Looking for a reliable Toyota Corolla, anyone selling one?

That sucks about the Camry. Honestly, 30k drains usually save those transmissions so you just got a bad roll of the dice. $8500 is a solid budget for that generation, but the market is still kinda inflated. You should definitely be able to find a clean Toyota Corolla LE 1.8L 2011 or 2012 in that range if you skip the dealerships. Heres what I would look for to keep it reliable:

• 2012 to 2013 are the sweet spots for that 10th gen body style.
• Check the water pump for leaks, they tend to go around 100k.
• Make sure the dashboard isnt sticky, common heat issue. Dont rush it just because you need to commute to Aurora. Spend some money on a pre-purchase inspection at a local shop before handing over the cash. Itll save you thousands if the head gasket is weeping or the oil is burning.

Re: That sucks about the Camry. Honestly, 30k drains...

• totally agree, it's just bad luck. But honestly? Im gonna go against the grain here. I think you're gonna spend way too much on a Corolla right now because the Toyota tax is absolutely insane in our area! I went through this exact same thing last year when I needed a reliable commuter for my long drives. I was dead set on a Corolla until I realized I could get the same mechanicals for thousands less. You should seriously look at the Pontiac Vibe 1.8L Hatchback. It is literally a Toyota Matrix with a different badge! I found one for $6200 and it has been the most amazing, bulletproof car Ive ever owned. Love it so much. Here is why I think its a better move for your $8500 budget:
• You get the exact same 2ZR-FE engine and transmission as that generation Corolla.
• The hatchback layout is fantastic for hauling stuff that a sedan just cant fit... like groceries or random gear.
• Since it has a Pontiac badge, people ignore them, so you can find low-mileage ones way cheaper than a comparable Toyota.
• With the $2k you save, you can toss on some Michelin Defender T+H 195/65R15 Tires and have a better ride than any stock Corolla you find on a lot. Seriously, I love my Vibe! Its basically a cheat code for getting Toyota reliability without the crazy markup. Definitely worth a look before you drop all that cash on a sedan!

Man, sorry about the Camry! Before you pull the trigger, are you mostly doing highway miles or dealing with city traffic? If you want something that drives way better than a Corolla, I absolutely love the Honda Civic LX 1.8L i-VTEC for that price. Honestly, it is a fantastic commuter since the engine is bulletproof and dont have the oil consumption issues some Toyotas have. You wont have to worry about checking the dipstick constantly!