1996 Toyota Tercel problems
The Toyota Tercel (Japanese: トヨタ・ターセル, Toyota Tāseru) is a subcompact car manufactured by Toyota from 1978 until 1999 across five generations, in five body configurations sized between the Corolla and the Starlet. Manufactured at the Takaoka plant in Toyota City, Japan, and sharing its platform with the Cynos (aka Paseo) and the Starlet, the Tercel was marketed variously as the Toyota Corolla II (Japanese: トヨタ・カローラII, Toyota Karōra II) — sold at Toyota Japanese dealerships called Toyota Corolla Stores — and was replaced by the Platz in 1999. It was also known as the Toyota Corsa (Japanese: トヨタ・コルサ, Toyota Korusa) and sold at Toyopet Store locations. Starting with the second generation, the Tercel dealership network was changed to Vista Store, as its badge engineered sibling, the Corolla II, was exclusive to Corolla Store locations.
The Tercel was the first front-wheel drive vehicle produced by Toyota, although it was the only front-wheel drive Toyota to have a longitudinally mounted engine. For example, the E80 series Corolla's frame (except AE85 and AE86) is similar to the L20 series Tercel's frame. Also, Toyota designed the A series engine for the Tercel, attempting simultaneously to achieve good fuel economy and performance and low emissions. Choice of body styles increased as well, with the addition of a four-door sedan.
The name "Tercel" was derived from the Latin word for "one third", with "tiercel" referring to a male falcon which is one-third smaller than its female counterpart. Similarly, the Tercel was slightly smaller than the Corolla. The early Tercels have a logo on the trunk with a stylized falcon as the T in Tercel. All Tercels were assembled at the Takaoka factory in Toyota City, Aichi or by Hino Motors in Hamura, Tokyo. Hino assembled the third generation Tercel from 1986 to 1990 for the two-door and some three-door models. When Japanese production of the Tercel/Corsa/Corolla II (and the related Cynos/Paseo coupés) came to an end in 1999, 4,968,935 examples had been built.
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Common 1996 Toyota Tercel problems
Common Problems with the 1996 Toyota Tercel Based on Owner Complaints
- Warped Front Brake Rotors: Another common complaint is warped front brake rotors causing the steering wheel to shudder. This issue can affect braking performance and overall driving safety. It is essential to address brake rotor warping promptly to ensure proper braking function and vehicle control.
- Faulty Speed Sensor: The 1996 Toyota Tercel is known to experience issues with the speed sensor, which can lead to inaccurate speed readings and potential safety concerns. A faulty speed sensor can affect various vehicle systems, including the transmission and ABS, making it crucial to address this problem promptly.
- Low Brake Fluid: Owners have reported issues related to low brake fluid levels in the 1996 Tercel. Low brake fluid can compromise braking performance, leading to reduced stopping power and safety risks. Regularly checking and maintaining proper brake fluid levels is essential to ensure optimal braking function.
- Total Brake Failure: In some cases, owners have experienced total brake failure in the 1996 Toyota Tercel, posing a severe safety hazard. Brake failure can result from various factors, including worn-out brake components or hydraulic system issues. Immediate attention and thorough inspection of the braking system are necessary to prevent accidents.
- Steering Rack Problems: Issues with the steering rack, such as leaks or wear, have been reported by Tercel owners. A malfunctioning steering rack can lead to steering difficulties, affecting vehicle control and safety. Timely repair or replacement of the steering rack is crucial to maintain proper steering functionality.
- Suspension Components: Problems with struts and shocks are common maintenance items in the 1996 Toyota Tercel, especially as the vehicle ages. Worn-out suspension components can impact ride comfort, handling, and overall driving experience. Regular inspection and replacement of worn suspension parts are essential for optimal vehicle performance.
- Timing Belt Replacement: The timing belt in the 1996 Tercel requires periodic replacement to prevent engine damage and ensure proper operation. Neglecting timing belt replacement can lead to engine failure and costly repairs. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for timing belt replacement is crucial for the longevity of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1996 Toyota Tercel highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and addressing issues proactively to ensure the vehicle's reliability, safety, and longevity.
Why did Toyota discontinue the Tercel?
Thanks to the front-wheel drive configuration, the Tercel offered so much interior space, despite the compact size. After its two-decade-long run. Toyota axed the Tercel in 1999 in the U.S., in order to make room for the 2000 Echo. Today, there really aren't many Tercels left in the United States.
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 Toyota Tercel?
Based on data from 30 vehicles, 2,926 fuel-ups and 751,240 miles of driving, the 1996 Toyota Tercel gets a combined Avg MPG of 34.36 with a 0.27 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 66 outliers (2.21%) removed.
What engine does a 1996 Toyota Tercel have?
1.5 L 4-cylinder1996 Toyota Tercel / Engine
1996 Toyota TERCEL (1.5L 4 -cyl Engine Code [C] 5E-FE B)
Why is a Toyota Tercel significant?
The Tercel was the first front-wheel drive vehicle produced by Toyota, although it was the only front-wheel drive Toyota to have a longitudinally mounted engine.
Is a Toyota Tercel reliable?
I purchased my Tercel in 1997 with 27K mileage. I have it now for 27 years and my mileage is only 165K. Other than the usual up keep maintenance, I haven't had any problems. I would highly recommend this car!!
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 Toyota Tercel?
Based on data from 30 vehicles, 2,926 fuel-ups and 751,240 miles of driving, the 1996 Toyota Tercel gets a combined Avg MPG of 34.36 with a 0.27 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 66 outliers (2.21%) removed.
Why did Toyota discontinue the Tercel?
Thanks to the front-wheel drive configuration, the Tercel offered so much interior space, despite the compact size. After its two-decade-long run. Toyota axed the Tercel in 1999 in the U.S., in order to make room for the 2000 Echo. Today, there really aren't many Tercels left in the United States.
Is a 95 Toyota Tercel a good car?
It is competent but not inspiring. that thing was made in the 90s, those were the last real made in japan cars and are usualy reliable until today and that will be the “pro” about a 90s toyota tercel, i think, same like for other 90s japanese cars: the reliability.
1996 Toyota Tercel car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Tercel problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Suspension problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Toyota Tercel vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Toyota Tercel
The NHTSA has received 46 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Toyota Tercel. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Toyota Tercel vehicles.
STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-30
- VIN: JT2AC52L0T0
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL BECAME LOOSE WHILE PARALLEL PARKING. CAR WON'T STEER.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-02
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AC52L4T0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNED A 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE BRAKE ROTOR FRACTURED. AS A RESULT, THE FRONT PASSENGERS WHEEL SEIZED AND THE OTHER WHEELS LOST HYDRAULIC PRESSURE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL CRASHING INTO A CONCRETE WALL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT DID NOT DISCLOSE IF A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OR NOT. THE CONTACT AND THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED UNKNOWN MINOR INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,550.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NO LONGER GRAB. PART SEEMS DEFECTIVE, BUT NO APPEARANCE OF ANY CRACK, OR DAMAGE. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-19
- VIN: JTDKB20U663
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2006 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER WHILE DRIVING AND GO OFF AND ON. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS BOTH HEADLIGHTS WENT OFF AND WOULD NOT COME BACK ON TILL I TURNED THE POWER OFF IN THE CAR AND RE-STARTED THE CAR. MY HUSBAND HAS INSTALLED NEW HEADLIGHTS TWICE BUT THIS HAS NOT CORRECTED THE PROBLEM. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN GREENVILLE, NC AND THEY TOLD ME I DID NOT HAVE AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. I CONTINUE TO ONLY HAVE ONE HEADLIGHT TO DRIVE WITH, THE LEFT OR RIGHT, I USUALLY START OUT WITH BOTH ON AND THEN ONE WILL GO OUT. I AM VERY SCARED ABOUT DRIVING MY CAR AT NIGHT. I CALLED THE TOYOTA 1-800 NUMBER TO ASK FOR ADVICE BUT THEY SAID THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO AND TO TAKE MY CAR TO A TOYOTA GARAGE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-08
- VIN: JT2AC52L2T0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND WOULD NOT STOP. HE HAD TO DRIVE TO A SERVICE ROAD AND FORCE THE GEAR INTO PARK TO STOP THE VEHICLE. SOME WD-40 WAS SPRAYED ON THE ENGINE AND THEY HAVE NOT HAD THE PROBLEM SINCE. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN 2008 WITH 128,000 MILES. THE CONTACT HAS NOT CALLED THE DEALER OR TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN FOR INSPECTION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,000. UPDATED 11/11/10 *BF UPDATED 11/18/10*JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AC52L4T0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH WHITE SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE DASHBOARD. THE SMOKE TURNED INTO A FIRE THAT WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE CONTACT. THE FIRE MELTED A HOLE IN THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC AND THE FAILURE WAS DIAGNOSED AS AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CAUSED BY A SEPARATED WIRE IN THE AIR BAG. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 188,602. UPDATED 01-16-08. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED WHITE SMOKE WAS EMITTING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN, THEN THE CONSUMER NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM THE TOP PORTION OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT BY USING SOME WATER. THE MECHANIC STATED A WIRE SEPARATED FROM THE DRIVERS AIR BAG WHICH CAUSED THE SHORT. UPDATED
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-12
- VIN: JT2AC52L1T0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL - WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE HIT DEBRIS IN THE ROAD CAUSING COMPLETE TIRE TREAD SEPARATION ON THE PASSENGER REAR TIRE. ALL FOUR TIRES WERE REPLACED MAY 2006 DUE TO DRIVER'S FRONT TIRE HAVING HAD TREAD SEPARATION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE ON THE TIRE WAS UNKNOWN. THE TIRE HAS NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE IS 100,000. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE ENGINE SIZE IS UNKNOWN. KB THE CONSUMER PROVIDED INVOICES FOR THE REPAIR. UPDATED 06/14/07 *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-05
- Crash: 1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL TIRE BLEW OUT. *TS THE VEHICLE RAN OFF THE ROAD TO THE RIGHT AND SPUN TO THE RIGHT STRIKING A GUARDRAIL WITH IT'S LEFT FRONT. THE VEHICLE AGAIN STRUCK THE GUARDRAIL WITH IT'S LEFT REAR AND SPUN TO THE RIGHT MAKING A 360 DEGREE TURN AND CAME TO REST IN THE RIGHT LANE. THERE WAS SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE LEFT FRONT AND LEFT REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AC52L2T0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: (1) AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT WHILE AVOIDING COLLISION WITH A DEER. ACCIDENT CAUSED SEVERE FRONT END DAMAGE AND BENDING OF THE UNI-BODY FRAME. (2) FAILURE OF AIR-BAGS TO DEPLOY. (3) NO CORRECTIVE ACTIONS TAKEN AS THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED TO BE A TOTAL LOSS. SOME PARTS HAVE BEEN DISPOSED OF, IE. ASSORTED TRIM AND THE FRONT FENDERS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-01
- VIN: JT2AC52L078
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT LATCH IN THE CONSUMER'S 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY. *NM THE CONSUMER STATED THE VELT MUST BE WORN TWISTED. *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-29
- VIN: JT2BC52LXT0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILED WHICH MADE THE SEAT BELT INOPERATIVE. *JB *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-15
- VIN: JT2AC52L7T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL SLUDGE 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL. THE MOTOR STARTED TO KNOCK. THE DEALERSHIP PICKED UP THE CAR AND SAID IT WAS A LACK OF MAINTENCE PROBLEM. MY HUSBAND HAD DONE THE MAINTENCE. THE OIL LOOKED LIKE SLUDGE. I COULD NOT AFFORD TO FIX THE MOTOR SO IT WAS REPOSED AND SOLD AT AUCTION FOR ABOUT $3,000. WHICH LEFT ME TO PAY THE DIFFERENCE I AM STILL PAYING FOR THE CAR. I WAS IN LPN SCHOOL AND PREGNANT AT THE TIME THE CAR BROKE DOWN. FROM WHAT I UNDERSTOOD ON THE LEMON LAW WAS THAT THE CAR HAD TO BE IN THE SHOP 5 TIMES FOR THE SAME CONDITION BEFORE THE LEMON LAW WOULD APPLY. I ALMOST MISCARRIED MY THIRD CHILD AND WAS ADVISED BY MY DOCTOR TO GET RID OF MY STRESS SO I DROPPED OUT OF SCHOOL AND FORGOT ABOUT THE CAR. I HAVE BEEN READING ABOUT THE TOYOTA OIL SLUDGE PROBLEM AND I BELIEVE THAT IS WHAT HAPPENED TO MY CAR. HERE IS THE LIST OF PROBLEMS THAT MY CAR HAD. 11-20-97 O-RING AND SEAL, 12-15-97 TRANSMISSION LEAK, FRONT PUMP SEAL, O-RING, RR TRANSMISSION AXLE AND REPLACE O-RING, TORQUE CONVERTER, 2-25-98 SLOW TO LOCK INTO REVERSE WHEN COLD AND WAS LOW IN FLUID (DEALERSHIP COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM), 3-17-98 SLOW TO LOCK INTO REVERSE AGAIN (DEALERSHIP COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM), 11-98 DAMAGE TO VALVE STEAM SEALS, WAVED SURFACE ON TOP OF CYLINDER BOOR, PISTON STRIKING CYLINDER HEAD, SPUN #4 ROD BEARING, CRANK SHAFT DAMAGED, #4 CONNECTING ROD DAMAGED, OIL PUMP PICK-UP TUBE SCREEN PLUGGED WITH SLUDGE BUILD UP, CYLINDER HEAD AND OIL PAN SLUDGE BUILD UP. I COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY FOR A NEW MOTOR OR FOR A CAR THAT DID NOT RUN. TOYOTA DROPPED MY WARRANTY. MY HUSBAND HAD CHANGED THE OIL. THE CAR NEVER GOT HOT. THE OIL LOOKED ALMOST LIKE BLACK GLUE. THE CAR GAVE ME NO INDICATION THAT ANYTHING WAS WRONG. I WAS ON MY WAY TO SCHOOL AND IT STARTED MAKING A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND SO I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY CAME AND TOWED IT. TOYOTA HAS OFFERED TO FIX SOME OF THE TOYOTA'S WITH THE TOYOTA OIL SLUDGE PROBLEM STARTING WITH THE 97 BUT MINE WAS A 96.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-18
- VIN: JT2AC52L7T0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL SLUDGE PROBLEM WITH 1996 TOYOTA TERCEL. THE CAR WAS UNDER WARRANTY AND TOYOTA WOULD NOT PAY. CAR WAS TAKEN AND SOLD AT AN AUCTION LEAVING ME TO PAY THE DIFFERENCE. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45MPPH HAD A HEAD-ON COLLISION AND DRIVER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND SPLIT DOWN THE MIDDLE, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-23
- VIN: JT2BC52L6T0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MASTER CYLINDER FAILURE. MANUFACTURER HAS NO REPLACEMENT PARTS FORCING ME TO DRIVE WITH DEFECTIVE BRAKES. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOT HELPFUL IN RESOLVING THE PROBLEM.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-06
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG DURING VEHICLE COLLISION.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION AND THE ENGINE OIL PAN CRACKED, AND ARE LEAKING FUEL WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY CAUSE A FIRE. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-15
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: OK HERE IS WHAT HAPPENED. WHEN WE WERE RAN OFF THE ROAD WE HIT A SIGN AND BOTH OF THE AIRBAGS IN MY CAR DEPLOYED. WE HAD JUMPED A MEDIAN AND WAS HEADED DOWNHILL. WHEN THE AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED A POWDER SUBSTANCE WAS DEPLOYED WITH IT. BEING THAT WE HAD NEVER HAD AN AIRBAG DEPLOY ON US, WE HAD NO IDEA WHAT THIS WAS. MY FRIEND THOUGHT IT WAS SMOKE AND FREAKED OUT AND WE ALL JUMPED OUT OF THE CAR BECAUSE WE THOUGHT IT WAS ON FIRE. IT SMELT JUST LIKE SMOKE FROM A FIRE. SO MY PROBLEM IS WITH AIRBAGS AND THEM NOT BEING PROPERLY LABELED THAT THIS POWDER SUBSTANCE IS ALSO DEPLOYED. IF WE HAD KNOWN THIS BEFORE MY FRIEND WOULD NOT HAVE HAD TO GO THROUGH MONTHS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY AND HAVE A BIG SCAR ON HER LEG TODAY. MY OTHER FRIEND WOULD NOT HAVE SCARS EITEHR. SO DO YOU THINK IT IS POSSIBLE TO PUT SOME SORT OF WARNING ON AIRBAGS IN THE FUTURE TO PREVENT THESE KINDS OF ACCIDENTS?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2AC52L1T0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DUAL AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY DURING FRONT END COLLISION. HIT DIVIDER AT 60 MPH AND BOUNCED INTO GUARDRAIL. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-03
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FUEL LINE FAILURE RESULTING IN EXPLOSION.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
- VIN: JT3HN86ROTO
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT BUCKLES MAKE NOISE. QCAW
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-09
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TOP RACK SEPARATED FROM THE CAR SENDING ITEMS ON TOP INTO TRAFFIC.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-02-24
- VIN: JT2AC52L3T0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY DURING A 35 MPH FRONTAL IMPACT.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2AC52L9T0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER FAILED.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2BC52L2T0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: FRONT AND REAR WINDOW DEFOGGERS FUNCTION POORLY CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY.
1996 Toyota Tercel recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 Toyota Tercel.
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
- 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 1996 Toyota Tercel car reviews
Positive 1996 Toyota Tercel car reviews
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I bought this car brand new back in November 1995 and it has been a fantastic ride ever since. From 2001 to 2006, I drove it frequently from LA to Las Vegas in extreme heat, but it never let me down. At 171K miles, I replaced the engine with a used one that had only 84K miles on it, and the car still runs like a dream. I didn't go for any fancy options, just A/C and auto transmission, and I've always taken good care of it with regular maintenance. Despite being 12 years old, the interior and exterior are in great shape. I plan on keeping this car for several more years, and people often make offers to buy it from me. It gets up to 26 MPG in the city and as much as 33 MPG on the highway, and I always use 87 octane and regular 10W30 motor oil every 4000 miles. Now that I live in Las Vegas, I keep a closer eye on the coolant and transmission oil. I will never sell this car!
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This is such an awesome and cool car to drive!
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A total of 20000 between purchase and repair and it still runs after 20 yrs and 436000 miles.
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We bought this car as a commuter vehicle, and have been very impressed. It's surprising that it doesn't hold its value better, because it still runs and drives just as well now as it did in 1996. It's still very reliable and gets about 39 mpg. The only disadvantage is that it's a bit loud.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my 96 Tercel 'Sport' model that I purchased brand new. It was an incredibly reliable car, as I drove approximately 60,000 miles per year. I only performed regular maintenance such as fluids (oils, antifreeze, and brake fluid top-ups), 3 sets of brake pads, 5 sets of tires, and 4 timing belts as per schedule. It was definitely a very reliable little car! The only downside was that I found the seats to be a little uncomfortable. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Toyota Tercel problems:
1996 Toyota Tercel Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Top 1996 Toyota Tercel Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · Failed Emissions Test Due to Blocked EGR System · Ignition ...
Toyota Tercel Questions - reliability - CarGurus
Sep 19, 2008 ... How long do toyota tercels generally last, in miles? 1996 Toyota Tercel 2 Dr DX Coupe General. 14.
Toyota Tercel Problems and Complaints - 27 Issues
Top Toyota Tercel Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · Failed Emissions Test Due to Blocked EGR System · Vehicle Won't ...
1996 Toyota Tercel : To fix or not to fix - Maintenance/Repairs - Car ...
Mar 10, 2016 ... It is 100% GUARANTEED to stop seal leaks in power steering units or your money back. Totally corrects rack and pinion problems. It is also ...
Is the Tercel Really One of the Worst Toyotas Ever? | Toyota Nation ...
Sep 30, 2018 ... Just turned over 300k on the '96 and ran into my first problem--some bucking and hesitation on acceleration and idling. But I'm looking to solve ...
Other years of Toyota Tercel
Are you having problems with your 1996 Toyota Tercel?
Dwight Farrell 2024-05-10
I purchased a 1996 Tercel brand new from a Toyota dealer and owned it for two years before selling it with 66000km on the clock. While the power train was excellent, unfortunately the rest of the car did not meet my expectations. I had to have the wheel bearings repacked and replaced under warranty, and the passenger seat belt also had to be replaced due to a malfunction. Additionally, the heater was clanging and needed to be replaced, and the radio stopped working and had to be replaced as well. Despite these issues, I drove the car on paved highways at highway speeds for 98% of its life. Overall, I did not have a great experience with this car and if given the choice, I would have traded it for a Yugo or a Lada!
Ernest O'Kon 2024-04-19
I love my Tercel because it's such a reliable car that I never have to worry about having problems with. The only issue I've had with it is that the back trunk seal needed to be adjusted and sealed due to water getting into the trunk.
Everardo Mueller 2024-04-08
I bought the vehicle new in 2/96. It now has 148K trouble free miles. Started using a little oil in recent years, about 1 qt per 3000 miles. Replaced timing- and drive belts every 60K and regular oil changes. The only (!) unscheduled maintenance was at 115K when some emission sensor went bad and the check engine light came on. Cost $400 to replace. Never ever let me down.