Celica (A20/A40)

1970-1981 / Coupe / Liftback / Japan

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.

The timing chain stretches and the tensioner wears over 150,000+ km. The chain guides can also crack and break.

Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a set. Cost: $150--400.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $150

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// More Celica (A20/A40) problems

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

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

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

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

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

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