1989 Toyota Corolla problems
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 1989 Toyota Corolla problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1989 Toyota Corolla, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Failure:
- Owners have reported issues with transmission failure, which can result in difficulty shifting gears and overall drivability problems.
- Front Axle Failure:
- Front axle failure has been a concern among owners, impacting the vehicle's stability and safety on the road.
- Water Leaking into Interior:
- Some owners have experienced water leaking into the interior of the car, which can lead to mold, mildew, and damage to the vehicle's interior components.
- Jerking into Gear:
- Complaints about jerking into gear suggest potential transmission or drivetrain issues that may require attention to ensure smooth gear transitions and driving experience.
These reported problems highlight various areas of concern for 1989 Toyota Corolla owners, ranging from engine and transmission issues to axle and interior water leakage problems. Addressing these concerns promptly and with the help of a qualified mechanic can help maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.
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.
What year was bad for Toyota Corolla?
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.
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 engine does a 1989 Toyota Corolla have?
1989 Toyota COROLLA (1.6L 4 -cyl Engine Code [A] 4A-FE C) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
What is the most common problem in the Toyota Corolla?
Some common problems with the Toyota Corolla include: Oil leaking/excessive oil use. Jerky acceleration. MAF sensor problem.
What is the fuel mileage of a 1989 Corolla?
1989 Toyota Corolla
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 1989 Toyota Corolla All-Trac Wagon 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| 25 combined city/highway MPG 23 city 28 highway 4.0 gals/ 100 miles | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| 1989 Toyota Corolla 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| Regular Gasoline | Not Available How can I share my MPG? |
Which year Corolla is best?
Determining the "best" year for the Toyota Corolla depends on various factors, including reliability, updates, and consumer satisfaction. However, many enthusiasts and experts often highlight the 2014 and 2020 models as standout years for different reasons.
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.
1989 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Toyota Corolla vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1989 Toyota Corolla
The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Toyota Corolla. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1989 Toyota Corolla vehicles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-04-12
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: IN 1991, DRIVING ON HWY 5 IN CAL, SUDDEN MY CAR TACKED OUT, ACCELERATING BEYOND ANYTHING I'VE EXPERIENCE. THIS CAR IS BEFORE THE CURRENT RECALL. I BRING THIS UP, BECAUSE, AT THE TIME, I KNEW IT WAS NOT THE PEDAL. IT SEEMED TO ME AT THE TIME THAT IT WAS IN THE WIRING OR COMPUTER. I PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL, IT COMPLETELY TACKED OUT, RISKING THAT IT WOULD THROW A ROD. THEN I TURNED THE KEY, AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AS I DRIFTED OFF THE HIGHWAY. PLEASE DON'T LET TOYOTA GET AWAY WITH SAYING THIS IS JUST PEDALS, IT WAS NOT FOR ME. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-30
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AND NO WARNING THE BRAKES ARE GRINDING CAUSING EXTEND STOPPING DISTANCE. DEALER NOTIFIED
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-09
- VIN: 1NXAE92E4KZ
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON 7-9-02, 65 MPH, THE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE (I HAVE THE ORIGINAL TIRE AND SEPERATED TREAD) TIRE MAINTAINED PRESSURE WITHOUT THE TREAD. THE SEPARATING TREAD DENTED THE DRIVERS FENDER, DOOR, AND BROKE OFF A PLASTIC SUPPORT TO THE FRONT BUMPER. THE CARE HAD BEEN INSPECTED 4 DAYS PRIOR AND THE TIRES PASSED. (16 Y/O SON WAS DRIVING AT THE TIME) 3 OTHER WITNESS WERE IN VEHICLE.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER WANTS NHTSA TO INVESTIGATE PROBLEM WITH THE ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDAL. THE CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT. THE CONSUMER READ ABOUT A PROBLEM WITH THE ADJUSTABLE PEDAL IN WHICH DRIVERS COULD HIT THE WRONG PEDAL DURING EMERGENCY BRAKING. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-13
- VIN: JT2AE92EXK3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THERE WASN'T A WARNING OF LOW FLUID IN THE DIFFERENTIAL UNIT AND IT BROKE AND LOCKED UP THE FRONT TIRES MAKING THE VEHICLE COME TO A DEAD STOP. THIS IS NOT A PART THAT IS CHECKED FOR SAFETY.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-03-25
- VIN: 1NXAE92E3KE
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS REARENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH CAUSED DRIVER'S SEAT TO DISCONNECT FROM SEAT TRACKS/ANCHORS. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. *AK *YH
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-04
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TREAD SEPARATION WAS FOUND BY MECHANIC WHEN ROTATING TIRES. *AK (DOT NUMBER: 1B EV GD TIRESIZE: P175/70R13)
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-24
- VIN: 1NXAE92E5KZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING AT APPROX 35 MPH ENROUTE TO THE FREEWAY WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SIEZED LOCKING UP THE FRONT END, BRINGING THE CAR TO A SCREECHING HAULT. I WAS FORTUNATE THAT THE DRIVER BEHIND ME WAS ABLE TO REACT AND AVOID A COLLISION. DEALER CONFIRMED A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN REPAIRED AS I PLAN TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION MYSELF WITH A USED OR REBUILT COMPONENT. I DON'T EXPECT ANY REIBURSEMENT, BUT THOUGHT IT SHOULD BE REPORTED AS IT DID CREATE A HAZARDOUS SITUATION.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-04
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AE92E6K3
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NO TIME TO BRAKE, SEATBELTS FAILED TO CONTRACT SO DRIVER & PASSENGER HIT THE DASHBOARD WITH INJURIES.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-03
- VIN: JT2AE95C9K3
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TOYOTA WAS BEING DRIVEN THROUGH A PARKING LOT WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN IT ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: REFUSE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60-65 MPH HEARD RATTLING NOISE LIKE LOOSE FAN BELT IN THE FRONT OF CAR UNDERHOOD, SOMETHING DROPPED OFF THE CAR, THEN SMOKE OCCURRED, FLAMES CAME OUT, PART OF THE ENGINE BLOCK MISSING AND THERE IS A BIG HOLE IN THE ENGINE. DEALER NOT AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AE92EXK3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER TURNING ENGINE OFF, AFTER RUNNING FOR ABOUT 25 MINUTES, THE CAR WENT INTO POST- IGNITION, AND ABOUT 5 MINUTES LATER THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND WAS TOTALLED. NOT SURE OF THE EXACT CAUSE OF FIRE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- VIN: JT2AE92W6K3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMACTIC TRANSMISSION, CAN REMOVE THE KEY IN ANY GEAR. REMOVED THE KEY IN REVERSE AND VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS, IMPACT 6:00 POSITION, HIT A PARKED VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-01
- VIN: JT2AE94V0K0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE DRUM FELL OFF.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-01
- VIN: JT2AE94V0K0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AXLE SHAFT FELL OFF.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AE93E5K3
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY CAUGHT FIRE WHEN STRUCK FROM REAR.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AE93E5K3
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CENTER SUPPORT FOR DRIVER'S DOOR BENT IN ACCIDENT, PREVENTING DOOR FROM OPENING.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2AE93E5K3
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SEAT SLID FROM ITS ORIGINAL POSITION UPON IMPACT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MUFFLER REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-02-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TAIL PIPE REPLACED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-18
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CATALYTIC CONVERTER NOISE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AE92E8K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AE92E8K3
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. PLEASE DESCRIBE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WIRE SHORTED BECAUSE GEARSHIFT WAS RUBBING IT. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAR WAS PARKED AND STARTED IT OFF CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE . *AK
1989 Toyota Corolla recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1989 Toyota Corolla.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Toyota Corolla problems:
1989 Toyota Corolla Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Faults: Nothing goes wrong with these cars. Ever. It literally thinks it's a tank. It got hit by a bus and was still able to drive it as it did before.
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