2002 AC and 2001 Bent Wheel

08/13/08: Took the '02 to Top Tech to check the AC because my coworker and parents were complaining it wasn't cold enough. The mechanic added 2 containers worth of freon (at $20 each) and it runs cold now. Total bill: $69.64

08/14/08: Took the '01 to Discount Tire to check the wheels, in particular the front right one that is obviously bent that might cause the high speed steering wheel vibration. They ordered a wheel from California and called Dad today. Total bill: $72.10

Need to rotate the '02 tires since diagnosing that uneven tire wear will be time-consuming and expensive. It's also had an alignment a couple of years ago and that is what the mechanic said our first step was. Back then, the alignment showed one problem which couldn't be fixed so I won't chase this.

Spent almost $400 on these young Corollas last month and the parents think I should replace the 2002--overreacting! (The only remotely-possible car in my future is the 2010 Prius or whichever year has the solar panels on the roof and 85 mpg.)