🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Toyota Model: Tercel Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: EL51 (FWD), EL53 (FWD), EL55 (4WD) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Budget-friendly, reliable subcompact car, popular for its fuel efficiency and durability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mazda Protégé, Ford Escort. Key Features Value Proposition: Low cost of ownership, excellent fuel economy, robust mechanicals, straightforward maintenance. Manual Advantage Benefit: Provides factory-level repair information, enabling DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership services. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Manual Type Type: Digital Service and Repair Manual (Software) Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download (Licensed) Access Access Duration: 1 Year (with renewal options) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: All Engine Types (1.3L 4E-FE, 1.5L 5E-FE) Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Four Wheel Drive (4WD) Suspension: Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam/Trailing Arm Brakes: Front Disc, Rear Drum (with ABS option) Steering: Power Assisted Rack and Pinion Electrical: Complete Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Charging System HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Body: Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Windows, Trim Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups, Fluid Checks Repair: Engine Component Replacement, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Installation: Accessory Installation, Component Upgrades Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution, clear text and diagrams, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Print Quality Print Capability: Printable pages for easy workbench reference. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 4E-FE Displacement 1: 1.3L (1331cc) Configuration 1: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Horsepower 1: 88 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.) Torque 1: 77 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.) Secondary Engine Engine Code 2: 5E-FE Displacement 2: 1.5L (1497cc) Configuration 2: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Horsepower 2: 100 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.) Torque 2: 91 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Induction: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Engine Management ECU: Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-I diagnostic capabilities. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type 1: 5-Speed Manual Optional Type 2: 4-Speed Automatic (with Lock-up Torque Converter) Features Drivetrain Options: Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) on EL55 models. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 161.2 inches Width: Approx. 65.2 inches Height: Approx. 55.3 inches (FWD), 55.5 inches (4WD) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 96.1 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2,150 - 2,350 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact: Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this model year; typical for its class and era. IIHS Side Impact: Not extensively rated by IIHS for this model year; typical for its class and era. Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags standard. Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts, rear seatbelts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on some higher trim levels. Connectivity OBD Standard: OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation), requiring specific connectors for code retrieval beyond basic check engine light blinking codes. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or conventional oil). Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium). Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 is recommended for most conditions. Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 3.5 - 3.8 US quarts (3.3 - 3.6 liters) with filter. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron II or III (or equivalent). Coolant Type: Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water. Known Issues Common Problem 1: Minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket due to age and mileage. Common Problem 2: Occasional issues with the ignition system (e.g., coil packs, spark plug wires) due to wear. Common Problem 3: Wear on suspension components like bushings and ball joints, leading to noise or handling issues. Common Problem 4: Degradation of rubber hoses and seals in the cooling and fuel systems over time. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Toyota Legacy: Toyota has a long-standing reputation for reliability, durability, and quality across its diverse model range. Model Evolution Tercel Generations: The 1997 model belongs to the fourth generation of the Toyota Tercel (1994-1999), which introduced a more modern design and improved engineering. Production Manufacturing Location:...