Buyer's checklist: 2nd gen Toyota Celica 1978–1981

This checklist comes from a draft dossier that has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Inspection sheet Mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 1

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Rust behind the body panelsAll yearsLook under the car and behind the panels for rust.¹

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 80V0450001980The alternator pulley can crack and break, which stops the battery charging and can scatter pieces. The pulley is replaced. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^2,3

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.