2004 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 2004 Toyota Celica problems
The Toyota Celica 2004 is known for a few common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues range from engine failure to braking and electrical problems.
Engine Failure
One of the most significant issues with the Toyota Celica 2004 is engine failure. This problem is often caused by a failed timing chain tensioner, which can lead to rattling sounds coming from the engine and the check engine light flashing on. If ignored, this problem can cause the car to go into limp-home mode, making it unsafe to drive. The solution is to replace the revised timing chain tensioner as soon as possible.
Rough Idling and Misfires (All 1.8-ltr Engines)
Another common problem with the Toyota Celica 2004 is rough idling and misfires, particularly in the 1.8-ltr models. This issue is caused by a soft valve seat that can wear down quickly, leading to valve performance problems. The solution is to rebuild the cylinder head using new valves, which is a big job but can be done with the help of walkthrough guides.
ABD Warning Light
The ABS warning light can also be a common problem in the Toyota Celica 2004. This issue is caused by a worn-out wheel speed sensor, which can be replaced with a new one. It is essential to clean any rust or debris from the mounting area and check that the front wheel bearings are not rubbing against the ABS trigger rings to prevent this problem from recurring.
Incorrect Gear Changes (All automatics)
The automatic transmission in the Toyota Celica 2004 can also have issues with incorrect gear changes. This problem is often caused by a throttle position sensor that is out of adjustment. The solution is to adjust the sensor or replace it if it is broken.
Chirping At Idle
A high-pitched chirping sound at idle is another common problem in the Toyota Celica 2004. This issue is caused by a failing tensioner pulley and can be resolved by replacing any faulty tensioner pulleys with new ones.
Braking Issues
The brakes in the Toyota Celica 2004 can also have issues, particularly if the car has long periods of inactivity. This problem is caused by rusted brake discs, which can lead to reduced brake effectiveness and a grinding sound when the brakes are applied. The solution is to replace the brake discs and pads with new ones.
Sluggish Engine
A sluggish engine is another common problem in the Toyota Celica 2004. This issue is caused by a dirty fuel filter and can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the filter. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing the fuel filter, can help prevent this problem from occurring.
These are some of the most common problems reported by Toyota Celica 2004 owners. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues from becoming more significant problems that can affect the car's safety and reliability.
Are 2004 Celicas reliable?
User Reviews for the 2004 Toyota Celica
Fuel mileage is the best I've ever seen, 555 miles per tank highway driving, 430-450 in town. Extremely reliable, cheap to fix, and a sleek ride for being so “old”.
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.
Are Toyota Celicas expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Toyota Celica is $367.
Are 2004 Celicas reliable?
User Reviews for the 2004 Toyota Celica
Fuel mileage is the best I've ever seen, 555 miles per tank highway driving, 430-450 in town. Extremely reliable, cheap to fix, and a sleek ride for being so “old”.
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.
What is the fuel consumption of Toyota Celica 2004?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2004 Toyota Celica | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Regular Gasoline |
| 26 MPG 23 30 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 3.8 gal/100mi | |
| 377 miles Total Range |
2004 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
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Toyota Celica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Toyota Celica complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota Celica.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-01
- VIN: JTDDR32T540
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT EASILY. IF I EXTEND IT OUT TO PUT IT ON WITH SLACK, AND LET GO, IT STAYS SLACKED. I HAVE TO MOVE IT IN AND OUT A FEW TIMES BEFORE IT FEELS "SNUG". POSSIBLE PROBLEM WITH THE LUBRICATION GUMMING UP THE GEARS AND THE FUNCTION OF THE SEAT BELT. BEFORE GETTING OUT OF THE CAR, I HIT THE BUTTON TO RELEASE THE SEAT BELT AND IT JUST SITS THERE AND NEVER RETRACTS BACK IN.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-01
- VIN: JTDDR32T240
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AT AROUND 70,000 MILES (AROUND JAN 2012), MY CELICA (MANUAL TRANSMISSION) BEGAN SLIPPING OUT OF 3RD GEAR, SPORADICALLY. I CONSULTED WITH A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE PROBLEM, AND THEY TOLD ME THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY OF FIXING THE PROBLEM WAS TO REPLACE THE WHOLE TRANSMISSION (GIVEN HOW LABOR-INTENSIVE OPENING THE TRANSMISSION IS). GIVEN THE LOW MILEAGE (I'M NOW AT 79,000), I'M OUTRAGED! I CALLED CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CENTER, AND THEY TOLD ME THEY WOULD NOT ASSIST IN REPAIRS BECAUSE I WAS PAST THE 60,000 WARRANTY. I ASKED THE PERSON WHO TOOK MY CALL IF HE WOULD AGREE THAT IT WAS RIDICULOUS THAT MY CAR COULD FALL APART AT 60,001 WITH NO RECOURSE, AND HE SAID, "I WOULD AGREE THAT IT'S RIDICULOUS." IT COSTS $2288.82 FOR A NEW TRANSMISSION, PLUS AROUND $1036 TO INSTALL. THE CAR NOW WON'T STAY IN 3RD GEAR AT ALL NOW. SO, I'VE BEEN BYPASSING THE 3RD GEAR, KNOWING THAT I'M ON BORROWED TIME. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-22
- VIN: JPDER32T940
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA CELICA. WHILE DRIVING FLOOR-MAT INTERFERENCE CAUSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO STICK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, AND A REPRESENTATIVE ADVISED HER THAT THE DEALER COULD INSTALL A NEW CLIP TO SECURE THE FLOOR-MAT. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-07
- VIN: 4T1CA38P44U
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 2/5 HAD CALIPERS, ROTORS, BRAKE PADS REPLACED. 11/30/05 TOOK IT TO A REPAIR SHOP SAID I NEEDED ALL THIS REPAIRED AGAIN. I SPOKE TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR AN INSPECTION STATED TO MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER I DRIVE TO FAST. SO THEREFORE IT WAS DEEMED AS WEAR AND TEAR. I THEN SPOKE OVER THE PHONE TO TOYOTA NEW ENGLAND REP AND SHE SAID IT WAS NORMAL WEAR AS WELL. I HAD 2 OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS TELL ME THAT ITS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR BECAUSE OF THE WAY I DRIVE. *JB
Negative 2004 Toyota Celica car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota Celica car reviews
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I purchased my 2004 Toyota Celica GT, automatic about two years ago for $11,000. It was a certified pre-owned vehicle, so definitely worth it, especially since I haven't spent a penny on it besides general upkeep and purchasing new stock Celica rims. The new rims have made a huge difference in the snow, which we get a lot of here in PA. Overall, the car is fantastic. I've made a few upgrades, like the stereo and new tires, but I've kept the car mostly stock. The front seats look and feel like they're straight out of NASCAR, and I fit fairly comfortably in both the driver and passenger seats, despite being 5'11 with long legs. The bucket seats in the back are a bit cramped, though. The car has some kick and can accelerate fairly well, even though it's only 143 HP. The interior has held up wonderfully, and I honestly think that for an '04 vehicle, it stands the test of time. I'm already at 104,000 miles, and I've seen so many Celicas that have over 300,000 miles. These cars are built to last! My only complaint is that they need to bring them back! :)
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Great car! It has a good price and great style.
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I'm so glad I bought this car! It has exceeded my expectations in every way. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and the steering is tight and controllable. Even though I'm not a small person, I find it very comfortable, thanks to the seats that hug you and keep you in place. And let's not forget about the look of it - it's absolutely stunning! It has truly made my long daily journeys pleasurable, and the sound system is a bonus as well. Anyone would look good driving this car, especially with the sunroof open!
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It's a great make! I love how you can customize the car with a body kit. I just wish it came in a candy apple red.
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Great handling and braking. Interior controls are easy to use. Its looks are snazzy.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota Celica problems:
2004 Toyota Celica Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top 2004 Toyota Celica Problems · Vehicle Won't Crank Due To Starter · Fuel Overflowing at Gas Pump and Check Engine Light · Toyota issues recall on brake ...
Is a 2004 Celica a poor choice for someone relatively new to ...
Oct 31, 2022 ... I'm more than willing to put in time and effort to maintaining the car and taking care of it, but wary of issues that might be too much for me ...
Common Problems with 5th gen Celica | Toyota Celica Forum
Jan 8, 2013 ... My hopes for this thread is to list common problems with the 5th gen, but also Talk about briefly about a solution. So, I'll start first, Struts ...
Toyota Celica: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Toyota Celica Common Problems and Solutions · Engine Failure · Rough Idling and Misfires (All 1.8-ltr Engines) · ABD Warning Light · Incorrect Gear Changes (All ...
Common 7th gen Toyota Celica problems : r/Celica
Jul 24, 2016 ... I haven't quite decided as to which model I will buy (gt/gts).I was just wondering if you guys could let me know if there were any common issues ...
Other years of Toyota Celica
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota Celica?
Reed Cummings 2024-02-07
The Toyota model in question has experienced issues with its paint quality after four years of use. However, this does not reflect the overall quality of Toyota vehicles, which are known for their reliability and durability.