Positioning:
Affordable and reliable compact car, popular for fuel efficiency and practicality
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Highlights:
Fuel economy, durability, ease of maintenance, compact size
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging systems
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Brakes:
Front brakes, rear brakes, parking brake, anti-lock brake system (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, gauges, audio system, power windows, central locking
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major overhauls, troubleshooting and diagnostics
Diagnostics:
Trouble codes, diagnostic procedures, fault finding for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic DIY to advanced professional repair
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1497 cc (1.5 Liters)
Valve Train:
16 valves, Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Horsepower:
110 hp @ 6600 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
97 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (or higher)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not directly available for this year, but generally rated well for its class
IIHS Offset Frontal:
Not directly available for this year
ABS:
Available on some trims, Anti-lock Braking System
Airbags:
Driver side airbag standard, Passenger airbag optional on some trims
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point retractable seatbelts, rear lap belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item for 5E-FE engine)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SF or SG/CD Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Toyota ATF D-II or equivalent
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, worn suspension bushings, potential for ABS sensor issues if equipped.
Corrosion:
Rust can be an issue on older vehicles, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
Heritage:
Toyota's reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and quality craftsmanship.
Generation Era:
Part of the third generation (1994-1999) of the Toyota Tercel.
Body Styles:
Available as a 3-door hatchback, 4-door sedan, and 5-door liftback.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
