Toyota Corolla 2007 Problems

Normally you would expect it to be caused by being left out in the sun, but you say you haven’t. But while you say it’s been under cover all it’s life, it must have been taken out and driven at some time. Do you leave it parked in the sun for lengthy period at the shopping centre, or somewhere else you go? Check those places you park it for a hat source that might be causing it.

Of those choices the Mitsubishi Mirage would appear to be the best option. It is the newest, has the fewest kilometres, and is the cheapest. It’s also reliable and should give you good service. In order of preference I would suggest the Toyota Corolla and the Holden Cruze.

It’s under the bonnet, just behind the left hand headlight.

 I would expect that you would feel the brakes were spongy if a caliper was leaking significant amounts of fluid. I doubt it was leaking when you bought the car, as I’m sure the brakes would have been affected.

Do not buy a Cruze, or buy a European brand. They will prove costly. It's best to go for the cars that are well proven over many years. The Lancer is a good one, but so too is the Toyota Yaris or Corolla, Suzuki Swift, Mazda2 or 3, or Mitsubishi Colt.