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Toyota Corona 1S-ILU Coupe (1985–1988)

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Toyota Corona Base. This wiki provides valuable insights into the common issues, maintenance requirements, and WOF (Warrant of Fitness) watch points to help you keep your Corona in top condition for years to come.

Parts for the Toyota Corona 1S-ILU Coupe

Known issues

Owners of the Toyota Corona may encounter the following common issues, particularly as the vehicle ages:
• Automatic Transmission Slippage: Be alert for signs of slippage, especially after 150,000 km. Regular transmission servicing can help mitigate this.
• Valve Stem Seal Wear: Increased oil consumption can be attributed to worn valve stem seals. Consult a mechanic for diagnosis and potential repair options.
• Rust: Check for rust, especially in rear wheel arches and sills. Addressing rust early prevents more extensive damage.
• Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can occur, particularly from the engine oil pan gasket or valve cover gasket. Regular inspection and timely gasket replacement are advised.
• Suspension Wear: Be mindful of wear in suspension components such as shocks/struts and ball joints.

WOF tips

When taking your Toyota Corona for a WOF (Warrant of Fitness) inspection, pay close attention to these potential failure points:
• Front Lower Ball Joints: Ensure they are in good condition with no excessive play.
• Front Brake Hoses: Check for leaks or damage.
• Switch Stop Light: Verify that it's functioning correctly.
• Rust: Inspect for rust around the windscreen and strut towers.
• Brake Line Corrosion: Check for corrosion along the brake lines.
• Steering Components: Watch for excessive play in steering components.
• Suspension Mounting Points: Inspect for corrosion around suspension mounting points.
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings: Check for cracking or excessive movement.
• Headlight Lens: Ensure clarity and a proper beam pattern.

About the Toyota Corona 1S-ILU Coupe

The Toyota Corona was a reliable family car frequently passed down through generations in New Zealand.

Reliability and Longevity: The Corona is known for its inherent reliability. However, like all vehicles, certain wear-and-tear items require attention as it ages.

Performance and Feel: Owners often value the Corona for its comfortable ride and dependable performance. Regular maintenance ensures these qualities are preserved.

Maintaining Your Corona: Staying on top of scheduled maintenance, addressing potential issues promptly, and carrying out preventative repairs are key to maximizing the life and performance of your Corona.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common issues to look out for in a 1985-1988 Toyota Corona in New Zealand?
Owners of the Toyota Corona from 1985-1988 in New Zealand often encounter issues such as automatic transmission slippage, particularly after 150,000 km, worn valve stem seals leading to increased oil consumption, and rust, especially in the rear wheel arches and sills. Oil leaks from the engine oil pan or valve cover gaskets are also common, as is wear in suspension components like shocks/struts and ball joints.
Where can I get replacement front lower ball joints for my 1985-1988 Toyota Corona in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 248 SKUs for the 1985-1988 Toyota Corona. You can find replacement front lower ball joints and other suspension components through CARFIX to ensure your vehicle passes its WOF inspection.
What should I check on my 1985-1988 Toyota Corona before a WOF inspection in New Zealand?
Before a WOF inspection for your 1985-1988 Toyota Corona, pay close attention to the front lower ball joints for excessive play, front brake hoses for leaks or damage, and the stop light switch for correct function. Also, inspect for rust around the windscreen and strut towers, corrosion along the brake lines, excessive play in steering components, and corrosion around suspension mounting points. Don't forget to check the front lower control arm bushings for cracking and the headlight lenses for clarity and proper beam pattern.
How often should I service the automatic transmission on my 1985-1988 Toyota Corona to prevent slippage?
To help mitigate automatic transmission slippage, especially as your 1985-1988 Toyota Corona approaches or exceeds 150,000 km, regular transmission servicing is advised. While the general service interval for the vehicle is 10,000km, specific transmission fluid and filter changes might be recommended more frequently depending on usage and condition.
Are there any DIY guides available for maintaining my 1985-1988 Toyota Corona?
Yes, CARFIX offers 3 DIY video guides specifically for the 1985-1988 Toyota Corona. These guides can help you with common maintenance tasks and preventative repairs to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
What are common rust spots on the 1985-1988 Toyota Corona that I should inspect?
For the 1985-1988 Toyota Corona, common rust spots to inspect include the rear wheel arches and sills. For WOF purposes, also check for rust around the windscreen and strut towers, and corrosion around suspension mounting points.