1997 Toyota T100
Not enough comparison years on file yet 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.
- Complaints
- 71
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Structure
Campaigns on file for 1997
Opened by NHTSA
34% of complaints
Complaints per year
1997: 71 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 1 |
| 1993 | 20 |
| 1994 | 18 |
| 1995 | 75 |
| 1996 | 109 |
| 1997 | 71 |
| 1998 | 26 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Structure
34% · 24 reportsMost commonly citing body and frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 1997 Toyota T100. The contact stated that while performing an oil change on the vehicle, he noticed the sub-frame was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer.
NHTSA ODI report, 2022-11-10
Vehicle developed fuel leak discovered during inspection due to severe corrosion. Toyota failed to make repairs despite being covered by a federal emissions warranty enhancement. Severe rust of frame identified.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-03-10
Also filed under Power train and fuel system, gasoline
Power train
25% · 18 reportsMost commonly citing pedal/hand lever(motorcycle) and clutch assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
Mounting bracket broke that attaches pedal to the clutch. Vehicle will not move. Dealership was aware of problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-17
Steering
18% · 13 reportsMost commonly citing tie rod assembly and connection.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving 25 MPH, the vehicle started veering to the left, the vehicle then hit an embankment and turned over. The tie rod was severed through. The manufacturer stated that the tie rod broke when the vehicle tipped over.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-11-02
The central steering linkage that connects the tie rods was defective. This defect resulted in a total loss of steering. Fortunately the steering linkage rod failed as I turned into the driveway.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-01-12
Suspension
13% · 9 reportsMost commonly citing rear and front.
Seat belts
13% · 9 reportsMost commonly citing retractor and rear/other.
Show complaint excerpts
The defective design of driver's seat belt lap portion causes bruises and pain to his hip area, causing the occupant not to wear his seatbelt because it harms him. Dealer and manufacturer won't help on this problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-12-08
Safety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2002-04-01Preliminary evaluationClosed 2002-07-30 Clutch pedal bracket/firewall
-
R
2005-10-05Steering05V389000 On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, if the steering wheel is repeatedly turned under certain conditions where high steering effort and power assist are required, for instance, when…
Remedy: Dealers will replace the steering relay rod. The recall began October 5, 2005. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Toyota T100 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Structure: 24 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 18 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 13 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 05V389000 · Steering
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Toyota T100 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 Toyota T100?
- The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 34% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Toyota T100 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.