1997 Toyota Tacoma problems
The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup. The second generation (model years 2005 through 2015) and third generation (in production since 2015) models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend's Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name "Tacoma" was derived from the Coast Salish peoples' name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
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Common 1997 Toyota Tacoma problems
The 1997 Toyota Tacoma, while known for its reliability, does have some common problems reported by owners. These issues include:
- Faulty transmission: Affecting high-mileage Tacomas from 1995 to 2015, this issue is often caused by an incorrectly adjusted throttle position sensor or a defective solenoid. This can lead to issues with shifting and overall performance.
- Lower ball joint issues: Tacoma trucks from 1995 to 2007, including the 1997 model, have struggled with premature wear on the lower ball joint. This can make the steering wheel harder to use and cause trouble with self-centering. Many reports also claim that they heard noises coming from the front suspension.
- Faulty starter: The starter on the 1997 Tacoma can be defective, causing issues with engine engagement. This is more likely to affect high-mileage Tacomas, and the most practical fix is often to replace the starter.
- Suspension issues: Corrosion problems have led to recalls for the rear leaf spring in certain 2005-2011 Tacomas. Not all vehicles were included in the recall, leaving some owners to cover replacement costs ranging from $400 to $800.
- Engine misfires and stalls: The 2016 and 2017 Tacomas had recalls for a faulty crank position sensor that caused stalling. Not all vehicles were included, potentially leaving some owners with a $200 repair bill.
- Bluetooth connectivity issues: Owners of the 2019 Tacoma have reported problems with the vehicle’s Bluetooth system, including unexpected disconnection from phones, sometimes during calls.
- Vehicle speed control problems: There have been reports of the vehicle accelerating without warning, posing a major crash risk. Recalls were issued for 2004-2010 models to address this issue.
- Oil leaks: Some Tacoma models suffer from an oil leak due to a failing crankshaft seal on the front timing cover. The repair involves replacing the seal and can be done by those with DIY skills, saving on labor costs.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported, the 1997 Toyota Tacoma is still known for its reliability and durability. Many owners have reported driving their Tacomas for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of potential problems and to address them promptly to maintain the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
How many miles will a 1997 Toyota Tacoma last?
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000. By prioritizing routine maintenance and vehicle care, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last a very long time.
What years to avoid when buying a Toyota Tacoma?
Therefore, we give you this list of Toyota Tacoma model years to avoid, not including the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
- 2002 Toyota Tacoma. Generally speaking, the first-generation Toyota Tacoma is nearly flawless. ...
- 2004 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2009 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2016 Toyota Tacoma.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
What year Tacomas have issues?
Quick Answer: Avoid Toyota Tacoma Year Models 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017. There have been a lot of issues reported with the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017 Toyota Tacoma year models, and we recommend avoiding them.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
How many miles will a 1997 Toyota Tacoma last?
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000. By prioritizing routine maintenance and vehicle care, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last a very long time.
What year Tacoma is best?
Best Toyota Tacoma Trucks to Buy Used
- 2015 Toyota Tacoma. This model year scored a 5 out of 5 for reliability, a 4 on safety with the NHTSA, and an 8.4 out of 10 for its front, rear, and side-impact safety features. ...
- 2019 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2006 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2020 Toyota Tacoma.
What year was the Toyota Tacoma bad?
A: The years to avoid, specifically 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017, have reported significant issues such as body and paint problems, engine mishaps, faulty interior accessories, drivetrain and engine defects, and problematic transmissions.
1997 Toyota Tacoma car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Tacoma problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Tires problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Toyota Tacoma
The NHTSA has received 134 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Toyota Tacoma. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-26
- VIN: 4TAVN52N0VZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: It appears to be the clear coat of the paint job has been coming off for a very long time. Really does not look good at all now. I reside in the state of Oregon. Although it rains a fair amount here, that should not cause this rate of decay of the paint job. It was not painted very well!!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-17
- VIN: 4TAWM72N8VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND THE SUBFRAME FRACTURED HALF. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE SMITHTOWN TOYOTA DEALER LOCATED AT 360 JERICHO TURNPIKE, SMITHTOWN, NY 11787. WHERE IT WAS STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TECHNICIAN HAD NOT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 172,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-10
- VIN: 4TAWM72N8VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS EXTREMELY RUSTED, MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FRIEND TOLD HIM THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,774.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-10
- VIN: 4TAWN72N2N2
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY LEE SPRINGS ARE RUSTED FRAME IS TO LEE'S SPRINGS ARE BROKEN
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-24
- VIN: 4TAWN72N4VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRAME AREA WAS CORRODED AND HAD HOLES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER PERFORMED A REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY FOR THE FRAME UNDERCOATING FOR 1995 TO 2005 TACOMA VEHICLES, WHICH DID NOT CORRECT THE CORROSION FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000.*PM CONSUMER STATED FRAME WAS ONCE COATED IN 2011, NOW PEELING AND CORRODED.*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-18
- VIN: 4TANL42N9VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO HAVE THE MUFFLER REPLACED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED DUE TO RUST ON THE FRAME. THE DEALER (TOYOTA OF LOUISVILLE, 6514 DIXIE HWY, LOUISVILLE, KY 40258) STATED THAT THE CONTACT NEEDED TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR THE FRAME EXPIRED ON JULY 31, 2014. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-13
- VIN: 4TAWN72NXVZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: RECENTLY PURCHASED 97 TOYOTA TACOMA FROM PRIVATE OWNER WHO CLAIMS HE NEVER RECEIVED THE NOTIFICATIONS REGARDING THE FRAME WARRANTY EXTENSION FROM TOYOTA AND SUBSEQUENTLY HE NEVER HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. NOW THE FRAME ON THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE AND I NOTIFIED TOYOTA WHO CLAIMS THE EXTENSION EXPIRED AND THEY REFUSE TO DO ANYTHING TO HELP ME, HOPEFULLY SOMETHING CAN BE DONE BY SOMEONE BECAUSE THEY ARE ALLOWING UNSAFE VEHICLES TO STAY ON THE ROAD BECAUSE THEY DO NOT WANT TO PAY ANYMORE $ THEN THEY HAVE TO. MEANWHILE THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE FRAME ISSUE WAS CLEARLY THEIR FAULT. PLEASE HELP
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-12
- VIN: 4TAPM62NXVZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TOOK VEHICLE TO CURRY HONDA TO HAVE PART INSTALLED AND THEY PERFORMED MULTI POINT INSPECTION. UPON INSPECTION FOUND FRAME IS RUSTED OUT AND VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. HAVE NOT DRIVEN IT SINCE,AND AM WITHOUT A VEHICLE. CAN PROVIDE PHOTOS AND DOCUMENTATION.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-15
- VIN: 4TANL42N4VZ
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN MAKING NOISES 7 MONTHS AFTER IT WAS PURCHASED NEW. DEALER TOOK THE DASH OUT, REPLACED SOMETHING AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER AGAIN. 7 MONTHS LATER THE SOUND BEGAN AGAIN. THREE LETTERS TO TOYOTA COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM WERE TOTALLY IGNORED. I VISITED THE DEALER IN TUCSON, AZ ABOUT THIS AND I WANTED THE PROBLEM SOLVED AT TOYOTA EXPENSE. AGAIN I WAS PUT OFF AND THE RATTLE HAS PERSISTED TO THIS DAY. I AM TIRED OF LISTENING TO THIS RATTLE EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE TRUCK. IF THERE IS ANYTHING YOU CAN DO TO HELP ME GET THE TOYOTA FOLKS TO REPAIR, REPLACE OR PUT A GREASE FITTING ON THE DEFECTIVE PARTS IN THE COLUMN, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. THANK YOU.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-20
- VIN: 4TAWM72N4VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS PICK UP FROM WILSON TOYOTA,(AMES,IA), ON JAN.17,2009.IN THE WALK AROUND/INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE, WHILE TALKING WITH THE SALESMAN I LAYED ON THE GROUND,AND CRAWLED UNDER THE PICK UP LOOKING FOR ANY SIGNS OF TROUBLE. NOTING THE FRAME PROBLEMS I'D HAD WITH ANOTHER TOYOTA(1984) ASKED IF TOYOTA HAD "CLEANED" UP THEIR ACT AND MADE THE UNDER CARRIAGE ANY BETTER? WAS ASSURED "THAT THOSE PROBLEMS WERE ALL BEHIND THEM".FAST FORWARD ^ YEARS I'M PAYING A LOCAL BODY SHOP TO REPLACE THE REAR 60% OF THE FRAME @ A COST OF $1800.00.NOW I FIND I'M HAVING TO FIX/REPLACE PARTS OF THE FRONT END FRAME.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-08
- VIN: 4TAWM72N0VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP FOR AN ALIGNMENT. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT A PART OF THE FRAME WAS MISSING DUE TO EXTREME RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V013000 (SUSPENSION) BUT THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 240,000. UPDATED 06/02/17*LJ *AS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STRUCTURE WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-03
- VIN: 4TAPM62N2VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE TRUCK HAD BEEN RIDING ROUGHER ON THE ROADS WHEN FAMILY FOLLOWING ONE DAY NOTICED THE TRUCK LEANING LEFT. IT WAS BROUGHT TO THE REPAIR SHOP THINKING IT WAS A SUSPENSION PROBLEM. IT ENDED UP BEING MAJOR RUST AND CORROSION TO THE FRAME THAT WAS SO BAD THERE WAS NO STRUCTURAL SUPPORT OF THE STRUTS AND SPRINGS. OWNER OF THE AUTO SHOP AS WELL AS A BODY REPAIR SHOP IT WAS TAKEN TO SAID I WAS EXTREMELY LUCKY THERE WAS NO WRECK OR INJURY. THE PROBLEMS ARE SO EXTENSIVE THAT IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. NOW I AM STUCK WITH A TOYOTA TRUCK THAT SHOULD HAVE LASTED EASILY ANOTHER 100,000 MILES. THE FRAME WAS EXPECTED TO LAST LONGER THEN THE TRUCK WHEN PURCHASED AS TOYOTA USED TO BE A GOOD COMPANY AND PRODUCT. MY FIRST TRUCK WAS A TOYOTA BACK IN 1976. THERE WAS A RECALL THAT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF REGARDING THIS PROBLEM. THE PERSONAL AND FINANCIAL IMPACT THIS HAS CAUSED IS SIGNIFICANT. TOYOTA NEEDS TO MAKE RESTITUTION AS EVIDENCE INDICATES IT HAS BEEN A LONG STANDING PROBLEM WITH CHEAPER/INFERIOR FRAMES USED BY TOYOTA GOING BACK SEVERAL YEARS. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 188,000, BUT THE PROBLEMS HAS EXISTED FOR AWHILE BASED ON THE AMOUNT OF DAMAGE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-10
- VIN: 4TAWM72N2VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE RUSTY HOLES IN MY FRAME AND TOYOTA WONT FIX SOMETHING THAT IS SO DANGEROUS AND NOW MY TACOMA IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, WHAT AM I SUPPOSE TO DO NOW?!
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-09
- Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 1997 TACOMA FRAME RUST AT LEADING EDGE OF REAR AXLE LEAF SPRINGS ALLOWED THE LEAF SPRINGS TO BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE SHOULDER LAP SEAT BELTS DO NOT RECOIL.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-29
- VIN: 4TANL42N3VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RECENTLY PURCHASE 1997 TACOMA TOOK IT TO REPLACE REAR TIRES SHOP INFORMED ME THE FRAME HAD MAJOR ROT AND IS NOT SAFE FOR HIGHWAY. CONTACTED LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER THEY PREFORMED A FREE INSPECTION ON 08-29-16 UPON COMPLETION OF THIS INSPECTION DEALERSHIP INFORMED ME BOTH IN WRITING AND VERBALLY THAT THIS VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE FOR HIGHWAY USE. MULTIPLE RUST PERFORATIONS THROUGH OUT FRAME OF THIS TRUCK. DEALERSHIP INFORMED ME THAT THE RECALL ON THE FRAME HAD EXPIRED HOWEVER THEY STATED THAT IF WE FILE A FORMAL COMPLAINT WITH TOYOTA THROUGH YOUR ORGANIZATION THAT WE COULD POSSIBLILY GET A CASH SETTLEMENT FOR THIS TACOMA.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-07
- VIN: 4TAPM62N3VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THAT THE SUB FRAME, THE LEFT REAR WHEEL, THE LEAF SPRINGS AND THE CHASSIS WERE SEVERELY CORRODED AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO BE DRIVEN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THAT THE CORROSION BUY BACK PROGRAM WAS NO LONGER VALID. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 189,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-19
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED, WHICH MADE THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-11
- VIN: 4TAWN72N5VZ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRAME RUST. NOT MADE AWARE OF RECALL OR EXTENDED WARRANTY. FRAME IS SEVERELY CORRODED AND HAS A HOLE WHERE THE SHOCK ABSORBER USE TO MOUNT. IT LITERALLY FELL OFF DUE TO RUST. SEVERAL OTHER AREAS SHOWING SIGNS OF CORROSION AS WELL. SEEMS THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON PROBLEM. NOT SURE IT IS SAFE TO DRIVE. TOYOTA DEALERSHIP SAYS THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-08
- VIN: 4TANL42N7VZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FRAME ROT.HAD A RECAL, IN 05 23 2011 AND WAS DONE AT GATEWAY TOYOTA NJ. APPLIED CORROSION PREVENTATIVE COMPOUND AND NOW FRAME IS ROTTED BADLY AND NOT SAFE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-01
- VIN: 4TAWM72N4VZ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA HAS SEVERE FRAME RUST. THE TECH AT HUDSON TOYOTA IN NEW JERSEY WOULDN'T EVEN TAKE FOR A TEST DRIVE. I NOTICED THE RUST FORMING IN 2010 BUT WAS UNAWARE OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PLACED BY TOYOTA UNTIL 2014, AFTER IT HAD EXPIRED. VERY FRUSTRATING. MILEAGE AS OF 9/11/15 IS 190K.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-26
- VIN: 4TAWM72N2VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 223,000. UPDATED 09/10/15*LJ MA 10/22/2015 UPDATED 10/31/2017*CN
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-09
- VIN: 4TAPM62N2VZ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 TOYOTA TACOMA. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 157,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVING SOUTH ON MACINTOSH RD. TRIED TO AVOID HITTING A CAR THAT MADE AN ILLEGAL U-TURN IN FRONT OF ME. I RAN INTO THE WALL HARD ENOUGH TO KNOCK THE WALL (CEMENT) DOWN. THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. I RECEIVED A CONCUSSION, AND AM STILL HAVING PROBLEMS WITH SIDE EFFECTS A YEAR LATER. ACCIDENT HAPPENED MAY 12, 2014.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-01
- VIN: 4TAWN72NXVZ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 97 TACOMA TRUCK HAD A RECALL ON THE FRAME RUSTING. IT WAS CHECKED AND SAID IT WAS OK. 2 YEARS AFTER THE RECALL HAS LAPSED THE FRAME HAS RUSTED WITH BIG HOLES SHOWING AND IS A DANGER TO DRIVE. TOYOTA SAYS THEY WON'T DO NOTHING ABOUT THE RUSTED FRAME...WHICH WAS A PROBLEM BEFORE. MY OLDEST SON WHO JUST GOT HIS LICENSE IS DRIVING IT NOW AND I'M AFRAID THE FRAME WILL COLLAPSE AND HE WILL WRECK. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP GET A REPLACEMENT FRAME FOR THE TRUCK? THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP. [XXX] MY CASE # AT TOYOTA IS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *TR
1997 Toyota Tacoma recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Toyota Tacoma.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Negative 1997 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Positive 1997 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
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I bought my Tacoma brand new in December of 1996. Although I haven't been the most responsible owner when it comes to regular maintenance and the like, it still runs like a dream. Every morning, it turns over and purrs like a kitten. I've driven it cross-country 7 times and I still have the confidence to do it today, even with its current mileage of 198,000 miles. I've used it for hauling construction debris, towing a loaded U-haul trailer up a mountain, and even fit two men over 6' tall in the regular cab with me. It's even run on no oil (much to my mechanic's chagrin) and an empty gas tank. This machine is truly remarkable and, at times, even miraculous!
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1997 2WD extended cab Tacoma. I bought it brand new in Jan. 97 and it has been an absolute joy to own. With 210,000 miles on it, I can confidently say that it has been problem-free. The 2.4L 4 cyl. engine has never burned any oil and the original clutch still works perfectly. I highly recommend the Toyota truck!
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I can't guarantee that all used vehicles of this age and mileage will be great, but this one is definitely worth considering. It's a simple vehicle, but it feels like it will last a long time. The only issue I've had is getting it into reverse at times, but I'm sure I'll get used to it.
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You can always count on it, as long as it's well taken care of.
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my Tacoma. I bought it used with 145,000 miles on it and it's been great! I've only done general maintenance and it's still running strong. I really love Toyotas and this is actually my second one. I'm definitely planning on buying a third one once I hit 200k on this one. I highly recommend it!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Toyota Tacoma problems:
Common Tacoma problems I should be aware of? | Tacoma World
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1997 Toyota Tacoma Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1997 Toyota Tacoma Problems ... Toyota issued a recall on the lower ball joint due to the possibility of premature wear from improper finishing in...
1997 Toyota Tacoma Transmission Q&A - Common Problems ...
Jul 13, 2009 ... 1997 tacoma automatic transmission shifts to 2nd at 5 mph,3rd gear at 15 mph & shifts to overdrive at 25 mph. this is · Fully depress the ...
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Are you having problems with your 1997 Toyota Tacoma?
Narciso Schuster 2024-11-01
This truck has been to the dealership multiple times for various issues such as check engine light, overheating, catalytic converter, and rough idling. Despite my careful driving, these problems persist and make it one of the worst trucks I have ever purchased. It is clear that the truck has significant mechanical issues that need to be addressed.
Rodolfo Ruecker 2024-03-27
My Tacoma has experienced multiple issues, including overheating on three occasions and transmission linkages requiring four repairs. Additionally, I have encountered numerous electrical problems. Despite Toyota's reputation, I have been disappointed with the performance of my vehicle. The gas mileage has never exceeded 22 and drops to around 12 under load. However, with 106k miles, I remain confident in my ability to address any future issues that may arise.