This has no direct bearing to your question. You need to test drive the Corolla. My 2015 Eco produces excessive wind noise beginning at 40 mph. The dealer "claims" mirror design. Drove another new LE and the wind noise level was actually worse than mine. The wind noise drives me to distraction...
The reply from the company was that P/N 111449364985 would not fit a US spec Corolla. The listing now states that the kit (from mittaaccessories1) will not fit US spec Corollas or right-hand drive Corollas. This appears to be the same P/N you received. Have you attempted to install the plates...
The company which is listed on Ebay contacted to inform that the scuff plate kit PN111449364985 will not fit a US spec. Corolla. Has an install of said kit been accomplished on a US spec. Corolla?
From the photo, it looks as if the panel has some filler = past collision repair. Looks real "iffy". The problem with rust is that it is like an iceberg. You never see all of it. There is corrosion beyond what you see, and this will become evident has you sand into adjoining areas. You cannot...
How many miles on this car? Has it had a 4 wheel alignment recently? I would check bushings, stabilizer links and strut bearings. I would also check any auto trans rubber mount (if applicable). The noise you hear may not actually be from the area you think.
If the window "squeak" is when the window is moved down and up and if it looks as if the window is moving slower than usual (or binding), then you need to lubricate the glass run channels with silicone spray. If this does not work, then the ? is whether the glass run channels (which are rubber)...
I believe Toyota recommends a transmission drain/refill at 100k. As the Toyota (unlike other Asian cars) does not have a magnetic drain plug which will trap any particulate, you should not flush the system. If the auto trans has a filter I would change this, refill with fresh trans fluid (OEM...
As my ole body shop instructor used to say, "With enough time and money we can take your old door handle and build a new car around it."
Can it be done? Yes. Will it cost two arms and a leg? Yes. Besides several critical components, you shall probably need to replace a couple of wire harnesses...
Lived in Massachusetts for many years. It has a stringent emission program. I used CARQUEST converters several times (had a 23 y/o Maxima). The last time the car failed emissions, on went another CARQUEST converter. Viola!
I believe that Toyota uses a long-life pre-mix. I would drain, refill, drive for a day or so and then drain and refill. This would evacuate hoses, heater, and block. At 100k miles I would seriously consider changing all hoses, thermostat, and water pump.