4.0

definitely annoying
Typical Repair Cost:
$3,680
Average Mileage:
31,100 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. engine overhaul (1 reports)
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problem #1

Jun 012015

Corolla LE 1.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 31,069 miles

3 years ago I started hearing a grinding noise when I turned the key in the ignition. It was always intermittent. This was in 2015 and I did not do a lot of driving. I took my car to Toyota I think 4 times in all and no one could hear the noise that I was hearing. The first time I took it to Toyota they said it was my battery, so I replaced the battery. I think that was in 2016.

I moved in 2017 to a place where I was doing more driving and three times I took my car to Toyota and they could never hear the sound I was hearing but the last time they did. My daughter and a neighbor had heard the grinding sound I was talking about. It was suggested I replace the starter. I did and I still kept hearing the same grinding noise. Then I had Toyota check the flex plate and it was ok.

Then Toyota heard the noise and said I had major engine problems coming from inside the motor: namely VVT1 Controller for the intake & exhaust. They have to replace these parts plus the timing chain, all sprockets, chain slippers, chain tensioner gasket, valve cover gasket, front crankshaft seal.

My car has been regularly maintained, has 62,000 Km on it and there is no way this should have happened. I take excellent care of my car. I need my car!!! I have a bill quote of $3,674.00. I am 80 yrs old and this is something Toyota should be doing a recall for. After all it was their idea to use this VVT1 controller,which obviously did not work. I want to know if there is a class action lawsuit going on where I can add my name.

- maureensullivan, Vernon, Canada