AE86 Corolla

1983-1987 / Coupe / Hatchback / Japan

All AE86 Corolla problems All workshop issues

Minor Differential

Open Differential Limitations

Symptoms

In hard cornering or attempting to slide the car, the inside wheel spins freely while the outside wheel does nothing. The car feels frustrating and unresponsive at the limit.

Cause

Many AE86s left the factory with an open differential (no limited-slip). An open diff is adequate for normal driving but completely inadequate for the driving the AE86 was born to do.

Fix

Fit a limited-slip differential.

Options include TRD mechanical LSD, Cusco Type RS, Kaaz, or a basic clutch-type LSD.

The diff centre can be swapped without removing the entire axle assembly.

Cost: $800-2,000 for an LSD unit plus installation.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $800-2,000 for an

Know something we don't?

Owned a Toyota AE86 Corolla? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update

// More AE86 Corolla problems

Other known issues

Common Differential

Diff Noise and Whine

Whining noise from the rear axle that changes pitch with speed. Clunking on acceleration or deceleration.

Common Engine, 4A-GE 1.6L DOHC Inline-4

Oil Consumption

Blue smoke on overrun (deceleration after high RPM) or under hard acceleration. Oil level drops between services. Fouled spark plugs, particularly on cylinders 1 and 4.

Minor Engine, 4A-GE 1.6L DOHC Inline-4

Timing Belt Failure

The engine stops instantly. On the 4A-GE (interference engine), the pistons hit the valves, bending the valves and potentially cracking pistons and damaging the head.

Common Engine, 4A-GE 1.6L DOHC Inline-4

T-VIS Failure

Loss of top-end power. The engine feels flat above 4,500 rpm and doesn't pull strongly to the redline. No audible "click" from the T-VIS actuator around 4,200 rpm.

Minor Engine, 4A-GE 1.6L DOHC Inline-4

Distributor O-Ring Oil Leak

Oil leaking from the base of the distributor, running down the side of the engine. Oil contamination on the distributor cap and leads.

Common Gearbox, T50 5-Speed Manual

Synchro Wear (2nd and 3rd Gear)

Crunching or grinding when shifting into second or third gear, particularly on fast downshifts. The synchro ring can no longer match shaft speeds, and the gear teeth clash.

View all 14 AE86 Corolla problems