Toyota/front differential
Defect Summary
Due to a clearance between the oil separator plate and the differential housing of the front differential unit, oil leakage at the air breather plug can occur, when the vehicle is operated continuously above 75 miles per hour.
Safety Consequence
Oil leakage will result in a sufficiently low oil supply to cause bearing damage to the front differential unit leading to eventual seizure of the unit increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Dealers will install a modified air breather plug to prevent such oil loss.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Toyota Motor Corporation or involving Power Train.
FAQ: Recall 97V056000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 97V056000?
NHTSA recall 97V056000 was issued by Toyota Motor Corporation on April 4, 1997. It addresses: Toyota/front differential. The recall affects approximately 707 vehicles, with the defect involving the Power Train component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Toyota Motor Corporation dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 97V056000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.