The 2000 Toyota Echo was introduced as a fuel-efficient and affordable subcompact car, replacing the Tercel. Available as a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan, the Echo was sold in the US from 2000 to 2005. Key trims were limited, focusing on a base model. Pricing ranged from around $9,000 to $11,000 when new. Its unique upright styling, exceptional fuel economy, and Toyota's reputation for reliability made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a practical commuter car.
The Good
The 2000 Toyota Echo excels in reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a practical and sensible choice. Its simple design and reputation for longevity offer peace of mind. While not luxurious, its affordability and ease of use appeal to those seeking a budget-friendly and dependable car, offering freedom from worry about breakdowns.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2000 Toyota Echo include its quirky styling, which some find unappealing. Its engine, while reliable, lacks power for highway passing. The interior is basic and lacks modern amenities. Rust can be a concern in regions with road salt. Also, listen for unusual noises from the manual transmission.
2000 Toyota Echo: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.5L inline-4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 108 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 31 mpg city / 39 mpg highway (manual transmission) and slightly lower for the automatic.
- 0-60 Times: Around 10.5 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
The 2000 Toyota Echo had fairly basic trim levels. Key features included:- Standard AM/FM radio
- Manual windows and door locks
- Air conditioning (often optional)
- Cloth upholstery
- Driver and passenger airbags
- Power steering
- Available options might have included: A/C, upgraded audio system, and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Most Echo models were sparsely equipped to keep the price low. It focused on providing basic transportation rather than luxury or advanced technology.
2000 Toyota Echo Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | ECHO |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door 5-Speed Manual |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 920.79 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1NZ-FF |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Toyota Echo Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2000 Toyota Echo are relatively minor, contributing to its reputation for reliability. Rust, particularly in areas that use road salt, is a common concern. Owners should inspect the undercarriage and lower body panels for corrosion.
Another reported issue involves the manual transmission, with some owners reporting premature wear or unusual noises. Regular fluid changes can help mitigate this. The engine itself is generally robust, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and tune-ups, is crucial for longevity.
Recalls for the 2000 Toyota Echo were relatively few, but it's essential to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability concerns typically revolve around wear and tear items like brakes, suspension components, and exhaust systems. These are normal for a vehicle of this age and mileage.
Specific model year issues are not overwhelmingly prevalent, suggesting consistent build quality across the Echo's production run. However, as with any older vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to identify any potential problems before purchase.
Another reported issue involves the manual transmission, with some owners reporting premature wear or unusual noises. Regular fluid changes can help mitigate this. The engine itself is generally robust, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and tune-ups, is crucial for longevity.
Recalls for the 2000 Toyota Echo were relatively few, but it's essential to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding recalls related to safety or emissions. Long-term reliability concerns typically revolve around wear and tear items like brakes, suspension components, and exhaust systems. These are normal for a vehicle of this age and mileage.
Specific model year issues are not overwhelmingly prevalent, suggesting consistent build quality across the Echo's production run. However, as with any older vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to identify any potential problems before purchase.
How long will the 2000 Toyota Echo last?
Given diligent maintenance, a 2000 Toyota Echo can easily exceed 200,000 miles or provide 20+ years of service. Owners who adhere to scheduled maintenance, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely replacement of wear items, report exceptional longevity.
Long-term durability strengths lie in the engine and transmission, while weaknesses include rust susceptibility, particularly in colder climates. Suspension components and bushings may require replacement over time. The interior, while durable, may show signs of wear and tear. Overall, with proper care, the Echo is known for its longevity.
Long-term durability strengths lie in the engine and transmission, while weaknesses include rust susceptibility, particularly in colder climates. Suspension components and bushings may require replacement over time. The interior, while durable, may show signs of wear and tear. Overall, with proper care, the Echo is known for its longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2000 Toyota Echo was a basic car and thus has limited built-in tech, entertainment, and driver-assistance features by modern standards.
Tech and Entertainment: The standard equipment included an AM/FM radio. Upgraded audio systems were sometimes offered as optional features. There was no standard CD player, and features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or smartphone integration were not available.
Driver-Assistance Features: The Echo lacked advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking. It had power steering as a standard feature.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included driver and passenger airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available as an option on some models.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2000 Toyota Echo's crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be reviewed for specific performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. While it met safety standards at the time, it lacks the advanced safety technologies found in modern vehicles. Keep in mind that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since 2000.
Tech and Entertainment: The standard equipment included an AM/FM radio. Upgraded audio systems were sometimes offered as optional features. There was no standard CD player, and features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, or smartphone integration were not available.
Driver-Assistance Features: The Echo lacked advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking. It had power steering as a standard feature.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included driver and passenger airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available as an option on some models.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2000 Toyota Echo's crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be reviewed for specific performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. While it met safety standards at the time, it lacks the advanced safety technologies found in modern vehicles. Keep in mind that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since 2000.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alpine Silver Metallic
Black Sand Pearl
Celestite Gray Metallic
Desert Sand Mica
Indigo Ink Pearl
Lunar Mist Metallic
Solar Yellow
Super Red
Interior Colors
Opal Beige
Charcoal
2000 Toyota Echo Prices and Market Value
The 2000 Toyota Echo had a starting price of around $9,000 to $11,000 when new. Current used market prices typically range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Resale value is primarily influenced by the car's mechanical condition and the presence of rust. Low mileage and a well-documented maintenance history can positively impact resale value, while neglect and visible damage will decrease it. Its fuel efficiency and Toyota's reputation keep demand relatively steady.
2000 Toyota Echo Cost of Ownership
The 2000 Toyota Echo is generally very economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and modest value. Excellent fuel economy reduces fuel expenses. Maintenance and repair costs are also relatively low, as parts are readily available and affordable. The simplicity of the design makes repairs straightforward. Long-term ownership costs are primarily influenced by maintenance and potential rust repair. Overall, the Echo is one of the most affordable cars to own.
2000 Toyota Echo Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
45.05 liters
City Mileage
12.33 km/l
Highway Mileage
15.73 km/l
2000 Toyota Echo Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Toyota Echo Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum
Recall date
2001-10-10
Recall no.
01v326000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With AN Automatic Transmission. DUE TO A Unique Combination OF Conditions Which Consist OF Cold Ambient Temperatures, Load Applied From AIR Conditioner and Other Electrical Devices, and Immediately After Starting THE Engine, There IS A Possibility That THE Vacuum IN THE Intake Manifold Could BE Insufficient FOR THE Brake Booster.
Consequence
When THE Brake IS Applied Under This Combination OF Conditions, Vacuum Assist TO THE Brakes Would Decrease, and THE Increased Pedal Pressure Required Could Lead TO AN Increase IN Vehicle Stopping Distance.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Brake Booster and Front Brake Pads. Owner Notification Began October 29, 2001. 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.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline
Recall date
2000-09-07
Recall no.
00v256000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Originally Sold or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Condensed Moisture From THE Positive Crankcase Ventilation (Pcv) Port Could Seep Toward THE Brake Vacuum Port Inside THE Intake Manifold and Start TO Freeze.
Consequence
Vacuum Assist TO THE Brakes Would BE Decreased and Increased Pedal Pressure Would BE Required, Increasing THE Vehicle Stopping Distance.
Remedy
Dealers Will Repair THE Vacuum Port. Also, Owners OF THE Subject Vehicles IN States Other Than THE Recall States Will BE Notified OF THE Recall. IF THE Echo Owner Believes That There IS A Possibility That THE Vehicle Will BE Operated IN These States During THE Winter or IN Conditions Described, THE Vehicle Should BE Serviced FOR This Recall.
Notes
Owner Notification Began October 4, 2000.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.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2004-09-17
Recall no.
04v455000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Passenger Vehicles Have THE Possibility That THE Recess Retains A Rubber Seal Ring, Which IS Located AT THE END OF THE Cylinder Body, and MAY BE Corroded DUE TO AN Improper Washing Process.
Consequence
IN This Condition, Brake Fluid MAY Leak From THE Seal, or A Small Amount OF AIR MAY Enter THE Master Cylinder, Which Could Lead TO AN Increase OF Vehicle Stopping Distance.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Brake Master Cylinder And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Brake Master Cylinder and Booster. THE Recall Began ON November 29, 2004. Owners Should Contact Toyota AT 1-888-270-9371.
Notes
Toyota Recall NO. SSC 40k.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
2000 Toyota Echo Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 Toyota Echo is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Toyota Echo Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2000 Toyota Echo competed against subcompact cars like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio. Compared to the Civic, the Echo offered similar reliability at a lower price but lacked the Civic's performance and features. Against the Accent and Rio, the Echo had a stronger reputation for reliability, justifying a slightly higher price.
In terms of features, the Echo was basic compared to its rivals. Its quirky styling was a differentiator, liked by some but disliked by others.
Alternatives to the 2000 Toyota Echo include:
If reliability and fuel economy are paramount and budget is a concern, the Echo remains a solid choice. However, if performance and features are important, the Civic or Corolla might be better alternatives.
In terms of features, the Echo was basic compared to its rivals. Its quirky styling was a differentiator, liked by some but disliked by others.
Alternatives to the 2000 Toyota Echo include:
- Honda Civic: Offers better performance and more features, but at a higher price.
- Hyundai Accent/Kia Rio: More affordable, but may not be as reliable.
- Toyota Corolla: Slightly larger and more refined, with comparable reliability.
If reliability and fuel economy are paramount and budget is a concern, the Echo remains a solid choice. However, if performance and features are important, the Civic or Corolla might be better alternatives.
Ranks #181 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 181 | 2000 Toyota Echo | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Toyota Echo a Good Sedan?
The 2000 Toyota Echo is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient commuter car. It's particularly well-suited for students, city dwellers, or anyone prioritizing practicality over luxury or performance. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition of the used vehicle. A well-maintained Echo with a clean title and minimal rust is worth considering, especially if priced competitively. Avoid models with extensive rust or signs of neglect. New, the Echo is not an option since it's discontinued, used is the only route.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma