1991 Toyota Cressida Problems & Reliability

If you’re a car enthusiast or someone who appreciates the charm of classic vehicles, the 1991 Toyota Cressida might have caught your eye. Known for its sleek design and luxurious features, this car was a standout in its era. However, like any vehicle that’s been around for a few decades, the Cressida has its share of quirks and issues. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some of the common problems owners have encountered with the 1991 model and discuss its overall reliability. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about this classic ride, we’ve got you covered. Despite its age, the 1991 Toyota Cressida is often praised for its durability and smooth driving experience. Many owners have fond memories of its comfortable interior and reliable performance. However, it’s important to be aware of some of the mechanical issues that can arise, such as problems with the head gasket, transmission, and electrical systems. We’ll explore these issues in more detail and provide insights into how they affect the car’s reliability. So, buckle up and join us as we take a closer look at what makes the 1991 Toyota Cressida both a beloved classic and a vehicle with its own set of challenges.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it can face some issues as it racks up the miles. One common problem reported is that the automatic transmission may not shift correctly at high mileages, which can be a bit of a headache for owners. Despite this, many Cressida owners find that with regular maintenance, the car continues to perform well even as it ages.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Power steering pump may leak and require replacement

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but one common issue that pops up is the power steering pump leaking, which might need replacing. While this can be a bit of a hassle, its not an uncommon problem for cars of this age. Overall, if you keep an eye on it and address the issue promptly, the Cressida can still be a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but one issue to keep an eye on is the front brake rotor wear, which can lead to pulsations when braking. This problem isn’t uncommon in older vehicles and can usually be addressed with regular maintenance and timely rotor replacements. Overall, while it’s something to be aware of, it doesn’t overshadow the Cressida’s reputation for being a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace coolant and thermostat every 60,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it does have some maintenance needs. One key aspect is replacing the coolant and thermostat every 60,000 miles to prevent overheating and ensure the engine runs smoothly. Staying on top of this routine maintenance can help keep your Cressida running well for years to come.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Replace ignition key by 100,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its solid reliability, but one issue to keep an eye on is the ignition key, which might need replacing by the time you hit 100,000 miles. This isn’t a huge deal, but it’s something to be aware of as you rack up the miles. Overall, the Cressida tends to hold up well, making it a dependable choice for its age.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Failed Emissions Test Due to Blocked EGR System

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but one common issue that pops up is a failed emissions test due to a blocked EGR system. This problem can be a bit of a hassle, as it affects the car’s emissions performance and might require some maintenance to clear the blockage. Overall, while the Cressida is a solid vehicle, keeping an eye on the EGR system can help maintain its reliability.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace Oxygen Sensor When Servicing EGR System

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it can have its quirks. One common issue is the need to replace the oxygen sensor when servicing the EGR system, which can be a bit of a hassle but is manageable with regular maintenance. Overall, as long as you keep up with these kinds of repairs, the Cressida can still be a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Vehicle Won’t Crank Due To Starter

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it can have its quirks. One common issue reported is the car not cranking due to starter problems, which can be a bit of a hassle. However, with regular maintenance and timely repairs, many owners find that the Cressida remains a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Service AC system at 150,000 miles or every two to three years

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it does have some maintenance needs. One common issue is the AC system, which should be serviced at 150,000 miles or every two to three years to ensure it continues to function properly. Regular maintenance like this helps keep the Cressida running smoothly and can prevent more significant problems down the road.

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Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Loss of Power and Check Engine Light

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported issues with loss of power and the check engine light coming on. These problems can be frustrating and might indicate underlying issues with the engine or fuel system. Despite these concerns, many Cressida owners still find the car to be dependable with regular maintenance.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Engine Stalling or Running Roughly with White Smoke from Exhaust

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but some owners have reported issues with the engine stalling or running roughly, often accompanied by white smoke from the exhaust. This could indicate problems like a blown head gasket or coolant leaking into the combustion chamber, which are not uncommon in older vehicles. While these issues can be serious, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the Cressida running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Overheating and Sweet Smell Around Engine

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Flush brake fluid every 60,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1991 Toyota Cressida is generally known for its reliability, but like any older vehicle, it does have its quirks. One important maintenance task is to flush the brake fluid every 60,000 miles to ensure the braking system remains in good working order. Keeping up with this routine maintenance can help prevent potential brake issues and keep your Cressida running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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