1994 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 1994 Toyota Celica problems
The Toyota Celica, a popular sports car, has had its fair share of issues over the years, particularly with the third-generation models produced between 1982 and 1985. One of the most common problems with these models was rust, which affected the body panels, particularly around the wheel arches and the rear hatch.
In addition to rust, the third-generation Celica models also had engine-specific issues. The 2.2-liter 5S-FE engine, used in the sixth-generation Celica models produced between 1990 and 1993, had issues with the timing belt tensioner, which could fail and cause the timing belt to slip or break, resulting in engine damage. Another issue with this engine was with the valve cover gasket, which could leak oil onto the spark plugs and cause misfires.
The 2.0-liter 3S-GTE engine, used in the Celica GT-Four and All-Trac models produced between 1988 and 1999, had issues with the turbocharger oil seals, which could lead to oil leaks and engine damage if not addressed. Others reported issues with the fuel injectors, which could fail and cause misfires.
The 1.8-liter 2ZZ-GE engine, used in the seventh-generation Celica models produced between 2000 and 2005, had issues with oil consumption, which could be caused by worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Another issue with this engine was with the lift bolts, which could fail and cause engine damage.
The 1.6-liter 4A-GE engine, used in the fifth-generation Celica models produced between 1983 and 1989, had issues with the head gasket, which could fail and cause coolant leaks and overheating. Another issue with this engine was with the timing belt tensioner, which could fail and cause the timing belt to slip or break, resulting in engine damage.
However, it's important to note that many Celica models have proven to be reliable and long-lasting with proper maintenance and care. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections can help identify and address issues before they become major problems.
In addition to engine issues, the Toyota Celica has also had problems with the automatic transmission, which may not shift correctly at high mileages.
Incorrect gear changes in automatic models may be caused by a throttle position sensor that is out of adjustment or a broken shift solenoid.
In conclusion, while the Toyota Celica has had its share of issues over the years, many of these problems can be addressed with proper maintenance and care. Regular inspections and repairs can help ensure that the Celica remains a reliable and long-lasting vehicle for many drivers.
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.
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 to look for when buying a Celica?
Check compression on all cylinders, should be around 200 PSI +/- 10% of each other. Check for possible head gasket leaks or cracks in valve head and engine block with oil and coolant mixed in engine oil and radiator coolant.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Celica?
Rough Idling and Misfires (All 1.8-ltr Engines)
The car is driving roughly, misfires and backfires occasionally, and the check engine light is lit. The car may also stall often and lose power.
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.
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.
What generation is 1994 Celica?
sixth-gen
The 1994 model year marked the sixth-gen Celica's first on the U.S. market, and the two available trims offered buyers a choice between a base ST trim and a sportier GT trim. The entry-level ST came with a 1.8-liter engine, while the GT got a larger 2.2-liter engine shared with the Camry.
1994 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
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Toyota Celica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1994 Toyota Celica complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Toyota Celica.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS IN A FRONT ON COLLISION ON A CITY STREET. I WAS TRAVELING 25 AND OTHER CAR 35 HIT ME HEAD ON. MY PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG EXPLODED WHEN IT DEPLOYED TAKING OUT WINDSHIELD SCATTERING GLASS EVERYWHERE WHICH CUT ME. I BREATHED IN THE POWDER FROM THE AIRBAG AND HAD DIFFICULTY BREATHING FOR SOME TIME. I INITIALLY SUFFERED ALMOST TOTAL HEARING LOSS RIGHT EAR AND PERMANENT DIMINISHED HEARING. REPORTED TO TOYOTA WHEN OCCURRED AND NEVER RECEIVED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF MY CONCERN AND COMPLAINT. I COMPLAINED THAT ABOUT MY INJURIES AND CONCERN THAT HAD SOMEONE BEEN IN PASSENGER SEAT THEY MOST PROBABLY WOULD HAVE DIED OR BEEN SEVERELY INJURED. I HAVE MANY PICTURES AND DOCUMENTATION OF MY INJURY IF THIS IS OF INTEREST TO NHTSA SO MANY YEARS POST OCCURRENCE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-01
- VIN: JT2AT00N1R0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 TOYOTA CELICA. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE, THE GEAR LEVER WAS SHIFTED INTO REVERSE BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO REVERSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILED RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-20
- VIN: JT2ST07N5R0
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES
- Summary: STEERING, SUSPENSION, CLUTCH AND BRAKES, COOLING SYSTEM AND DRIVEABILITY, FUEL AND FLUID BREAKDOWN. SEVERE COMPONENT FAILURE LEADING BACK TO ECU AND EMISSION SYSTEM SENSORS NOT ACTIVATING WARNING LIGHTS NOR SENDING TROUBLE CODES. ENGINE COMPRESSION FANTASTIC, ENGINE SENSORS CHECK OK BUT CAR IS TOO UNSAFE TO DRIVE NOR RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-30
- VIN: JT2AT00F5R0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON 11/02/02 WE PURCHASED 4 KELLY SPRINGFIELD 185/70R14 METRIC TIRES WITH A MFGS 50,000 MILE WARRANTY FOR OUR TOYOTA CELICA. ON 11/25/2002, THE DEALER REPLACED THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE WHICH DEVELOPED A BULDGE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE TIRE. ON 08/30/03 MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE CELICA ON THE FREEWAY AND THE LEFT FRONT TIRE EXPERIENCED A BLOW OUT. INSPECTION OF THE TIRE REVEALS THAT THAT THE BLOWOUT PRODUCED A VERTICAL GASH FROM THE RIM TO THE TIRE TREAD. THE TIRE WILL BE TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPLACEMENT ON 09/04/03. THE TIRES HAVE LESS THAN 12,000 MILE OF WEAR ON THEM. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-01
- VIN: JT2AT00F3R0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH OF MY REAR SEATBELTS, WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN USED VERY OFTEN, HAVE BROKE. THE FIRST BROKE A WHILE BACK. WE DON'T USE THIS CAR TO TRANSPORT OUR CHILDREN VERY MUCH, AND I'M SURPRISED THAT THEY BOTH BROKE. PART OF ME SUSPECTS THAT TOYOTA PUT IN A CHEAPER SEATBELT ASSEMBLY ASSUMING THAT THE BACK SEAT IN A SPORTS CAR WOULD NOT BE USED ALL THAT OFTEN. THE DEALERSHIP I WENT TO(BRUNSWICK AUTO MART) WANTED TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELTS, CITING IT AS A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT TOYOTA SAYS NO. MY IMPRESSION WAS THAT IT WAS NOT THAT UNCOMMON OF A PROBLEM, AND I THINK IT SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO YOUR ATTENTION.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2ST07N4R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: UPON A FRONT END COLLISION AT 45 MPH WITH OVER 4500.00 WORTH OR DAMAGE THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHICH CAUSED SERIOUS INJURIES TO MYSELF. THEN AFTER REPAIRS THE AIR BAG LIGHT WOULD NOT GO OFF SHOWING A FAILURE THAT THEY WERE NOW INOPERABLE YOU TAKE YOUR PICK WHICH IS WORSE!
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-01
- VIN: 1 BAD TOYOT
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT ANCHOR LOOSENED AND DETACHED. AND MY THROTTLE STICKS IN THE CLOSED POSITION MAKING CITY-TRAFFIC DRIVING A REAL MOTHER. CHEERS AND HAVE A NICE DAY NOW!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-14
- VIN: JT2AT00F0R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON DUE TO A DEFECTIVE AIRBAG UNIT WHICH BURNED OUT AND WON'T DEPLOY IN EVENT OF A CRASH, SO IT WONT PROTECT THE OCCUPANT. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-17
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH HAD A DIRECT FRONTAL IMPACT IN WHICH THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT NOT THE PASSENGER'S AIRBAG WHICH DID NOT PROTECT THE OCCUPANT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION AND VIN#. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: RIGHT REAR ABS BRAKES FAILED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2AT00N6R0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE SEVERELY PULLS TO THE LEFT, EVEN AFTER FRONT END ALIGNMENTS.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: WIFE DRIVING VEHICLE, HAD SEAT BELT ON, COMING TO A STOP LIGHT, TOUCHED BRAKES (ABS) TO SLOW DOWN, VEHICLE SHIFTED TO RIGHT AND THEN SPUN AROUND, VEHICLE THEN HIT LAMP POLE, AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND BURST WINDSHIELD.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-18
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2ST07N2R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHEN INVOLVED IN A LOW SPEED COLLISION BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND PASSENGER AIR BAG SHATTERED WINDSHIELD AND SHREADED AIR BAG. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-03-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT00N4R0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CAR WAS IN AN ACCIDENT AND THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-07-01
- VIN: JT2ST07N4R0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL ACTUATOR FAILED. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-15
- VIN: JT2AT00F0R0
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT ADJUSTMENT BROKE. *SKD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT00FXR0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED, RESULTING IN ACCIDENT. *TW
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AT00FXR0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: OTHER: PASSENGER AIRBAG SMASHED WINDSHIELD UPON DEPLOYMENT, SPREADING GLASS THROUGHOUT VEHICLE INTERIOR. *TW
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-07
- VIN: JT2ST07N1R0
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: STEREO SPEAKERS FAILED. *SKD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-09
- VIN: JT2AT00N2R0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE PULLS TO LEFT SEVERELY. *DH
Positive 1994 Toyota Celica car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1994 Toyota Celica problems:
1994 Toyota Celica Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Problem with your 1994 Toyota Celica? Our list of 18 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1994 Toyota Celica.
Considering to buy a 6th gen Celica, Common problems? : r/Celica
Nov 25, 2019 ... Hi. I'm considering buying a Celica from 94' as a potential summer car or all year car depending if I wanna get rid of my Pug 208 daily.
Things to look out for | Toyota Celica Forum
Jun 12, 2006 ... And it's a Toyota! What are some of the common problems with the 5th gen Celicas that might pop up, given their age?
6th Generation (1994-1999) Celica Problems
Common 1994-1999 Toyota Celica Problems. Some of the worst issues 6th generation Celica owners have to deal with. Oil Sludge in Toyota Engines. Toyota settled ...
1994-1999 toyota celica...reliable car? | Toyota Nation Forum
Mar 1, 2013 ... there is also a common problem of no start ( starter clicks but doesn't turn. but i solved that with a hotswitch. very very reliable ...
Other years of Toyota Celica
Are you having problems with your 1994 Toyota Celica?
Tony Streich 2024-11-16
It's great to hear that you've had this car for almost 8 years and it's been so reliable! It's impressive that you've only had to replace the clutch at 108K miles. Although you need the valve seals replaced due to age, it's wonderful that you haven't had any other problems with it at 167K miles. The a/c and heating system sounds superb and it's fantastic that it handles like a sports car. It's also great that it still looks stylish even though it's 13 years old. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with this car!
Grayce Moen 2024-11-05
If you're looking for an economical, sporty, and fun car, this is the best one. It's also very reliable.
Albert Windler 2024-10-17
At 213000 miles, I was hit in the side and pushed into a telephone pole head-on. Despite the impact, my car ran great and everything was exceptional. The transmission shifted great, and the Celica did great this winter. I am sorry to say goodbye, but I am grateful for the safety and crashworthiness that saved my life.
Osbaldo DuBuque 2024-09-08
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that at 109,000 miles, your vehicle had its first repair job other than regular maintenance - the AC valve was replaced. The original front brake pads were replaced at 70,000 miles, while the original rear shoes lasted until 92,000 miles. It's great to hear that the engine and transmission are still performing well, and that the oil is still clean at oil change time. It's also impressive that your vehicle has never needed oil added between changes. Keep up the good work!
Dorian Hand 2024-09-06
The car idealized by Scotty Kilmer is not done so foolishly. I bought a '94 with no rust for $1600 in Iowa in 2017 with 160,000 miles and have put 50,000 hard miles on since. I've delivered 5000+ pizza orders and the engine still doesn't burn any oil or have any sludge forming whatsoever. Although I did have a transmission mount come off with part of the manual transmission, to be fair, it was riding on 17's on vomit-inducing bumpy roads. It's pretty easy to work on yourself and junkyard parts are great because none of the parts are known to be problematic in the first place, so few people pick them off. There's something magical about rolling around in a 25-year-old car, knowing that it's in better shape than most cars half its age. They don't build them this good anymore.