1986 Toyota VAN
Only 9 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 9 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 |
|---|---|
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 4 |
| 1985 | 6 |
| 1986 | 9 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 2 |
| 1989 | 3 |
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1994 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 9 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 9 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and engine.
FIRE INJURY3 of 9 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing front underhood and 12v/24v/48v battery.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE, UNKNOWN SOURCE OF FIRE IN VEHICLE. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19951211
ELECTRICAL FIRE UNDER HOOD. *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19950615
HOT WIRE SHORTED OUT VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE HAD TO CUT GROUND CABLE TO TURN OFF THE POWER. RESULTED IN UNDERHOOD FIRE. TT
NHTSA ODI report, 19950307
1 of 9 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
1 of 9 total reports mentions: seat belts, most commonly citing anchorage.
SAFETY TIMELINE
IGNITER ASSEMBLY FAILURE
THE STEERING BEVEL GEAR ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE WATER CONTAMINATION WHICH COULD LEAD TO RUST/CORROSION.
Remedy: REPLACE STEERING BEVEL GEAR ASSEMBLY; COVER LIQUID GASKET MATERIAL WITH IMPROVED MATERIAL.
Campaign 89V089000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Toyota VAN — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 89V089000 (steering) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1986 Toyota VAN 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 1986 Toyota VAN?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 44% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Toyota VAN 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.