1997 Toyota Tacoma

131 federal complaints (148 component records) · 0 recall campaigns on file · 72 service bulletins · 1 Canadian recall
See all 32 model years of the Toyota Tacoma →
Engine
2.4L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
19 city / 23 hwy
Federal complaints
131
Recall campaigns
0
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Body & structure
46
Suspension
26
Tires
14
Seat belts
11
Power train
9
Speed control
6
Other
6
Brakes
6
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 7 complaints01 years old: 6 complaints2 years old: 5 complaints3 years old: 10 complaints4 years old: 5 complaints5 years old: 5 complaints56 years old: 6 complaints7 years old: 2 complaints8 years old: 2 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 11 complaints1011 years old: 9 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 4 complaints14 years old: 2 complaints15 years old: 5 complaints1516 years old: 5 complaints17 years old: 5 complaints18 years old: 5 complaints19 years old: 6 complaints20+ years old: 11 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 111 of 131 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 1 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 1 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 3 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 3 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 6 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 5 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 9 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 2 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 11 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 5 complaints200,000+ miles: 11 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 57 of 131 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Body & structure

46 complaint records
"NO INCIDENT -- VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS PA INSPECTION -- NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. REAR FRAME IS COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT WITH RUST. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse body & structure parts in the directory →

Suspension

26 complaint records1 crash report
"When’s he start and you get gas it won turn off but don’t do it , and whend I hit a jump and I tuning he shake it wild..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Tires

14 complaint records2 crash reports
"TREAD SPLITTING/CRACKING ALL THE WAY AROUND TIRES ON ALL TIRES/STEEL BELTS SHOWING THROUGH/TECHNICIAN SAID IT WAS "DRY ROT." *AK (TIRESIZE: 31105R15)..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse tires parts in the directory →

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
1997141
1997-08-14
Other177THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH C.M.V.S.S. 120 - TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS. COMPLIANCE LABEL CONTAINS AN INCORRECT REAR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE DESIGNATION.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
TSB003220
Aug 2023
Vehicle Speed ControlTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
TTT063620
Mar 2022
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions
Toyota PRO19-02
Jan 2022
WheelsPOL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it.
Toyota Safety Re
Mar 2021
Air BagsToyota Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
T-TT-0636-20 Rev
Mar 2021
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
T-SB-0032-20 Rev
Feb 2021
EquipmentTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
T-TT-0636-20
Dec 2020
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
T-SB-0304-17 Obs
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 07, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0032-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
T-SB-0032-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, T-SB-0144-08, and T-SB-0304-17.
PG004-97-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
PG006-01-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jul 2018
EquipmentTSB: REVISION NOTICE July 31, 2018 Rev2: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. January 11, 2018 Rev1: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded.
WLK052418
May 2018
Engine And Engine CoolingProvides instructions for returning Walker Exhaust Systems' BM Premium Pipe (P/N 55096). Because the part did not have the oxygen sensor fitting drilled out, it will not allow the sensor to be installed.
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jan 2018
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, and T-SB-0144-08. Service Bulletin Nos.
T-SB-0144-08_Obs
Nov 2017
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE November 21, 2017: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17
Oct 2017
StructureTSB: Vehicle replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) may be available from Toyota, provided the request meets one of the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
TSB018217
Jan 2017
Electrical SystemTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB No. T-SB-0101-11. Applicability has been updated to include 2016 ? 2017 model year vehicles. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0101-11 is Obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded.
Safety Recall an
Jul 2016
EquipmentUpdate on Technician Certification Requirements.
T-SB-0101-11 Rev
Apr 2015
EquipmentTSB: When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches.
T-SB-0014-11 Rev
Oct 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this service bulletin is to provide information regarding the installation of the correct torque converter bolts during automatic transmission/transaxle assembly replacement.
T-SB-0134-14
Sep 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL "ON" shifting issues and/or transmission damage.
T-TT-0010-10 Rev
May 2014
EngineTech Tip: Low battery voltage can contribute to a MIL "ON" condition for P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit) and/or P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit) due to inconsistent rotational speed of the engine's crankshaft.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2014
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
T-SB-0185-13
Dec 2013
VisibilityThe following procedures are recommended during routine maintenance or in the event of a customer concern for wiper performance.
TS-BO030-01 Obso
Dec 2013
Visibility/WiperThis bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0185-13.
T-TT-0269-13
Oct 2013
VisibilityThe appearance of spots in tempered glass (when viewed at certain angles) is the result of the heat treating and quick quenching process during manufacturing.
T-SB-0071-11 Rev
Oct 2013
Power TrainThe purpose of this service bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL ?ON,? shifting issues, and/or transmission damage.
T-SB-0141-13
Sep 2013
EquipmentA new Special Service Tool (SST 09709-00002) has been introduced to aid in the inspection procedure for certain vehicles equipped with a floor pedal-type parking brake system. This bulletin references the correct method for installing the Brake Pedal Force Gauge.
T-SB-0054-13
Apr 2013
EquipmentCalifornia (CA), Federal (FED), and 50 State Certified emission control underhood labels (emission labels) may be obtained through your dealership?s Parts Department utilizing standard replacement parts ordering procedures.
T-PG006-00 Obsol
Apr 2013
EquipmentThis bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0054-13.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2013
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with SRS, including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
TCS-11-029
Sep 2011
StructureTOYOTA: INFORMATION PERTAINING TO REISSUANCE OF FOLLOW UP NOTIFICATION LETTER TO CUSTOMERS FOR CERTAIN VEHICLES FOR THE PHASE 2 CORROSION RESISTANT COMPOUND TO FRAME OF TRUCKS. *PE
LSC-90-D
Apr 2011
StructureTOYOTA SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. A NUMBER OF VEHICLES OPERATING IN SEVERE COLD CLIMATE AREAS WITH HIGH ROAD SALT USED EXHIBITED EXCESSIVE RUST CORROSION TO THE FRAME, CAUSING PERFORATION OF THE METAL.
TC-11-013
Mar 2011
StructureTOYOTA SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO APPLY ANTI-CORROSION MATERIALS FOR VEHICLES IN COLD STATES. 1996-2004 TACOMAS. *RM
POL08-03
Mar 2008
StructureTOYOTA SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM - WARRANTY COVERAGE EXTENSION FOR FRAME RUST CORROSION PERFORATION ON CERTAIN 1995 THROUGH 2000 MY TACOMA VEHICLES. *NJ
03704
Sep 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingENGINE BANK 1 AND BANK 2 A/F AND 02 IDENTIFICATION. VARIOUS TOYOTA MODELS. *TT
PG00503
Aug 2003
TiresSPARE TIRE CARRIER OPERATION. VARIOUS MODLELS INCLUDING THE 2004 LANDCRUISER AND 4 RUNNER. *TT
DL00203
Aug 2003
Power TrainREAR AXLE SEAL DESIGN CHANGE. *TT
TC01031
Nov 2001
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT REGARDING HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT. *YD
BO01901
Aug 2001
Seat BeltsINFORMATION REGARDING SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR TAPE SET. *JB
T-PG007-01
May 2001
EquipmentReplacement vin plates.
345
Nov 2000
StructureSUBJECT REGARDING WATER LEAK FIX REPAIR. *TT
1698
Oct 2000
StructureWATER LEAK FIELD-FIX REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. *YC *TT
BO02600
Oct 2000
StructureINFORMATION ON WATER LEAK FIELD-FIX REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. *JB
BO01900
Jul 2000
WheelsSUBJECT REGARDING FRONT MUDGUARDS FOR VEHICLES STARTING WITH VIN 4TAPM62N*YZ653866. *TT
116
Apr 2000
VisibilityELECTRONIC MAIL REGARDING EXTERIOR MIRROR ASSEMBLY. *TT
BO01200
Mar 2000
VisibilityINFORMATION INTRODUCING CHANGES MADE TO IMPROVE THE ADJUSTABILITY OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE EXTERIOR REAR VIEW MIRROR ON VEHICLES STARTING WITH VIN 4TAWN72N9XZ564100. *TT
BO00100
Jan 2000
StructureINFORMATION REGARDING A NEW ANTI-CHIP TAPE DEVELOPED TO HELP PREVENT REPEAT OCCURRENCES OF PAINT CHIPPING ON THE REAR QUARTER PANELS. *TT
EG01199
Oct 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT REGARDING 5VZ OXYGEN SENSOR IMPROVEMENT. *TT
BO01399
Sep 1999
StructureSOME VEHICLES STARTING WITH VIN 4TAVL52N*XZ469062 MAY EXHIBIT A RATTLE NOISE CAUSED BY THE FRONT LOWER WINDOW GLASS FRAME. *TT
DL00199
Aug 1999
Power TrainTHIS SERVICE BULLETIN PROVIDES THE LOCATION OF THE GREASE FITTINGS FOR THE PROPELLER SHAFT JOINTS. *TT
TC00599
Jul 1999
Power TrainINFORMATION ON MINIMIZING CLUTCH PEDAL SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN DEPRESSING OR RELEASING THE CLUTCH PEDAL ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. *TT
EG00699
Jun 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT REGARDING 5VZ OXYGEN SENSOR IMPROVEMENT FOR VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE CERTAIN VIN RANGES. *TT
EG00399
Apr 1999
Vehicle Speed ControlTHIS BULLETIN STATES THAT THE OPERATING LOGIC ON CERTAIN VEHICLES' ECMS HAS BEEN REVISED TO IMPROVE ENGINE IDLE SMOOTHNESS (WITH TRANSMISSION IN D RANGE). *TT
AX00499
Mar 1999
EquipmentSUBJECT REGARDING TOYOTA DINGHY TOWING GUIDE. *TT
TC99005
Mar 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN X01 INVOLVING REPLACEMENT OF THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS INSTALLED ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 3.4 LITER V6 ENGINE. *TT
AC00299
Feb 1999
VisibilityPRODUCTION CHANGES TO THE COWL TOP LOUVER AND HEATER UNIT HAVE BEEN MADE TO IMPROVE RESISTANCE TO SNOW ENTRY INTO THE HEATER UNIT AND IMPROVE DURABILITY OF AIR MIX DOOR ON VEHICLES WITHIN CERTAIN VIN RANGES. *TT
120299
Feb 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingPARTS INFORMATION FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION (EGR). *TT
TC99002
Jan 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT ON SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN X01 TO REPLACE THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS. *YC
010199
Jan 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT REGARDING 5VZ OXYGEN SENSOR IMPROVEMENT. *TT

Showing 60 of 72 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Walk the body slowly in daylight.Panel gaps, rust at the rockers and wheel arches, and cracked trim are this vehicle's structure complaints. Open and close the liftgate or trunk and look at the latch area.
  2. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  3. Read the tire date codes and look for uneven wear.Uneven wear on this vehicle often points back to the suspension. Four different date codes tell their own story.
  4. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Toyota Tacoma →