99' Corolla Ideas for Smoother Ride?

[DinktheRolla99]

Hi all, let me first start off by saying I really don't know anything about cars, other than the very basics, so sorry in advance if I come off as ignorant/stupid. But, I'm trying to learn more, which is one of the reasons why I'm posting here.

So, here's what I want to do to my Corolla now: a smoother ride, better handling, and a tiny bit more acceleration.

So, how do I do this? Tires? Suspension? Brakes?

Also, if it is those three things, what are some good names?

I'm looking to keep the spending under 1k or so (I know, this is absurd because the blue book value of this car is 4k, but I'm planning on keeping this car for another 5 years or so.)

Also, if the information is necessary, my car has a 1ZZ-FE engine (1.8L), Automatic Trans, VE, completely stock, and has been kept in excellent condition with constant maintenance.

Thanks!

[jhbhatia]

How many miles on your car?
I think the most simple thing is changing struts ( i hear monroe struts are comfy). This should give your rolla a smooth ride. And then ensure you tires are quiet! Usually, as tires wear, they give more road noice. Research tires before you buy them to see which ones are more quiet.

Other than this: I'd get a transmission flush (not to be confused with drain& fill), replace spark plugs and ignition wires and replace the timing and drive belts. THis should ensure your car will me smooth and reliable.

Judging my your in-experience, i'd give you a word of advise: Anything you mod will have ill-effects. Suspension work usually tends to eats up tires more quickly. I don't think your here to modify your car, your here to learn what to make it comfortable and reliable. I think this should do you suffice!

[lexusk8]

Originally Posted by jhbhatia

How many miles on your car?
I think the most simple thing is changing struts ( i hear monroe struts are comfy). This should give your rolla a smooth ride. And then ensure you tires are quiet! Usually, as tires wear, they give more road noice. Research tires before you buy them to see which ones are more quiet.

Other than this: I'd get a transmission flush (not to be confused with drain& fill), replace spark plugs and ignition wires and replace the timing and drive belts. THis should ensure your car will me smooth and reliable.

Judging my your in-experience, i'd give you a word of advise: Anything you mod will have ill-effects. Suspension work usually tends to eats up tires more quickly. I don't think your here to modify your car, your here to learn what to make it comfortable and reliable. I think this should do you suffice!

That's all great advice except one thing: The 99 Corolla does not have a timing belt. It's a timing chain and never needs to get replaced.

[Isophorone]

I think I have a rear strut problem, or so it's been diagnosed. One of the tires was "cupping." I was quoted $1000 by NTB to replace them. Does this sound right? Anyone have an idea of anywhere it can be done less expensively? It doesn't look like the sort of thing I would want to do myself.

My '99 Corolla has about 110K miles, by the way.

Ron

[DinktheRolla99]

Thanks for the suggestions!