Celica (A20/A40)

1970-1981 / Coupe / Liftback / Japan

All Celica (A20/A40) problems All workshop issues

Critical Body and Structure

Lower Quarter Panel Corrosion

Symptoms

Rust and perforation in the lower rear quarter panels, behind and above the rear wheels.

Cause

Road spray and mud accumulate between the inner and outer panels. Trapped moisture corrodes from inside. The lower quarter area on the coupe is particularly vulnerable because the wheel arch lip traps debris.

Fix

Cut out and replace with new metal.

Reproduction panels exist for some variants but supply is inconsistent.

Custom fabrication may be required.

Cost: $500--1,500 per side.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $500

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Other known issues

Critical Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or thinning floors, particularly in the driver's and passenger's footwells. Wet carpet after rain. Road noise increases.

Minor Body and Structure

Inner Guard Corrosion

Rust in the engine bay around the inner fenders and strut tower bases.

Minor Body and Structure

Sill Corrosion

The rocker panels soften, crumble, and lose structural integrity.

Critical Engine -- 18R Single-Cam

Oil Leaks

Oil seepage and dripping from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, and timing cover.

Critical Engine -- 18R Single-Cam

Timing Chain Noise

A rattle or slapping sound from the front of the engine on cold start that may quiet as the engine warms.

Minor Engine -- 18R Single-Cam

Overheating

Temperature gauge climbs in traffic or on hot days. Coolant loss.

View all 18 Celica (A20/A40) problems