The engine went out on my 2001 Corolla LE (108,000 mi) a week ago with little warning: in about 3 days time the car went from running normal to sounding like a bucket of scrap metal. I took it in to see what the problem was, and was told that the engine was about to fly apart and that I needed a new one by my reputable mechanic. Oil is changed on a regular basis, and I've had a problem with disappearing oil like some of the 2002's but have been on top of it. No water was found in the engine during the checkup.

Until this morning the focus has been on getting a new car, but I talked to a couple with the exact same car to give them a little warning about possible planned obsolescence at 100k, and that it might be a good idea to get rid of it while it's still running sound. I was informed that their son had the same car AND the same problem as well, and that he was able to get an unofficial recall on the engine that Toyota has been very hush-hush about.

Does anyone know about this, and how to get the ball rolling on the engine replacement?

Other than that, it's been a good car with the exception of the cabin blower motor going out every other year. An annoyance, but tolerable.

I haven't heard anything about an engine recall. If you find out, please post it here so we can all be aware. Good luck.

I have a 2001 Corolla S, and it's got over 180k miles on it. No problems with the engine as of yet.