Ignition Tumbler

I forgot to note the day the 2002 Corolla ignition wouldn't turn, had to be towed to Precision Tune Auto, and had its ignition tumbler replaced--July 23, 2010. That was another expensive ordeal to make 2010 the year I started regretting keeping aging cars. 2002 isn't even really old--especially in Corolla years! I spent over $2000 on a supposedly-reliable econobox. My friend spent $5000 on his 1996 LS 400 but $5000/$60000 is much less than $2000/$15000! I don't know how some people can buy super old cars and stay happy...

2002 Corolla Low Growling Noise

According to the Corolland forums, this noise may be due to a bad wheel bearing and hub. I may take the car into the shop in Austin this week instead of waiting for Saturday in Houston. I also noticed the fuel efficiency is worse. Very annoyed with this 2002 Corolla. Would I have such problems with the 1998 Corolla we bought new? Too bad the Prius V comes out in 2012 but then it wouldn't be a disposable, worryfree car like our cheap Corollas...

Tire Rotation on 2002

Took the 2002 in for a tire rotation in late June 2011. Forgot to note it here.

Deep Scratching Noise

The 2002 Corolla has a new noise--a deep scratching noise similar to the 2001. It was a problem we never got resolved so I am not too hopeful about fixing the issue on the 2002. Sigh. I spent $2000+ on maintenance and repairs for the 2002 last year. It's been holding up well so far. I really want to keep the Corollas for at least 20 years each. :(

Its transmission fluid is red. I will take it into Top Tech on Saturday for its 100,000 mileage maintenance and also to diagnose the cause of the deep scratching noise.