Toyota Corolla Engine Problems

You shouldn't have let the car out of your sight; instead you should have had it inspected by an independent mechanic for possible damage that might have been caused in the fire. Even now I would get it inspected for damage, anything could have been damaged in the   fire, wiring, hoses, paint, plastic components, you won't know until it's properly checked. You should also consider consulting the consumer affairs people with a view to further claims against the people who did the servicing.

You are in a tricky situation, the oil you use is a good quality brand and shouldn't cause any problem, but I would follow the dealer's advice and switch to a 10w-30 grade oil. I'm sure you'll find Valvoline make one, so you can stick to the brand you like and trust.

We haven’t had any other reports of cam chain/gear wear on the Corolla, so it’s hard to say it’s a widespread problem, but the company stepped in and covered half the cost so there’s not a lot to be unhappy about.

The timing belt is usually changed at 150,000 km on that model and most dealers are happy to do it on the basis of distance done rather than a time limit. Regular unleaded is being phased out in NSW only in 2011. Your car should be fine on E10, BP guarantees its E10 is suitable for all vehicles regardless of the age of the vehicle, the other oil companies don’t make that guarantee at the moment, but probably will. With that in mind use BP E10 if you have any doubts.

Given the your low annual distance traveled and the fact that it's out of warranty, I would think you could stretch the oil change period to 12 months, but no longer.

Given that it runs well once started it's most unlikely that it's the fuel pump or damaged fuel lines as the mechanic has suggested. If it's a fuel problem it's likely to be a sensor that's not telling the computer how much fuel to inject into the engine at start-up.

Like most current model Toyotas it has a timing chain.

If it hasn't been changed before it's long overdue, on time and on mileage. Toyota service specialists recommend changing every 100,000   km and/or five years, and the risk is too great to ignore the recommendation.

You can fit LPG to your Corolla, but it is recommended that you use an injection system because of the risk of backfiring with the older system and the damage that could cause to the plastic intake manifold.

Toyotas generally have a belt change interval of 150,000 km, but to be sure check the service booklet, which will show the correct interval.