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1999 Corolla problems: Seeking advice


rvlalg

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I have a 1999 Toyota Corolla LE with 49,000 miles. For the last month or so, I have been hearing a steady vibrating/flapping noise while driving and this is more pronounced at slow speeds and turns.

My tires are also worn out; so I recently took it to a Toyota Dealer Service Center to replace the tires and do some wheel aligment. He also did a 120 point inspection check and came up with the following:

I was also told that the hydraulic fluid was leaking and that the serpentine belt and hydraulic tensioner had to be replaced ($413.00). I am alwasy most worried about "leaks" and had him immediately him fix this.

I was also told that -

1) the front Brake rotors had to be replaced along with the pads ($525.00),

2) the rear brake drum had to be replaced ($293.00) as these had some "hot spots" in them.

I decided to hold off on this brake job since I had not heard any brake squealing etc and had not suspected any brake problems.

I was also told to replace the "battery" ??? I had no problems ever starting the car even on really really cold days so I decided to hold off on this too.

I drove the car home last night. I can still hear the steady vibrating/flapping noise.

My questions are:

1 - Are they "correct" about the front brake rotors and pads needing replacement?

2 - Are they correct about the rear brake drum needing replacement ?

3 - Do you think that this is the probably cause of the vibrating/flapping noise?

(I called Midas about both and they said that they would do the front rotor + pads for slightly lesser money. Midas also said that the rear brake drum on a 1999 Toyota Corolla should not be a problem at this stage and probably does not need replacement and that this might have other fixes possible.

They said that they would have to take a look at the car.

Is it advisable to go with Midas for brake pads and rotor replacement?

Waiting for your replies.

Many Thanks

-R

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In answer to your questions:

1. I couldnt tell you - BUT, it would be worth going to another (Non-toyota) garage for a second opinion on that

2. see above

3. well assuming you have checked the car for any loose lining (such as the wheel arches etc) then possibly, but hard to say to be honest..

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  • 1 year later...

i have a 1999 corolla and the problem you have sounds familar to the only one i had , the way i fixed it was by replacing the stock rotors with aftermarket cross drilled ans slotted rotors with premium pads...hope this helps you out

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  • 2 weeks later...

1 - Are they "correct" about the front brake rotors and pads needing replacement?

2 - Are they correct about the rear brake drum needing replacement ?

You know, without pysically seeing the rotors, I can't tell if they need to be replaced, but at that mileage? Sounds odd to me. As for the rear drum, I doubt that it can't be turned and used. Like fidgits said, get another opinion.

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  • 3 months later...

Holy crap, I think they are trying to take you for ride. Toyotas, especially Corollas are meant to go forever with no maintenance. At your mileage, that is all suspect!

These are very high costs for brake materials. Check for yourself on checker auto parts online. Rotors would be maybe $100 for a pair for the front, and pads, $40 or $50 for a pair, with lifetime warranty, free replacement for the life of your car on the pads.

Unless you drive the heck outta your car!?

Try to find a toyota only, or japanese specialist mechanic shop, NOT a DEALER, and tell them you need to be taken care of for reasonable value. Show them that ridiculous list the last place gave you.

Good luck. -Dru

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