My Trusty (and Financed) Toyota Corolla

For the past three years, my primary mode of transportation has been a 2018 Toyota Corolla. It’s not flashy, it doesn’t turn heads, and it certainly doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some newer vehicles. But what it does have is reliability, fuel efficiency, and enough space for my needs. And, importantly, it got me from point A to point B, which is, after all, the primary function of a car.

I didn’t buy the Corolla outright. Instead, I opted to finance it. At the time, my credit score wasn’t exactly stellar, and putting down a large down payment simply wasn’t feasible. So, I took out a loan through my local credit union. While the interest rate wasn’t the absolute lowest I could have gotten, it was reasonable, and the loan terms were manageable. I knew going in that financing meant paying more in the long run, but it allowed me to get a dependable car that I could afford without significantly impacting my monthly budget.

The financing process itself was straightforward. I filled out an application, provided proof of income and residency, and within a few days, I was approved. I did my research beforehand, comparing interest rates and loan terms from different lenders, to ensure I was getting the best deal possible. I also made sure to factor in the cost of insurance, registration, and maintenance when calculating my monthly expenses.

Over the past three years, the Corolla has proven to be a solid investment. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, has been surprisingly affordable. The fuel economy is excellent, which is a major plus considering current gas prices. There have been no major mechanical issues, just the expected wear and tear of regular use. I appreciate its simplicity; it’s easy to drive and park, and the basic technology is user-friendly.

Of course, there are things I wish were different. The interior is rather basic, and the infotainment system feels a bit dated. Sometimes, I find myself wishing for a bit more power, especially when merging onto the highway. But honestly, those are minor complaints. Considering the price and the reliability, I can’t fault the Corolla too much.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue making my monthly payments and eventually own the car outright. Once it’s paid off, I’ll have the option of keeping it as a second vehicle or trading it in for something newer. Either way, I’m grateful for the Corolla and the peace of mind it has provided. It might not be the most exciting car on the road, but it’s a reliable and affordable vehicle that has served me well. And for now, that’s all that really matters.