Toyota Corona 3T-EU Sedan (1979-1982) (1979–1982)

The Toyota Corona was a popular choice for New Zealand drivers, known for its reliability and practicality. As a common sight on our roads, often serving as a family car or part of a company fleet, the Corona has left its mark. This guide provides insights to help owners keep their Corona in top condition.

Parts for the Toyota Corona 3T-EU Sedan (1979-1982)

• Gear Oil Gearbox (30)
• Engine Oil (13)
• Axle Gear Oil (11)
• Radiator Coolant (11)
• Automatic Transmission Filter (8)
• Oil Filter (7)
• Wheel Bearing (6)
• Radiator Cap (5)
• Suspension Bush Front Sway Bar Mount (5)
• Suspension Bush Rear Sway Bar Link - Upper (5)
• Suspension Bush Rear Sway Bar Link - Lower (4)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm - Lower (4)
• Spark Plug (4)
• Brake Shoe Rear (3)
• Universal Joint / Coupling Rear (3)
• Suspension Bush Rear Panhard Rod (3)
• Universal Joint / Coupling Front (3)
• Wheel Nut (3)
• Clutch Slave Cylinder (3)
• Shocks / Strut Rear (3)
• Welch / Frost Plug (3)
• Head Set/Valve Regrind Gasket Set (3)
• Bump Stop Front (3)
• Brake Fluid (3)
• Universal Joint / Coupling Centre (3)
• Rear Wiper Pack (2)
• Wheel Bearing Kit/Hub Front (2)
• Suspension Bush Rear Sway Bar Mount (2)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm (2)
• Suspension Bush Radius Arm Front (2)
• Suspension Bush Shock Absorber (2)
• Steel Washer Sway Bar Link Front (2)
• Drive Belt Alternator (2)
• Valve Cover Gasket (2)
• Oil Pressure Switch/Sender (2)
• Timing Kit (2)
• Timing Gear Camshaft (2)
• Universal Joint/Coupling Front & Rear (2)
• Wheel Nut & Stud Front (2)
• Oil Seal Axle / Drive Shaft - Rear Outer (2)
• Wheel Bearing Front (2)
• Ignition Coil (2)
• Spark Plug Tube Seal (2)
• Air Filter (2)
• Fuel Filter (2)
• Sump/Drain Plug (2)
• Oil Cap (2)
• Wiper Blade (2)
• Rear Single Blade (2)
• Tie Rod End (2)
• Thermostat Housing Gasket (1)
• Tie Rod (1)
• Manifold Gasket Exhaust (1)
• Manifold Gasket Inlet (1)
• Exhaust Flange Gasket Pipe (1)
• Conversion Gasket Set (1)
• Conrod Bearing (1)
• Timing Chain (1)
• Piston Ring (1)
• Crankshaft Thrust Washer (1)

Known issues

Owners may encounter rust (particularly in sills and rear wheel arches), wear in steering components, and oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. Automatic transmission issues are also possible, especially at higher mileage. Vibration at idle may indicate worn engine mounts. Front lower ball joints are also known to have issues with wear or damage.

WOF tips

When taking your Corona for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be particularly mindful of these potential failure points:
• Rust in the sills and rear wheel arches
• Condition of front suspension components front lower ball joints and front lower control arm bushings.
• Front brake hoses (leaks)
• Switch stop light function
• Excessive play in steering components

About the Toyota Corona 3T-EU Sedan (1979-1982)

Driving a Toyota Corona in New Zealand means appreciating its legacy as a dependable and economical vehicle. Here's what to consider as an owner:

General Ownership: The Corona is known for its generally robust nature but requires conscientious maintenance, especially given the age of many examples currently on the road. Regular servicing and careful attention to potential problem areas are key.

Typical Issues & Mileage: Many common issues tend to surface between 150,000 and 250,000 km. Be proactive in addressing these to avoid larger problems down the road.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Considerations: The Corona is moderately DIY-friendly vehicle, with many routine maintenance tasks within reach for the home mechanic. However, more complex repairs may benefit from professional expertise.

Things to Watch for:
• Rust: Pay close attention to rust, especially in areas where water tends to accumulate, such as the sills and rear wheel arches.
• Steering Components: Regular checks of your steering components can identify wear and potential issues early.
• Oil Leaks: Keep an eye out for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox, as these can indicate deteriorating seals and gaskets.
• Automatic transmissions: Delayed or harsh shifting, particularly when cold, can occur, especially after 150,000 km.
• Engine Mounts: Vibration at idle can indicate worn engine mounts.
• Front Lower Ball Joints: Inspect for wear or damage.
• Brake hoses: Make sure front brake hoses are in good condition with no leaks or damage.
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings: Inspect for cracking or excessive movement.
• Headlight Lens: Check for clarity and beam pattern.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common WOF failure points for a 1979-1982 Toyota Corona in New Zealand?

For your 1979-1982 Toyota Corona, pay close attention to rust, especially in the sills and rear wheel arches. Also, ensure the front suspension components, particularly the front lower ball joints and front lower control arm bushings, are in good condition. Front brake hoses should be checked for leaks, and the stop light function must be working correctly. Excessive play in steering components is another common WOF failure point.

Where can I get replacement front lower ball joints for my 1979-1982 Toyota Corona in NZ?

CARFIX stocks 103 SKUs for the 1979-1982 Toyota Corona, including front lower ball joints. You can find these and other essential parts on our website or by visiting a CARFIX store.

My 1979-1982 Toyota Corona automatic transmission is shifting harshly, especially when cold. What could be the issue?

Delayed or harsh shifting in an automatic transmission, particularly when cold, is a known issue for 1979-1982 Toyota Coronas, especially after 150,000 km. This often indicates wear within the transmission and may require professional attention.

I'm noticing a lot of rust on my 1979-1982 Toyota Corona. Where should I check first?

Rust is a common concern for the 1979-1982 Toyota Corona. You should pay close attention to areas where water tends to accumulate, such as the sills and rear wheel arches, as these are typical problem spots.

What are the typical mileage ranges when common issues start appearing on a 1979-1982 Toyota Corona?

Many common issues for the 1979-1982 Toyota Corona, such as automatic transmission problems, worn steering components, and oil leaks, tend to surface between 150,000 and 250,000 km. Proactive maintenance is crucial in this mileage range.

I have a vibration at idle in my 1979-1982 Toyota Corona. What could be causing this?

A vibration at idle in your 1979-1982 Toyota Corona can often indicate worn engine mounts. Inspecting and replacing these can resolve the issue.