Inventory Listing

Thank you for your interest in this 2012 Toyota Corolla Base 1.8L 4-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic transmission. With 180,000 miles, this two-owner vehicle has been exceptionally well-maintained, as evidenced by its clean Carfax report showing no accidents, a whopping 43 service records, and a clean California title. Finished in Classic Silver with a practical Ash cloth interior, it offers timeless style, efficiency, and simplicity that’s perfect for daily commuting, first-time drivers, or budget-conscious families. The Corolla’s reputation for longevity shines here, with meticulous records indicating proactive care that could extend its life well beyond 300,000 miles. In this summary, I’ll cover safety ratings, essential points, generational history, performance specs, and standout features to illustrate why this Corolla remains a smart, value-packed choice in the used car market. At this mileage and price, it provides reliable transportation without the premiums of newer models, backed by Toyota’s engineering excellence.

NHTSA Safety Ratings

The 2012 Toyota Corolla received solid safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning an overall score that reflects its sturdy build and basic protective features for the era. These ratings were based on crash tests evaluating frontal, side, and rollover protection. While not equipped with the advanced driver aids of modern vehicles, the Corolla’s performance in these tests, combined with standard features like anti-lock brakes and multiple airbags, makes it a safe option for everyday driving.

• Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
• Frontal Crash – Driver: ★★★★☆
• Frontal Crash – Passenger: ★★★★☆
• Side Crash – Driver: ★★★★★
• Side Crash – Passenger: ★★★★★
• Rollover Resistance: ★★★★☆

Essentials

• High Mileage with Proven Durability: At 180,000 miles, this Corolla averages about 12,000 miles per year—typical for a commuter—and with 43 service records, it’s poised for another 100,000+ miles, as many owners report reaching 300,000-400,000 miles.
• Two-Owner History: Carefully driven by just two owners, ensuring consistent maintenance and no rental or fleet abuse, which often leads to premature wear.
• Clean Carfax and Title: No accidents reported, with a clean California title confirming no liens, salvage history, or major issues—boosting resale value and buyer confidence.
• Extensive Service Records: 43 documented services cover everything from oil changes and brake replacements to inspections, demonstrating exceptional care and reducing the likelihood of unexpected repairs.
• Efficient 1.8L Engine: The 1.8L 4-cylinder produces 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic for reliable performance.
• Impressive Fuel Economy: EPA-rated at 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined, offering real-world efficiency of 27-32 mpg, ideal for cost savings on gas.
• Compact and Practical Interior: Seats five with ample headroom/legroom, 13 cubic feet of trunk space, and fold-flat rear seats for versatility.
• Basic but Reliable Features: Includes air conditioning, power windows/mirrors, CD player with AUX input, and tilt/telescoping steering wheel—simple and low-maintenance.
• Metal Timing Chain: The 1.8L engine uses a durable metal timing chain that’s maintenance-free for life, avoiding costly belt replacements common in other cars.
• Legendary Reliability: Toyota Corollas are renowned for longevity, with this generation scoring high in J.D. Power (80/100 dependability) and Consumer Reports (4-5/5 reliability), often outlasting competitors.

History of the Generation

The 2012 Toyota Corolla is part of the tenth generation (2009-2013), known as the “E140” series in North America, which continued the model’s legacy as one of the world’s best-selling cars. Produced from 2008 to 2013 primarily at Toyota’s plants in Cambridge, Ontario (Canada), Fremont, California (NUMMI, co-operated with GM until 2010), and Takaoka, Japan, this generation saw millions of units manufactured globally, with over 1.5 million sold in the U.S. alone. Toyota focused on affordability, fuel efficiency, and simplicity to appeal to budget buyers, introducing minor updates like revised styling, improved interiors, and enhanced safety features to compete with rivals like the Honda Civic and Chevrolet Cruze. The 2011-2013 models benefited from a mid-cycle refresh that included better noise insulation, updated electronics, and optional Bluetooth. This era emphasized global standardization, with the Corolla built in 16 countries to meet diverse market needs. The tenth generation’s legacy is its unbreakable reliability and low cost of ownership, earning it awards like “Most Dependable Compact Car” from J.D. Power and consistent top rankings in Consumer Reports. It marked the Corolla’s evolution into a more modern compact sedan while retaining its core identity as an economical, no-frills vehicle.

Fuel Economy, Horsepower, Torque Ratings

The 2012 Toyota Corolla Base is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligence (Dual VVT-i), delivering 132 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM. This setup provides adequate acceleration for city and highway driving, with 0-60 mph times around 9.8-10.6 seconds—sufficient for daily needs like merging or passing. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, it offers smooth shifts and reliable performance, though it’s not the sportiest in its class. Fuel economy is a strong point, with EPA estimates of 26 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined—figures that often match or exceed in real-world conditions, achieving 28-33 mpg with mixed use. This efficiency is thanks to the engine’s VVT-i technology, lightweight design, and aerodynamic shape, making it more frugal than V6-powered sedans while keeping operating costs low (e.g., regular unleaded fuel). Towing isn’t recommended (rated at 1,500 lbs max), but it’s suitable for light loads. Overall, the Corolla balances modest power with excellent economy, ideal for commuters seeking savings at the pump.

Best Features and Performance Comparison

The 2012 Toyota Corolla Base emphasizes simplicity and functionality with features like air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and a CD player with AUX input for basic entertainment. The Ash cloth interior is durable and easy to clean, with spacious seating for five and 13 cubic feet of trunk space—practical for groceries, luggage, or daily errands. Safety is bolstered by stability control, traction control, and six airbags, while the compact size makes parking and maneuvering effortless. Performance-wise, the Corolla offers a comfortable, predictable ride with good handling in urban settings, though it’s not as engaging as sportier competitors like the 2012 Mazda3 (quicker steering but higher maintenance) or Ford Focus (more dynamic but less reliable long-term). It outshines the Chevrolet Cruze in fuel efficiency and resale value, with owners praising its quiet cabin and smooth transmission.

The Corolla’s reliability as a whole is legendary, with this generation consistently ranking at the top of J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for dependability (4-5/5 scores), often lasting 300,000-400,000 miles with minimal issues. The 1.8L 4-cylinder engine is a key factor, featuring a metal timing chain that’s virtually maintenance-free—unlike rubber belts in some rivals that require replacement every 90-100,000 miles (costing $800-1,200). This design reduces long-term expenses and enhances durability, paired with excellent fuel efficiency (up to 34 mpg highway) that saves on gas over time. Compared to competitors, the Corolla edges out in low repair costs (~$400/year average) and ownership satisfaction, avoiding the electronic gremlins of the Hyundai Elantra or transmission woes of the Nissan Sentra. With 43 service records documenting thorough care, this Corolla has plenty of life left—potentially another 100,000+ miles—giving buyers confidence in its longevity and value as a no-fuss compact sedan.

In conclusion, this 2012 Toyota Corolla Base is a wise investment for anyone prioritizing reliability, efficiency, and low costs. Its extensive history, proven engine, and practical design ensure it will serve you well for years to come.