1981 Toyota Tercel
Only 0 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 0 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 |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 2 |
| 1984 | 5 |
| 1985 | 3 |
| 1986 | 6 |
| 1987 | 13 |
| 1988 | 8 |
| 1989 | 22 |
| 1990 | 19 |
| 1991 | 17 |
| 1992 | 24 |
| 1993 | 43 |
| 1994 | 40 |
| 1995 | 51 |
| 1996 | 40 |
| 1997 | 20 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 1 |
| 2000 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
No complaint components on file for this model year.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Remedy: RUST PROOF OR REPLACE LOWER CONTROL ARMS. (OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN IN MAY 1986).
Campaign 86V038000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1981 Toyota Tercel — pre-purchase inspection
- Verify recall 86V038000 (suspension) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1981 Toyota Tercel reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
How many recalls does the 1981 Toyota Tercel have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.