2002 Toyota Echo problems
The Toyota Platz (Japanese:トヨタ・プラッツ, Toyota Purattsu) is a subcompact car that was manufactured in Japan by Toyota from 1999 until 2005, when it was replaced by the Belta. Designated by Toyota as the XP10 series, the Platz was also sold in export markets as either the Toyota Yaris or Toyota Echo. The "Yaris" and "Echo" names were also given to the export version of the related Japanese market Vitz hatchback, from which the Platz derives. In Japan, it was available at the Toyopet Store and the Netz Toyota Store dealerships.
Etymology
The name "Platz" is German for "space" (as defined by "the interior room is spacious"). Only straight-four engines were fitted to the Platz, which was sold in Japan as a four-door sedan only. A coupé version was also available in North America where the car was badged "Echo".
History
The Platz was introduced in 1999 as a sedan sold internationally, with a coupé version exclusive to North America following for the 2000 model year. The Platz is closely related to the Vitz hatchback with which it shares front doors, a common interior and mechanical componentry. The running gear is also shared to a lesser degree with the ist and bB, sold in the United States as the Scion xA and xB respectively, and the JDM-only WiLL Vi. The same platform is the base for the JDM-only Probox and Succeed wagons.
In the United States, the Echo sold almost 50,000 units in its first year, with just half that many in 2003. The Echo was an element of Toyota Project Genesis, a failed effort to bring younger buyers to the marque in the United States. The Echo sold in high volumes in Canada, where Toyota also offered the three- and five-door hatchback versions of the Vitz badged as the Echo beginning with the 2004 model year to replace the Echo coupé (which was dropped after 2003). The coupé remained on sale in the United States until the 2005 model year along with the sedan, while the hatchback variants were never sold there. It was the predecessor to the current North American Yaris, sharing many identical features, such as the odd (and somewhat controversial) center placement of the speedometer and gauges, as opposed to in front of the steering wheel. Power options on the Echo are a rare find; most models are equipped with manual windows and locks, air conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD and/or a cassette player.
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Common 2002 Toyota Echo problems
The Toyota Echo, produced between 2000 and 2005, was known for its unique design and mild performance. However, it also had some common problems that affected its reliability and maintenance costs.
- Squeaks and rattles: Some owners reported a few squeaks and rattles that seemed to come from the body of the 2002 Toyota Echo. These noises, while not necessarily a big deal, could be annoying and potentially indicate issues with the car's structure or components.
- Airbag issues: One of the most significant problems with the Toyota Echo was with the airbags. In some cases, the airbags did not deploy when they should have, which is a major safety concern.
- Brake problems: There were reports of issues with the brakes, including at least one collision due to the Echo not stopping properly.
- Fuel filler neck collapse: The fuel filler neck is known to collapse, making it difficult to fill the tank with gas.
- Performance and engine: The Toyota Echo's performance was not particularly impressive, with a 1.5-liter inline-four engine and a maximum output of 108 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.
- Exterior design: The Echo's exterior design was considered unappealing by many, with an odd toaster-like shape and a lack of refinement compared to its successors like the Yaris and the Prius.
These issues, along with the car's unique design and performance, may contribute to the fact that the Toyota Echo is not often discussed or well-received compared to other Toyota vehicles. However, it is still possible to find the Echo on the used car market, and potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering purchasing one.
What is the common problem with Toyota Echo?
Toyotas are renowned for their reliability and owners have few troubles with their Echo. Some report a few squeaks and rattles that seem to come from the body. They're not necessarily a big deal, but can be annoying. Check for clicking sounds while making turns.
How many miles will a 2002 Toyota Echo last?
The Toyota Echo should last over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. The most important thing You can do to help Your car last a long time is do the scheduled maintenance.
Why did the Toyota Echo fail?
Another problem: The Echo was cheap. Really cheap. Base models didn't even get power-assisted steering, let alone power windows, power locks, power mirrors or air conditioning. All could be added, at significant cost…
Are Toyota Echos good on gas?
And that 1.5-liter teamed with 4-speed automatic delivers 32 m.p.g. city and 38 m.p.g. highway. After a couple of days behind the wheel, we swore that the only way the fuel gauge would move off “F” was if we siphoned the tank. Whether gas is $1 or $2 a gallon, Echo will conserve the supply for everyone.
What is the common problem with Toyota Echo?
Toyotas are renowned for their reliability and owners have few troubles with their Echo. Some report a few squeaks and rattles that seem to come from the body. They're not necessarily a big deal, but can be annoying. Check for clicking sounds while making turns.
Why did the Toyota Echo fail?
Another problem: The Echo was cheap. Really cheap. Base models didn't even get power-assisted steering, let alone power windows, power locks, power mirrors or air conditioning. All could be added, at significant cost…
How many miles will a 2002 Toyota Echo last?
The Toyota Echo should last over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. The most important thing You can do to help Your car last a long time is do the scheduled maintenance.
Is Toyota Echo fuel efficient?
The Toyota Echo currently offers fuel consumption from 5.4 to 5.8L/100km.
2002 Toyota Echo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Echo problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Toyota Echo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Toyota Echo
The NHTSA has received 61 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Toyota Echo. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Toyota Echo vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-06
- VIN: JTDAT123320
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG FRONT PASSENGER LOOKS THAT IS NOT WORKING, ALARM IN RED SHOWS THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE AIRBAG
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-09
- VIN: JTDBT123225
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL.NOTHING HAS HAPPENED SO FAR. I WANT TO KNOW IF THIS IS ONE OF THE MODELS OF CARS AFFECTED BY THE TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL? PLEASE LET ME KNOW,SO I CAN GET IT REPAIRED, IF NECESSARY. THANK YOU!
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-30
- VIN: JTDAT123320
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: OUR TOYOTA EXCELS TO TOP SPEED ON ITS OWN FULL SPEED. THIS ALMOST HAD US IN A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THE DEALER SAYS THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR BUT THIS HAPPENED TWICE LAST WEEK 12/30/15 TOYOTA GAVE US A CASE # NI50883640 HOWEVER, THEY HAVE NOT DONE ANYTHING ABOUT IT, WHAT CAN WE DO?
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-01
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO GASOLINE BURNING TOO MUCH IN THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *SMD CONSUMER SENT ADDITIONAL CORRESPONDENCE. *SMD *JS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ANOTHER VEHICLE TRAVELING NORTH, CROSSED CENTER LINE AND HIT DAUGHTER IN 2002 TOYOTA ECHO HEAD ON. AS A RESULT OF IMPACT TOYOTA ECHO CAUGHT ON FIRE RESULTING IN DAUGHTER RECEIVING 3RD DEGREE BURNS ON RIGHT ARM, HEAD AND LEG. THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AS NOTED BY -STANDER THAT REMOVED DAUGHTER FROM VEHICLE AND HELPED EXTINGUISH FLAMES ON DAUGHTER. DAUGHTER WAS UNCONSCIOUS AFTER IMPACT. VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY CONSUMED BY FIRE AND DAUGHTER AIRLIFTED TO BURN CENTER FOR TREATMENT.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTDBT123920
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I SHIFTED INTO REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF A DRIVEWAY WHEN THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. IT CROSSED THE STREET AND RAN OVER A BRICK PLANTER BOX, KNOCKED DOWN A CRAPE MYRTLE TREE AND FINALLY HIT THE NEIGHBOR'S SUV. I APPLIED THE BRAKES TO NO AVAIL AND HAD NO TIME TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL OR TURN OFF THE IGNITION. AFTER THE ACCIDENT, I CHECKED THE GAS PEDAL TO SEE IF IT WAS AGAINST THE FLOOR OR IF THE FLOOR MAT WAS INTERFERING WITH IT, BUT FOUND NOTHING WRONG. THE CAR WAS TOTALED AND MY BACK WAS INJURED. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JTDAT123720
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A BURNING ODOR WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT SOON DISCOVERED SMOKE COMING FROM THE REAR WINDOW BRAKE LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR WINDOW BRAKE LIGHT SOCKET AND HOUSING, WHICH WERE MADE OF PLASTIC, HAD BOTH MELTED FROM THE HEAT OF THE LIGHT BULB. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE LIGHT BULB FROM THE SOCKET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. UPDATED 06/10/14 MA THE CONSUMER PURCHASED THE PARTS AND VEHICLE HAS SINCE BEEN REPAIRED. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-22
- VIN: JTDBT123120
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS WERE ENGAGED USING THE DIMMER SWITCH LOCATED ON THE STEERING COLUMN PER NORMAL OPERATIONS. THE LOW BEAMS SWITCHED TO HIGH BEAMS DISPLAY. UNABLE TO DISENGAGE WITHOUT TOTALLY SWITCHING OFF THE LIGHTS. THE HIGH BEAM INDICATOR APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD DISPLAY AS WELL. THIS EVENT OCCURRED WHEN THE TEMPERATURES WERE AT OR BELOW 20 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AND THE CAR HAD BEEN PARKED FOR ABOUT 8 HOURS (IN A PARK AND RIDE LOT). ONCE THE INTERIOR CABIN WARMED UP AFTER ABOUT 20 MINUTES I WAS ABLE TO "JIGGLE" THE LIGHTS BACK TO LOW BEAMS.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-19
- VIN: JTDBT123720
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: STUCK THROTTLE ON JAN 19TH, 2012 WHEN ACCELERATOR PRESSED TO FLOOR. RECOVERED BY PULLING UP WITH FOOT. TRIED TO REPRODUCE THE SAME DAY AND WAS ABLE TO. TOOK TO DEALER (BOULDER TOYOTA) ON JAN 30TH. THEY CLAIMED THEY WERE UNABLE TO REPRODUCE BUT THOUGHT CARPET MIGHT BE INTERFERING WITH FOOT PEDAL AND RECOMMENDED I CHANGE ALL OF CARPET IN CAR AT A COST OF $1200. I ASKED THEM TO JUST TRIM THE CARD AROUND THE PEDAL, AND THEY TOLD ME THEY COULDN'T DO THAT. TRIED TO REPRODUCE AFTER DEALER VISIT AND WAS UNABLE. INSPECTED ON FEB 3RD, AND IT APPEARED LIKE CARPET MIGHT HAVE BEEN PULLED BACK AROUND HOLE IN FLOOR. I PUSHED IT BACK INTO POSITION, AND THEN TRIED TO REPRODUCE THE STUCK THROTTLE AND WAS ABLE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-16
- VIN: JTDAT123120
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 2002 TOYOTA ECHO ON NOV. 16TH 2010 WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY IN THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CA. WENT INTO REVERSE WHILE STILL IN DRIVE. THERE WAS TRAFFIC AHEAD OF ME SO I WAS ONLY DRIVING ABOUT 2 MPH WHEN IT WENT INTO REVERSE WHILE THE AUTOMATIC SHIFT WAS STILL IN DRIVE. I WENT TO PUT ON THE BRAKE BUT THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK. I TURNED OFF THE CAR AND PUT ON THE HAZARDS. TWO MINUTES WENT BY WHEN I TURNED ON THE CAR AND IT WENT INTO DRIVE. I THEN TOOK IT TO THE KEYES TOYOTA IN VAN NUYS CA, AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS BEFORE FROM ANY TOYOTA CARS AND THAT IF THEY WERE EVEN TO LOOK IT WOULD BE COMPLETELY AT MY EXPENSE. I SOLD THE CAR FOR PARTS ON 11/18/10. *TR
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-20
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2002 TOYOTA SIENNA MINIVAN. WHEN I TRY TO OPEN THE DRIVER SIDE SLIDING DOOR, I CAN HEAR IT UNLATCH BUT REMAINS SHUT. YOU HAVE TO PUSH THE REAR PART OF THE DOOR BACK IN UNTIL YOU HEAR A CLICK, THEN YOU HAVE TO VIOLENTLY PULL THE HANDLE AND THE DOOR WILL OPEN. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-08
- VIN: JTDBT123020
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN TRAVELING AT SPEEDS OF 40 MPH AND UP, THE TRACTION WOULD FEEL AS IF SHE WAS DRIVING ON ICE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD SLIDE BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE SWAY BAR WAS WORN. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE SWAY BAR, A REAR SHOCK THAT WAS LEAKING AND ALL FOUR TIRES. THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THE CONTACT TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED BY AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FURTHER REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,220 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 128,443.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-16
- VIN: JTDBT123920
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) NHTSA RECALL 06V266000 RECALLED 02 TOYOTA ECHO FOR CRANKSHAFT SENSOR FAILURES WHICH COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLES TO STALL AND NOT RESTART, RISKING A CRASH. TOYOTA ONLY RECALLED VEHICLES UP TO SERIAL NUMBERS ENDING IN 212671. MY 02 ECHO JUST HAD THE EXACT CRANKSHAFT SENSOR FAILURE DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. MY VIN NUMBER IS[XXX]. SO I WAS TOLD BY TOYOTA THAT BY VEHICLE DID NOT QUALIFY FOR THE RECALL, EVEN THOUGH I HAVE THE EXACT FAILURE. THE RECALL NEEDS TO BE EXTENDED TO HIGHER VEHICLE NUMBERS. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-07
- VIN: JTDBT123425
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1. APPROACHING A LEFT TURN AT 15 TO 25 MPH, GAP IN ON-COMING TRAFFIC, PRESS ACCELERATOR AND TURN LEFT. 2. THE CAR DECELERATES AS THE TRANSMISSION TAKES OVER AND LETHARGICALLY DOWNSHIFTS, 98% OF THE TIME, CAUSING NEAR MISSES. 3. I DOUBT ANYONE CARES TO CONSIDER IT A PROBLEM. SO, HOW MANY MORE BROADSIDES OCCUR WITH ECHOES THAN THE AVERAGE FOR OTHER CARS, OR HAS NO ONE EVER CHECKED? *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-04
- VIN: JTDAT123620
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HE WAS AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WITH HIS FOOT OFF OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL THE ENGINE IDLED AND ACCELERATED TO A HIGHER SPEED. HE HAD TO PUT HIS FOOT ON THE BRAKES AND SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL GEAR IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE FROM IDLING. THE FAILURE HAS OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CALLED AND A CLAIM WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS PERFORMED WHICH CONFIRMED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MALFUNCTIONED. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THE HE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COST SINCE THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. UPDATED 03/12/10. *LJ WHEN THE BEGINNING ACCELERATION, THE ENGINE WOULD REV AT A HIGH IDLE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD PICK UP SPEED AND SEVERE BRAKE PRESSURE WAS NEED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 09/14/10
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: TOYOTA FLOOR MAT OVER ACCELERATOR- THIS HAPPENED TO ME! MORE THAN ONCE! I DISCOVERED WHAT IT WAS THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED. I PULLED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL BOTH TIMES. TOYOTA ECHO, 2002 . *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-16
- VIN: JTDBT123320
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT SHE NEEDED A STARTER AND THE PART HAD TO BE ORDERED. THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED ON A LIFT AND A HOLE WAS DISCOVERED IN THE ENGINE. THE FAILURE HAS BEEN RECURRING FOR FOUR OR FIVE YEARS. WHEN SHE DRIVES OVER 80 MILES, THE OIL LIGHT ILLUMINATES. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE'S MAINTENANCE HAS ALWAYS BEEN CURRENT. THE DEALER ALSO STATED THAT THEY REPAIRED THE VEHICLE ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 06V266000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. CURRENTLY, THE ENGINE IS BEING REPLACED WITH A USED ENGINE AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE REPLACEMENT WILL COST OVER $3,000. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 97,500.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-16
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA WITH 62,000 MI. I HAVE BEEN TO TWO TOYOTA DEALERS TO FIGURE OUT MY PROBLEM. THE VSC TRAC, VSC OFF, ABS AND BRAKE LIGHTS ARE COMING ON. FINALLY AFTER @$700 OF MY MONEY, THEY FIGURED OUT THE PROBLEM TO BE THE ECU. THIS WILL NOW COST ME @1800 FOR PARTS, AND WHO KNOWS YET FOR LABOR. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT MANY OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE SITUATION, UNLESS YOU HAVE THE EXT. WARRANTY. I FEEL THAT TOYOTA NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS, MAYBE RECALL THIS AND FIX THESE CARS BEFORE THERE IS AN ACCIDENT. I LIVE IN NEW YORK WHERE THERE IS ALOT OF SNOW. MY VSC WILL NOT WORK UNTIL I GET THIS FIXED. I HAVE TWO SMALL CHILDREN AND HAVE TO RELAY ON STANDARD BRAKES IN THE SNOW UNTIL THIS IS FIXED. TOYOTA SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR REPUTABLE NAME AND FIX THESE PROBLEMS ASAP..... *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-01
- VIN: JT2BK18U820
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. EACH TIME THE VEHICLE IS DRIVING FORWARD OR IN REVERSE AT APPROXIMATELY 4 TO 10 MPH, IT SHAKES VIOLENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY AND USUALLY IN COLD WEATHER. THE VEHICLE SHAKES ROUGHLY AFTER IT HAS BEEN DRIVEN FOR A WHILE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER ON TWO OCCASIONS. SERVICE BULLETIN NUMBER 20040604 WAS REFERENCED. THE DEALER DISCOVERED THAT THE STEERING RACK AND STEERING COMPUTER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT THE COST OF $2,200. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-22
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA IN NOVEMBER 2002. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED THE SALES PERSON TOLD ME THAT THE HEATING/AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM APPEARED TO BE A POORLY DESIGNED, BUT I DID NOT THINK THAT A BIG OBSTACLE TO MY PURCHASE. I HAD CONTINUAL PROBLEMS TRYING TO REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE IN THE VEHICLE. IT WAS EITHER 65 DEGREES AND THE NEXT LEVEL DOWN WAS COLD. I WAS ALWAYS FLIPPING THE KNOB BACK AND FORTH TRYING TO REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE. THIS WAS NOT A BIG SAFETY ISSUE UNLESS TAKING MY EYES OFF THE ROAD FOR THESE ADJUSTMENTS CAN BE CONSIDERED HAZARDOUS. BUT I LIVE IN A SOMEWHAT COLD CLIMATE AND I HAVE HAD TROUBLE KEEPING THE WINDOWS DEFROSTED ON SOME DAYS PARTICULARLY IF THE HUMIDITY WAS HIGH. THIS COULD BE CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE. I JUST TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE AIR CONDITIONER LIGHT WAS BLINKING. LOOKING AT A REPAIR BILL OF AROUND $1,600.00 FOR A NEW COMPRESSOR AND CLUTCH. OF COURSE, I DO NOT HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AS THIS WAS MY SIXTH TOYOTA ,AND I HAVE NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS SUCH AS THIS IS THE PAST. SINCE I HAVE READ THAT OTHERS HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEMS I WOULD URGE SOMEONE TO LOOK INTO THE ISSUE BEFORE SOMEONE GOT KILLED BECAUSE OF INABILITY TO SEE OUT THE FRONT WINDOW. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-11
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ONE WEEK AGO I WAS RUNNING ERRANDS WITH THE TOYOTA SEQUOIA, BUT THE CAR REFUSED TO START ONCE I COMPLETED MY ERRANDS. EVENTUALLY, THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED AND THE REPAIR SHOP REPORTED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT BRACKET AND LEVER WERE BROKEN AND THEREFORE PREVENTED THE GEAR FROM PROPERLY GOING INTO PARK. THE REPAIR SHOP REPORTED SEEING SEVERAL SUCH CASES RECENTLY BUT STATED THAT TOYOTA HAS INFORMED HIM THAT THE PROBLEM RESULTED FROM IMPROPER HANDLING OF THE GEAR SHIFT. I HAD THECAR FOR MORE THAN 5 YEARS AND HAVE ALWAYS FOLLOWED THE PROPER PROCEDURE. PERHAPS THIS NEEDED FURTHER INVESTIGATION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTDBT123520
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN A 4 LANE HIGHWAY (US 29 S), WHEN A CAR TRIED TO TURN INTO THE MEDIAN THREE CARS AHEAD OF ME. ONE CAR SWERVED TO AVOID THE FRONT TWO VEHICLES. WHEN THEY DID I WAS ABLE TO SEE THE CARS TRYING TO STOP. I SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES, BY THE TIME I DID IT WAS TOO LATE. SO GOING ABOUT 65 WITH ABOUT 50 FEET OF STOPPING DISTANCE I GUESS I WAS GOING 40 - 50 MPH. I COULD NOT MOVE TO THE OTHER LANE SINCE THERE WAS TRACTOR TRAILER IN THE OTHER LANE. SO I REAR ENDED THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. IMPACTING ON THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT CORNER. MY AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE FOLLOWING DAY INSPECTING THE DAMAGE, THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS RIGHT NEXT TO THE DAMAGED AREA AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO PICK UP THE IMPACT. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-20
- VIN: 5TDZT34A92S
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1:40 PM, JAN 20, 2007, I WAS DRIVING MY SEQUOIA N/B ON SIERRA HWY IN THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA. I WAS TRAVELING APPROX 40-45 MPH. I NOTICED A SLIGHT STIFFNESS IN THE STEERING. A SHORT TIME LATER THE LEFT FRONT OF MY VEHICLE VIOLENTLY FELL TO THE GROUND. THERE WERE VEHICLES BEHIND ME AND WITH DIFFICULTY I STEERED TO THE CURB. WHEN THE VEHICLE FELL TO THE GROUND, I HEARD A LOUD 'BANG', AND I FELT THAT I LOST SOME OF MY BRAKES. ONE OF THE DRIVERS BEHIND ME TOLD ME SHE SAW SPARKS COMING FROM UNDER MY VEHICLE. I LOOKED AT THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE. I SAW THE LEFT FRONT TIRE, WHEEL & HUB (ALL STILL ATTACHED) FOLDED UNDER THE LEFT RUNNING BOARD PREVENTING THE FRONT FENDER AND BUMPER FROM FALLING DIRECTLY TO THE ROADWAY. I SAW THAT THE BRAKE LINES APPEARED TO BE BROKEN. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO TOYOTA ON MON, JAN 22, 2007. I WAS TOLD THAT IT APPEARED THE LEFT UPPER BALL JOINT HAD BROKEN CAUSING THE WHEEL TO BREAK AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALERSHIP CONTACTED THEIR SERVICE DIRECTOR TO DETERMINE WHAT REPAIRS SHOULD BE MADE. I WAS SUBSEQUENTLY TOLD THAT MY VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND THAT TOYOTA HAD 'NO LIABILITY' TO REPAIR MY VEHICLE AT THEIR EXPENSE. REPAIR ESTIMATE IS APPROX $5,000. + THE RENTAL VEHICLE THEY ARRANGED. I WAS TOLD A REGIONAL SERVICE INSPECTOR WOULD LOOK AT MY VEHICLE. I TOLD THEM THAT I WANTED THE OLD PARTS IF REPAIRS WERE TO BE MADE. I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE. I WENT TO THE TOYOTA WEB SITE AND NOTICED NUMEROUS RECALL NOTICES FROM TOYOTA FOR FRONT BALL JOINT FAILURES ON MY TYPE OF VEHICLE. I RECEIVED NO RECALL NOTICES FROM TOYOTA. TOYOTA STATED MY VIN WAS NOT ON THE LIST FOR ANY RECALL NOTICES. THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPT STATED THAT THIS WOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED 'NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR' THAT WOULD REQUIRE ME TO HAVE THIS ITEM CHECKED DURING ALL OF MY REGULAR MAINTENANCE SERVICES. THIS FAILURE COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY TO MYSELF AND OTHERS ON THE ROAD. AS OF THIS DATE I HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED THAT THE REGIONAL INSPECTOR HAS INSPECTED MY VEHICLE. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-14
- VIN: JTDAT123220
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: 2002 TOYOTA ECHO. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN CLOSING THE PASSENGER DOOR THE REAR WINDOW COLLAPSED AND SHATTERED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT IT WAS AT A LOCAL AUTO GLASS REPAIR SHOP. TOYOTA STATED THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM, AND ASKED THE REPAIR SHOP TO FILE A LETTER OF CAUSE, CONDITION, AND REMEDY. THIS OCCURRED ON OCTOBER 14, 2005. THERE HAD BEEN NO TROUBLE WITH THAT WINDOW PRIOR TO THIS. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-25
- VIN: JT3GN87R020
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT: 2002 TOYOTA RUNNER. THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FOR LOWER BALL JOINT. THE CONSUMER STATED THE WHEELS WERE CUTTING THE TIRES ON FRONT WHERE LOWER BALL JOINT WAS LOCATED. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED TOYOTA, WHO SAID IT IS NOT RELATED TO LOWER BALL JOINT, AND THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING ELSE FOR THE CONSUMER. THIS HAS BEING HAPPENING SINCE THE CONSUMER BOUGHT VEHICLE. IT HAS 30,000 MILES , AND NEEDED NEW TIRES.*AK
2002 Toyota Echo recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Toyota Echo.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER MOLDING OF THE RESIN BODY OF THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENOR INSTALLED ON THE ENGINE BLOCK, ENGINE OIL MAY PENETRATE THE SEAL AND ENTER THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR. THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENTLY ATTACHED TO THE LOCKING TAB OF THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR.
- Consequence: ENGINE OIL INSIDE THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE EXPANSION DUE TO THE HEAT OF THE ENGINE AND COULD DEFORM THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR. THE CONNECTOR MAY BECOME DISCONNECTED, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING AND NOT BE ABLE TO BE RESTARTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 26, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, IF THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN UNDER REPEATED START AND STOP OPERATION IN LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURES AND IN DEEP SNOW, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT SNOW COULD ACCUMULATE IN LARGE QUANTITIES INSIDE THE REAR WHEEL AND FREEZE. THE SNOW FROZEN INSIDE THE WHEEL COULD CONTACT THE REAR BRAKE LINE DURING WHEEL ROTATION.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS FREQUENTLY, THE REAR BRAKE LINE COULD BE DAMAGED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF BRAKE FLUID, CAUSING A DECREASE IN BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR BRAKE LINES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 9, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 2002 Toyota Echo car reviews
Positive 2002 Toyota Echo car reviews
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You've got a strong running engine there! My car is all manual too, including the windows and door locks. With regular maintenance, these cars can last forever.
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This is such a fun little car to drive! You'll never have a problem parking or driving in the city. And you'll be surprised at the amount of interior space. I love how everything is built into the center console, it's so convenient. Plus, the seating position is nice and high, providing plenty of room for tall passengers and drivers. And who doesn't love the occasional visit to the gas station? Ha ha!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I've used it for trips and around town, and I've found that it gets an impressive 43 MPG at 75 mph. I really wish they still made them, especially with a stick shift. Thanks for reading!
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I've been driving my 2002 Echo for about 3 months now, and I absolutely love it! The car has a unique and stylish design, and as a 6'-2
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I'm so glad to hear that you're completely satisfied with the power, ride, and comfort of your car! It's great to know that it handles bumps and railroad tracks even better than your previous, larger car. Plus, the excellent visibility and spaciousness are definitely added bonuses.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Toyota Echo problems:
What are common echo issues? | Toyota Nation Forum
Jul 4, 2012 ... Two trouble issues on my Echo that has 250 thousand kms: 1) Front wheel bearings 2) Charcoal canister. The bearings on both front sides are on ...
2002 Toyota Echo Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Toyota Echo? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Toyota Echo.
2002 Toyota Echo - reliable car? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Aug 18, 2018 ... At 200,000 miles you're essentially guaranteed issues, cheap, although I suggest avoiding and look for a lower mileage car or (if possible) ...
Q&A: Toyota Echo 2002 Engine Stalls - Common Problems ...
Jul 5, 2010 ... Possible causes: Ignition misfire causes by any bad tune up part and or ignition coil or coils. ... Wrong tune up parts spark plug, wires etc...
2002 Toyota ECHO Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
My 2002 Echo has high mileage of over 335k yet it runs great, reliable and I just drove from Boston area to Venice Florida with no issues.
Other years of Toyota Echo
Are you having problems with your 2002 Toyota Echo?
Zion Beahan 2024-01-18
This vehicle is fantastic for fuel economy and it's a really enjoyable car to drive. It's a great size for parking in tight spaces, with surprisingly spacious interiors. The instrument controls are easy to use and don't distract from the road. I particularly like the center readings for miles per hour, temperature, and fuel gauges. Overall, it's a really cool little car!