The Perfect Ride: A Car Mechanic's Perspective on Reliability and Durability

Cars are an integral part of modern life, and for many, they are a source of both pleasure and frustration. However, from the eyes of a car mechanic, the choice of a vehicle goes beyond mere convenience. It involves a deep understanding of what makes a car reliable, durable, and functional. In this article, I will share my insights based on years of experience, highlighting what I have learned about cars that can last the test of time and provide immense satisfaction, as well as the importance of reliable and durable vehicles.

My Personal Fleet of Cars

My journey in cars began at a young age, working alongside my father on various car projects. Through these experiences, I developed a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and mechanical intricacies of vehicles. Currently, I am working on two cars that exemplify my approach to car selection: a 1996 2 Doors RAV4 and a 2016 Scion FRS (Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ).

The 1996 RAV4 is a fun little roadtrip machine that is cheap to drive and easy to work on. With approximately 400,000 km on it, my goal is to restore it and make it pass Quebec's emission tests. The 2016 Scion FRS, on the other hand, is a joy to drive and a reliable daily driver. It has just over 160,000 km on it, and I haven’t had to replace anything other than oil and spark plugs. I also work on my brother’s Mazda 3, my wife’s Toyota Yaris, and even a Cadillac CT4, which my father loves.

The quality of cars has evolved significantly since the early 2000s. Modern cars, although equipped with more advanced features, are not always more reliable. For instance, I recently had to deal with a 2005-2010 Toyota Avalon and a similarly designed Camry with a 3.5-liter V6. These cars, while well-built, still have their quirks and can be quite frustrating to maintain.

The Role of Reliability in Car Selection

One of the critical aspects of car selection, especially for me as a mechanic, is the balance between the downsides and the benefits a car offers. If the downsides outweigh the benefits, the car is not worth having. For example, the Cadillac CT4 my father loves has required minimal maintenance, but I find it obnoxious and prefer something more rugged and utilitarian.

Currently, I am driving a Peugeot 407, a car that, while well-made, has its fair share of grievances. Excessive use of the car can lead to cosmetic damage, such as chips in the windshield, and the paintwork can be affected by pebbles and other debris. This highlights the need for cars that are not only reliable but also easy to maintain and repair, even when driven frequently.

A Quest for a Reliable Off-Roader

For me, the ideal car is a small, cheap, and reliable offroader that can withstand the rigors of the road without requiring extensive maintenance. A car like the Daihatsu Feroza (Rocky in the US market) would be perfect. It is tough and reliable, with features like adjustable height, low range gearbox, and air conditioning. It gets the job done and is easy to live with, even in challenging terrain. The fact that I can just beat it up and not worry about cosmetic damage is a huge advantage.

In conclusion, my approach to car selection is rooted in the idea that the downsides of a car should not outweigh the benefits. Reliable and durable cars, like the 1996 RAV4 and the 2016 Scion FRS, offer a balance that I find invaluable. As a mechanic, I always strive to find a car that can handle the rigors of daily use without breaking the bank or causing unnecessary stress.

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car mechanic reliable cars durable cars