Hello everyone,
I own a 2011 Toyota Corolla XLi (Pakistani model) that my family purchased in 2019. At the time of purchase, the odometer reading was around 80,000 kilometers, and since then, we have driven it up to 147,000 kilometers. The car has been properly maintained, especially with regular oil changes, but over time, I have encountered several issues that have raised concerns about the engine’s health. Some mechanics have told me that I might need a new engine, while others suggest just continuing regular maintenance. I'm looking for some expert advice on what should be my next step.
Car History & Major Issues Faced
1. Head Gasket Failure (2020)
- My father was used to driving a Suzuki Mehran before switching to the Corolla.
- He was unaware of the overheating issue and continued driving despite the temperature rising.
- This led to a blown head gasket.
- The issue was resolved by getting the head gasket replaced, and the car was back to normal.
2. Accelerator Pedal Issue (2022)
- One day while driving in Lahore, the accelerator suddenly stopped responding.
- I restarted the car, and the problem temporarily went away.
- Upon further inspection, I discovered it was due to excessive carbon buildup in the accelerator paddle.
- After a paddle cleaning, the issue never returned.
3. Cold Start Crankshaft Noise
- On cold starts, I noticed a loud noise coming from the crankshaft area for about 1-2 seconds, then it disappears.
- In 2022, I once got a Check Engine Light (CEL) related to the crankshaft position sensor.
- The code was cleared, and the issue never came back. However, mechanics suspected it was linked to throttle body dirt and cleaned that instead of replacing the sensor.
- The noise still occurs occasionally, but it hasn’t affected performance yet.
4. Oil Consumption & Leak Issues (2024)
- Recently, I have noticed that the engine is consuming oil more than usual.
- I inspected the engine and found oil leakage near a bolt close to the VVTi sensor.
- Some mechanics suggested that I just keep topping up the oil and continue driving, while others recommended an engine replacement.
- Given the mileage and past repairs, I am confused about whether to rebuild, replace, or just maintain the existing engine.
Images for reference are attached at the end!
5. Clutch Plate Replacement (2024)
- Since we bought the car, the clutch plates were never replaced.
- I recently got them changed, and the old clutch was completely worn out.
- The car drives much better now after the clutch replacement.
Considering the engine's mileage, oil consumption, and past overheating, I have received mixed advice from different mechanics:
Mechanic A: Suggests replacing the engine as it is worn out.
Mechanic B: Says to keep topping up oil and drive it as long as it runs.
Mechanic C: Believes a top-end rebuild (head work, seals, and gaskets) might fix the oil consumption.
I am not sure what the best approach is. I want to keep the car running efficiently without unnecessary expenses.
Seeking Advice
- Is the oil consumption issue a sign of serious engine wear, or can it be managed by just topping up oil?
- Could the cold start noise be related to a timing chain tensioner or crankshaft bearing?
- Given the head gasket was once replaced, is a full rebuild worth considering?
- Would a used engine swap be a better long-term solution compared to repairs?
- Any other preventive measures I should take to extend the engine’s life?
- Would love to hear expert opinions from those who have experience with high-mileage 1.3L Corolla engines. Thanks in advance!
Regards,
Ahmed
PS: The overheating has ever been an issue after the initial head gasket incident , the temperature based on my research is optimal
Oil Leaks Images:
