1998 Toyota Tercel: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1998 Toyota Tercel: 0 recalls, 3 owner complaints and up to 30 mpg combined.
There isn't much public data on the 1998 Toyota Tercel yet, so we start with what helps most: the repair manual options.
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1998 Toyota Tercel.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
Recalls
0 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Exterior lights Equipment recall #08E050000 · 2008 · 1,921 vehicles
What's wrong: These headlamps are missing the amber side reflex reflector which fails to conform with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Why it matters: Without the amber side reflex reflectors, the lighting visibility May be affected, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
The fix: K2 motor will notify owners and offer a full refund. The recall began on decemeber 17, 2008.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Seat belts (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Engine & cooling (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Equipment (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 1998 Toyota Tercel has 3 owner complaints, ranking #9 of 11 Tercel model years for complaints (well below the 24 average). Neighboring years: 1997 (20 complaints, 0 recalls), 1999 (1 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 L 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 27 | 35 | 30 | Regular |
| 1.5 L 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 26 | 34 | 29 | Regular |
| 1.5 L 4-cyl | Automatic 3-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 25 | 30 | 27 | Regular |
FAQ
Does the 1998 Toyota Tercel have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 1998 Toyota Tercel, but 1 equipment or tire recalls may apply. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 1998 Toyota Tercel problems?
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (1), seat belts (1), engine & cooling (1).
What gas mileage does the 1998 Toyota Tercel get?
EPA ratings run up to 30 mpg combined (1.5 L, Manual 5-spd), across 3 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1998 Toyota Tercel repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.