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The Toyota Corolla is a staple among sensible compact sedans in the United States. Today, you can get a new Corolla as a sedan, a high-riding crossover SUV, or a utilitarian hatchback. However, if you’re looking for a used Toyota Corolla with reliability to spare, not every model year is equal.

These three Toyota Corolla years boast serious reliability to keep you on the road

When it comes to dependable, turn-the-key-and-go compact sedans, you have options. There’s the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Jetta. The list goes on. However, if you’re looking for a reliable used compact car with a Toyota badge, these model years of the venerable Corolla have you covered.

2004 Toyota Corolla

I know, a 2004 model is the big 2-0 this year. That might seem daunting. However, some of these Corolla models have the potential to last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. The same can be said for the 2004 model, a top contender among long-lasting Corollas. 

For instance, the 2004 Corolla earned a “Seal of Awesome” from CarComplaints for its relative ease of ownership. Sure, there are NHTSA-reporter owner complaints on record, but far fewer than models like the 2003, 2005, and 2009 Corolla. Better yet, car buyers can find a range-topping Corolla LE from the 2004 model year for less than $4,000. 

2012 Toyota Corolla

The 2012 Corolla earns a top spot among reliable used Toyota sedans. In fact, an iSeeCars longest-lasting study gives the 10th-generation Corolla a 7.8% chance of exceeding 250,000 miles in its lifespan. That’s well above the overall car average of 5.4%.

 

A Toyota Corolla from the 10th-generation years is one of the best models for reliability.
An 10th-generation Toyota Corolla | Toyota

And with fewer owner-reported complaints than other 10th-gen Corollas, the 2012 model is a solid prospect. Fortunately, you can get one for under $9,000 with average mileage. 

2019 Toyota CorollaThe 2004 and 2012 models might promise longevity and durability. But the 2019-model Corolla also offers modern comforts like a touchscreen, Bluetooth, a backup camera, and available automatic climate control. That, and safety equipment like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and driver aids.

Better yet, the 2019 model has an average annual maintenance cost of $381, per RepairPal. Paired with its 4.5 out of 5.0 reliability score, it’s a top prospect for car shoppers seeking an affordable, dependable compact car.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).