1997 Toyota T100: problems, recalls and reliability
1 recall and 71 owner complaints on record; the weakest area is structure (28% of complaints); the 1998 model year looks more trouble-free.
Data updated weekly · latest recall Sep 2005
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 71 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“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.”Owner report · Structure · Nov 2022
“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*js”Owner report · Structure · Oct 2016
“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”Owner report · Structure · Aug 2015
Show 7 more owner reports
“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.”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Jun 2015
“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. *tr”Owner report · Service Brakes · Mar 2015
“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. *tr”Owner report · Steering · Mar 2014
“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.”Owner report · Structure · Dec 2013
“Tl* the contact owns a 1997 toyota t100. The contact stated that while washing the vehicle, he noticed that the frame was corroded and holes had rusted through the frame. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 196,000. *tr”Owner report · Structure · Mar 2013
“Tl* the contact owns a 1997 toyota t100. The contact stated that while driving 65 mph the front lower control arm broke in half. The vehicle was driven to the dealer who stated it was rusty and corroded and the vehicle was inoperable. They will not repair the failure. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 173,818.”Owner report · Suspension · Oct 2012
“Renewed my registration sept 18 2012, but the frame didn't pass inspection, too many holes and thin walls on the frame. All of the framework just falling apart, rest of the truck, drive train just fine. If the clothe seat, which has never been covered had to pass inspection, it would easily! Dirty, but no holes or rips. How utterly ridiculous is that? Tried 3 times to get someone from toyota to talk about it, but they just play real stupid and say they don,t know anything about the frames rotting on the t100's and can't help me. Can and will take pictures. *tr”Owner report · Suspension · Sep 2012
When filing, owners marked a crash in 3 of these complaints and injuries in 1 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 1 campaign
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.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING RELAY ROD. THE RECALL BEGAN OCTOBER 5, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Specifications
Factory options offered for the 1997 model year, decoded from the NHTSA vPIC database. Individual vehicles have one of each.
How other years compare
Check your exact T100 by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Toyota T100 reliable?
NHTSA has 71 owner complaints and 1 recall campaign on record for the 1997 Toyota T100. The most complained-about area is structure (28% of complaints).
At what mileage do 1997 Toyota T100 problems usually appear?
Half of the complaints that mention mileage were filed at 120,000 miles or less.
Does the 1997 Toyota T100 have open recalls?
1 recall campaign has been issued, the latest concerning steering:linkages:rod:relay:connecting. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.