The Toyota Tercel spans 1981–1999 with 24 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1995, 1993, 1994 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1982, 1999. It delivers up to 33 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Toyota Tercel is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 1999 across multiple generations.
How to read a Toyota Tercel VIN — every digit explained
Every Toyota Tercel carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Toyota and the country it was built in (real Toyota codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Tercel.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJT2 · JT3 · JT4 · JT5 · JT6 · JT8
- USA4T1 · 4T3 · 4T4 · 58A · 5TB · 5TD
- Canada2T1 · 2T2 · 2T3
- Mexico3TM · 3TY
- TurkeyNMT
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Tercel, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Toyota Tercel have?
The Toyota Tercel has 24 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1999. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1999 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. 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.
1998 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. 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.
1997 Toyota Tercel recalls 2
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix. 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.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. 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.
1996 Toyota Tercel recalls 2
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix. 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.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. 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.
1995 Toyota Tercel recalls 2
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Fix. 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.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Fix. 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.
1990 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. THERE CAN BE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING IF HEADLAMP BULBS ARE REPLACED WITH ANY BRAND OTHER THAN KOITO BRAND BULBS.
Risk. THE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING CAUSED BYOTHER THAN KOITO BRAND LAMP BULBS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 108, "LAMPS,REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Fix. TOYOTA DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A NEW KOITO BRAND BULB WITH NO CHARGE IF A NON-KOITO BRAND BULB IS NOW INSTALLED, OR SHOULD A HEADLAMP BULB BURN OUT IN THE FUTURE. "CAUTION LABELS" WILL ALSO BE PLACED ON EACH HEADLAMP HOUSING.
1989 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. THERE CAN BE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING IF HEADLAMP BULBS ARE REPLACED WITH ANY BRAND OTHER THAN KOITO BRAND BULBS.
Risk. THE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING CAUSED BYOTHER THAN KOITO BRAND LAMP BULBS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 108, "LAMPS,REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Fix. TOYOTA DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A NEW KOITO BRAND BULB WITH NO CHARGE IF A NON-KOITO BRAND BULB IS NOW INSTALLED, OR SHOULD A HEADLAMP BULB BURN OUT IN THE FUTURE. "CAUTION LABELS" WILL ALSO BE PLACED ON EACH HEADLAMP HOUSING.
1988 Toyota Tercel recalls 2
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. THERE CAN BE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING IF HEADLAMP BULBS ARE REPLACED WITH ANY BRAND OTHER THAN KOITO BRAND BULBS.
Risk. THE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING CAUSED BYOTHER THAN KOITO BRAND LAMP BULBS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 108, "LAMPS,REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Fix. TOYOTA DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A NEW KOITO BRAND BULB WITH NO CHARGE IF A NON-KOITO BRAND BULB IS NOW INSTALLED, OR SHOULD A HEADLAMP BULB BURN OUT IN THE FUTURE. "CAUTION LABELS" WILL ALSO BE PLACED ON EACH HEADLAMP HOUSING.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1987 Toyota Tercel recalls 2
Exterior Lighting:headlights
What's wrong. THERE CAN BE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING IF HEADLAMP BULBS ARE REPLACED WITH ANY BRAND OTHER THAN KOITO BRAND BULBS.
Risk. THE INTERFERENCE WITH THE HEADLAMP HOUSING CAUSED BYOTHER THAN KOITO BRAND LAMP BULBS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 108, "LAMPS,REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Fix. TOYOTA DEALERS WILL PROVIDE A NEW KOITO BRAND BULB WITH NO CHARGE IF A NON-KOITO BRAND BULB IS NOW INSTALLED, OR SHOULD A HEADLAMP BULB BURN OUT IN THE FUTURE. "CAUTION LABELS" WILL ALSO BE PLACED ON EACH HEADLAMP HOUSING.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1986 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1985 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1984 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1983 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
Risk. A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
Fix. FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1982 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS, WHICH SUPPORT THE REAR WHEELS, ARE SUBJECT TO CORROSION IF OPERATED IN AREAS WHERE A LARGE AMOUNT OF ROAD SALT IS USED TO AID IN SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT MAY CAUSE CORROSION FAILURE OF THE LOWER CONTROL ARM AFFECTING VEHICLE OPERATION; THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. RUST PROOF OR REPLACE LOWER CONTROL ARMS. (OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN IN MAY 1986).
1981 Toyota Tercel recalls 1
Suspension:rear
What's wrong. THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS, WHICH SUPPORT THE REAR WHEELS, ARE SUBJECT TO CORROSION IF OPERATED IN AREAS WHERE A LARGE AMOUNT OF ROAD SALT IS USED TO AID IN SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: CONTINUOUS EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT MAY CAUSE CORROSION FAILURE OF THE LOWER CONTROL ARM AFFECTING VEHICLE OPERATION; THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT.
Fix. RUST PROOF OR REPLACE LOWER CONTROL ARMS. (OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN IN MAY 1986).
Best and worst years for the Toyota Tercel
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 19 tracked years, the worst years are 1995, 1993, 1994 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1982, 1999.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 Tercel | — | Best | |
| 1982 Tercel | Suspension | Best | |
| 1983 Tercel | Electrical System | Average | |
| 1984 Tercel | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1985 Tercel | Tires | Average | |
| 1986 Tercel | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1987 Tercel | Fuel System | Average | |
| 1988 Tercel | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1989 Tercel | Fuel System | Average | |
| 1990 Tercel | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1991 Tercel | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 1992 Tercel | Seat Belts | Average | |
| 1993 Tercel | Air Bags | Avoid | |
| 1994 Tercel | Air Bags | Avoid | |
| 1995 Tercel | Air Bags | Avoid | |
| 1996 Tercel | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1997 Tercel | Air Bags | Average | |
| 1998 Tercel | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 1999 Tercel | Air Bags | Best |
What are the most common Toyota Tercel problems?
The most-reported Toyota Tercel problems are Other (4 reports), Seats (10 reports) and Tires (23 reports) — out of 411 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Toyota Tercel specifications & dimensions
The 1999 Toyota Tercel measures 163″ long on a 94″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 2,066 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Toyota Tercel window sticker.
| Wheelbase | 94″ (238 cm) |
| Rear track | 55″ |
| Body / trim | Tercel 2dr Coupe Ce |
| Curb weight | 2,066 lb (937 kg) |
| Front track | 55″ |
| Overall width | 65″ (166 cm) |
| Overall height | 54″ (138 cm) |
| Overall length | 163″ (413 cm) |
How the Tercel's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 163″ | 65″ | 54″ | 94″ | 2,066 lb |
| 1996 | 162″ | 65″ | 54″ | 94″ | 1,960 lb |
| 1993 | 162″ | 65″ | 53″ | 94″ | 2,015 lb |
| 1987–1990 | 157″ | 64″ | 53″ | 94″ | 2,024 lb |
| 1984 | 159″ | 64″ | 55″ | 96″ | 1,995 lb |
| 1981 | 161″ | 61″ | 53″ | 98″ | 1,916 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Toyota Tercel cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Tercel holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 90 cu ft of passenger volume and 32 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Toyota Tercel tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Toyota Tercel get?
The Toyota Tercel returns up to 33 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $1,900/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 1999 Toyota Tercel (1.5L 4-cyl) gets 31 mpg combined and costs about $2,000/yr to fuel, emitting 287 g/mi CO₂ — that's about $1,000 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Tercel | 28 | 36 | $2,000 | 287 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1998 Tercel | 27 | 35 | $2,100 | 296 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1997 Tercel | 28 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1996 Tercel | 27 | 35 | $2,100 | 296 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1995 Tercel | 28 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1994 Tercel | 27 | 33 | $2,150 | 306 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1993 Tercel | 27 | 33 | $2,150 | 306 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1992 Tercel | 27 | 33 | $2,100 | 296 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1991 Tercel | 28 | 34 | $2,000 | 287 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1990 Tercel | 27 | 33 | $2,150 | 306 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1989 Tercel | 30 | 37 | $1,900 | 269 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1988 Tercel | 30 | 37 | $1,900 | 269 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1987 Tercel | 31 | 37 | $1,900 | 269 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1986 Tercel | 30 | 35 | $1,950 | 278 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1985 Tercel | 30 | 35 | $1,950 | 278 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl | |
| 1984 Tercel | 30 | 35 | $1,950 | 278 | — | 1.5L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Tercel stacks up against the most fuel-efficient sedans, or calculate this Tercel's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Toyota Tercel have? Power & range
The Toyota Tercel is offered with 1 powertrain — 1.5L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-cyl | 1.5L · 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Toyota Tercel cost to own?
A Toyota Tercel holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Tercel loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $9,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Tercel ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Toyota Tercel safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Tercel yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Toyota Tercel last?
A well-maintained Toyota Tercel typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Check your Toyota Tercel’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Tercel’s VIN free →All Toyota Tercel model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Toyota Tercel — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1998 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1997 Tercel | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1996 Tercel | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1995 Tercel | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1994 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1993 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1992 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1991 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1990 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1989 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1988 Tercel | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1987 Tercel | 2 recalls | — | |
| 1986 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1985 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1984 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1983 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1982 Tercel | 1 recall | — | |
| 1981 Tercel | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Tercel?
By owner-complaint volume, 1995, 1993, 1994 drew the most reports. 1981, 1982, 1999 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Tercel have?
24 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1999. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Tercel get?
Up to 33 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Tercel last?
A well-maintained Tercel typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Tercel reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Tercel is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Toyota Tercel warranty?
New Toyota models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Toyota dealer.
Where is the Toyota Tercel made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Tercel's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Toyota may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much does a Tercel weigh?
The Tercel's curb weight is around 2,066 lb. Its GVWR — the maximum loaded weight — decodes from the VIN.
How much ground clearance does the Tercel have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.