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July 2, 2009
In terms of crash safety, the Celica scored fairly well in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests, earning four stars each for driver
and front passenger protection in frontal impacts, and three stars for front-seat occupant protection in side impacts (the rear seat was too small to test for side-impact protection). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety didn’t crash test the Celica.
Toyota’s strong residual values translate into higher used prices. According to Canadian Black Book, used Celica prices range from $7,425 for a 2000 GT model, to $18,550 for a 2005 GT-S. A 2003 GT-S will run about $13,500, while the less GT from that year is worth about $11,300.
As with any Toyota, the Celica is far from being the most affordable option in terms of used compact sports cars. Ford’s SVT Focus is an extremely competent performer, but they’re hard to find; a ZX3 or ZX5 still offers great handling, but doesn’t have the SVT’s sweet 170-hp engine. Hyundai’s poor resale values make the Tiburon far cheaper to buy, but it’s a heavier, less-nimble car on the road. The Mini Cooper S is a sweet performer, but they’re not cheap and have been problem prone. Acura’s Integra and RSX and the 2002-2005 Civic Si hatch can run with the Celica in terms of performance and reliability, but won’t be any cheaper.
The Celica falls short of Toyota’s usual reliability benchmark, but it’s still one of the most durable affordable sporty cars available.
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Pricing
Black Book Pricing (avg. retail) June 2009:
Online resources
Recalls
2000: On certain vehicles, the recess that retains the rubber seal ring, which is located at the end of the brake master cylinder body, may becorroded due to an improper washing process. In this condition, brake fluid may leak from the seal, or a small amount of air may enter the master cylinder, which could lead to an increase in stopping distance. Correction: After inspection, if a brake fluid leak from the master cylinder is detected or there is air in the master cylinder, the dealer will replace the master cylinder and the brake booster. Transport Canada Recall Number: 2003044; Units affected: 1,628 2002-2003: On certain vehicles, the check valve inside the fuel filler pipe may fall into the tank during refueling. This condition could cause fuel to spill out of the fuel filler pipe when the tank is being filled and refueling is stopped by the auto-stop system of the refuel gun. This may result in a fire if in the presence of an ignition source. Correction: Dealer will inspect the check valve. If the valve cannot be engaged or has fallen into the tank, the fuel tank will be replaced. Transport Canada Recall Number: 2003004; Units affected: 408 2002: On certain Panasonic Edition vehicles, the driver’s floor mat may slide along the interior floor carpet when pressure is applied to the mat by getting in or out of the vehicle. As a result, the floor mat may come into contact and interfere with the accelerator pedal. Correction: Dealer will install new floor mats and clips.
Crash test results
Used vehicle prices vary depending on factors such as general condition, odometer reading, usage history and options fitted. Always have a used vehicle checked by an experienced auto technician before you buy. For information on recalls, see Transport Canada’s web-site, www.tc.gc.ca, or the U.S. National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA)web-site, www.nhtsa.dot.gov. For information on vehicle service bulletins issued by the manufacturer, visit www.nhtsa.dot.gov. For information on consumer complaints about specific models, see www.lemonaidcars.com. |
Related posts:
- Used Vehicle Review: 2000-2005 Toyota Celica
- Used Vehicle Review: Toyota Celica, 2000-2002
- Used Vehicle Review: Toyota Echo, 2000-2005
- Test Drive: 2000 Toyota Celica
- Buyer's Guide: 2005 Toyota Celica
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