Cars are more than just vehicles—they are companions on our journeys, witnesses to milestones, and sometimes, the source of unexpected lessons. As I reflect on the cars I’ve owned, each one carries a story, a memory, and a chapter of my life.
The Early Years: Karachi and the Suzuki FX
My first car wasn’t truly mine—it was shared with Ammi, a white Suzuki FX we drove around Karachi in 1994. The freedom of having a car at my disposal felt exhilarating. By 1996, I upgraded to a grey Mitsubishi Lancer, which eventually found its way to Sajjad Chacha. In 1998, I owned a grey 1989 Nissan Sentra, a car that felt like a giant leap in sophistication at the time.
Early 2000s: Experimentation and Learning
By 2002, I was driving a VW Passat in an unusual shade of green/blue, probably a 1992 model. Shortly after, I tried out a blue Mazda 323 hatchback from 1991. This car taught me the importance of maintaining balance between affordability and reliability. It eventually found a new owner in Qazi.
The Mid-2000s: A Mixed Bag
In 2006, I entered Pontiac territory. First came a 2000 Bonneville, a car I’d soon call a “lemon” due to its endless issues. Then, in 2007, I switched to a more practical white Pontiac Montana, a minivan that carried the charm of a family car. Around the same time, Nisreen was driving a green Dodge Neon, a dependable little car for her needs.
Life in ATX and Expanding the Fleet
By 2011, I was in Austin, TX, driving a black Toyota Matrix (2005 model). It was dependable and compact, ideal for city life. Over the next few years, the fleet grew, including a Toyota Sienna van (2007), a blue Subaru Forester (2010), and a dark grey Dodge Durango (2015). Each car served a purpose, whether it was ferrying kids, hauling equipment, or exploring Texas.
Experimenting with Trucks and Vans
In 2012, I ventured into trucks with a white Ford F-150 (2002), followed by a 1985 model in 2013. The same year, I acquired a white EcoVan F350 (1999), which proved invaluable for transporting larger loads.
Recent Years: Practical Choices and a New Prius
In 2018, I got a white Nissan Pathfinder (2018), followed by a silver Toyota Venza (2012). The Venza became a reliable family car, clocking nearly 250,000 kilometers before I decided it was time for a change. Most recently, in 2024, I purchased a white Toyota Prius (2013), leaning into efficiency and reliability.
The Venza and a Hard Lesson on Scammers
Selling the Venza felt bittersweet—it had served us well. I listed it on Kijiji for $8,000, thinking it was a fair price. While traveling, my wife handled the inquiries. One seemed promising: a Bosnian man and a younger mechanic from Georgetown said they were interested because they were working on the same model.
When they arrived, their demeanor seemed professional. My wife, trusting them, left them alone with the car for a brief moment. When she returned, one was under the car, pointing out oil leaks and supposed engine issues. During the test drive, the car suddenly felt like it was “gasping for breath.” They claimed the car was unsafe, likely to break down, and advised us to junk it. They called back that night, offering $1,500 cash, stating it was the best price.
Panic set in—for both my wife and me. However, a call to a trusted friend revealed the truth. These scammers had poured oil into the antifreeze compartment, smeared oil on the engine to simulate leaks, and tampered with the air gasket cap to cause jerky driving. It was a calculated effort to undervalue the car and manipulate us into selling it at a loss.
The Lesson and a Word of Caution
This experience reminded me to always approach such dealings with caution. Scammers prey on trust and panic, and it’s easy to fall victim when you’re unaware of their tactics. If you’re selling a car:
- Never Leave Strangers Alone with the Vehicle: Stay with them during the inspection.
- Document Everything: Take pictures of the car’s condition before showing it.
- Verify Claims: Consult a trusted mechanic if a buyer claims major issues.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, walk away.
Closing Thoughts
My cars have been more than modes of transportation—they’ve been teachers of life lessons. From the Suzuki FX of my Karachi days to the Toyota Prius I drive now, each car has carried me through new chapters, offering memories, freedom, and, sometimes, hard-earned wisdom. As for the Venza, it will forever remind me to value not just the journey but also the integrity of the ride.
Halai 
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