Sell your 1997 Toyota Tercel for cash
The 1997 Toyota Tercel is a small car that came with a 1.5L 4-cyl engine. At 29 years old, many are reaching the point where repairs cost more than the car is worth. Running or not, we'll make you an offer and tow it away for free.
- Free offer for your 1997 Tercel in about 30 seconds
- Free towing, running or not
- Paid at pickup
1997 Toyota Tercel at a glance
| Body style | Subcompact Cars |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.5L 4-cyl |
| Transmissions | Automatic 3-spd, Automatic 4-spd, Manual 5-spd |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel | Regular Gasoline |
| Fuel economy | 25–28 city / 31–35 highway / 27–31 combined MPG |
| EPA annual fuel cost | $2,150–$2,500 a year (EPA estimate at current fuel prices, 15,000 miles) |
| Tailpipe CO₂ | 287–329 grams per mile |
| Versions tested by EPA | 3 configurations |
| Age | 29 years |
Specs, fuel cost and emissions from the EPA's fueleconomy.gov data. Your car's exact equipment may differ.
What affects its junk value
- Age: at 29 years old, most of a 1997 Tercel's value comes from reusable parts and scrap metal, not resale.
- Weight: as a small car, it weighs less than a truck or SUV, so its value leans more on parts than on scrap weight. See how scrap prices by weight work.
- Catalytic converter: like all gas and diesel cars, it has a catalytic converter containing precious metals, one of the most valuable parts on a junk car. An offer assumes it's still in place. More on catalytic converters.
- Known problems: owners reported the most issues with the air bags. If that's what failed on yours, it can still be sold as-is.
1997 Toyota Tercel recalls
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Toyota Tercel. You can confirm with your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Common 1997 Tercel problems
Owners have filed 20 complaints about the 1997 Toyota Tercel with NHTSA. 5 reports involved a crash. Owners reported 6 injuries.
Complaints are reports from owners and aren't verified by NHTSA. One complaint can list several components. Mileage is the median odometer reading owners reported for that component.
Most-reported components
Typical mileage when problems were reported
- Engine and Engine Cooling159,000 mi
- Seat Belts150,000 mi
1997 Toyota Tercel service bulletins
Manufacturers have filed 36 technical service bulletins and communications with NHTSA covering the 1997 Toyota Tercel. These are repair instructions for known issues, not recalls.
Most common bulletin topics
Recent bulletins
TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for
POL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must
Toyota Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
TSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications (technical service bulletins).
Other Toyota Tercel years
‹ Sell a 1996 Tercel · Sell a 1998 Tercel › · All Toyota Tercel years
Other 1997 Toyota models
Selling a 1997 Tercel: questions
How much is a 1997 Toyota Tercel worth for junk?
It depends on its condition, whether major parts like the engine, transmission and catalytic converter are still there, and current scrap and parts prices where you live. Its parts make up much of its value. Enter your ZIP code above for a free offer on your specific car.
Can I junk a 1997 Tercel that doesn't run?
Yes. We buy 1997 Tercels that don't start, were in an accident, failed inspection or have a blown engine or transmission. Towing is always free.
What paperwork do I need to sell my 1997 Tercel?
Usually the title and a photo ID. Rules differ by state, including what to do with your plates and whether to file a notice of sale. Check our state-by-state car title guides for the official forms.
Before you sell
Sources
- EPA fuel economy data (specs and MPG)fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA recallsnhtsa.gov
- NHTSA complaints, service bulletins and investigationsnhtsa.gov
Data retrieved October 2026.
Get cash for your 1997 Tercel today
Get a free offer in minutes. Towing is always free and you get paid at pickup.