A good year for the Corolla, with a used price range of $7,293 to $10,903. Fewer problems than the older models, and a great reliability score give the car a long-lifespan of over 250,000 miles.
2010 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview
- We rate the current reliability as very good, agreeing with J.D. Power’s great rating when the car was new. There are no major mechanical problems as the car has aged.
- Two 4-cylinder engine choices are available. The base engine is efficient, and the one found in the XRS model is more fun to drive.
- Fuel economy is good for the class, ranking 4th out of 29 compact cars from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 30 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are great for a compact car with a 4 out of 5 star rating in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- Consumer Reports found the Corolla to be a pleasant and refined compact car with high owner satisfaction.
- The 2010 Toyota Corolla ranks 4th out of 29 compact cars based on owner reviews. With good long-term reliability and low ownership costs, the 2010 model earns our recommendation.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2010 Toyota Corolla Have?
There are an average number of complaints on the Toyota Corolla compared to other compact cars from 2010. There are significant improvements from the 2009 model, but the 2011 version is better with a quarter of the complaints for only $1,000 more.
Chipping and fading paint is a very common complaint from owners of cars with over 55,000 miles on them. Failing paint is typically caused by curing issues, excessive sun exposure, or chips from rocks and debris in the road. The only solution is repainting the affected areas, costing about $1,000 per panel.
Power steering problems are another issue, with failures happening around 70,000 miles in some cars. The power steering system wears out over time, and the only way to fix the problem is by installing a new unit. A new steering rack costs over $1,500, depending on local labor rates.
Excessive brake noise is a frequent problem which happens to some vehicles every 25,000 miles. The pads and rotors tend to wear out quickly compared to other cars, and require replacement. New pads and rotors cost about $500 to install.
The Corolla has 17 recalls, which is substantially more than other cars from 2010. The recalls include warning labels, brake vacuum, the accelerator pedal, trim panel clips, occupant sensing system, air bags, seat heater electrical wiring, and power window switches. Since most of the recalls cover warning labels and airbags, free replacement by the dealer eliminates any concern.
How Much is the 2010 Toyota Corolla Worth?
Blue book prices range from $7,293 to $10,903 making the Corolla more expensive than most other compact cars including the Civic, and Mazda3. When new, the price range was $15,450 to $20,150. Depreciation is better than the competition, only, dropping about 7% per year compared to the 12% found in other cars.
What Are the Models & Specs?
Base is the entry-level economy-focused model with:
- 15-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Mirrors
- AM/FM/CD Stereo System
- Air Conditioning
LE is next in the lineup adding good features including:
- Power Windows
- Power Locks
- Body Colored Trim
S offers performance styling, adding:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Front Underbody Spoiler
- Sport Seats
- Fog Lights
- Leather Steering Wheel
XLE is the most luxurious version with:
- Unique 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Wood Interior Trim
- Keyless Entry
- An Upgraded Stereo System
XRS is the performance-built version adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- A Larger Engine
- Sport Suspension and Steering
- Rear Spoiler
- Chrome Trim
How Long Will the 2010 Toyota Corolla Last?
Regular maintenance will help the 2010 Toyota Corolla last over 250,000 miles, which is longer than some competitors. Repair Pal estimates the regular annual maintenance costs to be about $332, which is $50 cheaper than the Civic and $150 lower than a Sentra.
As the 2010 Corolla ages reaching over 125,000 miles, there are some parts owners should be prepared to replace. These include the air conditioning evaporator for $850, the alternator costing $400, and the steering knuckle assembly which costs about $600.
We have had this car for 5 years. It has been a great car. The only things we have done are get a new battery, replace the brakes, and a new starter. That is really good for a nine year old car.
It is very reliable. I have had no problems with the car. Only small cosmetic, but even those are not bad. I have been rear ended twice and only one left a mark, but neither left a dent because it always just popped back out.
Yes the Toyota corolla s is a very reliable and affordable car it also is a little bit nicer since it is the sportier version and a little bit faster.
No real problems. I have had a few issues with flat tires periodically, but no major work has been needed.
Very reliable, very sporting looking car though. Does not take much gas money. No it does not have any problems. Very great car.
Very reliable, I haven't had any serious problems with it. The radio could be updated with a nicer one but not a big deal.
It has been reliable. It did have several problems, including that whole Takata airbag fiasco, but all of the recall issues have been addressed. At the moment is does have two warning lights, tire pressure and maintenance needed, that will not go off.
It is very reliable and has no problems. It has around 125,000 miles on it and runs like it did when my parents first bought it.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the Toyota Corolla is good for a compact car, with fresh updates introduced in the 2009 model year.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX port, and 4 speakers.
- Optional upgrades include a JBL stereo system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system.
- Standard safety features include stability control, air bags, and anti-lock brakes.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2010 Toyota Corolla is slow with the base engine, and average in the XRS model. The larger engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.9 seconds.
- A relatively weak 1.8L 4-cylinder engine is standard with 132 horsepower.
- The upgraded engine found in the XRS model is a 2.4L 4 cylinder with 158 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Corolla?
The 2010 Toyota Corolla is a compact car offered only as a sedan, and is similar in size to the Civic and Mazda3. Passenger room is good, with a decent amount of legroom available in the back seats, but taller adults may feel cramped. The cargo space is average for a compact car, and the 12.3 cubic foot trunk fits 3 to 4 suitcases.
How Does the 2010 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 4th out of 29 compact cars, based on owner reviews, the 2010 Toyota Corolla is near the top of the class.
One of the closest competitors is the more affordable Honda Civic. The Civic offers more powerful engine choices, and fewer quality complaints. Where the Corolla comes out ahead is with a smoother suspension, and better technology. Overall, the Civic is the winner with fewer complaints, but the cars are very close.
Another close rival is the Mazda3, which is also more affordable. The Mazda3’s optional hatchback gives the car better versatility, and there are significantly more powerful engine choices available. On the other hand, the Corolla offers a smoother ride, and more up-to-date technology. The two cars are very close for the 2010 model year, and the decision comes down to personal preference.
Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Toyota Corolla a Good Car?
Yes, the 2010 Toyota Corolla is a good car. We reached our conclusion after considering 1,335 verified owner reviews with a lot of positive sentiments from owners, rating it 4.3/5 overall.
Where the Corolla comes out ahead is with a comfortable cabin, and good reliability ratings. Some downsides include a higher purchase price than other compact cars, and a less exciting driving experience.
Overall, the 2010 Corolla is a good choice for someone looking for a dependable simple daily driver, but for $1,000 more a 2011 model gives you even fewer complaints.
Yes. It is a good dependable car. If you only care about bells and whistles it will not be for you, it has a CD player but also has an auxiliary jack.
Yes. I really enjoy this vehicle and it is really perfect for a student in college like me. It is amazing on gas. It is affordable. Tires and annual repairs are a good price. All in all this is a good vehicle.
Yes. All corollas are very reliable and affordable cars that are good with gas mileage and the Toyota corolla s is a little bit nicer since it is the sportier version.
Yes, very reliable car. Good gas mileage. Has been a great car for travel and daily commute. Have had minimal repairs needed. Mostly just preventative maintenance.
Yes, very cheap on gas. Rides really well, and seats 5 people. Very safe to transport a child to anywhere you need to take them.
Yes, love it! Good on gas, great size and a perfect vehicle for someone my age! The radio is the only thing I would change, it messes up often.
Yes, it is. It runs well and is easy to park. It is the right size for me. It gets decent gas mileage.
Yes, it is very efficient on gas mileage, runs good, gives me no problems even with modifications done to it, both performance and looks.