Most common 1997 Toyota Celica problems
Share of the 8 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Toyota Celica complaints by model year
Best Celica years: 1998, 1997, 1999. Years to avoid: 2000, 2001, 2002, 1995. Compare all years →
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into a possible defect involving the 1997 Toyota Celica:
Engine seizure
1997 Toyota Celica engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | FWD | 25 / 32 / 28 |
| 1.8L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | FWD | 23 / 31 / 26 |
| 2.2L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | FWD | 19 / 27 / 22 |
| 2.2L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | FWD | 19 / 26 / 22 |
EPA ratings. Class: Subcompact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Toyota Celica a good car?
Based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 Celica rates better than average: 54% fewer complaints than a typical year of the Celica at the same age. It is one of the best Celica years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 Toyota Celica?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 2 complaints, 25% of all complaints for this model year, most often about glass, side/rear. Next are the electrical system (2) and wheels & tires (1).
How many recalls does the 1997 Toyota Celica have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Toyota Celica. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Toyota Celica?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1998, 1997 and 1999. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2000, 2001, 2002 and 1995. See the full Toyota Celica years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 Toyota Celica problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 108,000 miles; 0% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.