Tires

1986 Toyota Tercel Service, Tires & Repairs


1986 Toyota Tercel Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

1986 Toyota Tercel Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 1986 Toyota Tercel tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
1986 Toyota Tercel DLX* None 26 PSI/26 PSI 155R13
1986 Toyota Tercel DLX* S 32 PSI/32 PSI 155SR13
1986 Toyota Tercel DLX* S 26 PSI/26 PSI 175/70SR13
1986 Toyota Tercel SR5 S 26 PSI/26 PSI 175/70SR13
1986 Toyota Tercel STD* None 32 PSI/32 PSI P145/80R13
1986 Toyota Tercel STD* S 26 PSI/26 PSI 155SR13

1986 Toyota Tercel DLX*

155R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1986 Toyota Tercel DLX*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

1986 Toyota Tercel DLX*

175/70SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1986 Toyota Tercel SR5

175/70SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

1986 Toyota Tercel STD*

P145/80R13

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 32 PSI/32 PSI

1986 Toyota Tercel STD*

155SR13

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 26 PSI/26 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 1986 Toyota Tercel

What tires are best for a 1986 Toyota Tercel? Check out the following tire brands and types.

SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires

About 1986 Toyota Tercel Tires

Other than getting the proper tire size, you also want to consider a handful of other factors when buying new Toyota Tercel tires like where and how you drive, and what tire brand you trust most. When thinking about your driving conditions, consider where you live (mountains vs. city vs. countryside) and the kind of weather can catch you off-guard. (Watch out Tornado Alley!) Drivers in states that fully experience all four seasons often buy two sets of tires: one set for winter, one set for summer. Other drivers prefer to purchase one all-season set to limit trips to the tire shop and make sure their vehicle is prepared in the rain, sleet, snow, or sun!

Driving style is next on the list to think about when buying tires. If you're a diehard off-roader, you have very different tire needs than a highway commuter who doesn't leave the paved path. Visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you, or get started by browsing tires that fit your Toyota Tercel.

Toyota Tercel Installation and More

Firestone Complete Auto Care installs more tires on more cars than most other companies. We're your one-stop shop for tire installation, rotation, and ongoing maintenance! Buy 1986 Toyota Tercel tires online and schedule your installation when it's convenient for you.

1986 Toyota Tercel Tire Q&A

  • Why does Toyota tire inflation matter? The right tire pressure can make all the difference. Proper tire inflation helps increase fuel economy, improve braking time, and boost tire lifespan! Even a small change in tire pressure can impact your driving.
  • What do the numbers on my Toyota Tercel tires mean? Your tire sidewall gives you information about load carrying capacity, speed rating, treadwear, traction, and tire size. Talk to one of our tire technicians to learn how to read the numbers on your tire!
  • Can I check the tread depth on my Toyota tires at home? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota Tercel tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota Tercel tires.

Get Repairs for Your 1986 Toyota Tercel

No driver looks forward to car repairs. But we work to provide you with a different experience at Firestone Complete Auto Care. When you come to us for 1986 Toyota Tercel repair services, rest easy knowing that your Tercel is in capable hands. We’ll start by assessing what repairs may be needed, and we’ll provide you with a detailed explanation of what we recommend. We’ll never recommend a repair we don’t think is necessary for your safety or the performance of your Toyota.

What Will Toyota Tercel Repairs Cost?

Several factors can affect the cost to repair your 1986 Toyota Tercel, including what kind of repair you need, prices of appropriate replacement parts, how much labor the repair will take, and your locale. No matter what state you’re in, be sure to look through our offers and online coupons for repairs.

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 1986 Toyota Tercel, like

1986 Toyota Tercel Auto Repair Q&A

  • Do I still need scheduled maintenance even when nothing is wrong with my Toyota? One of the best ways to prevent 1986 Toyota Tercel repairs is by staying on top of your Toyota maintenance schedule. This schedule is written by the people who made your vehicle and they know best how to keep it running smoothly.
  • Should I bring my Toyota in even if I can't pinpoint the problem? No, we’re not talking about finding the best jams on the radio! You know your car best, and you’re the first person who will notice if something doesn’t feel right (like new smells, sights, or sounds coming from your car). If you sense that something is 'off,' stop in for a Courtesy Check to have these symptoms checked out ASAP. Early action could help you prevent Toyota Tercel repairs.
  • Do I have to get the repairs you recommend for my Toyota? Trust is more than just a saying on the wall. It’s a window underneath it. That’s why we won’t recommend services or repairs for your 1986 Toyota Tercel unless we think they’re vital to your safety on the road.

Get Your 1986 Toyota Tercel Brakes Fixed

Your Toyota Tercel may be powered by a strong engine. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you notice your brakes are squeaking or not working well, don’t wait! Unresponsive brakes make it tough to give the road your best. What's more, waiting for things to figure themselves out can result in more damage to your brakes and your wallet. Go to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care for 1986 Toyota Tercel brake repairs. We offer many affordable brake repairs like brake pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum refinishing, brake fluid exchange, and wheel cylinder and brake caliper installation.

Answers to Your Tercel Brakes Questions

  • What can cause my Tercel to shake when I apply the brakes? If your Tercel shakes when you brake, you could be dealing with warped rotors, faulty brake calipers, worn brake pads or rotors, or loose or worn suspension parts. Schedule a free brake inspection at Firestone Complete Auto Care for help diagnosing your brake issue.
  • What is the average lifespan of Tercel brake pads? You can usually get around 30,000 to 40,000 miles out of your brake pads, but how and where you drive your Tercel can affect this. Hauling large loads or riding your brakes can shorten their lifespan, while smoothly braking and mostly sticking to highways can help your brake pads last longer.
  • Should my Tercel be leaking brake fluid when the car is off? Your Tercel brake system is a closed hydraulic system, so a brake fluid leak likely means you have an issue in your brake system. Over time, brake components can wear out or get damaged, causing a brake fluid leak.

Repairing Your Toyota Tercel Drivetrain

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to go to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 1986 Toyota Tercel drivetrain components Your Toyota Tercel may need driveshaft attention if you feel resistance when turning, heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

1986 Toyota Tercel Drivetrain Q&A

  • What are signs my Toyota drivetrain is damaged? Noises toward the back of your Toyota Tercel, leaking fluid, trouble turning — these could all be signs of drivetrain damage you want to address. Take action before something more severe happens.
  • Why is my Tercel malfunction indicator light (MIL) on? If your Tercel has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.
  • How worried should I be about a drivetrain malfunction in my Tercel? Don't ignore a drivetrain malfunction in your Tercel. As soon as you notice a problem, have it checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose the issue and carry out any necessary repairs. Driving with a faulty drivetrain is risky and may further damage your Tercel.

1986 Toyota Tercel Wheel Alignment

With an alignment service, adjustments are made to your Toyota Tercel’s suspension system, the connection between the vehicle and the wheels. In an alignment service, calculated changes are made to the angles of your tires. This is so that your tires hit the road at an optimal angle for your vehicle’s performance — just as Toyota intended. Before we adjust the alignment of your 1986 Toyota Tercel, we’ll start by checking the current alignment angles. If needed, we'll adjust your wheel alignment angles to match Toyota recommendations.

Questions About Toyota Tercel Alignment

  • How can I avoid knocking my Toyota Tercel out of alignment? Potholes and uneven roads can knock your car out of alignment, so stay aware of the road ahead and adjust your speed (or avoid these obstacles whenever it’s safely possible).
  • How often does your Tercel need a wheel alignment?  Check your Tercel owner's manual for Toyota's recommended interval. It's generally a good idea to check your alignment every 6,000 miles or 6 months, depending on which comes first.
  • Does getting new Tercel tires mean you need an alignment?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Tercel, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

Engine Repairs for Your 1986 Toyota Tercel

When your Toyota Tercel engine needs repairs, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a repair isn’t urgent right now, we’ll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Toyota Tercel engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Toyota-approved parts and components like the timing chain or belt, valve guide seal, fuses, or a different component.

Engine Q&A 1986 Toyota Tercel

  • Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Tercel? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Tercel testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
  • Why is my Toyota Tercel making engine noise? Unusual noises can signal a problem with your Toyota Tercel engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
  • What could damage a Toyota engine?  Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Tire Repair for Your 1986 Toyota Tercel

If the road has been rough on your 1986 Toyota Tercel tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. To start, we’ll consider the location of tire damage, the type of issue, the size and scope of the damage, and the amount of wear on your tires.

If a repair on your 1986 Toyota Tercel tire is feasible and safe, the repair process is actually fairly simple: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) re-seal the inside lining of your tire so that air won’t escape.

Frequently Asked Toyota Tercel Tire Repair Questions

  • Can I drive my Toyota on a flat tire? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Tercel as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
  • Will a temporary sealant fix my Toyota's flat tire? Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Toyota Tercel to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.
  • What is causing the tires on my Tercel to keep losing air?  If your Tercel tires are always losing air, you may have a puncture, damaged wheel, or leaking valve stem.

Guide to 1986 Toyota Tercel Scheduled Maintenance

It can be overwhelming, but fortunately, there’s a resource that takes the guesswork out of routine Tercel maintenance. It’s as easy as following the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been written specifically for your 1986 Toyota Tercel! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Toyota, your vehicle manufacturer. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; however, recommended maintenance usually includes services like fluid exchanges, filter changes, new brake pads, oil changes, and tire rotations. Scheduling routine service appointments is one of the best ways to help extend your Tercel's life, decrease your risk of dangerous malfunctions on the road, and prevent common 1986 Toyota Tercel problems.

Essential Maintenance to Keep Your 1986 Toyota Tercel Running Newer, Longer

Come to Firestone Complete Auto Care for manufacturer-recommended routine maintenance on your 1986 Toyota Tercel and a skilled technician will start the appointment with a Courtesy Check. A Courtesy Check helps "set the stage" for your service and catch any small problems before they turn into big repairs. Every Courtesy Check will include a visual inspection of your Tercel. We’ll check your head and tail lights, fluid levels, filters, tires (and their alignment!), and windshield wiper blades. We’ll also perform a free battery check to determine your battery’s charge level.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is the place to go for 1986 Toyota Tercel maintenance. Don’t wait until something goes wrong with your car. Visit your nearest location for proactive maintenance today.

1986 Toyota Tercel Maintenance Questions

  • What should I do after hitting a pothole in my Toyota Tercel?  You know your Toyota Tercel better than anyone else, so you’ll know if something doesn’t feel right while driving. Have your alignment checked (and adjusted if necessary) as soon as you notice a pulling steering wheel to prevent suspension damage or uneven tire wear.
  • When should I switch my Toyota Tercel to high mileage oil?  If your Toyota Tercel has ticked past 75,000 miles, consider switching to high mileage oil at your next oil change to give your engine what it needs to go another 75,000 (or more!). High mileage oil: make it a high priority!
  • Can I ignore dashboard lights on my Toyota?  Don't ignore dashboard warning lights! Bring your Toyota Tercel in for a diagnostic code scan as soon as a dashboard warning light flashes on, whether it's your check engine or battery light. Dashboard lights alert you to trouble under the hood.

1986 Toyota Tercel Battery Replacement & Size

Need more info about Toyota Tercel batteries?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
25-1 L4/1.5L Replacement 24 months Performance months 550

Car Batteries for 1986 Toyota Tercel

On average, auto batteries last anywhere from three to five years. Don’t get stranded by your Tercel’s car battery. Replace it regularly instead! Watch for signs that your current battery is getting too old or too weak. A lagging starter, a blinking battery or check engine light, swollen battery case, corroded battery terminals, or faded headlights can all signal that your battery is waving goodbye.

You can also get a Free Battery Test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Stop by for a free battery test and, if needed, a replacement battery for your 1986 Toyota Tercel. Car batteries are one of our many specialties! Our technicians are well-acquainted with Toyota’s service specs for Tercel battery cold cranking amps and reserve capacity. Get help identifying the type and size of battery that's best for your Tercel, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Top Toyota TercelCar Battery Questions

  • Why won’t my Toyota Tercel battery hold a charge?  A car battery that needs to be jump-started every time is as good as dead. It may be getting old. Or, you’ve been leaving the doors slightly open and the dome lights on during the night. Stop in for a free battery check at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care and learn more about your battery's charge.
  • What is the average lifespan of a car battery? The typical 12-volt car battery may last three to five years, depending on the type of battery, the driving conditions, and how well the battery is maintained.
  • Why is there white, flaky stuff around my Tercel’s battery post?  The white, crusty stuff that can accumulate around Tercel car battery terminals is called corrosion. It is caused by a chemical reaction between the battery acid and the air, which creates a white, powdery substance that can build up on the terminals over time. Corrosion can interfere with the flow of electricity between the battery post and the car's electrical system, sometimes leading to poor electrical performance, difficulty starting, and even premature battery failure.

1986 Toyota Tercel Oil Change Service

Toyota recommends having your 1986 Toyota Tercel’s motor oil changed at regular intervals. Outside of Toyota-recommended oil change intervals, your Tercel may need an oil change if your check engine light is on, you hear knock knock knock coming from the engine, smell oil inside the car, or notice excess vehicle exhaust. You may also need an oil change more frequently than Toyota recommends if you haul heavy loads, drive in dusty terrain, adventure off-road, or go long distances at low speeds.

Whether it’s synthetic, conventional, or a blend of both — your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has the right oil for your Toyota Tercel. Consult Toyota's recommendations to select the right  1986 Tercel oil and talk with a teammate to learn more about our oil options: Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, and Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. During an oil change, an auto technician will change your Tercel’s oil, replace and recycle the old oil and filter, inspect all of your other filters, refill vital car fluids, and perform a free inspection on the rest of your vehicle. Make an appointment for an oil change service today and let the oil experts take care of your Tercel's engine.

Oil Change Q&A for Your 1986 Toyota Tercel

  • What can cause the oil light on my Toyota Tercel to illuminate?  The oil change light in your Toyota Tercel could be triggered by an overdue oil change. However, if the oil pressure light is on, you may be dealing with low engine oil, a failing oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a malfunctioning oil pressure sensor.
  • How hard is it to change Toyota Tercel oil at home?  Changing your own oil isn't as convenient as you might think. It requires special tools and old oil must be disposed of properly. Having your oil professionally changed reduces the chances of something going wrong with the oil change, but also with your vehicle down the road.
  • Why is my Toyota Tercel exhaust smoke grayish or blue?  You could have an oil leak and have a case of burning oil. Looks like it’s time for a professional to take a look. The leak could be the result of worn valve seals, fried piston rings, or old cylinder walls.

1986 Toyota Tercel Tune-Up & Engine Service

Routine engine tune-ups can bring power back to your Tercel. The Firestone Complete Auto Care location in your community offers several Toyota Tercel engine tune-up services. The first is the standard Firestone Tune-Up. It includes a complete visual inspection of engine components, installation of new spark plugs, and a lifetime warranty on parts*. Another service option pays special attention to the filters in your Tercel. Specifically, we replace the fuel filter and air filter. Our third service is a thorough cleaning of the fuel system. During this type of tune-up, we use a three-step process to get rid of harmful varnish, dirt, and carbon deposit buildup in your Tercel’s fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. This goes a long way in boosting your fuel system’s overall performance. Keep in mind that your Tercel's mileage and maintenance history can uniquely impact its tune-up needs. Ask one of our technicians what your vehicle needs, based on your driving habits and your car’s current condition.

*Talk to a Firestone Complete Auto Care teammate for full terms and conditions on warranties.

Common Engine Tune-Up Q&A for 1986 Toyota Tercel

  • When should Toyota Tercel spark plugs be replaced? When it’s time to replace the spark plugs, don’t delay. These small (but vital!) parts provide the electric spark that your car needs in order to start, and old spark plugs can prevent your car from starting at all. Replace spark plugs on time or about every 30,000 miles or so.
  • What do I do if I see a pool of liquid under my Toyota Tercel? Puddles could indicate that your vehicle is leaking coolant, oil, or brake fluid. Ignoring these leaks can lead to permanent engine damage, so address these symptoms ASAP with a tune-up service.
  • How often should I clean my Toyota Tercel fuel injectors? There is no hard and fast rule on how often fuel injectors should be cleaned, and it can vary based on driving habits and fuel type. Some manufacturers may suggest including a fuel system cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule. Or you may need to clean your fuel injectors as needed if you notice signs of a fuel system problem.

1986 Toyota Tercel Suspension Service & Repair

When you first drove your 1986 Toyota Tercel, the ride was probably so smooth that you didn’t even think about it! Now, however, things are starting to feel a little rough. Maybe your Tercel bounces, leans to one side, or makes a weird sound when you drive over a speed bump or turn. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 1986 Toyota Tercel, bring it in for steering and suspension repairs. We’ll get to the source of your car problems and, if your Tercel suspension system needs repair, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost.

Questions About 1986 Toyota Tercel Steering & Suspension

  • What can cause my Toyota Tercel to have a bouncy ride? Damaged struts or shocks can't dampen road bumps properly, causing your vehicle to feel like a trampoline after each dip or bump.
  • Why does my Tercel tilt forward when I hit the brakes?  As you brake, the forward momentum of your Tercel combined with its weight sends a ton of force to its front end. A damaged or worn suspension system can cause the front end to compress and dip even further.
  • Does tire pressure and tread depth impact my Toyota's suspension?  Proper tire care can reduce strain on the suspension system, and also alert you to the need for new tires. Uneven tire wear is one sign of steering and suspension system problems, but it can also contribute to more.

1986 Toyota Tercel A/C Service Near You

Our technicians will work to solve your 1986 Toyota Tercel A/C problems to the best of their ability. In this A/C performance inspection, we’ll check out the current condition of your 1986 Toyota Tercel A/C system to evaluate what repairs are necessary (if any). This check will include an examination of system pressure, a visual inspection, and a leak test.

When we perform an A/C repair on your 1986 Toyota Tercel, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. During this process, a technician will remove the old refrigerant from the A/C system. Next, they will evacuate the system according to Toyota's recommendations. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system.

Questions About 1986 Toyota Tercel A/C Systems

  • Why is my Tercel A/C blowing hot air? If your car’s air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air at all (or it tries, then turns warm), you could have a clogged expansion valve, a faulty compressor clutch, a leak, or a malfunctioning fuse in the system.
  • What causes A/C system leaks?  A/C system leaks are often due to a combination of age and moisture. Rubber seals and gaskets naturally degrade over time, allowing refrigerant to exit and moisture to enter your Tercel's A/C system.
  • Why won’t my Tercel’s A/C cool the vehicle when the car is stopped?  Damaged or worn components in your Tercel’s electrical or air conditioning system can cause the A/C to only work when the car is moving. You may be dealing with low coolant or a faulty cooling fan.

Transmission Services for 1986 Toyota Tercel

Your transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive at the speed you desire. Because of the transmission’s responsibility to translate the right dose of power into the right amount of speed, a tiny transmission issue can take a major toll on your car’s performance. 1986 Toyota Tercel transmission problems can show up as shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, a feeling of shakiness, or whistling noises or a burning smell coming from beneath the hood. Let Toyota Tercel transmission problems linger and you could see your fuel economy decrease or find that you can't drive your Tercel at all. Our expert techs are familiar with 1986 Tercel services and perform them according to Toyota-recommended specifications. Schedule an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care at the first sign of transmission problems to help keep your engine running at peak performance.

1986 Toyota Tercel Transmission Q&A

  • Does my Tercel's transmission fluid need to be inspected?  Regularly checking and exchanging your 1986 Tercel’s transmission fluid is one of the best ways to help the transmission system perform. Some technicians would say that between 30,000 and 60,000 miles is a good timeframe for having your Toyota's transmission fluid checked and replaced, but that timeline can vary depending on how your vehicle is used and your manufacturer’s recommendations. The good news is that transmission fluid leaks are affordable to repair and easy to spot.
  • Can Toyota Tercel transmission fluid leak?  Yes. Toyota Tercel transmission fluid can leak over time and potentially cause transmission issues. Worn or damaged seals, a loose or damaged transmission pan, a cracked transmission housing, faulty transmission cooler lines, or an overfilled transmission could cause transmission fluid leaks.
  • Can I still drive my Toyota Tercel if it has a transmission fluid leak?  Driving your Tercel with a transmission fluid leak is highly discouraged. Transmission fluid is vital to the smooth operation of your transmission system, and a leak can put the entire system at risk. A transmission fluid leak may lead to decreased performance, overheating, and possibly even transmission failure.

1986 Toyota Tercel Inspections

When you bring your vehicle to Firestone Complete Auto Care for any service, we’ll automatically do a multi-point Courtesy Check. First, a technician will pop the hood on your Toyota Tercel and test the battery to find out how much charge is remaining on it. After we’ve inspected your Toyota Tercel’s battery, we’ll visually inspect your windshield wiper blades, lights, filters, alignment, tires, hoses, belts and fluid levels.

While every visit to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a Courtesy Check, you can also request a Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 1986 Toyota Tercel if you suspect there may be a bigger problem. During a Complete Vehicle Inspection, we’ll visually check everything that’s on the list for a Courtesy Check. Additionally, we’ll perform a hands-on examination of your steering, suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. The goal of this type of inspection is to unearth significant issues that might require preventative maintenance.

Depending on where you live, your local Firestone Complete Auto Care may be able to perform state-mandated inspections or safety tests on your vehicle. Specific requirements for these types of inspections vary by state.

Common 1986 Toyota Tercel Vehicle Inspection Questions

  • When does my Toyota Tercel need an inspection? You drive your car, day in and day out, so you know it best. If you notice unusual engine noises or you can’t shake the feeling that something is 'off,' start with a Courtesy Check to stay ahead of potential issues.
  • Can you fix my 1986 Toyota Tercel so it will pass a state inspection test? Did your vehicle fail a recent state inspection test? We can help. Come in for a checkup and we’ll diagnose the issue.
  • When’s the best time to have a complete vehicle inspection performed on my Toyota Tercel?  You should bring your Toyota Tercel in for a full vehicle inspection if something weird happens and you can’t find the problem. A new dashboard light might come on, you may hear strange sounds under the hood, or your steering might feel off. A complete inspection is also a great idea before a road trip for added peace of mind.

Radiator Service & Repair for 1986 Toyota Tercel

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 1986 Toyota Tercel is a huge factor in the longevity of your engine. In fact, Toyota recommends replacing coolant/antifreeze at specific intervals, but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for signs of a failing radiator. Your radiator could be close to causing an engine breakdown if you notice leaking coolant, overheating, or an illuminated low coolant dashboard light.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we start by performing a thorough inspection of your Toyota Tercel cooling system. We then do a machine-powered radiator exchange, replenish flushed chemicals, sealants, and lubricants, and then pressure check for leaks. When it comes to radiator service and repair, your 1986 Toyota Tercel is in good hands at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Questions About Toyota Tercel Radiators

  • What does an illuminated coolant temperature light mean for my Toyota?  f the coolant light illuminates on your dashboard, your engine could be overheating. Pull over to a safe area and wait for the engine to cool down. Then, head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care for a coolant system check.
  • What is causing my Tercel to overheat?  Your Toyota Tercel engine could overheat due to low coolant, a clogged radiator, a damaged water pump, a malfunctioning cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat.
  • Why does the radiator in my Tercel sound like it’s rumbling or boiling?  Air pockets in your Tercel’s cooling system may cause a rumbling or boiling noise. You could also have a clogged radiator or simply need to replace the radiator cap.