof and drives great.

I love my car, great gas mileage. Held up great. Only problem is the paint is fading. My Corolla is a s which means it is got a 3 gear- extra. Gives it a great speed and power. It really becomes a sports car in 3 not drive. I have had it 9 years love it as much now as did first day.

Reagan S on March 30, 2021

It is very durable, nearly ten years old and still going.

I like the gas mileage and interior I dislike how small the car is. It is too small for an infant seat.

j c on March 30, 2021

I is compact and can fit in many parking spaces other cannot.

I like the gas mileage, the way it handles and the low maintenance. No complaints at all

Rose R on March 25, 2021

It's a good car in the right conditions

Compact and easy to drive car. Handles great in good conditions, doesn't do as great in northern winters. Doesn't handle very well in snow/heavy rain.

Rachael S on March 23, 2021

Best car I have ever had. Most reliable I have ever had.

I really do not have any serious problems with my car. My little car will go almost anywhere. She runs great and gets me where I need to go. The car is easy to maintain and is one of the most reliable cars I have ever had. The car has very few bells and whistles. I have put lots of miles on it since I got it. She keeps plugging along and when I have had to fix it that parts for is are easily available.

Rosia S on March 22, 2021

It's a keeper and easy to operate.

It is reliable. Hardly any maintenance problems. Easy to handle. Good gas mileage. Withstand a beating from hurricane weather, deer collision and my hitting it with other vehicles without any major inside repairs just body work.

Liz M on March 12, 2021

It's reliability. You can just hop in and go. Great gas mileage.

I have loved this car! I have 295,000 miles on it and it's still going strong. I've had very few problems.

Jess A on March 11, 2021

Poor service department/lots of recalls.

Multiple recalls, poor quality weather striping but runs well. Toyota service department ignores my requests to fix things saying 'nothing wrong' only later for it to end up being a major mechanical problem and/or something on a recall list.

Samantha S on March 9, 2021

It is extremely economical for families wanting to save on gas.

I like that my vehicle gets good gas mileage. I also like the sleek look and the comfort inside. My power moonroof is also great!

Monica H on March 4, 2021

It is a dependable car. I do like that it rides higher than most cars, but the front bumper does clip itself in certain driveways. It also takes a longer amount of time to speed up from rest.

It is fuel efficient. I have driven many miles in this car and it only needs a gas tank refill every week or 2.

Richard W on March 3, 2021

It is extremely dependable and needs minimal maintenance!

I love that it is reliable, economical, and gets good gas mileage and has needed minimal repairs. My mechanic tells me at 200,000 miles it is just broken in. It is long paid for, so I almost drive for free.

Matthew H on March 2, 2021

Economic, more mileage for the gas, cheaper than average.

Save money for the gas. Safety and not expensive. Roomy for all passenger.

Ashley R on March 2, 2021

It is a great size not big not to small.

It is my first car ever. I really like it as it is a good starter car. It is very reliable and great on gas mileage to.

Monica S on February 28, 2021

It's a very reliable vehicle.

It's very reliable. It's small, which I like. It doesn't have great pick-up, but I don't do much highway driving, so for the most part I don't mind.

Michele W on February 28, 2021

It small, spacious, and comfortable.

The engine light is a hassle to turn off, the car drives smoothly like it is brand new, brakes last practically a year, oil last about five months, has great sound quality through the speakers from radio and phone, has space despite the small car just put the seats down.

Sara P on February 28, 2021

Reliable, but looking for something different in the future.

I really liked this vehicle when I purchased it. I have since ‘outgrown’ it in the sense that I would like something with more space for hauling bigger items (i.e.: yard waste, small furniture pieces). I also have moved into the city in a state (MN) with harsh winters and the roads are not as upkeep as they are in the suburbs. Because of this I would now prefer something a little bigger, that feels safer. Before this vehicle, I had a Honda Accord. I much preferred the visibility in that vehicle to the Corolla, something I didn't pay enough attention to as I was test driving. The Corolla seems to have some fairly substantial blind spots that I do not like. I used the Corolla pretty extensively for long drives when I was in college and it was very uncomfortable on extended trips. I have had the vehicle for about 8 years now and have had no major issues. It has held up well.

Helen T on February 26, 2021

The tire pressure light on the dashboard.

The Corolla is very dependable. I do not like the tire pressure light on the dashboard., every time the temperature changes, the light comes on. I have had very good luck with my car so far.

Ralph B on February 26, 2021

Very economical on gas and a reasonably comfortable ride.

So far I haven't had zero problems so it is very reliable for the size of the vehicle it is also very comfortable, it is equipped with just the basic features power windows airbags it is just basic but I am very satisfied with it. I would definitely if I was in the market for another car I would consider another Toyota Corolla, for the amount of money you spend on the vehicle it is definitely worth it.

linda s on February 19, 2021

Excellent car and economy car excellent car to buy a lot of incentives

Great economy car love the style and the brand i love the way it rides and safe technology

michele C on February 19, 2021

It's a good value for your money and very reliable

It's reliable and dependable with decent mileage. The tire sensors didn't last very long.

Dylan E on February 14, 2021

All things considered, it is an awesome vehicle and I am super happy with it.

I love my Toyota Corolla, it has held up very well in the 5 years that I have owned it. Besides basic upkeep, I have not had many problems with it at all. I have had to replace the alternator and the rotors and some other things that wear out with time and mileage but generally speaking, it has been a very reliable vehicle that has gotten me all of the places I need to go. It is pretty comfortable as well which is very beneficial on those long road trips. All in all, I am very happy with my vehicle.

Kent M on February 9, 2021

My car is very dependable with outstanding longevity and fuel economy.

Very dependable and low maintenance. It is very fuel efficient and economical. It has traveled many miles without issues.

Shawn G on February 9, 2021

Gets the job done with minimal fuss and decent gas mileage

It's a basic car that gets the job done. It would be nice if it had some advanced features like rear view cameras that more modern cars have. But it's fine for my purposes

Susan H on February 8, 2021

My Toyota allows me to be worry free about transportation issues.

I like my Corolla because it is just about maintenance free. I only take it in for regular check ups and when major things were out it is way past the expected time frame. The car is very reliable, drives well, has all the important features and is aesthetically pleasing.

Sandra P on February 7, 2021

It is a very dependable car.

There is no storage space for my purse nor my personal items I carry with me daily. Performance is good enough and I have driven over 100, 000 miles with no repair cost. The console is in need of redesign also cup holders must change for water bottles ( not plastic).

Lee H on February 7, 2021

Low maintenance car with good mileage, save money on gas

Very economical on gas and small so easy to park. Easy maintenance. Not very powerful.

Candace M on February 5, 2021

Best brand I have ever owned.

It has a sleek exterior, drives smooth. The interior is roomy (it easily fits daughter's car seat). It holds value and is adorable. It gets good gas mileage. The maintenance is pretty easy and not too expensive, and Toyota dealership was super friendly.

sam k on February 5, 2021

Corolla small car for getting around

The toyota corolla is a very comfortable car. It is not the biggest car but i have never had a problem with trunk space. For taller people though there can be too little space to fully fit their legs.

Ivy B on January 31, 2021

Pretty okay: comfortable, safe, radio complications.

Acceleration is very slow, however gas mileage is fair. It is a very sturdy car in terms of impact and I consider it to be very safe based on the wreck I was in with the car. The stereo experiences issues when the car gets too hot and the seats hold smells very strongly.

Amy H on January 29, 2021

It is very reliable (ie: does not break down very often), has great gas mileage and finding a mechanic that knows Corollas is very easy.

My car is very reliable and gets great gas mileage. It is an affordable car to get fixed as it's a Toyota and very common. The front wheel drive helped me get through ice covered roads one winter, and the durable glass of the windshield held up during an awful hailstorm a few years ago. I would buy this car again!

Todd C on January 29, 2021

2009 Toyota Corolla LE 4 cylinder

Excellent vehicle. Very reliable, great gas mileage. Exactly what I need for my commute. Would purchase again in a heartbeat.

Sv B on January 27, 2021

Great gas mileage and easy to drive.

I like that it is easy to park and gets great mileage. It is a comfortable car to sit in and I like the silver color because it does not show much dirt.

Kristyne M on January 27, 2021

Corollas are very reliable and do not break down often.

Very low maintenance and is reliable. Gets very good gas mileage. Did into compact spaces. Lasts forever.

James W on January 22, 2021

Very economical to drive.

My Corolla is reliable with low maintenance problems. My only problem was that there were several recalls on this model making me bring car to the dealer several times to have them taken care of.

Julianna P on January 21, 2021

The corolla is a very dependable vehicle.

I like how reliable my vehicle is. I have never had an issue with the car. It is very dependable and gets good gas mileage.

Brittany B on January 20, 2021

Toyotas are great vehicles.

I am a proud Toyota owner. If you want a nice quality vehicle go for a Toyota. Maintenance is low. And these vehicles last for forever.

Natalie C on January 18, 2021

Car lasts a long time and interior does not seem too worn from 9 years of use.

I like the size as well as the gas mileage. The car has kept up well for the past 9 years. Sometimes if it is humid and raining, it can smell a little musty.

Brenda H on January 16, 2021

I love my gold car for my golden life!

I love my car. I am thankful that I have not had any major problems. I am however upset that I do not have a keyless option. Gas mileage is good. Wish also I had the sunroof. My car has good take off speed, comfortable space. I like the automatic door locks. Also that it is a compact car for parking. My car is great, it has been very reliable and I do love it is color.

Delaney D on January 15, 2021

It can brake extremely quickly. Any sticky situations that I am in I can quickly get out of.

My car is really cute appearance wise. It's a luxury model with wood paneling and a moonroof, although it does have many engine issues and undercarriage problems.

Deborah C on January 14, 2021

Go Toyota! You will go for a long time.

My Toyota is my buddy. It has pick up and go power that I need, traveling interstate hwys often. I love the power of my manual transmission and would probably be bored in an automatic. It has never let me down. With almost 130,000 miles, that is a pretty good testimony by itself. Wouldn't trade it in for a Cadillac.

Melissa W on January 14, 2021

Fun smooth efficient reliable vehicle.

I enjoy my Toyota. Good on gas dependable. Smooth ride nice stereo. Efficient. Fun to drive. It is the second Toyota I have owned and operated don't think I'll change anytime soon. Ac blows hard and very cold. The car is gold sleek and stylish. Did I say FUN

Savanna S on January 11, 2021

Very spacious, never any problems.

I have rolled this car and in every way it protected me and I was able to drive off with it. It is a long time car, I have it at 179, 000 miles and it is never experienced any issues or problems.

Danielle C on January 8, 2021

Nice, reliable car with few minor faults.

This is a very nice, reliable car, but since hitting 140, 000 we have had some issues with maintenance. Nothing too bad, but the maintenance seems to be more and more each time and the costs add up. As performance goes, this car can get up and go for a tiny car. When riding in the cabin, you can hear road noises and it is not a very quiet ride when the radio is off.

Ashley S on January 8, 2021

Review of Toyota Corolla 2009

I have NEVER had any problems with my vehicle. It has over 140,000 miles on it and is still going strong! It is dependable and reliable. I feel very safe driving and allowing my teenagers to drive this car. Everything is still original as far as items under the hood. I have never had anything break or fall apart on the interior of the car.

melissa K on January 2, 2021

It's so safe I survived an accident

It is a nice, safe car. It's not very big, but my kids and I fit in it. It doesn't do well in the snow though

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.