Toyota Celica Recalls

The Toyota Celica has 15 recalls spanning the 1972–2003 production run, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2003 models where a fuel tank check valve can fall loose during refueling, allowing fuel to spill from the filler pipe and create a fire risk near any ignition source.

The 2002 model year has two separate concerns: a floor mat on Panasonic Edition vehicles can slide forward and catch the accelerator pedal, and a fuel filler pipe check valve can fail in the same way as the 2003 issue, spilling fuel during fill-up. The 2001 model has a daytime running lamp that does not meet federal brightness standards. On 2000 models, the brake master cylinder can develop corrosion at its seal recess, allowing brake fluid to leak or air to enter the system and extend stopping distances. A compliance recall also affects certain aftermarket combination headlights sold for 2000 model year use, where missing amber side reflectors reduce how visible the vehicle is to other drivers.

The 1998–1999 model years carry a serious airbag inflator recall: the driver-side inflator can rupture in a crash and send metal fragments into the cabin. The 1997 model year has a related but distinct airbag concern where moisture exposure over time can cause the driver airbag to under-inflate, over-inflate, or rupture. The 1996 model has a cruise control system that can accelerate beyond the set speed without driver input. Going back to 1993, certain aftermarket front strut mounts sold under the Gabriel and ArvinMeritor brands lack a required weld between the bearing housing and rate plate, which can allow the strut to pull free under hard driving and damage surrounding components.

The 1990 model year has a driver airbag inflator that was incorrectly machined and may fail to deploy in a crash. Earlier production includes a 1982 model cruise control circuit board that can cause high engine speed at startup, potentially leading to sudden acceleration if the vehicle is put in gear. The 1980 model has an alternator pulley that can fracture while the engine is running, risking damage to nearby components. The earliest recall covers 1972 models, where a heater inlet hose under the instrument panel can fail and spray hot coolant on vehicle occupants.