Reliable, good MPG, some minor issues
Consumer Reports gave this car very high ratings for reliability and low maintenance costs. I've had it for 5 years now and have had no major problems. I've followed the maintenance schedule and gotten regular oil changes. Other than that, costs have been low--I did have to replace the battery once. However, there have been a number of minor issues. 1) Headlight assembly failed and had to be replaced (still under warranty). 2) Gas cap no longer clicks 3) The hatch lifts went out while it was still under warranty, but I didn't ask about it until I brought my car in for service JUST past the 60k mile mark, and they wouldn't replace it for me, said it would cost something like $200. 4) The front and rear bumper are slightly coming away from the side of the vehicle. I've had no accidents.
I haven't gotten #2, #3, or #4 fixed, because the cost to fix them (at least #3 and #4) is high for something that doesn't dramatically impact the functionality. I would PREFER to have an immaculate car, and I don't think these are things that should be breaking within the first 5 years of owning a car. But just keeping up with the maintenance schedule is difficult for me financially, so it's not looking likely that I'll get these things fixed soon.
In terms of driving, great MPG--about 40 on the highway and 26 in the city. I keep the active ECO on. It's a little bumpy compared to my husband's old 1996 camry. Great turn radius. However, it takes a long time to accelerate at a gradual speed with or without ECO on (drivers behind will get annoyed), so you get a little "spurt" right when you're pulling off from the light/stop sign. Fine for young drivers.
The paint is great and always looks clean. A/C cools down fast. Overall a good car; I plan on keeping it for a while now that it's paid off.
Verified Owner
