1979 Toyota Corolla problems

General information about Toyota-Corolla
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Toyota Corolla (Japanese: トヨタ・カローラ, Hepburn: Toyota Karōra) is a series of compact cars (formerly subcompact) manufactured and marketed globally by the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. Introduced in 1966, the Corolla was the best-selling car worldwide by 1974 and has been one of the best-selling cars in the world since then. In 1997, the Corolla became the best-selling nameplate in the world, surpassing the Volkswagen Beetle. Toyota reached the milestone of 50 million Corollas sold over twelve generations in 2021.

The name Corolla is part of Toyota's naming tradition of using names derived from the Toyota Crown for sedans, with "corolla" Latin for "small crown". The Corolla has always been exclusive in Japan to Toyota Corolla Store locations, and manufactured in Japan with a twin, called the Toyota Sprinter until 2000. From 2006 to 2018 in Japan and much of the world, and from 2018 to 2020 in Taiwan, the hatchback companion had been called the Toyota Auris.

Early models were mostly rear-wheel drive, while later models have been front-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive versions have also been produced, and it has undergone several major redesigns. The Corolla's traditional competitors have been the Nissan Sunny, introduced the same year as the Corolla in Japan and the later Nissan Sentra, Nissan Sylphy, Honda Civic and Mitsubishi Lancer. The Corolla's chassis designation code is "E", as described in Toyota's chassis and engine codes.

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Common 1979 Toyota Corolla problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here are the common problems with the 1979 Toyota Corolla based on complaints from owners:

Engine Consuming Too Much Oil (2002 and 2009 Models):
- Owners of the 2002 and 2009 Toyota Corollas have reported issues with the engine consuming excessive oil. This problem can lead to various complications and may require costly repairs, including replacing piston rings, using thicker oil, or even replacing the entire engine, which can cost between $2,600 to $5,000 or more.
Transmission Failure (2003 Model):
- The 2003 Toyota Corolla is known for transmission failure, even with regular maintenance. Owners have experienced sudden transmission breakdowns, often preceded by unusual grinding and clunking noises. Resolving this issue typically involves rebuilding or replacing the transmission, which can cost around $1,200 to $2,500 depending on the specific components and labor costs.
Starting Problems:
- Starting problems are common in Toyota Corollas, especially when they reach 100,000-125,000 miles. Slow starting or failure to crank up can be attributed to starter issues, such as starter failure, corroded or weak batteries, or clogged fuel filters. Resolving this may require replacing the starter solenoid or the entire starter, necessitating consultation with a certified mechanic.
Bad Mass Air Flow Sensor (1998-2010 Models):
- The Mass Airflow Sensor in 1998-2010 Corollas may require cleaning or replacement to maintain normal acceleration. Issues with this sensor can affect the engine's performance and fuel efficiency, highlighting the importance of addressing this problem promptly.

These common problems with the 1979 Toyota Corolla, as reported by owners and automotive experts, underscore the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.

Are old Toyota Corollas reliable?

A: Among the most reliable years, the 2004-2008 and 2010-2013 Corolla models stand out. Specifically, the 2004 and 2007 models are highly recommended for their durability and fewer reported issues.

What is the most common problem with Toyota Corolla?

Common Problems with the Toyota Corolla

Oil leaking/excessive oil use.
Jerky acceleration.
MAF sensor problem.
Car vibrating.

How much did a Toyota Corolla cost in 1979?

The Toyota Corolla 1979 prices range from $450 for the basic trim level Wagon Corolla CS to $4,070 for the top of the range Wagon.

How many years can a Toyota Corolla last?

10 years

Whether you have a Toyota Corolla lease or you own it, drivers who follow the recommended maintenance schedule can expect their new Toyota Corolla's life expectancy to reach up to 10 years or 300,000 miles – or more!

What is the most common problem with Toyota Corolla?

Common Problems with the Toyota Corolla

Oil leaking/excessive oil use.
Jerky acceleration.
MAF sensor problem.
Car vibrating.

Are older Toyota Corollas good cars?

Q: Which Toyota Corolla years should I avoid buying as used? A: Avoid Toyota Corolla models from 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, and 2014. These models have been identified as having a higher frequency of complaints regarding excessive oil consumption, transmission problems, and other reliability issues.

How much is a 1979 Toyota Corolla?

The Toyota Corolla 1979 prices range from $450 for the basic trim level Wagon Corolla CS to $4,070 for the top of the range Wagon. The Toyota Corolla 1979 comes in Coupe, Hatchback, Sedan, Van and Wagon.

Is Toyota Corolla a strong car?

The Toyota Corolla is known as a dependable, safe and reliable car. It's relatively fuel efficient and has low maintenance issues hence its reliability.

1979 Toyota Corolla car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Corolla problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Electrical system problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Toyota Corolla vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Toyota Corolla complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Toyota Corolla.

1995-09-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1991-12-02
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: STARTER FAILED 6 TIMES. *SD

Add Complaint

1995-01-30

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1981-01-30
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: RUSTING OF THE GAS TANK AND FLOOR PANEL. TT

Add Complaint

1995-01-30

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1981-01-30
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: RUSTING OF THE GAS TANK AND FLOOR PANEL. TT

Add Complaint

1979 Toyota Corolla recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1979 Toyota Corolla.

1980-03-18

Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
Summary: THE LOCK NUT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN TIGHTENED ENOUGH ON THE STEERING GEAR BOX WORM GEAR BEARING AND ADJUSTER. CONSEQUENTLY, THE WORM GEAR ADJUSTER MAY BECOME LOOSE DUE TO EXCESSIVE PRESSURE FROM HARD REPEATED STEERING.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT THE STEERING GEAR BOX ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES AND, IF NECESSARY, SECURE THE STEERING GEAR BOX WORM GEAR BEARING AND ADJUSTER TO PREVENT STEERING INSTABILITY.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1979 Toyota Corolla problems:

CC Outtake: 1979 Toyota Corolla - Still Haulin' The Groceries Too ...

https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-outtake-1979-toyota-corolla-still-haulin-the-groceries/

Jan 4, 2015 ... Contrary to their common image nowadays, these 1600cc Corollas were reasonably brisk. The 1588cc 2T-C hemi-head engine was quite powerful ...

1979 Toyota Corolla Reviews - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/toyota/corolla/1979/

May 16, 2022 ... Very dependable car that is very economical!! Faults: There has not been much to go wrong with the car. I replaced the brakes - complete with ...

2000 Toyota Corolla, 102k - A good deal? | Toyota Nation Forum

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/2000-toyota-corolla-102k-a-good-deal.1701642/

Jun 29, 2021 ... 2000 Toyota Corolla engine problems with 101 complaints from Corolla owners. ... (trade in May-'97 with 24k) -- 79 Corolla ... Common things for car ...