1997 Ford Tempo
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1981 | 2 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 14 |
| 1985 | 30 |
| 1986 | 31 |
| 1987 | 53 |
| 1988 | 126 |
| 1989 | 124 |
| 1990 | 133 |
| 1991 | 110 |
| 1992 | 176 |
| 1993 | 227 |
| 1994 | 161 |
| 1995 | 3 |
| 1996 | 2 |
| 1997 | 2 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 1 |
| 2000 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
TIRES HAD NO TRACTION ON WET PAVEMENT (GOODYEAR WRANGLER). *YC
NHTSA ODI report, 19990830
1 of 2 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
BRAKE ROTORS FAILED. *YC
NHTSA ODI report, 19990830
1 of 2 total reports mentions: seats.
Show complaint excerpts
DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT COLLAPSED WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20030806
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Ford Tempo — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for tires issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for seats issues (1 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1997 Ford Tempo reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Ford Tempo?
The most-reported component is tires, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Ford Tempo have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.