1998 Toyota Tercel Problems: 1 Known Issue
1998 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Toyota Tercel has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Automatic Transmission Failure (A132L) ($800-$2,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $800 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 1 Known Issue
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. 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."
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Toyota Tercel problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1998 Toyota Tercel has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: Automatic Transmission Failure (A132L). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Toyota Tercel reliable?
The 1998 Toyota Tercel has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Automatic Transmission Failure (A132L). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Tercel problems?
Repair costs for known Toyota Tercel issues range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic Transmission Failure (A132L), typically costs $800-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1990-1999 Toyota Tercel Automatic Transmission Failure (A132L)?
The A132L 3-speed automatic transmission in the Tercel is prone to premature failure, typically presenting as harsh shifting, slipping, or complete loss of forward gears. The transmission was designed for economy driving and struggles with sustained highway use or towing. Interna… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.