1982 Toyota Tercel
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 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 45 |
| 1994 | 43 |
| 1995 | 51 |
| 1996 | 40 |
| 1997 | 20 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 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.
2 of 2 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing rear and lower arm.
Show complaint excerpts
THE RECALL WORK HAD BEEN DONE BACK IN 1986, AND NOW THE PROBLEM IS BEING EXPERIENCED. THE DEALER WILL NOT COVER IT. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19970527
REAR WHEEL LOWER CONTROL ARMS RUSTED OUT/COLLAPSED. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950823
SAFETY TIMELINE
WHEEL BEARING FAILURE AND AXLE
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
BROKEN STABILIZER BAR
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1982 Toyota Tercel — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 86V038000 (suspension) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1982 Toyota Tercel 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 1982 Toyota Tercel?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1982 Toyota Tercel have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.