Celica (A20/A40)

1970-1981 / Coupe / Liftback / Japan

All Celica (A20/A40) problems All workshop issues

Minor Engine -- 18R Single-Cam

Overheating

Symptoms

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

Cause

The cooling system's capacity diminishes as the radiator cores and blocks with corrosion, hoses collapse internally, thermostats stick, and water pumps wear.

Fix

Cooling system refresh: new radiator (aluminium upgrade $250--500), thermostat ($15--30), water pump ($50--100), and all hoses. Total: $300--700.

Cost mentioned in fix

$250$15$50$300

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// More Celica (A20/A40) problems

Other known issues

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.

Common Engine -- 18R Single-Cam

Carburettor Wear

Rough idle, hesitation, poor fuel economy. The single-cam 18R uses a two-barrel Aisan carburettor that is generally reliable but does wear.

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.

Critical Body and Structure

Lower Quarter Panel Corrosion

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

Minor Body and Structure

Inner Guard Corrosion

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

View all 18 Celica (A20/A40) problems