[mvlbr]

I'm looking into buying an 85-88 Cressida and wanted to know what are typical issues I should be looking for when shopping for these model year cars. The reason I ask is because I've been wanting a Cressida in those model years because my father used to own an 87 back in 87 and I always liked that car so now I've been toying with the idea of purchasing a used one as long as the car is pretty reliable(don't want to get stranded on a weekend cruise ). BTW what are the chances of finding a manual version? Thanks in advance.

 

[Jegan_V]

I don't really recall of a common problem that occurs on this generation of Cressida other than the engines do leak oil. As for finding the cars with a manual...it was rare when new so I wouldn't expect to find one to prevent yourself from being disappointed.

 

[kamesama980]

chances of finding a manual one are about 1 in 100. only common problem is oil leaks... other than running out of it (which is preventable) this occasionally does cause alternator failure (can be cleaned though) there really weren't many options, even the base model is pretty loaded. but the things that were options are: LSD and 5 speed, TEMS (sport/normal mode for the shocks), memory seats, leather seats, and sunroof. I might have missed 1 or 2 but pretty much everything else, like power windows and locks, is standard

 

[mvlbr]

Where would most oil leaks be located and is it expensive to fix? Are we talking complete gasket swap?

 

[stepho]

Most mechanical parts are easy to fix, replace or upgrade.
Dents and paint are easy for panel beaters to fix.
But trim is hard to find.

Check the usual rust traps common to any 20 year old car.

The 5M leaks from nearly everywhere and needs a complete gasket swap to cure (head, timing cover, oil pan, front+rear seals).
About $150 for the complete gasket kit and a couple of days sweating by an average DIY.
Or just keep topping the oil up.

- Stepho

 

[Daddy Schae]

I'm looking into buying an 85-88 Cressida and wanted to know what are typical issues I should be looking for when shopping for these model year cars. The reason I ask is because I've been wanting a Cressida in those model years because my father used to own an 87 back in 87 and I always liked that car so now I've been toying with the idea of purchasing a used one as long as the car is pretty reliable(don't want to get stranded on a weekend cruise ). BTW what are the chances of finding a manual version? Thanks in advance.

I have an 86 with 91000 kms yes it is true. Check it out on kijiji toronto london or guelph.