Toyota Yaris (1999 - 2005) 1.0 16v VVT-i GLS 3d Free-Tronic (1999/T) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Functional not flashy.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They were impressed at its neatness and size and economy.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No way - my wife is very reluctant to drive it. She has been stranded 3 times with breakdowns. I have been with the AA for 38 years and never one call out until this car.

What are you likely to buy next?

We are looking at Honda, or Hyundai. Our other car is a mitsubishi Space Runner - from new (10 years) and never has it let us down. I refer to ?Which guides for information.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,000

When did you buy the car?

November 2000

Did you get a good deal and why?

Dealer took £250 off the price when wife asked if we could get some off as no part exchange.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Small, economical and automatic.

What was the dealer like?

Pleasant. We had a test drive when the Yaris was launched in 1999 and we wanted a second small car, so we already knew what we wanted.We saw this one second hand on the garage forecourt.

What's it like to drive?

Easy, I have had a spinal injury and my left leg is a little weak, the 'semi automatic' was helpful.

What's it like to park?

Quite easy because of its small size, rear view is however poor.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Lots! Under warranty dealer replaced the radio Jan 2001, Freetronic pressure switch July 2001 and clutch actuator July 2002. Freetronic clutch actuator replaced again May 2007 (£1,400). Gear lever linkage fell apart July 2007 - in all 3 AA call outs because stranded on the road. Radio working intermittently April 2009 on and clutch fluid leaking May 2009! The most unreliable car I have ever had.

What's most practical about your car?

Small and easy to drive and park, and economical on fuel. Comfortable on the short journeys that we do, handy boot space.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

None.