2002 Toyota Celica

2002 Toyota Celica

Overview

The 2002 Toyota Celica is a sporty compact car known for its engaging driving dynamics and distinctive styling. It was offered with a choice of naturally aspirated and supercharged engines, paired with manual or automatic transmissions. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, certain components can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related problems reported by owners and technicians for the 2002 model year, covering key areas such as the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior.

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Engine

1.8L 1ZZ-FE (Naturally Aspirated)

Oil Consumption

• Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
• Solution: Piston ring replacement, PCV valve check/replacement.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Timing Chain Tensioner

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup.
• Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the chain.
• Cost: $400 - $700

1.8L 2ZZ-GE (VVTL-i / Supercharged)

Oil Consumption (VVTL-i)

• Symptoms: Similar to the 1ZZ-FE, excessive oil burning can occur, particularly with high-revving usage.
• Solution: Piston ring replacement, PCV valve check/replacement.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Lift Bolts (VVTL-i)

• Symptoms: Engine misfires, check engine light, loss of power at higher RPMs.
• Solution: Replacement of the lift bolts and associated components.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Transmission

5-Speed Manual (C50/C56)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

6-Speed Manual (E351 - GT)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

4-Speed Automatic (U241E)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Electrical

Standard System

Headlight Switch Failure

• Symptoms: Headlights or taillights not working intermittently or completely.
• Solution: Replacement of the headlight switch assembly.
• Cost: $150 - $300

ABS Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: ABS warning light illuminated, potential loss of ABS function.
• Solution: Replacement of the ABS actuator module.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Exterior

Standard Body

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Cabin

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2002 Toyota Celica is a generally reliable vehicle, especially considering its sporty nature. The most commonly cited issues revolve around the engines, particularly oil consumption in both the 1ZZ-FE and 2ZZ-GE variants, and specific internal engine components like the timing chain tensioner and VVTL-i lift bolts. Transmission and suspension components tend to be robust. Electrical issues, such as headlight switch failures, are not uncommon but are typically manageable. Overall, with regular maintenance and attention to potential oil consumption, the 2002 Celica offers a dependable and enjoyable driving experience.