Shifterati

Toyota Celica · 2nd gen (1978–1981)

1980 Toyota Celica

This page is a draft. It has not been approved yet, so read it with care.

Watch out for

Reputation: what owners and the press report. Tap one to see what to check.

  • Rust behind the body panels All years One source so far

    What to check: Look under the car and behind the panels for rust.

    Two readers commenting on Curbside Classic's reprint of a 1980 road test say these Celicas rusted away in Ohio and that the backs of the panels had little protection.

    Sources 1

Recalls

  • 80V045000 1980

    The alternator pulley can crack and break, which stops the battery charging and can scatter pieces. The pulley is replaced.2,3

Checked against NHTSA records on 21 October 2026.

Sources

  1. Curbside Classic readers (1980 road test)
  2. NHTSA recalls (1980 Celica)
  3. NHTSA campaign 80V045000