The Toyota Celica spans 1981–2026 with 27 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2000, 2002, 2001 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 2006, 2007. It delivers up to 28 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Toyota Celica is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Toyota Celica VIN — every digit explained
Every Toyota Celica carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Toyota and the country it was built in (real Toyota codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Celica.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJT2 · JT3 · JT4 · JT5 · JT6 · JT8
- USA4T1 · 4T3 · 4T4 · 58A · 5TB · 5TD
- Canada2T1 · 2T2 · 2T3
- Mexico3TM · 3TY
- TurkeyNMT
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Celica, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Toyota Celica have?
The Toyota Celica has 27 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2005 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Equipment:other:labels
What's wrong. GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Fix. DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
2003 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK CHECK VALVE, LOCATED IN THE FUEL TANK INLET PIPE, MAY BECOME SEPARATED FROM THE INLET PIPE AND FALL INTO THE FUEL TANK. IF THE CHECK VALVE FALLS INTO THE TANK, FUEL MAY SPILL FROM THE FUEL INLET PIPE WHEN THE FUEL PUMP AUTOMATICALLY SHUTS OFF DURING FUELING.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT A FIRE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPAIR THE FUEL TANK CHECK VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 4, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
2002 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK CHECK VALVE, LOCATED IN THE FUEL TANK INLET PIPE, MAY BECOME SEPARATED FROM THE INLET PIPE AND FALL INTO THE FUEL TANK. IF THE CHECK VALVE FALLS INTO THE TANK, FUEL MAY SPILL FROM THE FUEL INLET PIPE WHEN THE FUEL PUMP AUTOMATICALLY SHUTS OFF DURING FUELING.
Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT A FIRE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPAIR THE FUEL TANK CHECK VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 4, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
2001 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.' THE LUMINOUS INTENSITY OF THE DAYTIME RUNNING LAMP (DRL) WILL BE MODIFIED TO MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RESISTOR, WHICH WILL DECREASE THE LUMINOUS INTENSITY OF THE DRL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 16, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
2000 Toyota Celica recalls 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
What's wrong. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE THE POSSIBILITY THAT THE RECESS RETAINS A RUBBER SEAL RING, WHICH IS LOCATED AT THE END OF THE CYLINDER BODY, AND MAY BE CORRODED DUE TO AN IMPROPER WASHING PROCESS.
Risk. IN THIS CONDITION, BRAKE FLUID MAY LEAK FROM THE SEAL, OR A SMALL AMOUNT OF AIR MAY ENTER THE MASTER CYLINDER, WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN INCREASE OF VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND BOOSTER. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371.
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.' THE LUMINOUS INTENSITY OF THE DAYTIME RUNNING LAMP (DRL) WILL BE MODIFIED TO MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RESISTOR, WHICH WILL DECREASE THE LUMINOUS INTENSITY OF THE DRL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 16, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
1999 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
What's wrong. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 1998-2000 RAV4, 1998-1999 RAV4 EV and Celica and 1997-1998 Supra vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant, and increases the risk of serious injury or death.
Fix. Toyota will notify owners, and owners will have the option to self-inspect, or have a dealer inspect the steering wheel on their vehicle to determine if their vehicle may be equipped with an affected inflator. Potentially affected steering wheel serial numbers will be inspected by a dealer. Based on the inspection, dealers will replace the front driver air bag inflator with an alternate one, as necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall is 20TB01 and 20TA01.
1998 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
What's wrong. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 1998-2000 RAV4, 1998-1999 RAV4 EV and Celica and 1997-1998 Supra vehicles. These vehicles were equipped with Non-Azide Driver air bag Inflators (NADI) and do not contain phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. Due to a manufacturing issue, the NADI inflators may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the air bag cushion to underinflate.
Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants. An underinflated air bag may not properly protect the occupant, and increases the risk of serious injury or death.
Fix. Toyota will notify owners, and owners will have the option to self-inspect, or have a dealer inspect the steering wheel on their vehicle to determine if their vehicle may be equipped with an affected inflator. Potentially affected steering wheel serial numbers will be inspected by a dealer. Based on the inspection, dealers will replace the front driver air bag inflator with an alternate one, as necessary. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 28, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall is 20TB01 and 20TA01.
1996 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. THESE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS FAIL TO HOLD THE SPEED SET BY THE DRIVER AND CAN ACCELERATE ABOVE THE INTENDED SET SPEED.
Risk. UNINTENDED ACCELERATION CAN INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE CRUISE CONTROL ASSEMBLIES.
1993 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1992 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1991 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1990 Toyota Celica recalls 2
Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
What's wrong. AIR BAG INFLATOR CASE WAS INCORRECTLY MACHINED.
Risk. IN AN ACCIDENT, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT DEPLOY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN INCREASED INJURY TO THE DRIVER.
Fix. REPLACE AIR BAG INFLATOR UNIT.
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1989 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1988 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1987 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1986 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Suspension
What's wrong. RIDE CONTROL IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT STRUT MOUNTS BRANDED AS GABRIEL RIDE CONTROL OR ARVINMERITOR, P/NOS. 142435, 142193, 142305, 142303, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FRONT STRUT MOUNTS DID NOT CONTAIN A WELD JOINT BETWEEN THE BEARING HOUSING AND THE RATE PLATE.
Risk. THE ABSENCE OF THE WELD CAN ALLOW THE STRUT TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION UNDER CERTAIN EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS WHICH COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING VEHICLE COMPONENTS INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. RIDE CONTROL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE AFFECTED PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RIDE CONTROL AT 1-248-458-1396.
1982 Toyota Celica recalls 1
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. SOLDERED TERMINALS OF THE CRUISE CONTROL COMPUTER MAY DEVELOP CRACKS DUE TO IMPROPER APPLICATION OF THE COATING TO THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: CONTINUED USE OF CRUISE CONTROL COULD LEAD TO COMPLETE SEPARATION OF SOLDERED TERMINALS AND CIRCUIT FAILURE; ENGINE SPEED WOULD INSTANTLY RACE AND VEHICLE COULD SUDDENLY ACCELERATE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. REPLACE CRUISE CONTROL COMPUTER, IF NECESSARY.
Best and worst years for the Toyota Celica
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 46 tracked years, the worst years are 2000, 2002, 2001 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 2006, 2007.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 Celica | — | Best | |
| 1982 Celica | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1983 Celica | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1984 Celica | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1985 Celica | Structure | Average | |
| 1986 Celica | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1987 Celica | Steering | Average | |
| 1988 Celica | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1989 Celica | Fuel System | Average | |
| 1990 Celica | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1991 Celica | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1992 Celica | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1993 Celica | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1994 Celica | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1995 Celica | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1996 Celica | Vehicle Speed Control | Average | |
| 1997 Celica | Visibility | Average | |
| 1998 Celica | Structure | Average | |
| 1999 Celica | Tires | Average | |
| 2000 Celica | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 2001 Celica | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid | |
| 2002 Celica | Air Bags | Avoid | |
| 2003 Celica | Power Train | Average | |
| 2004 Celica | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 2005 Celica | Tires | Average | |
| 2006 Celica | — | Best | |
| 2007 Celica | — | Best | |
| 2008 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2009 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2010 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2011 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2012 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2013 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2014 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2015 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2016 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2017 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2018 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2019 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2020 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2021 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2022 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2023 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2024 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2025 Celica | — | Average | |
| 2026 Celica | — | Average |
What are the most common Toyota Celica problems?
The most-reported Toyota Celica problems are Air (2 reports), Seats (6 reports) and Tires (32 reports) — out of 492 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Toyota Celica specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Toyota Celica. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Toyota Celica window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
How the Celica's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–2005 | 170″ | 69″ | 52″ | 102″ | 2,425 lb |
| 1996–1999 | 174″ | 69″ | 52″ | 100″ | 2,579 lb |
| 1987–1993 | 174″ | 67″ | 50″ | 100″ | 2,564 lb |
| 1984 | 176″ | 66″ | 52″ | 98″ | 2,538 lb |
| 1981 | 176″ | 65″ | 51″ | 98″ | 2,643 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Toyota Celica cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Celica holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 80 cu ft of passenger volume and 17 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Toyota Celica tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Toyota Celica get?
The Toyota Celica returns up to 28 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $2,200/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1986 Toyota Celica (2.8L 6-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $4,050/yr to fuel, emitting 468 g/mi CO₂ — about $9,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 Celica | 17 | 22 | $4,050 | 468 | — | 2.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1985 Celica | 17 | 22 | $4,050 | 468 | — | 2.8L 6-cyl | |
| 1984 Celica | 18 | 22 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 2.8L 6-cyl |
The 2005 Toyota Celica (1.8L 4-cyl) gets 28 mpg combined and costs about $2,200/yr to fuel, emitting 317 g/mi CO₂ (smog 1/10).
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 Celica | 25 | 33 | $2,200 | 317 | 1/10 | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 2004 Celica | 25 | 33 | $2,200 | 317 | 1/10 | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 2003 Celica | 25 | 33 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 2002 Celica | 25 | 32 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 2001 Celica | 25 | 32 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 2000 Celica | 24 | 31 | $2,300 | 329 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1999 Celica | 20 | 27 | $2,700 | 386 | — | 2.2L 4-cyl | |
| 1998 Celica | 20 | 27 | $2,700 | 386 | — | 2.2L 4-cyl | |
| 1997 Celica | 25 | 32 | $2,200 | 317 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1996 Celica | 25 | 31 | $2,300 | 329 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1995 Celica | 24 | 31 | $2,300 | 329 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1994 Celica | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 1.8L 4-cyl | |
| 1993 Celica | 22 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1992 Celica | 22 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1991 Celica | 24 | 30 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1990 Celica | 24 | 30 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 1989 Celica | 23 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1988 Celica | 22 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1987 Celica | 23 | 31 | $2,400 | 342 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1986 Celica | 22 | 28 | $2,600 | 370 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1985 Celica | 21 | 28 | $2,600 | 370 | — | 2.4L 4-cyl | |
| 1984 Celica | 21 | 26 | $2,700 | 386 | — | 2.4L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Celica stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this Celica's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Toyota Celica have? Power & range
The Toyota Celica is offered with 2 powertrains — 2.8L 6-cyl, 1.8L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 2.8L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Premium |
| 4-cyl | 1.8L · 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Toyota Celica cost to own?
A used Toyota Celica sells for a median of about $2,900 for a 2003 — most listed between $1,500 and $3,500, from 30 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 Celica | $1,500–$3,500 | 5 | |
| 2000 Celica | $3,000–$8,999 | 6 | |
| 1999 Celica | $1,700–$9,200 | 3 | |
| 1997 Celica | $8,500–$24,500 | 4 | |
| 1996 Celica | $2,500–$7,500 | 7 | |
| 1990 Celica | $15,000–$15,000 | 5 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Celica is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Toyota Celica holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Celica loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $11,000 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Celica ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Toyota Celica safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Celica yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Toyota Celica last?
A well-maintained Toyota Celica typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Toyota Celica’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Celica’s VIN free →All Toyota Celica model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Toyota Celica — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2025 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2024 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2023 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2022 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2021 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2020 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2019 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2018 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2017 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2016 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2015 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2014 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2013 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2012 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2011 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2010 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2009 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2008 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2007 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2006 Celica | 0 | — | |
| 2005 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 2004 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 2003 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 2002 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 2001 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 2000 Celica | 3 recalls | — | |
| 1999 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1998 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1997 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1996 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1995 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1994 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1993 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1992 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 Celica | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1989 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1988 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1987 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1986 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1985 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1984 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1983 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1982 Celica | 1 recall | — | |
| 1981 Celica | 0 | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Celica?
By owner-complaint volume, 2000, 2002, 2001 drew the most reports. 1981, 2006, 2007 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Celica have?
27 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Celica get?
Up to 28 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Celica last?
A well-maintained Celica typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Celica reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Celica is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Toyota Celica warranty?
New Toyota models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Toyota dealer.
Where is the Toyota Celica made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Celica's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Toyota may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Celica have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.