2002 Toyota Celica

The 2002 Toyota Celica is a sporty coupe known for its fuel efficiency and distinctive styling. It was available with two engine options: the 1.8L 1ZZ-FE inline-four engine producing 140 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque, found in the base model, and the higher-performance 1.8L 2ZZ-GE inline-four engine producing 180 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, found in the GT-S model. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual (1ZZ-FE), 6-speed manual (2ZZ-GE), or a 4-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the Celica’s sporty handling and distinctive styling, while some common dislikes include the lack of low-end torque, particularly in the base model, and the relatively small interior space.

Engine

1.8L 1ZZ-FE

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often noticed as the car ages. Oil light may illuminate frequently, and engine damage can occur if oil levels are not checked and maintained.
  • Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In severe cases, piston ring replacement or engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Pre-Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The pre-catalytic converter located in the exhaust manifold can fail, sending debris back into the engine and causing damage. Often indicated by rattling noises from the exhaust manifold and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold/pre-cat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.8L 2ZZ-GE

• “Lift Bolt” Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The bolt that actuates the high-lift cam profile (Toyota’s VVTL-i system) can shear or break, causing a loss of power above 6000 RPM. The “lift” engagement becomes intermittent or non-existent.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lift bolt with an updated, stronger bolt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption (High RPM)
  • Description/Symptoms: Prone to oil consumption, especially when frequently driven at high RPMs. Oil starvation can occur if levels are not closely monitored.
  • Solution: Frequent oil level checks and maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or failure to shift into certain gears. Check engine light may illuminate with transmission-related codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end instability, especially during cornering. Squeaking or groaning noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, decreased fuel economy, and potential catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s speedometer, RPM, or fuel level gauge may become unresponsive or inaccurate.
  • Solution: The cluster may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Spoiler Cracking/Fading (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory rear spoiler, often made of plastic, can develop cracks or fade over time due to sun exposure and weather.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the spoiler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Panel Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric on the door panels may become detached and sag, especially along the upper edges.
  • Solution: Re-gluing or replacing the door panel fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Toyota Celica has some common issues to watch out for, with the most significant being engine-related, particularly oil consumption and potential issues with the pre-catalytic converter (1ZZ-FE) or lift bolt (2ZZ-GE). Transmission issues with the automatic are also present. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but should be considered. The cost to address these issues can vary widely depending on the severity and the specific part that needs to be replaced, but some repairs can be quite expensive. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help prevent more serious problems.