Tires

1997 Toyota Tacoma Tires & Services


1997 Toyota Tacoma Tires

Recommended Tires | Tire Information

1997 Toyota Tacoma Tires Sizes, Speed Ratings, and Inflation

Not sure about your 1997 Toyota Tacoma tire size? Use the following chart to find information on tire size, speed rating, and inflation.

Trim Level Speed Rating Inflation in PSI F/R Tire Size
1997 Toyota Tacoma SR5* None 29 PSI/32 PSI 31x10.50R15LT/C
1997 Toyota Tacoma SR5* S 35 PSI/35 PSI P225/75R15
1997 Toyota Tacoma Base* S 29 PSI/35 PSI P215/70R14
1997 Toyota Tacoma Base* S 29 PSI/35 PSI P215/70R14
1997 Toyota Tacoma Base* None 29 PSI/35 PSI 31x10.50R15LT/C
1997 Toyota Tacoma Base* S 29 PSI/35 PSI P195/75R14
1997 Toyota Tacoma Base* S 35 PSI/35 PSI P225/75R15

1997 Toyota Tacoma SR5*

31x10.50R15LT/C

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/32 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma SR5*

P225/75R15

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma Base*

P215/70R14

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/35 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma Base*

P215/70R14

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/35 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma Base*

31x10.50R15LT/C

Speed Rating: None

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/35 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma Base*

P195/75R14

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 29 PSI/35 PSI

1997 Toyota Tacoma Base*

P225/75R15

Speed Rating: S

Inflation F/R: 35 PSI/35 PSI

* Note: these models have different tire sizes depending on vehicle options.

Recommended Tires for Your 1997 Toyota Tacoma

What tires are best for a 1997 Toyota Tacoma? Check out the following tire brands and types.

Firestone Destination LE3
Destination LE3

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone Destination M/T2
Destination M/T2

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Firestone Destination X/T
Destination X/T

  • Gold Pledge Limited Warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
SUREDRIVE ALL-Season
ALL-Season

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
SUREDRIVE HIGHWAY
HIGHWAY

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
SUREDRIVE ALL-TERRAIN LTR
ALL-TERRAIN LTR

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo Extensa A/S II
Extensa A/S II

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Passenger Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY A/T III
OPEN COUNTRY A/T III

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY M/T
OPEN COUNTRY M/T

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY R/T
OPEN COUNTRY R/T

  • No warranty
  • All-Season
  • Light Truck Tires

Choosing 1997 Toyota Tacoma Tires

Other than getting the proper tire size, there are a couple of other factors to consider when buying Toyota Tacoma tires like which tire brands you like most and where you drive. When thinking about your driving conditions, consider where you live (mountains vs. city vs. countryside) and the kind of weather can catch you off-guard. (Watch out Tornado Alley!) Drivers in states that fully experience all four seasons often buy two sets of tires: one for summer and one for winter. Other drivers prefer the convenience of all-season tires. They make one trip to the tire shop and they're pretty much ready for rain, light snow, or sun!

Driving style is next on the list to think about when buying tires. If you're a big off-roading fan who forges paths where others can't, you have very different needs than a long-distance commuter who sticks to the highway. Browse Toyota Tacoma tires online or come to your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care for help selecting the tire that's right for you.

Installing Toyota Tacoma Tires

Firestone Complete Auto Care installs more tires on more cars than most other companies. We're a tire store that also offers professional tire installation, maintenance, and rotation, along with complete auto care. Buy 1997 Toyota Tacoma tires online and schedule your installation when it's convenient for you.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Tire Questions

  • Why check Toyota tire inflation? A small decrease in tire pressure can have a big impact on your driving. Maintaining proper tire pressure can help improve braking time, increase fuel economy, and boost tire lifespan.
  • Why are there numbers on the side of my Toyota Tacoma tires? Your tire sidewall gives you information about load carrying capacity, speed rating, treadwear, traction, and tire size. Talk to one of our tire technicians to learn how to read the numbers on your tire!
  • How do I check the tread depth on my Toyota tires? Stay on top of your tire tread depth to help avoid a dangerous drive. You can check tread depth with a penny. Hold the penny so that Abraham Lincoln is facing you, then place your penny into a tread groove upside down. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota Tacoma tires. Grab a penny. Hold the so that Abe Lincon's head is facing you and his hair is pointing toward the ground. Then, place the penny into a tread groove. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, your tread is shallow and it might be time for new Toyota Tacoma tires.

About 1997 Toyota Tacoma Repairs

No driver looks forward to car repairs. We’re here to change that, though. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, we want to make car repair painless and hassle-free. When it’s time for 1997 Toyota Tacoma repair services, head to your nearest Firestone location and our skilled repair technicians will get your Tacoma back on the road. Before we begin any repair work, we’ll diagnose any issues and answer your questions about potential repair options. We’ll never recommend a repair we don’t think is necessary for your safety or the performance of your Toyota.

How Much Does Toyota Tacoma Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your 1997 Toyota Tacoma depends on the type of repair, costs of replacement parts or repair supplies, the labor involved, and where you live. No matter what state you’re in, be sure to look through our offers and online coupons for repairs.

A few different aspects can influence repair costs for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma, like

Questions About 1997 Toyota Tacoma Auto Repairs

  • Do I need to follow Toyota's maintenance schedule? One of the best ways to prevent 1997 Toyota Tacoma repairs is by staying on top of your Toyota maintenance schedule. This schedule is written by the people who made your vehicle and they know best how to keep it running smoothly.
  • What does it mean to be 'in tune' with your car? You’re in your car, day in and day out. So, it’s only expected that you know your car better than anyone else! If you notice mysterious smells, strange engine noises, or other out-of-the-ordinary symptoms while driving, trust your instincts and stop into Firestone Complete Auto Care for a Courtesy Check. Catching a potential issue early could help prevent Toyota Tacoma repairs.
  • Do I have to get the repairs you recommend for my Toyota? Trust is more than just a saying on the wall. It’s a window underneath it. That’s why we won’t recommend services or repairs for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma unless we think they’re vital to your safety on the road.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Brake Repair

You might have a strong and reliable engine in your Toyota  Tacoma. But if you can't stop it, then it's scrap metal. If you notice your brakes are squeaking or not working well, don’t wait! Safe driving and responsive brakes go hand in hand. Plus, waiting can lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement. Visit Firestone Complete Auto Care for the right brake repair for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma. We offer a variety of brake services like brake pad/shoe removal and replacement, brake rotor/drum refinishing, brake fluid exchange/bleeding, and wheel cylinder and brake caliper installation.

Toyota Tacoma Brakes Questions

  • Why does my Tacoma shake when I brake? If your Tacoma shakes when you brake, you could be dealing with warped rotors, faulty brake calipers, worn brake pads or rotors, or loose or worn suspension parts. Schedule a free brake inspection at Firestone Complete Auto Care for help diagnosing your brake issue.
  • How long can I expect my Tacoma brake pads to last? You can usually get around 30,000 to 40,000 miles out of your brake pads, but how and where you drive your Tacoma can affect this. Hauling large loads or riding your brakes can shorten their lifespan, while smoothly braking and mostly sticking to highways can help your brake pads last longer.
  • Does brake fluid leak when the car is off? Your Tacoma brake system is a closed hydraulic system, which means that the brake fluid should not leak out of the system under normal circumstances. However, over time, the various components of the brake system can wear out or become damaged, which can cause brake fluid to leak out of the system.

Repairing Your Toyota Tacoma Drivetrain

Drivetrains for front, rear, and all-wheel-drive and 4WD vehicles are quite different, so you don't want to go to just anyone for drivetrain repair. You want to come see the technicians at Firestone Complete Auto Care. We can help repair all of your 1997 Toyota Tacoma drivetrain components Your Tacoma might need driveshaft repair if you notice resistance when turning, heavy vibrations in your floorboards, clunks when shifting, or vibration as your vehicle accelerates.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Drivetrain Questions

  • What are the symptoms of a damaged Toyota drivetrain system? Your Toyota Tacoma drivetrain might be damaged if you notice strange noises from the rear of your vehicle, see fluid leaking, or have issues turning.
  • Why is the malfunction indicator light (MIL) on in my Tacoma? If your Tacoma has its malfunction warning light (more commonly called the check engine light) illuminated, it could indicate engine troubles, problems with the transmission, electrical issues, malfunctioning sensors, connector problems, or misfire issues.
  • How serious is a drivetrain malfunction in my Tacoma? If you experience a drivetrain malfunction in your Tacoma, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to identify the underlying cause and perform the necessary repairs. Driving with a malfunctioning drivetrain can be dangerous and cause further damage to your car.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Alignment Services

With an alignment service, adjustments are made to your Toyota Tacoma’s suspension system, which serves to attach your wheels to your vehicle. During the service, calculated changes are made to the angles of your tires. This is so that your tires hit the road at an optimal angle for your vehicle’s performance — just as Toyota intended. Bring your 1997 Toyota Tacoma in for a wheel alignment and we'll start with an alignment check. After that, we can adjust your wheel alignment angles until they match Toyota’s recommended measurements.

Answers to Toyota Tacoma Alignment Questions

  • How can I avoid knocking my Toyota Tacoma out of alignment? Potholes and uneven roads can knock your car out of alignment, so stay aware of the road ahead and adjust your speed (or avoid these obstacles whenever it’s safely possible).
  • How frequently should you get a wheel alignment for your Tacoma? It’s usually suggested you check your alignment about every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever occurs first). Still, you should reference your Tacoma owner’s manual for Toyota's recommended interval.
  • Do you need an alignment with new Tacoma tires?  It’s not mandatory to get an alignment after installing new tires on your Tacoma, but it can be a smart decision! Proper alignment from the jump can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Engine Repair

When your Toyota Tacoma engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for Tacoma engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Toyota-compliant replacement parts such as the cambelt, motor oil seal, fuses, or a different component.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Engine Q&A

  • Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Tacoma? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should go off shortly. Bring your vehicle in if it doesn't.
  • Why does my Toyota engine sound different?  Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Toyota Tacoma engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
  • What could damage a Toyota engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Get Your Toyota Tacoma Tire Repaired

If the road has been rough on your 1997 Toyota Tacoma tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. We’ll begin by taking a look at where the damage is, the type and extent of the tire damage, and how all of your tires are wearing.

If we determine that your 1997 Toyota Tacoma tire can be safely repaired, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Separate the tire from the vehicle wheel, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

Toyota Tacoma Tire Repair Questions

  • How soon should I have my flat tire repaired? Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your Tacoma until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
  • Will a temporary sealant fix my Toyota's flat tire? Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Toyota Tacoma to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.
  • What can cause Tacoma tires to keep losing air? Possible reasons for your Tacoma tires continuously losing air include a leaking valve steam, wheel damage, and a puncture or hole in the rubber.

About 1997 Toyota Tacoma Scheduled Maintenance

There's no need to guess when it's time to get Tacoma maintenance, and no need to wait until something goes wrong. It’s as easy as following the recommended maintenance schedule that’s been written specifically for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma! The recommended maintenance schedule is put together by Toyota, your vehicle manufacturer. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; however, there’s a good chance that your vehicle’s recommended maintenance services will include fluid exchanges, filter changes, new brake pads, oil changes, and tire rotations. Keeping up with routine service appointments is a great way to keep your Tacoma running for longer, decrease your risk of dangerous malfunctions on the road, and maybe even save you the headache of dealing with common 1997 Toyota Tacoma problems in the future.

Essential Maintenance to Keep Your 1997 Toyota Tacoma Running Newer, Longer

Head to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care in your 1997 Toyota Tacoma for factory-recommended routine maintenance and our technicians will jump right in with a Courtesy Check. A Courtesy Check helps "set the stage" for your service and catch any small problems before they turn into big repairs. During a Courtesy Check, we’ll always check your battery, then we’ll move on to inspect your Tacoma’s head and tail lights, tires, fluid levels, alignment, and windshield wipers.

Firestone Complete Auto Care is your spot for 1997 Toyota Tacoma maintenance. So visit us regularly, or visit us urgently. Many locations are open on weekends and in the evening.

Questions About 1997 Toyota Tacoma Maintenance

  • What should I do after hitting a pothole in my Toyota Tacoma?  Check your car for pothole damage! If you’ve recently hit a pothole (or even if you don’t remember hitting one… they can be sneaky!) check your tire treads, tire sidewalls, and wheels for damage. Potholes can also knock your car out of alignment, so have your alignment checked if you suspect you’ve driven over a rough patch of road lately.
  • When should I switch my Toyota Tacoma to high mileage oil?  Got 75,000+ miles on the odometer? Consider high mileage motor oil. High mileage oil is formulated to address the specific problems encountered by high mileage vehicles, or those with more than 75,000 miles. It can help reduce oil consumption, smoke, and emissions from older Toyota Tacoma engines.
  • Can I ignore dashboard lights on my Toyota? Because there might be a problem under the hood. Those warning lights are there for a reason! As soon as you notice that one’s illuminated, take your Toyota Tacoma to Firestone Complete Auto Care so you can address any small problems long before they worsen.

The Right Battery Size for a 1997 Toyota Tacoma

Researching battery replacements for your Toyota Tacoma?

Battery Engine Warranty Cold Cranking Amps
24F-3 L4/2.7L Replacement 24 months Performance months 650
24F-6 L4/2.7L Replacement 36 months Performance months 750
24F-RP L4/2.7L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750
24F-3 V6/3.4L Replacement 24 months Performance months 650
24F-6 V6/3.4L Replacement 36 months Performance months 750
24F-RP V6/3.4L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750
24F-3 L4/2.4L Replacement 24 months Performance months 650
24F-6 L4/2.4L Replacement 36 months Performance months 750
24F-RP L4/2.4L Replacement 48 months Performance months 750

1997 Toyota Tacoma Car Batteries

Generally, car batteries last from three to five years. You want to replace your 1997 Toyota Tacoma battery before it fails and leaves you stranded. Look out for symptoms of a faulty car battery. A slow engine crank, an illuminated check engine light or battery signal, bloated battery case, corrosion-covered posts, or faded headlights may all indicate that your battery is waving goodbye.

You can also get a Free Battery Test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Stop by for a free battery test and, if needed, a replacement battery for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma. Automotive batteries are just one of our many areas of expertise. Our technicians are well-acquainted with Toyota’s service specs for Tacoma battery CCAs and reserve capacity. Get help choosing the battery size that fits your car perfectly, and schedule an appointment today for a quick car battery replacement.

Answers to Your Toyota Tacoma Car Battery Questions

  • Why won't my Toyota Tacoma battery stay charged? A battery is in its final hour when it will no longer hold a charge. The battery may be too old. Or, you may have been leaving your car doors ajar and the cabin light at night. Stop by for a complimentary battery check at your favorite Firestone Complete Auto Care and get a handle on your car battery’s health.
  • How long do car batteries last?  A car battery normally lasts three to five years, but this number can vary based on battery type, your driving habits, and battery maintenance.
  • What is the white, crusty substance accumulating on my Tacoma’s battery post?  If you notice white, crusty stuff around the battery terminals of your Tacoma, it's likely corrosion. A chemical reaction between battery acid and the air can create a white, powdery substance that builds up over time on the terminals. This buildup can interfere with the electrical connection between the battery and your Tacoma’s electrical system, potentially leading to poor performance, difficulty starting, and other issues.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Oil Change Service

Toyota recommends changing your 1997 Tacoma’s oil at regular intervals. Outside of Toyota-recommended oil change intervals, your Tacoma may need an oil change if your check engine light is on, you hear knock knock knock coming from the engine, smell oil inside the vehicle, or see an excess amount of vehicle exhaust. You might need an oil change more frequently than what’s recommended by Toyota if you regularly haul heavy loads, drive in dusty areas, enjoy off-roading, or go at low speeds on long distance trips.

Whether you need high mileage oil, synthetic oil, or conventional oil, you'll find the right 1997 Toyota Tacoma motor oil at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Talk with a teammate and consult your owner's manual before picking a motor oil. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, you can choose from the following oils: Quaker State® Advanced Durability™ conventional oil, Pennzoil® High Mileage Vehicle® motor oil, Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic motor oil with PurePlus™ Technology, and Shell Rotella® heavy-duty engine oil. In an oil change service, a technician will change your Tacoma's oil, replace and recycle the old oil and filter, check all of your other filters, refill vital car fluids, and perform a free inspection on the rest of your vehicle. Make an appointment for an oil change service today and let the oil experts take care of your Tacoma's engine.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Oil Change Q&A

  • What does it mean if my Toyota Tacoma oil light comes on?  Your Toyota Tacoma oil change reminder light might illuminate if it’s been too long since your last oil change. On the other hand, the oil pressure light might illuminate due to a clogged oil filter, a faulty oil pressure sensor, low engine oil levels, or a malfunctioning oil pump.
  • Can I change my Toyota oil on my own?  Changing your own oil isn't as convenient as you might think. It requires special tools and old oil must be disposed of properly. Having your oil professionally changed reduces the chances of something going wrong with the oil change, but also with your vehicle down the road.
  • Why is my Toyota Tacoma exhaust smoke grayish or blue?  There could be an oil leak and your engine is burning oil. Time to have a qualified technician check things out. The leak could be caused by several issues like leaking valve seals, damaged piston rings, or worn cylinder walls.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Engine Tune-Ups & Maintenance

Periodic tune-ups can bring more power back to your Tacoma’s engine. The Firestone Complete Auto Care location in your community offers several Toyota Tacoma engine tune-up services. The standard Firestone Tune-Up is one service option. This includes the installation of new spark plugs and a visual inspection of your engine’s components, plus a lifetime warranty on parts*. Another service option pays special attention to the filters in your Tacoma. Specifically, we replace the fuel filter and air filter. The third tune-up option is a fuel system cleaning service, which is a three-step process that removes varnish, dirt, and carbon deposits on your Tacoma's fuel injectors, throttle body, and throttle plate. The result? Restored fuel system performance. Keep in mind that your Tacoma's mileage and maintenance history can uniquely impact its tune-up needs. Chat with a Firestone technician before you jump into a specific service to ensure your engine tune-up money is well-spent.

*Check with a teammate at Firestone Complete Auto Care for complete terms and conditions regarding warranties.

Questions About 1997 Toyota Tacoma Engine Tune-Ups

  • What happens if my Toyota Tacoma spark plugs fail?  Replace spark plugs on time or about every 30,000 miles or so. Spark plugs are small but mighty. The spark of electricity that the plug emits across a small gap creates the ignition for the combustion needed to start your car. Without that spark, your car won't start.
  • What should I do if I see leaks under my Tacoma? Puddles could indicate an oil leak, coolant leak, or brake fluid leak– all of which can critically hurt your engine. Have your engine inspected as soon as you spot a pool of liquid in your usual parking spot.
  • How often do Toyota Tacoma fuel injectors need to be cleaned? There is no hard and fast rule on how often fuel injectors should be cleaned, and it can vary based on driving habits and fuel type. Some manufacturers may suggest including a fuel system cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule. Or you may need to clean your fuel injectors as needed if you notice signs of a fuel system problem.

1997 Tacoma Toyota Steering & Suspension Services

When you first bought your 1997 Toyota Tacoma, you probably enjoyed a smooth and steady ride. Now, however, things are starting to feel a little rough. Perhaps your Tacoma feels bouncy, pulls to one side, or makes a weird sound when you drive over a speed bump or turn. As soon as you notice that something’s “off” with your 1997 Toyota Tacoma, bring it in for steering and suspension repairs. We’ll get to the source of your car problems and, if your car needs steering and suspension repairs, we'll explain all of your options and the potential cost.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Steering & Suspension Questions

  • What can cause my Toyota Tacoma to have a bouncy ride?  If your shocks or struts are in bad shape, they can’t dampen road bumps like they should. This can cause your Tacoma to bounce more than usual.
  • Why does my Tacoma front end dip forward when I brake?  As you brake, the forward momentum of your Tacoma combined with its weight sends a ton of force to its front end. A damaged or worn suspension system can cause the front end to compress and dip even further.
  • Does treadwear and tire pressure impact my Tacoma's steering and suspension?  Keeping your tires properly inflated can help reduce strain on the suspension, and also help you notice when you need new tires. A tire that doesn't have an adequate amount of tread can't grip the road or function as well as the manufacturer intended.

1997 Toyota Tacoma A/C Service Near You

Our technicians will work to solve your 1997 Toyota Tacoma A/C problems to the best of their ability. During this initial A/C performance check, we’ll look at the state of your 1997 Toyota Tacoma’s A/C system to evaluate what repairs are necessary (if any). We’ll test overall system performance, check for any leaks, and measure the system pressure.

When we perform an A/C repair on your 1997 Toyota Tacoma, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. To start this process, a technician will flush out the old refrigerant from your vehicle’s A/C system. Next, they will evacuate the system according to Toyota's recommendations. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system.

Frequently Asked Questions for 1997 Toyota Tacoma A/C Systems

  • Why is my Tacoma A/C blowing hot air? Maybe your A/C starts cool but then gets warm. Or maybe it never gets cold in the first place. Either way, your A/C troubles could be traced back to a clogged expansion valve, faulty compressor clutch, blown fuse, or leak.
  • What can cause an A/C system leak?  Over the years, the rubber seals and gaskets in your Tacoma’s A/C system naturally degrade. Moisture can get into the system and cause a malfunction, or parts can simply wear out so that your system no longer seals properly.
  • Why does my vehicle have to be moving for my Tacoma’s A/C to work?  Damaged or worn components in your Tacoma’s electrical or air conditioning system can cause the A/C to only work when the car is moving. You may be dealing with low coolant or a faulty cooling fan.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Transmission Service

The transmission delivers power from the engine to the wheels so that you can drive on your terms. Since the transmission has to translate the precise amount of power for your desired amount of speed, a tiny transmission issue can take a major toll on your car’s performance. Toyota Tacoma transmission problems can present themselves as shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, a feeling of shakiness, or whistling noises or a burning smell coming from beneath the hood. If you don’t pay attention to Toyota Tacoma transmission trouble you might notice your fuel economy decrease or find that you can't drive your Tacoma at all. Our technicians know how to service your 1997 Tacoma up to Toyota-recommended standards. As soon as you suspect something’s wrong with your Tacoma’s transmission, book an appointment at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to help keep your Toyota running for miles and miles.

Questions About 1997 Toyota Tacoma’s Transmission

  • When should I have my Tacoma's transmission fluid checked or exchanged?  Caring for your Toyota Tacoma’s transmission fluid is a great way to help it perform. About every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is a good timeframe for having your transmission fluid inspected and perhaps changed. Service intervals can vary depending on how you use your Toyota, so check with your technician first. Luckily, leaks and low fluid levels are easy to spot and inexpensive to fix.
  • Can my Toyota Tacoma leak transmission fluid?  Over time, transmission fluid can leak from your Toyota Tacoma, potentially causing transmission problems. A transmission fluid leak may be caused by a damaged transmission pan, faulty transmission cooler lines, worn-out seals, a cracked transmission housing, or an overfilled transmission.
  • Can I still drive my Toyota Tacoma if it has a transmission fluid leak?  You should avoid driving with a transmission fluid leak. Your transmission system relies on transmission fluid to operate properly, and a leak may decrease performance, cause your Tacoma to overheat, or even lead to transmission failure.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Inspections

Every service performed at Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a multi-point Courtesy Check. First, a technician will pop the hood on your Toyota Tacoma and test the battery to determine how much charge remains. After we’ve inspected your Toyota Tacoma’s battery, we’ll visually inspect your filters, lights, wiper blades, alignment, tires, hoses, belts and fluid levels.

While every visit to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care includes a Courtesy Check, we also offer an in-depth Complete Vehicle Inspection for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma. A Complete Vehicle Inspection includes everything in a Courtesy Check, plus a hands-on examination of your steering and suspension system, brakes, and exhaust components. This inspection is aimed at informing you of any major problems that could need immediate attention in order to prevent further damage.

Depending on your location, you may be able to take care of your state inspection or safety test at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. These inspections are governed by state automotive laws and may vary in different locations.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Vehicle Inspection Q and A

  • How do I know if I should have an inspection on my Toyota Tacoma? If you’ve noticed something that doesn’t feel quite right in your car lately, a Courtesy Check could give you peace of mind. We can help you get to the bottom of strange engine noises, a jerky steering wheel, or an engine that's hard to start.
  • Can you fix my 1997 Toyota Tacoma so it will pass a state inspection test? Don’t panic! Come in for a complete inspection today and we’ll find (and repair) the root cause before you have your vehicle retested.
  • When is the best time to get a complete vehicle inspection for my Toyota Tacoma?  You should bring your Toyota Tacoma in for a full vehicle inspection if something weird happens and you can’t find the problem. A new dashboard light might come on, you may hear strange sounds under the hood, or your steering might feel off. A complete inspection is also a great idea before a road trip for added peace of mind.

1997 Toyota Tacoma Radiator Repair & Service

Staying on top of routine radiator maintenance for your 1997 Toyota Tacoma is essential for long-term engine health. To keep your radiator functioning, Toyota recommends replacing your antifreeze or coolant at scheduled intervals but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for signs of a failing radiator. You might be driving around (or about to be stranded) with a failing radiator if you see coolant leaks under your car, high engine temperatures, or a dashboard light that indicates low coolant.

When you come to Firestone Complete Auto Care, we’ll begin your radiator repair with an in-depth inspection of the cooling system in your Toyota Tacoma. We’ll do a machine-powered coolant exchange on the system, and then we’ll top off or replace the fluids that were removed (like chemicals, lubricants, and sealants). Lastly, we’ll perform a pressure check to look for leaks. If you’re about to lose your cool over a too-hot engine, rest assured that your 1997 Toyota Tacoma is in good hands at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Questions About Toyota Tacoma Radiators

  • What does the coolant light on my Toyota dashboard mean?  Pay attention to the temperature gauge and lights on your dashboard. If a low coolant warning light comes on or your dashboard temperature gauge keeps rising, it’s likely that your engine is about to overheat (and could leave you stranded on the road). Wait for the engine to cool down, then have your coolant system checked immediately at your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care.
  • My Tacoma overheated! What can cause that?  Low coolant, a damaged cooling fan, a faulty water pump, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a clogged radiator could all cause your Toyota Tacoma engine to overheat.
  • What is making my Tacoma radiator sound like it’s boiling or rumbling? There could be air pockets in your Tacoma’s cooling system. You might also have a clogged radiator or faulty radiator cap (this last one is an easy fix!).