1988 Toyota Supra
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 6
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1988: 6 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 2 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 4 |
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1987 | 7 |
| 1988 | 6 |
| 1989 | 11 |
| 1990 | 4 |
| 1991 | 6 |
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 1 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 2020 | 16 |
| 2021 | 20 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 5 |
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2025 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Structure
3 of 6 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing roof and pillars and body.
Show complaint excerpts
I just wanted to state that in 1991, shortly after I purchased my used 1988 Supra, my targa top also had developed a leak (Over the drivers side) by December of that year.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-08-15
Engine and engine cooling
2 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
After taking vehicle for a safety check consumer had driven about 200 miles and heard two bangs. Then, temperature gauge went to high. Consumer pulled over, and noticed flames coming from under the hood.
NHTSA ODI report, 2000-06-05
Also filed under Electrical system
The radiator was serviced five times. The head gasket failed due to flaw in engine design.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-25
Electrical system
1 of 6 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing front underhood.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1988 Toyota Supra — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1988 Toyota Supra 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 1988 Toyota Supra?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1988 Toyota Supra have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.