KE70 Corolla

1979-1983 / Sedan / Coupe / Japan

All KE70 Corolla problems All workshop issues

Common Rear Axle and Differential

Rear Axle Bearing Noise

Symptoms

Humming or grinding noise from one or both rear wheels that increases with speed. Noise doesn't change with braking (distinguishing it from brake noise).

Cause

The rear axle bearings are sealed units that wear over time. Contamination from damaged seals or loss of lubricant accelerates failure.

Fix

Replace the rear axle bearings and seals.

This requires pulling the axle shafts.

Cost: $50-100 per side for bearings and seals, 2-3 hours labour.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $50-100 per side

Know something we don't?

Owned a Toyota KE70 Corolla? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update

// More KE70 Corolla problems

Other known issues

Common Rear Axle and Differential

Differential Noise

Whining from the rear axle that changes pitch with speed. Clunking on acceleration or deceleration, particularly when transitioning from drive to coast.

Minor Rust and Corrosion

Rear Quarter Panel Corrosion

Bubbling paint on the rear quarter panels, progressing to perforation. Rust visible inside the boot behind the wheel arch trim. In severe cases, the inner wheelarch structure is completely gone and the outer skin is all that's holding the shape.

Common Rust and Corrosion

Boot Floor and Spare Tyre Well Corrosion

Soft, rusted, or perforated metal in the boot floor. Water pooling in the spare tyre well. Damp smell from the boot. Rust staining on the boot carpet.

Minor Rust and Corrosion

Sill (Rocker Panel) Corrosion

Paint bubbling along the sills below the doors. Soft metal when tapped. In severe cases, the sill collapses when jacked, and the door gaps change as the body flexes.

Minor Rust and Corrosion

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated floor pans. Visible rust when the carpet is lifted. In extreme cases, you can see the road through the floor.

Critical Engine, 3K-C and 4K-C Pushrod Inline-4

Oil Leaks

Oil weeping or dripping from multiple points on the engine. Oil residue on the rocker cover, sump, and rear of the engine. Oil spots under the car.

View all 16 KE70 Corolla problems