1986 Toyota Celica problems
The Toyota Celica (/ˈsɛlɪkə/ or /sɛˈliːkə/) (Japanese: トヨタ・セリカ, Hepburn: Toyota Serika) is an automobile produced by Toyota from 1970 until 2006. The Celica name derives from the Latin word coelica meaning heavenly or celestial. In Japan, the Celica was exclusive to the Toyota Corolla Store dealer chain. Produced across seven generations, the Celica was powered by various four-cylinder engines, and bodystyles included convertibles, liftbacks, coupés and notchback coupés.
In 1973, Toyota coined the term liftback to describe the Celica fastback hatchback, and used the name Liftback GT for the North American market. Like the Ford Mustang, the Celica concept was to attach a coupe body to the chassis and mechanicals from a high volume sedan, in this case the Toyota Carina. Some journalists thought it was based on the Corona due to some shared mechanical parts.
The first three generations of North American market Celicas were powered by variants of Toyota's R series engine. In August 1985, the car's drive layout was changed from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive turbocharged models were offered from 1986 to 1999. Variable valve timing came in certain Japanese models starting from December 1997 and became standard in all models from the 2000 model year. In 1986, the six-cylinder Celica Supra variant was spun off as a separate model, becoming simply the Supra. Lightly altered versions of the Celica were also sold through as the Corona Coupé through the Toyopet dealer network in the 1980s and as the Toyota Curren through the Vista network in the 1990s.
The Toyota Celica Liftback GT won Motor Trend Car of the Year (Imported Vehicle) in 1976.
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Common 1986 Toyota Celica problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems with the Toyota Celica 1986 based on complaints from owners:
- Rough Idling and Misfires: Some owners have experienced rough driving, occasional misfires and backfires, along with the check engine light being illuminated. This issue is common in 1.8-liter models of the Celica and is attributed to valve performance problems. The solution involves rebuilding the cylinder head with new valves to address this issue.
- ABD Warning Light: Another common problem is the ABS light being illuminated without a noticeable loss of brake power. This issue is often caused by a worn-out wheel speed sensor, which can be replaced to resolve the problem. It is recommended to clean any rust or debris from the mounting area and ensure the front wheel bearings are not rubbing against the ABS trigger rings.
- Incorrect Gear Changes (All automatics): Owners of automatic Celica models have reported issues with incorrect gear changes. This problem is typically due to a misadjusted throttle position sensor or a broken shift solenoid. Adjusting the throttle position sensor or replacing the shift solenoid can rectify this issue.
- Braking Issues: Some owners have noted that the brakes are less effective than before, accompanied by a grinding sound when applied. This problem can arise from rusted brake discs due to long periods of inactivity. The solution involves ordering new brake discs and pads to replace the worn-out components.
- Sluggish Engine: Another common complaint is a sluggish engine performance while driving. This issue is often caused by a dirty fuel filter, which can be cleaned or replaced to improve engine performance.
- Squealing Sound When Starting: Owners have reported hearing a loud squealing sound during startup, which is likely due to faulty tensioner pulleys. Replacing the tensioner pulleys can resolve this issue and prevent further damage.
By addressing these common problems promptly and with the appropriate solutions, owners of the Toyota Celica 1986 can ensure a smoother driving experience and prolong the lifespan of their vehicle.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Celica?
The belt problem is common, especially when it rains, for Celica. If you still under the warranty, just go change a new one for free from your dealer.
How much is a 1986 Toyota Celica worth?
Hatchback
| 1986 Toyota Celica | Specs | Price |
|---|---|---|
| SX | Specs: 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol, 4 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $2,640 - $4,180 |
| (base) | Specs: 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol, 5 SPEED MANUAL | Price: $4,510 - $6,600 |
| ST | Specs: 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol, 5 SPEED MANUAL | Price: $2,640 - $4,070 |
| SX | Specs: 2.0L, Unleaded Petrol, 5 SPEED MANUAL | Price: $2,640 - $4,070 |
Is the Toyota Celica engine reliable?
In fact, many owners of Toyota Celicas report that with regular maintenance and care, these cars can easily exceed 200,000 miles. As a brand, Toyota has an excellent reputation for reliability and longevity, and the Celica is no exception to this.
What engine is in a 1986 Toyota Celica?
1986 Toyota CELICA (2.0L 4 -cyl Engine Code [S] 3S-GELC H) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Celica?
The belt problem is common, especially when it rains, for Celica. If you still under the warranty, just go change a new one for free from your dealer.
Is the Toyota Celica a reliable car?
Yes, Toyota Celicas are generally reliable cars. They are well-regarded for their durability, sporty performance, and long lifespan. In fact, many owners of Toyota Celicas report that with regular maintenance and care, these cars can easily exceed 200,000 miles.
What engine is in a 1986 Toyota Celica?
1986 Toyota CELICA (2.0L 4 -cyl Engine Code [S] 3S-GELC H) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
Is a Celica a good project car?
Toyota Celica
This solid foundation allowed it to become popular on the project car scene too, and even today there are still a wide range of upgrade parts readily available to help turn this car into a fun track-day weapon.
1986 Toyota Celica car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Celica problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Toyota Celica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Toyota Celica complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Toyota Celica.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER INSTALLATION OF THE NEW FUEL FILTER THE VEHICLE BEGAN LEAKING FUEL, THE HONEYWELL FUEL FILTER NUT DOES NOT TIGHTEN ADEQUATELY (HONEYWELL FUEL FILTER FRAM G6476). NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-05-17
- VIN: JT2876504G7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ACCELERATOR PEDAL STUCK, AND ENGINE WAS REVVING HIGH. WOULD NOT RETURN TO NORMAL. TOOK TO DEALER & WAS INFORMED THE CABLE HAD CRACKED DUE TO VEHICLE GETTING OLDER.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER FAILURES. OWNER BANGS IT AND IT WORKS FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2ST65L8G7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY AND THE SHELF THAT BATTERY SAT ON FELL INTO ENGINE AND CAUGHT ON FIRE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-01
- VIN: JT2ST65LXG7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-01
- VIN: JT2ST65C9G7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE HEAD CYLINDER FAILURE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-15
- VIN: JT2ST65C9G7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE INSTALLING CHILD SAFETY SEAT, SEAT BELT BUCKLE SNAPPED OFF. *SD
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-12
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY. THE FEMALE END WILL NOT RECIEVE THE MALE PART AND THE RED BUTTON IS BROKEN. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-04
- VIN: JT2ST65L2G7
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PLASTIC SEAT BELT BUCKLE ON DRIVERS SIDE SPLIT, ALLOWING TO SLIP OUT OF BUCKLE THROUGH SPLIT. *AK
1986 Toyota Celica recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1986 Toyota Celica.
- Manufacturer: RIDE CONTROL, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Toyota Celica problems:
Common Problems...MKII | Toyota Celica Supra Forum
Aug 6, 2005 ... The car also needs a head gasket and a clutch master cylinder. The engine bay is clean. Also, are parts expensive and hard to find for these ...
2003 Toyota Celica GT: Common Problems, Engine Issues & Q&A
Jul 1, 2012 ... Hello and welcome to Just Answer I would be happy to assist you. ddamato1986 : Is the check engine light currently on? ddamato1986 : If so ...
Common Problems? Upgrades? | Supra Forums
Jul 15, 2002 ... MKII (1982-1986) ... common on the Mk II Supra's and Celica's. I ... supraforums.com is an independent Toyota enthusiast website owned and operated ...
1986 Toyota Celica Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Aug 19, 2008 ... Engine still runs strong and needs a quart every month or so. Steering fluid leaks; a common problem. New problem I have is after driving it ...
1986 Celica ST 2.0L SOHC 2S-E Model 21 65K Opinion wanted on ...
May 22, 2011 ... I was told that this engine was one of the best that Toyota ever made. ... Some common problems - turn the key and the ... Dear Canadian neighbor: I ...
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