Toyota Corona 3T Sedan (1979–1981)

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the TOYOTA CORONA Base. This wiki provides valuable information to help you understand, maintain, and enjoy your vehicle. We'll cover common issues, recommended service intervals, key Warrant of Fitness (WOF) checks, and practical advice for keeping your Corona running smoothly.

Parts for the Toyota Corona 3T Sedan

• Gear Oil Gearbox (15)
• Engine Oil (14)
• Axle Gear Oil (10)
• Suspension Bush Rear Shock Absorber - Lower (4)
• Brake Pads Front (3)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Mount (3)
• Suspension Bush Radius Arm Front (2)
• Rear Single Blade (2)
• Steel Washer Sway Bar Link Front (2)
• Rear Wiper Pack (2)
• Master Cylinder Kit Brake (2)
• Sway Bar Coupling Mount (2)
• Suspension Bush Rear Panhard Rod (2)
• Disc Brake Rotor Front (2)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm - Lower (2)
• Clutch Slave Cylinder Kit (1)
• Water Pump (1)
• Radiator Cap (1)
• Temperature Sensor / Sender Coolant (1)
• Radiator Hose (1)
• Automatic Transmission Fluid (1)
• Oil Cap (1)
• Wiper Blade Front (1)
• Front Wiper Pack (1)
• Tie Rod End (1)
• Passenger Side Blade (1)
• Wiper Refill Set Front (1)
• Wiper Refill Front (1)
• Driver Side Blade (1)
• Shocks / Strut Rear (1)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm - Upper (1)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm - Lower (1)
• Suspension Bush Sway Bar Link (1)
• Steering Bush Steering Idler Front (1)
• Shock Absorber Fitting Kit (1)
• Brake Caliper Kit Front (1)
• Brake Shoe Rear (1)
• Brake Shoe Fitting Kit Rear (1)
• Brake Drum Rear (1)
• Master Cylinder Kit Clutch (1)
• Distributor Rotor (1)
• Spark Plug (1)
• Engine Mount Rear (1)

Known issues

<p>Like any vehicle of its age, the TOYOTA CORONA Base can be prone to certain issues. Owners often report:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Rust:</b> Monitor for rust, particularly in the sills and wheel arches.</li>
<li><b>Oil Leaks:</b> Keep an eye out for oil leaks, especially from the rear main seal area. Leaks might start to appear between 150,000 - 250,000 km.</li>
</ul>

WOF tips

<p>When taking your Corona for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of the following potential failure points:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Corrosion:</b> Pay close attention to corrosion around suspension mounting points.</li>
<li><b>Steering Play:</b> Excessive play in steering components can lead to a WOF failure.</li>
</ul>

About the Toyota Corona 3T Sedan

<p>The RT132 Corona holds a special place in New Zealand automotive history. It was a common sight on our roads, frequently serving as dependable family transport.</p>

<p><b>Maintenance Essentials</b></p>
<p>Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your Corona. Consider these components as part of your regular servicing:</p>
<ul>
<li>Maintaining optimal engine temperature with a functional TEMPERATURE SENSOR/SENDER COOLANT.</li>
<li>Regularly inspecting and, if needed, replacing the REAR BRAKE DRUMS and FRONT BRAKE PADS.</li>
<li>Ensuring smooth gear changes with quality AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID.</li>
<li>Preventing overheating by maintaining a healthy RADIATOR HOSE and RADIATOR CAP.</li>
<li>Maintaining safe and comfortable handling with a SWAY BAR COUPLING MOUNT, SUSPENSION BUSH REAR CONTROL ARM - UPPER, and SUSPENSION BUSH RADIUS ARM FRONT.</li>
<li>Ensuring clear visibility with quality FRONT WIPER BLADES.</li>
<li>Keeping the engine cool with a properly functioning WATER PUMP.</li>
<li>Ensuring ideal ignition performance with a new DISTRIBUTOR ROTOR.</li>
<li>Maintaining ideal ride comfort with new SHOCK ABSORBER FITTING KITS.</li>
<li>Using the correct grade of ENGINE OIL.</li>
<li>Sealing leaks or drips around the CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER KIT.</li>
</ul>

Questions owners ask

What are the common rust spots I should check on my 1979-1981 Toyota Corona (RT132) in New Zealand?

Owners of the RT132 Toyota Corona frequently report rust issues, particularly in the sills and wheel arches. It's also crucial to inspect around suspension mounting points, as corrosion in these areas can lead to a WOF failure.

My 1979-1981 Toyota Corona is showing signs of an oil leak. What's a common cause for this?

Oil leaks are a common concern for the 1979-1981 Toyota Corona, especially from the rear main seal area. These leaks might start to appear between 150,000 km and 250,000 km. It's important to address these to prevent further issues.

What are the key things to check on my Toyota Corona (RT132) to ensure it passes its WOF in New Zealand?

For your Toyota Corona's WOF, pay close attention to corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points, as this is a common failure point. Also, ensure there's no excessive play in the steering components, as this will also result in a WOF failure. Regularly inspecting your REAR BRAKE DRUMS and FRONT BRAKE PADS is also a good practice.

Where can I get a new WATER PUMP for my 1979-1981 Toyota Corona in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 101 SKUs for the 1979-1981 Toyota Corona, including WATER PUMPs. You can find quality replacement parts for your vehicle on our website or by visiting a CARFIX store in New Zealand.

How often should I change the AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID in my 1979-1981 Toyota Corona?

While a specific interval for automatic transmission fluid isn't provided, ensuring smooth gear changes with quality AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID is part of regular maintenance for your Corona. It's best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a trusted mechanic for the recommended interval based on your driving conditions.

I'm experiencing poor handling in my 1979-1981 Toyota Corona. What suspension components should I check?

For safe and comfortable handling in your Toyota Corona, you should inspect the SWAY BAR COUPLING MOUNT, SUSPENSION BUSH REAR CONTROL ARM - UPPER, and SUSPENSION BUSH RADIUS ARM FRONT. Maintaining these components is crucial for optimal ride comfort and stability.