2005 Corolla Fielder - Japanese Import - 1.5 / 1.8 - Used Car Advice

[steblin]

All,

New member looking for some advice. I live in New Zealand and am looking at second hand Toyota Corolla Fielders, I have two I am looking at at the weekend, both are 2005's, imports from Japan.

One is the 1.8 (1ZZ-FE) and the other is a 1.5, both are VVT-I. Both are sub 100,000 KM's (apparently AA odometer certified).

I have read a bit about the oil consumption / piston ring issues on the 1ZZ-FE, and the general attention needed to regular servicing for the VVT-I's in general.

The 1.8 that I am going to see has had a pre-inspection, which highlighted dirty oil, blocked oil filter and worn spark plugs, all of which has been serviced now, but obviously raises some questions about its prior maintenance. With this car in mind, and in general, what type of things should I look out for when checking / test driving these cars? Any advice would be a great help!