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1997 Toyota T100 problems

The most common problem on the 1997 Toyota T100 is body and structure, typically around 132,671 miles. It has 2.7 times the complaints of a typical T100 model year.

Typical year2.7x the typical complaints
Owner complaints
71
Recalls
1
Service bulletins
40
Worst area
Body
Fuel economy
15-19mpg

The worst 1997 Toyota T100 problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Specific symptoms reported on the 1997 Toyota T100

Ball joint 7

Recalls 1

Steering: linkages: rod: relay: connectingReported September 6, 2005 · 977,839 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, if the steering wheel is repeatedly turned under certain conditions where high steering effort and power assist are required, for instance, when fully turning the wheel while the vehicle is stopped, a fatigue crack may develop in the steering relay rod.
Risk
If the vehicle is continued to be operated in this condition, the relay rod may fracture, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering relay rod. The recall began october 5, 2005. Owners may contact toyota at 1‑800‑331‑4331.

Recall number 05V389000 · Recall details

See all 1 recalls for the 1997 Toyota T100

Defect investigations

Clutch pedal bracket/firewallOpened April 1, 2002, closed July 30, 2002

PE02039

Technical service bulletins for the 1997 Toyota T100 40

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 40 bulletins for the 1997 Toyota T100

1997 Toyota T100 fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
2.7L 4‑cylRWD1721-2218-19
3.4L 6‑cylRWD1518-1916
3.4L 6‑cyl4WD14-1516-1715-16

What 1997 Toyota T100 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Nov 10, 2022 · Body · 122,000 miles · LA

The contact owns a 1997 Toyota T100. The contact stated that while performing an oil change on the vehicle, he noticed the sub-frame was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.

Filed Oct 3, 2016 · Body · 201,000 miles · KS

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 toyota t100. The contact, a mechanic, noticed that the frame had extensive rust corrosion, and fractured without warning. The vehicle was to be repaired by the mechanic the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 201,000. Updated 03/16/17*lj updated 09/07/2017

Filed Apr 28, 2016 · 20 miles · CA

Cruise control accelerates when engaged (65mph up to 90 MPH). Had to hit brakes really hard to completely a near stop. Did various times and now not using it. I understanding this was an issue on 1996 t100 and there was a recall. Bought this as certified preowned toyota in 1999. Only 120,000 miles at time of incidents.

Filed Aug 26, 2015 · Body · NJ

Severly bad frame rot holes! By the control arms and was told that the frame can snap at any given moment I cant tow anything with the truck anymore for the fact that the back half the frame is also rotted away to wear if I put a trailer on it the frame will probably snap no were on the frame is solid its a shame the truck runs and drives fantastic but I will no longer drive it for the fact of having a rotted out frame and will snap soon

Filed Mar 6, 2015 · Brakes, Suspension · NC

Took truck to repair shop for exhaust repair. Technician found the frame to be rusted badly with holes through the frame. Told me that I need to have this looked at by a toyota dealer because there should be a recall because it could get dangerous. He also pointed out rust on brake lines and other suspension parts that needed replaced soon.

Filed Jun 20, 2014 · Body · NH

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 toyota t-100 truck. The contact stated that the frame of the floorboard was severely covered with rust and cracked. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileage were unknown.

Filed May 16, 2014 · Body, Suspension · NJ

I have read several of the descriptions on the site and am afraid I'm driving an unsafe vehicle now because of the underlying rust issues which could be at the root of shifter issues, as in a previous complaint and the dangerous frame rust issue. I am not a mechanic, but I recognize many of the rust issues described here on my t100. The federal safety agency should re-examine the decision to give toyota a break by not requiring that they buy back vehicles as done with similar models in their family with the frame rust issues. The allowance to continue t100s be driven puts passengers and other motorists at risk. I purchased this vehicle used, and the mechanicals and appearance belies the significant safety issues beneath.the federal safety agency is remiss to not put pressure on toyota to include these vehicles in their recall as a good faith and safety measure... As the owner of newer, allegedly safe, toyota products, I am also concerned by their lack of response... Does someone have to lose their life before a suitable response is mandated? After all, this vehicle could be behind you on the drive home tonight. This ignores how this vehicle would likely just crumble in an accident. I plan to bring this vehicle in for a comprehensive check now, but in the interim, worry about its safe use. The fact that my kids are even near it when it is parked gives me pause now. Please use you influence to impress upon toyota that what is right for the safety of their customers is right for them. Thanks for reading my thoughts and for you consideration in working towards a resolution.

Filed May 13, 2014 · Body, Brakes · CT

Rusting frame bumper fuel lines brake lines.

Filed Mar 20, 2014 · Steering · 188,000 miles · CA

While making a left turn the steering wheel won't return to center upon completion of the turn. I understand there was a major safety vehicle recall for this truck however two dealers in merced and modesto, california have told me there is no safety recall. The 1995 to 1998 recall was for total loss of steering due to a broken steering rod. I bought this truck in california one year ago and we know for certain that it was originally sold in texas.

Filed Dec 17, 2013 · Body · 160,000 miles · MA

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 toyota t100. The contact stated that the sub frame was severely corroded and spread to the rear bumper, causing the bumper to fracture. The contact's personal mechanic advised that the vehicle should not be driven. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileage was 160,000.

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Questions about the 1997 Toyota T100

Is the 1997 Toyota T100 reliable?

Owners have filed 71 complaints about the 1997 Toyota T100, 2.7 times a typical T100 model year.

What is the most common problem with the 1997 Toyota T100?

Body and structure, with 23 complaints, typically around 132,671 miles. Next is transmission (18).

How many recalls does the 1997 Toyota T100 have?

1 recall, covering steering.

What year does the Toyota T100 have the most body problems?

The Toyota T100 model years with the most body complaints are 1996 (25 complaints) and 1997 (23 complaints).

What gas mileage does the 1997 Toyota T100 get?

Official estimates for the 1997 Toyota T100 range from 15 to 19 mpg combined. The most efficient version (2.7L 4-cyl, RWD) gets 17 city and 21-22 highway.

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