Steering
3 documented faults — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Rattling noise from steering column at low speeds over uneven surfaces
Cause
Excessive free play in EPS motor drive gears.
Repair
- Fit modified steering column.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 2.
Knocking noise from steering when steering wheel turned
Overview
- Affects
- All models, →2008.
- Remedy
- Fit modified part
Cause
Dry contact surfaces on the steering column lower shaft splined joint.
Repair
- To confirm cause: Mark alignment of steering column lower shaft to steering rack. Detach steering column lower shaft from steering rack. Slide steering column lower shaft in and out 10 times. Ensure alignment of reference marks. Refit steering column lower shaft. Road test vehicle.
- If noise is no longer present: Fit modified steering column lower shaft.
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 3.
Increased engine noise in passenger compartment
Steering column sealing boot cracked/damaged. Fix: fit a new part.
Overview
- Affects
- All LHD models.
- Remedy
- Fit new part
Symptoms
Driver's footwell carpet wet after heavy rain. Steering operation not smooth when manoeuvring or parking.
Repair steps
- Remove steering column sealing boot and discard.
- Fit protective cover to new steering column sealing boot Secure protective cover with retaining strap, ensure a clearance of 0.5 - 1.5 mm.
- Fit new steering column sealing boot complete with protective cover.
Parts
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Protective cover | 45254-02020 | 1 |
| Steering column sealing boot | Refer to manufacturer | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 4.
Other
1 documented fault — symptoms, causes and workshop fixes.
Excessive noise from auxiliary drive belt
Cause
Auxiliary drive belt tensioner pulley damaged.
Repair
- Renew auxiliary drive belt tensioner pulley.
Parts1 part
| Part | Part number | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Tensioner pulley | 13570-22010 | 1 |
Data: Motorwise Workshop. Bulletin 1.
Glossary
Technical terms used in this guide.
- VIN
- Vehicle identification number — 17 characters, found at the base of the windscreen and on the V5C logbook
- LHD
- Left-hand drive — steering wheel on the left
- Auxiliary Drive Belt
- The belt that drives the alternator, water pump, steering pump or air-conditioning compressor
Frequently asked questions
What are the common faults with the Toyota Corolla 1.4?
This guide contains four workshop bulletins for the Toyota Corolla 1.4. Of these, three concern the steering. Symptoms, causes, repair steps and part numbers are shown where supplied.
Does every Toyota Corolla 1.4 have these faults?
No. These are patterns documented across the model by workshops, not predictions for an individual vehicle. Where a fault applies only to certain vehicles or VIN ranges, that is listed with the fault.
Can I check for Toyota Corolla 1.4 faults myself?
Many of them. The documented symptoms can be seen, heard or felt during a test drive.