1990 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 1990 Toyota Celica problems
The Toyota Celica 1990 is a popular sports car that has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. These issues range from engine failure to transmission problems, and they can significantly affect the car's performance and safety.
One of the most common problems with the Toyota Celica 1990 is engine failure. The engine may not start, or it may produce a rattling sound when it does start. This problem is usually caused by a failed timing chain tensioner that has a leak, preventing it from applying pressure. If left unaddressed, this issue can lead to more faults, and the car may not be safe to drive. The solution is to replace the revised timing chain tensioner as soon as possible.
Another common problem with the Toyota Celica 1990 is rough idling and misfires. This issue is caused by a soft valve seat that wears down quickly, leading to corrosion. The solution is to remove the cylinder head and rebuild it using the valves ordered from BreakerYard.
The ABS warning light may also be illuminated in the Toyota Celica 1990, indicating a problem with the ABS system. This issue is common in high-mileage cars and is usually caused by a worn-out wheel speed sensor. The solution is to replace the sensor and clean any rust or debris from the mounting area.
Incorrect gear changes are also a common problem with the automatic transmission of the Toyota Celica 1990. This issue is usually caused by a throttle position sensor that is out of adjustment or a broken shift solenoid. The solution is to adjust the sensor or replace the solenoid.
A high-pitched chirping sound on cold mornings when the car is idling is another issue reported by Toyota Celica 1990 owners. This problem is caused by the tensioner pulleys, which are close to breaking. The solution is to replace any faulty tensioner pulleys.
Braking issues are also common in the Toyota Celica 1990, with some owners reporting a grinding sound when the brakes are applied. This issue is usually caused by rusted brake discs that cause the brake pads to wear out more quickly. The solution is to replace the brake discs and pads.
Finally, the engine may feel sluggish when driving, indicating a problem with the fuel filter. This issue is caused by a dirty fuel filter that needs to be cleaned or replaced.
In conclusion, the Toyota Celica 1990 is a popular sports car that has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. These issues can significantly affect the car's performance and safety, and they range from engine failure to transmission problems. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's safety and longevity.
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.
Are Toyota Celicas expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Toyota Celica is $367.
How long do Toyota Celica engines last?
Hilux's are known to run well past 300,000 miles, and the AE86's are known to run perfectly beyond 250,000 as well. Well maintained, a Celica or other Toyota could probably do about 250,000 miles.
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 1990 Toyota Celica?
Used 1990 Toyota Celica - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.2 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 130 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
Why did Toyota stop the Celica?
The Celica started as a cheap, fun sports coupe but its success in rally racing is what made the Celica into a true icon. Unfortunately, as the economy changed and consumer's tastes shifted, Toyota killed off the Celica in 2005.
1990 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:
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Toyota Celica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Toyota Celica
The NHTSA has received 34 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Toyota Celica. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Toyota Celica vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-14
- VIN: JT2ST87F7L0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" I HAVE A 1990 TOYOTA CELICA GT, MY AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON BACK AROUND 2003, I TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TO HAVE IT FIXED. A SERVICE MEMBER CAME OUT TO MY CAR WITH A HANDHELD DEVICE AND PLUGGED IT INTO THE CAR. BOTTOM LINE, HE TRIED SEVERAL TIMES TO RESET THE AIRBAG WITH NO SUCCESS. MY AIRBAG LIGHT IS STILL ON AND I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY RECALLS OR NOTICES. HOW DO I GET THIS PROBLEM FIXED?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT86F1L0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 1990 TOYOTA CELICA ST WAS IN AN ACCIDENT IN SAN LEANDRO FEB 22, 2003. I WAS STAYING IN FREMONT, CA. MY AIR BAG BURST OPEN AND THE CHEMICALS BURNED MY FACE AND ARMS. I WENT TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM AT WASHINGTON HOSPITAL, FREMONT,CA. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-01
- VIN: JT2ST87N3L0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 TOYOTA CELICA. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL. HE WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THEN IT WOULD PERFORM AS NORMAL. THE CONTACT DID NOT INFORM THE DEALER OR MANUFACTURER DUE TO THE AGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE THEY REPLACED THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO OCCUR. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-21
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PATCHES OF THE TIRE FALLING OFF AS IF IT IS A RETREAD, VERY DANGEROUS IF I DON'T REPLACE SOON. NOTICED IT AT 30K ON TIRES.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-29
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE STALLED. CONSUMER WAS NOT ABLE TO RESTART VEHICLE, AND IT WAS TOWED TO A GARAGE FOR INSPECTION. MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-07
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT86F2L0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MY 1990 TOYOTA CELICA HAS 'SURGED FORWARD' FREQUENTLY, ALWAYS WHEN USING THE BRAKE. IT CAUSED ME TO REAR END ANOTHER VEHICLE IN THE EARLY 90'S, NO PEOPLE WERE HURT, BUT THERE WAS VEHICLE DAMAGE. THE BRAKE CAN BE COMPLETLY DEPRESED, WHEN THE CAR WILL LURCH FORWARD AND THE BRAKE TENSION WILL REDUCE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-25
- VIN: JT2ST87N1L0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CONSUMER PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DECELERATE. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO ACCELERATE TO 90 MPH UNTIL OWNER PRESSED ON BRAKE PEDAL NUMEROUS TIMES TO STOP VEHICLE. *AK THE CONSUMER STEPPED ON THE BRAKES SEVERAL TIMES BUT HAD NO BOOSTER. *SCC
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PROVIDE
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT YET NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND THE SEAT BELTS DID NOT PROPERLY RESTRAIN THE PASSENGERS. *NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-12
- VIN: JT2ST87FXL0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: OPENING OF TRUNK - LID HINGE SNAPPED IN HALF LIKE METAL FATIGUE. TOYOTA DEALER SAID THEY HAVE HAD SEVERAL CAR HINGES REPLACED AT OWNERS EXPENSE: $207.00 QUOTED. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-08
- VIN: JT2AT86F9L0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH FAILED, THE LATCH RETURN SPRING BROKE AND REMAINED INSIDE THE LATCH MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SECURELY FASTEN THE SEAT BELT. NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-07-03
- VIN: JT2ST87N9L0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM SEEMS TO HAVE AN OFF-AND-ON DEFECT. IT REPEATEDLY REGISTERS THE PARKING BRAKE AS BEING "ON" WHEN THE BRAKE IS, AND HAS BEEN, IN THE "OFF" POSITION. THE DASH BOARD LIGHTS, INCLUDING SPEEDOMETER, RADIO, HEAT/AIR, AND ALL OTHER DASHBOARD LIGHTING COMPONENTS GO OUT WITHOUT WARNING, AS DOES THE INTERIOR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT LIGHT OPERATED BY OPENING OR CLOSING THE DOORS. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK HINGES WERE NOT STRONG ENOUGH AND WORE OUT, CAUSING TRUNK TO BE OUT ALIGNMENT, AND PREVENTING IT FROM FULLY CLOSING. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2ST87F6L0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I AM SMALL, AND THE SEAT BELT COMES ACROSS ME HIGH ON MY NECK, THE DEALER SAYS THERE IS NO FIX BUT I AM AFRAID THAT I WILL BE INJURED BY THE BELT, ANY SUGGESTIONS? *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-21
- VIN: JT2ST88P9L0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE ORIGIONAL TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS ARE: HARD INTO 2ND GEAR & GRIND ON UP&DOWN SHIFT, 3RD GEAR GRIND UP&DOWN SHIFT, 4TH GEAR GRIND ON UPSHIFT & LOCK OUT OF GEAR ON DOWN SHIFT. THE "NEW" TRANSMISSION (THATS THE WAY TOYOTA SELLS IT, NO REMANUFACTURED UNITS AVAILABLE, DEALER ITEM ONLY) PROBLEMS ARE: HARD IN TO 2ND ON DOWN SHIFT, 3RD GEAR GRIND ON UP&DOWN SHIFT, LOCK OUT OF 4TH GEAR ON DOWN SHIFT & GRIND IF ENGAGED, 5TH GEAR GRIND ON UP SHIFT. NEW TRANSMISSION PURCHASED JULY 1998. PROBLEMS DOCUMENTED BEFORE WARRANTY EXPIRED IN JULY 1999 BY DEALER & CLUTCH CONNECTION. THE NEW TRANSMISSION WAS PURCHASED AT FAIRFIELD TOYOTA AND INSTALLED AT CLUTCH CONNECTION 327 TEXAS ST., FAIRFIELD, CA 94533. PHONE# 707-422-5607.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER FAILED DUE TO A FAULTY EVAPORATOR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-14
- VIN: JT2ST8F9L00
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S AIR BAG DURING FRONTAL COLLISION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-07
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT86F1L0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVING AT SPEED OF 25MPH, VEHICLE IMPACT 12:00 POSITION, DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-28
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT86FSP0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS SITTING AT STOP SIGN AND ANOTHER CAR CRASHED INTO IT, HITTING BOTH SIDES AND THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. 2ND TIME INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND ALSO NO DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-20
- VIN: JT2ST87FXL0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE WILL NOT RETRACT. WHEN PUTTING THE SEAT BELT ON IT JUST HANGS LOOSE .TOOK IN FOR REPAIR BUT DID NOT HAVE IT DONE BECAUSE DEALER SAID IT WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY DURING FRONTAL CRASH. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNSPECIFIED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2ST87F9L0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DURING FRONTAL IMPACT, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2ST87E4L0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SHORT, CAUSING FIRE. *SD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2ST87E4L0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTOR LEAK, CAUSING FIRE. *SD
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-16
- VIN: JT2ST87E4L0
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: SMELL DETECTED FROM AIR CONDITIONER. *SD
1990 Toyota Celica recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 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.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: AIR BAG INFLATOR CASE WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
- Consequence: IN AN ACCIDENT, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT DEPLOY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN INCREASED INJURY TO THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: REPLACE AIR BAG INFLATOR UNIT.
Negative 1990 Toyota Celica car reviews
Positive 1990 Toyota Celica car reviews
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This car kicks! It is one of the best cars that I have ever owned.
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I recently bought this car and I absolutely love it! I've been wanting this car since it first came out in 1990, but I always ended up buying SUVs instead. The one I bought has a lot of miles on it, but it still looks and drives like new. I drove it 600 miles from where I bought it and it handled beautifully. It has great mileage, super handling, and it still turns heads on the road :) This is going to be a great second car, even though I just bought a new Hummer H3. I can't decide which vehicle I'm more excited about! lol
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Hi there! I'm 21 years old and I've had this car since I was 17. I'm happy to say that it has never given me a single problem. It's very fast, picks up quickly, and has a really nice sporty style. Even though my mileage is over 160 now, the car still looks and feels like new!
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I can't bear to part with this car...I've loved driving it since the day I bought it. It's always been reliable, with only minor repairs needed. I'm planning to upgrade to a 2003 model and pass this 1990 gem on to someone who will appreciate it just as much. I will say, the back seat isn't the most comfortable for passengers to exit, but that's a small price to pay for such a great ride.
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Very nice look! Although the performance is not great, with a 0-60 time of 7.4 seconds, it is very good in winter.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Toyota Celica problems:
1990 Toyota Celica Problems and Complaints - 23 Issues
Problem with your 1990 Toyota Celica? Our list of 23 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1990 Toyota Celica.
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Other years of Toyota Celica
Are you having problems with your 1990 Toyota Celica?
Branson Funk 2024-03-27
This vehicle is enjoyable to drive on occasions, but the limited cargo room can be a problem. Although repairs can be costly, they are worth paying for due to the car's reliability.