1987 Toyota Corolla Owners Manual

The 1987 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and durable engineering. This manual covers the AE82 series with front-wheel drive, available in 4-door sedan and 5-door liftback configurations. Features include 1.6L 4A-C engine, 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission, power-assisted brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are essential sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Controls 4. Specifications 5. Routine Maintenance 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Emergency Procedures 8. Troubleshooting 9. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, MacPherson strut front suspension, 4-wheel drum brakes or front disc brakes, 12.6-gallon fuel tank.

Feature	Description
Engine	1.6L 4A-C 4-cylinder, 74 hp @ 4800 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Fuel System	2-barrel carburetor
Brakes	Front disc/rear drum with power assist
Steering	Rack-and-pinion, power assist optional
Wheelbase	95.7 inches
Curb Weight	Approx. 2,100 lbs
Fuel Economy	28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway (manual)
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Trunk Capacity	12.4 cubic feet

Instrument Panel

Standard gauges and warning lights for safe operation.

Speedometer: 0-85 mph with odometer and trip meter
Tachometer: 0-7000 rpm (selected models)
Fuel gauge: Shows fuel level
Temperature gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning lights: Oil pressure, brake system, battery charge
Indicator lights: Turn signals, high beams, seat belt reminder

WARNING! Respond immediately to red warning lights to prevent engine damage.

Operating Controls

Familiarize yourself with all controls before driving.

Ignition switch: Start position includes accessory and lock positions
Steering column: Multi-function lever for turn signals, headlights, wipers
Climate control: Three-dial system for fan speed, temperature, air distribution
Audio system: AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player
Cruise control: Optional on higher trim levels

CAUTION! Adjust mirrors and seats before starting vehicle.

Specifications

Engine: 1.6L 4A-C inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
Displacement: 1587 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Fuel Requirement: Regular unleaded (87 octane)
Transmission Ratios (manual): 1st: 3.587, 2nd: 2.022, 3rd: 1.384, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.861, Reverse: 3.538
Suspension: Front: MacPherson struts, Rear: 4-link with coil springs
Tires: P175/70R13
Battery: 12V, 45Ah
Alternator: 45-55 amps

Routine Maintenance

Follow scheduled maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles/3 months: Change engine oil and filter, check fluid levels, inspect belts and hoses.

Every 7,500 miles: Rotate tires, check brake pads and linings, inspect exhaust system.

Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, check spark plugs, inspect fuel system.

Every 30,000 miles: Replace fuel filter, check timing belt, inspect cooling system.

Fluid Capacities

Use only recommended fluids and proper quantities.

Fluid	Capacity	Type
Engine Oil	3.7 quarts	10W-30 API SF
Coolant	6.3 quarts	Ethylene glycol 50/50 mix
Manual Transmission	2.1 quarts	80W-90 GL-4
Automatic Transmission	5.8 quarts	ATF Type III
Fuel Tank	12.6 gallons	Unleaded gasoline
Brake Fluid	As needed	DOT 3

Emergency Procedures

Know these procedures for unexpected situations.

Flat tire: Use jack from trunk, position on reinforced jack points
Engine overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, pull over safely
Dead battery: Use jumper cables with proper connection sequence
Brake failure: Pump brakes, use parking brake gradually
Stuck accelerator: Shift to neutral, brake to stop

WARNING! Keep emergency kit with flashlight, flares, and first aid supplies.

Troubleshooting

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

Service: Contact authorized Toyota dealer for professional repairs.

Roadside Assistance: 1-800-331-4331