The Toyota Tercel, produced in 1997, represents a budget-friendly and reliable subcompact car, celebrated for its exceptional fuel efficiency and robust mechanicals. Belonging to the fourth generation, this model offers a straightforward and durable driving experience, making it a popular choice for economical transportation. Available with either a 1.3L 4E-FE or a 1.5L 5E-FE engine, and in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) configurations, the Tercel was engineered with a focus on low cost of ownership and dependable performance, earning consistent recognition for its fuel economy and generally good reliability ratings. This comprehensive digital service and repair manual provides in-depth information for the 1997 Toyota Tercel, covering all engine types, drivetrain options, and major systems including suspension, brakes, steering, electrical, HVAC, and body components. It details essential maintenance procedures, from routine oil changes to component replacement, and offers guidance on complex repairs and diagnostics, including troubleshooting common issues and understanding OBD-I codes. The manual is designed to empower owners and technicians, offering factory-level repair data to ensure the vehicle remains in optimal condition, thereby saving costs and extending its lifespan. 🏷️ 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...