1996 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 1996 Toyota Celica problems
The Toyota Celica 1996 is known to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, transmission, brakes, and noise issues.
- Rough Idling and Misfires: The car may drive roughly, misfire, and backfire occasionally. This issue is prevalent in the 1.8-liter engines of the Toyota Celica 1996. The problem is due to 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.
- ABD Warning Light: The ABS light may be illuminated, indicating a problem with the anti-lock braking system. This issue is common in high-mileage Celicas and is often 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: The automatic transmission may not shift correctly at high mileages. This problem is often caused by a throttle position sensor that is out of adjustment or a broken shift solenoid. The solution is to adjust the throttle position sensor or replace the broken shift solenoid.
- Chirping At Idle: A high-pitched chirping sound may be heard on cold mornings when the car is idling. This issue is caused by a faulty tensioner pulley that is close to breaking. The solution is to replace the faulty tensioner pulley with a new one.
- Braking Issues: The brakes may not be as effective as they used to be, and there may be a grinding sound when applied. This problem is often caused by rusted brake discs and worn-out brake pads. The solution is to replace the brake discs and pads with new ones.
- Sluggish Engine: The engine may feel sluggish when driving. This issue is often caused by a dirty fuel filter. The solution is to remove the fuel filter and clean it thoroughly. In some cases, the filter may need to be replaced.
- Squealing Sound When Starting: A loud squealing sound may be heard when starting the car. This issue is caused by a faulty tensioner pulley that is close to breaking. The solution is to replace the faulty tensioner pulley with a new one.
These common problems with the Toyota Celica 1996 can be resolved by replacing the faulty parts with new ones or adjusting the sensors that are out of adjustment. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of the 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.
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.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Toyota Celica get?
Based on data from 18 vehicles, 1,210 fuel-ups and 398,620 miles of driving, the 1996 Toyota Celica gets a combined Avg MPG of 28.25 with a 0.35 MPG margin of error.
Are 1996 Celicas reliable?
The Celica is solid, reasonably sporty, and has an outstanding reliability record. We can't recommend it, though, when less-expensive and speedier cars like the Probe GT, Neon Sport Coupe and Acura Integra are available for the taking.
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 is the fuel consumption of a 1996 Toyota Celica?
Toyota Celica 1996 Fuel consumption
| Toyota Celica Model | Body Type | Fuel Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| SX | Hatchback | 8.1L/100km |
| SX | Hatchback | 8.3L/100km |
| ZR | Hatchback | 8.1L/100km |
| ZR | Hatchback | 8.3L/100km |
1996 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Toyota Celica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Toyota Celica complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Toyota Celica.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-02
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: XXXXXXXXXXX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN MY 1996 TOYOTA CELICA MALFUNCTIONED WHILE I WAS TRAVELING ON I-75 SOUTH NEAR PIQUA, OHIO. MY LANE OF TRAFFIC (PASSING LANE) WAS SLOWING DOWN DUE TO CONSTRUCTION, SO I ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN. TO MY SURPRISE, MY BRAKE PEDAL WOULD NOT RESPOND (EITHER DUE TO A MALFUNCTION OF EITHER THE CRUISE CONTROL OR ACCELERATOR--OR BOTH), AND I HAD TO MOVE TO THE MEDIAN. UNFORTUNATELY, WHEN I TRIED TO BRAKE AGAIN, THE BRAKES WOULD NOT ENGAGE AND THE MEDIAN ENDED. MY CAR TRAVELED AIRBORNE OFF THE MEDIAN AND PLUMMETED TO THE ROAD BENEATH I-75. MY CAR TOOK OUT A SET OF CABLE WIRES, JUMPED A FENCE, BEFORE LANDING ON THE BUSY ROAD BELOW AND STOPPED WHEN IT HIT A CONCRETE BRIDGE SUPPORT. AN AMBULANCE WAS CALLED AS WELL AS THE OHIO STATE HIGHWAY PATROL. EVERYONE INVOLVED WAS SURPRISED THAT MY PASSENGER AND I WERE NOT INSTANTLY KILLED! WE DID SUFFER SOME MINOR INJURIES AND THE CAR WAS TOTALED. I DISTINCTLY REMEMBER STEPPING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL SEVERAL TIMES TO NO AVAIL. I REPORTED THIS TO TOYOTA AND THEY WERE INITIALLY VERY COOPERATIVE AND UNDERSTANDING. THEY WOULD NOT PROMISE ANYTHING, BUT ASKED WHAT I EXPECTED. I TOLD THEM I THOUGHT THAT TOYOTA SHOULD AT LEAST REPLACE MY CAR. THEY DID NOT SEE A PROBLEM WITH THIS. THEY LATER ASSUMED NO LIABILITY AND REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING. TO FOLLOW UP, I WOULD HAVE NEEDED TO COME UP WITH $25,000 TO HIRE AN ACCIDENT RECONSTRUCTIONIST. I DID NOT HAVE THAT AMOUNT OF CASH, SO I DROPPED IT. I RECENTLY HAVE BEEN AMAZED IN READING SEVERAL COMPLAINTS VERY SIMILAR TO MINE AND THINK THAT THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR TOYOTA TO RIGHT WHAT WAS OBVIOUSLY A WRONG IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF MY CAR. MY PASSENGER HAS SWELLING TO HER LEFT EYE THAT HAS HEALED, BUT I HAVE HAD PAIN IN MY ELBOW AND SHOULDER EVER SINCE. THANKS FOR LISTENING. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANYTHING YOU CAN DO TO ASSIST. I CAN NOT PROVIDE THE VIN #, AS THE CAR WAS TOTALED SEVERAL YEARS AGO. I LEFT THE NUMBER [XXX] AS THE VIN NUMBER. *TR INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-09
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AS STATED IN RECALL 96-E-001-000 CONCERNING SUDDEN ACCELERATION. DEALER WOULD NOT REPAIR THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-28
- VIN: JT2DG02T3T0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE IDLE CONTROL VALVE IS DEFECTIVELY DESIGNED; IT GETS CLOGGED, MAKING MY CAR STALL REPEATEDLY WHEN IT IS COLD. IT HAS HAD TO BE REPLACED ABOUT ONCE A YEAR. LAST YEAR THEY TOLD ME THE PART HAD BEEN REDESIGNED AND I WOULDN'T HAVE ANY MORE TROUBLE. THIS YEAR THEY ADMITTED IT IS UNFIXABLE (EXCEPT BY REPLACEMENT EACH YEAR). TOYOTA REFUSES TO PROVIDE A LIFETIME WARRANTY FOR THE DEFECTIVELY DESIGNED PART. I THINK THEY SHOULD EITHER COVER THE PART FOR THE LIFE OF THE CAR, OR BUY THE [XXX] THING BACK. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-01
- VIN: JT2DG02T3T0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IDLE CONTROL VALVE GETS CLOGGED UP, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO START.IDLE CONTROL VALVE WAS REPLACED TWICE, BUT PROBLEM CONTINUES. DEALER CLAIMS THIS PROBLEM APPERA IN THE 1996 AND 1997 MODELS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2ST64LXG7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DIFFICULTY STARTING VEHICLE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2DG02T9T0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ALARM FAILED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: JT2DG02T8T0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BROKEN BOLT ON THE BRAKE CALIPER.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-15
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHENEVER LETTING UP ON ACCELERATOR/VEHICLE COASTING AND JERKS VIOLENTLY, ACCORDING TO DEALER, IT IS A DESIGN FEATURE OF FUEL INJECTION SHUT OFF VALVE SENSOR, NOTHING THEY CAN DO.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JM1BB1417TO
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE VEHICLE LOST ITS POWER BRAKES AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
1996 Toyota Celica recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Toyota Celica.
- Manufacturer: ROSTRA PRECISION CONTROLS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THESE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS FAIL TO HOLD THE SPEED SET BY THE DRIVER AND CAN ACCELERATE ABOVE THE INTENDED SET SPEED.
- Consequence: UNINTENDED ACCELERATION CAN INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE CRUISE CONTROL ASSEMBLIES.
Positive 1996 Toyota Celica car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Toyota Celica problems:
1996 Toyota Celica Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Toyota Celica? Our list of 18 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Toyota Celica.
1996 Toyota Celica GT? : r/askcarguys
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Other years of Toyota Celica
Are you having problems with your 1996 Toyota Celica?
Jamar Considine 2025-01-08
This car has been through a lot, but it still runs like a dream. I take great care of it and keep detailed records, but it has definitely been driven hard over the years. Despite that, it has never had any major issues beyond normal wear and tear. In fact, most of the original parts like the brakes, wiper blades, dome and tail lights are still going strong.
Monty Cruickshank 2024-11-11
I was a bit hesitant about purchasing a used car from a dealership, but after taking it for a test drive, I had a good feeling about it. The dealer was very transparent about the car's history and assured me that it had no hidden issues. I have been extremely pleased with my purchase and have only had to do routine maintenance, which has been very affordable. This Toyota has been so reliable that it almost feels like it has a personality of its own. Although I haven't given it a name or talked to it like a baby, I have given it a friendly pat on the dashboard a few times.
Hugh Aufderhar 2024-10-19
My car always gets attention! People often ask if it's new, but I tell them it's actually a 1995 model. They can hardly believe it! I absolutely love my car and would definitely recommend it. Plus, it's a sports car!
Emil Mitchell 2024-10-14
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it used with 120,xxx miles and, except for a timing belt change, it has been running perfectly and quietly. I've put 20,xxx miles on it and it still runs great! The gas mileage is also amazing, I get 28 mpg in the city! It's also really fun to drive, although it's a little underpowered. But, I'd give up power for gas mileage any day. The car looks great too, like a sports car. The interior is also really nice, although there's not enough room in the back for even a teenager. Overall, I highly recommend it!
Giovanni Bruen 2024-10-05
My wife brought this car into our marriage and I absolutely love it! It gets awesome gas mileage and handles great. The only issue I have is that it can be difficult to shift if both cup holders are filled. Additionally, since it's a CA car, we had to remove the AM thing from the distributor cap as it was causing the car to short out and die instantly. However, besides this, we haven't had any maintenance problems.