1987 Toyota Celica GT review from North America
"It will get you where you need to go. But first, do a check up on the car's history"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Sun roof was rusted on the edges. I had to install a new seal + fix rusted edges.
Replaced exhaust pipe in 2002 ($60-70), it was rusted out at the time. The new exhaust system has since rusted out due to a problem with the pipe leading to the engine. (Not sure what the exact problem is, thought to be a backfire in the system.)
Starter/Neutral Switch went bad, replaced it with a starter from a junk yard, but didn't work. Replaced with a (cheaper) "button starter" system.
Both CV Joints/Axles went bad (awful clicking/rattling noises when turning) ($250).
Passenger door latch broken from the inside.
Air conditioning system has leaks, compressor also went bad ($600 to replace).
Oil and power steering leakage.
Red brake/stop lights (Brake Light Switch) went out.
Struts are worn out and making unpleasant noises on bumpy surfaces.
General comments?
Despite the problems I've encountered with it, this Toyota Celica GT handles perfectly. It is tight on turns, it accelerates nicely and makes its way through traffic just as well as any new model sports car can (well, probably not as fast as the new ones..).
The problems I have had with it have never stopped me from getting where I wanted to go. If I had the chance to go back to my buying decision again, I would have checked the car's history a little bit more in-depth before making my final decision.
This car has been through hell. I may sound stupid for keeping it for so long, but it has helped me make it at least most of the way through my associate's degree program and work... If there were no problems with it, I would keep it for the next college tour; however, I think it is time to retire this old puppy. It has been a damn good ride.
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| 1987 - Celica GT Coupe 2.0 EFI (3SFE) Reliable, and a blast to own! |
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| Killer looks and the driving characteristics to go with it! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 107000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 130000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 25th November, 2003 |