Toyota Corolla Reliability?

The 2010 model is solid if you find one with a service history. I'd steer clear of any that have been modded or had the odometer rolled back, which is common in some used lots around Khlong Toei. Also, the air conditioning compressor is a known weak point in Bangkok's heat, so make sure it kicks on strong during a test drive. For peace of mind, take it to a shop like Pradit Auto Service on Sukhumvit 101 for a once-over before handing over cash.

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i'd actually look for a 2011 or 2012 instead if you can stretch the budget a bit. the 2010 had some vague steering complaints that got sorted the next year, and the 1.8L engine is basically the same bulletproof unit but with slightly better sound deadening. parts are dirt cheap at shops like ones along charan sanitwong road, and any mechanic near ratchada can fix them blindfolded. just check the transmission fluid color when you test drive, if it's dark red or smells burnt walk away

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2010 Corolla? My neighbour had one, beat the hell out of it for eight years, only real issue was a dodgy alternator at around 150,000 km. Other than that, regular maintenance and it chugged along. It's Toyota, so yeah, parts are readily available in @Bangkok. It's not a gamble, unless you buy one that's been seriously neglected. Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you trust, that's your best bet. Don't just rely on online forums; those places can be a bit of a wild west sometimes.

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Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but I've always found their som tam a bit tame on the pla ra. If you want the real funky version, try the shophouse spots along Soi Udomsuk 26, near the night market end. They pound it fresh with fermented fish that'll clear your sinuses, and it's like 60 baht. Different style from the On Nut places, more Lao-leaning.

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for som tam specifically i'd say the Isaan spots in Chatuchak are underrated, weekdays only though since the weekend crowd ruins the vibe. there's a stall near gate 2 that does tam pa with fermented bamboo shoots, super sour and funky, not something you see much in On Nut. if you're already heading north for Or Tor Kor anyway its worth the detour.

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honestly the som tam at Krua Dok Mai Kao is good but what got me hooked is their nam prik pla raa dip with the raw veggies, that funk hits way harder than the papaya does. think most people sleep on it cuz they just order the som tam and gai yang. also pro tip, go before noon on weekdays, after that teh pla ra gets milder cuz they batch it for the lunch rush

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