1987 Toyota Corolla Manual PDF

The 1987 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. This manual covers the complete owner's guide, maintenance schedule, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for all 1987 Corolla models including the DX, LE, and SR5 trims with 1.6L 4A-C engine, front-wheel drive, 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. Below are key sections for vehicle overview, maintenance, operation, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Operation Instructions 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Tire Information 8. Electrical System 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

The 1987 Toyota Corolla features front-engine, front-wheel drive layout with MacPherson strut front suspension and coil spring rear suspension. Available in 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, and 5-door wagon body styles.

Feature	Description
Engine	1.6L 4A-C 4-cylinder SOHC
Horsepower	74 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque	85 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Curb Weight	2,150 lbs (approx)
Wheelbase	95.7 inches
Overall Length	166.1 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 5,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement, brake inspection
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, coolant flush
Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt replacement, transmission fluid
Every 2 years: Brake fluid replacement

WARNING! Always use genuine Toyota parts for replacement. Follow specified torque values during repairs.

Operation Instructions

Proper operation ensures vehicle longevity and safety.

Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to start position
Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement for manual; gradual acceleration for automatic
Braking: Apply steady pressure, avoid abrupt stops when possible
Parking: Engage parking brake, place transmission in gear (manual) or Park (automatic)
Cold Weather: Allow engine to warm up before driving

CAUTION! Never shift to reverse while moving forward. Check fluid levels regularly.

Technical Specifications

Engine Type: 1.6L 4A-C inline 4-cylinder
Displacement: 1587 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Fuel Requirement: Regular unleaded (87 octane)
Transmission Ratios: Manual: 3.166 (1st), 1.904 (2nd), 1.310 (3rd), 0.969 (4th), 0.815 (5th)
Final Drive Ratio: 4.056:1
Suspension: Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: Four-link with coil springs
Steering: Rack and pinion, power assisted
Turning Circle: 31.4 feet

Controls and Instruments

Dashboard includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer (0-85 mph), Odometer, Trip meter, Fuel gauge, Coolant temperature, Warning lights (oil pressure, brake, battery, check engine).

Controls: Headlight switch, Turn signal lever, Wiper/washer control, Heater/AC controls, Ventilation controls, Radio controls, Hazard warning switch.

Warning Lights: Oil pressure (red), Brake system (red), Battery charge (red), Check engine (amber), Seat belt (red).

Fluid Capacities

Proper fluid levels and types are critical for vehicle operation.

Fluid Type	Capacity	Specification
Engine Oil	3.7 quarts	API SF or SG 10W-30
Coolant	6.3 quarts	Toyota Long Life Coolant
Manual Transmission	2.1 quarts	API GL-4 or GL-5 75W-90
Automatic Transmission	5.8 quarts	Toyota Type T-II
Brake Fluid	Fill to MAX line	DOT 3
Fuel Tank	13.2 gallons	87 octane unleaded

Tire Information

Proper tire maintenance ensures safety and fuel efficiency.

Tire Size: P175/70R13 82S
Inflation Pressure: 30 psi front, 30 psi rear (cold)
Rotation Pattern: Front to rear, same side
Tread Depth: Replace when 2/32 inch remains
Spare Tire: Temporary use only, 60 mph maximum

Tip: Check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold. Inspect for uneven wear.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with alternator charging.

Battery: 12V, 45 Ah
Alternator: 55 amps
Starter: 1.0 kW
Fuses: Located in engine compartment and under dashboard
Bulb Types: Headlight 60/55W, Brake light 21W, Turn signal 21W, Dome light 10W
Spark Plugs: NGK BPR5ES, gap 0.031 inch

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, faulty starter	Check battery connections, test starter, verify fuel delivery
Overheating	Low coolant, thermostat stuck	Check coolant level, replace thermostat, check radiator
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, misaligned timing	Replace air filter, check ignition timing, inspect brakes
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Resurface or replace rotors, install new brake pads
Electrical issues	Blown fuses, alternator failure	Check all fuses, test alternator output, inspect grounds

Emergency: Keep emergency kit with jumper cables, flashlight, basic tools.

Service: Contact authorized Toyota dealer for major repairs.