1991 Toyota Tercel

Introduction The 1991 Toyota Tercel is a compact and fuel-efficient car that was available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles. It came standard with a 1.5-liter inline-four engine that produced 84 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque. A 1.6-liter inline-four engine with 103 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque was optional. Both engines were available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1991 Toyota Tercel appreciate its reliability, fuel economy, and affordability. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues.

Engine

• 1.5-liter Inline-Four Engine
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the top of the engine, causing a burning oil smell and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.6-liter Inline-Four Engine
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into first gear. The clutch pedal may feel spongy or hard to press.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Struts
  • Leaking Shock Absorbers
    • Description/Symptoms: The front end of the vehicle bounces excessively over bumps or dips.
    • Solution: Replace the front struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shocks
  • Worn Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises from the rear of the vehicle when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the rear shock bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator
  • Voltage Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery light on the dashboard illuminates. The vehicle may experience electrical problems, such as dim lights or flickering gauges.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil
  • Failed Ignition Coil
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle stalls or hesitates during acceleration. The engine may run rough or misfire.
    • Solution: Replace the ignition coil.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlights
  • Cloudy or Dim Headlights
    • Description/Symptoms: The headlights become cloudy or dim, reducing visibility at night.
    • Solution: Replace the headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard
  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or warping on the top of the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Door Panels
  • Loose or Rattling Door Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: The door panels rattle or vibrate when driving over bumps or rough roads.
    • Solution: Tighten or replace the door panel clips.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 1991 Toyota Tercel is a reliable and fuel-efficient car, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems include a leaking valve cover gasket, clutch master cylinder failure, transmission slipping, leaky shock absorbers, and a voltage regulator failure. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are not typically severe and can be prevented with regular maintenance.