Toyota Mr2 problems
The Toyota MR2 is a line of two-seater, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars, manufactured in Japan and marketed globally by Toyota from 1984 until 2007 over three generations: W10 (1984–1989), W20 (1989–1999) and W30 (1999–2007). It is Japan's first rear mid-engined production car.
Conceived as a small, economical and sporty car, the MR2 uses simple but effective design elements, including an inline-four engine, transversely mounted in front of the rear axle, four-wheel disc brakes, and fully independent coilover suspension – MacPherson strut fronts and Chapman strut rears.
The name MR2 stands for either "mid-ship run-about 2-seater" or "mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-seater". In French-speaking markets, the vehicle was renamed Toyota MR because the abbreviation "MR2" sounds like the profanity "merde" when spoken in French.
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Toyota Mr2 model years
Common Toyota Mr2 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Toyota MR2, several common problems have been reported:
- Rattle Coming from the Engine (2001 MR2): One complaint highlighted a rattle coming from the engine of the 2001 MR2. This issue can be concerning as engine noises can indicate underlying mechanical problems. It is essential to diagnose the source of the rattle to prevent potential engine damage and ensure the car's longevity.
- Not Engaging in All Gears (1986 MR2): A complaint regarding the 1986 MR2 mentioned issues with gears not engaging properly. Transmission problems like this can lead to difficulty shifting, grinding noises, or gears slipping. Addressing transmission issues promptly is crucial to avoid further damage and ensure safe driving.
- Excessive Oil Consumption (2001 MR2 and 2000 MR2): Complaints about excessive oil consumption in both the 2001 and 2000 MR2 models raise concerns about potential engine issues. High oil consumption can indicate leaks, worn piston rings, or other internal engine problems. Regularly monitoring oil levels and addressing any leaks promptly is vital to prevent engine damage.
- Bad Rings, Excessive Oil Consumption (2000 MR2): Another complaint specific to the 2000 MR2 mentioned bad rings leading to excessive oil consumption. Faulty piston rings can result in oil burning, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions. Addressing this issue may involve engine repairs or replacements to maintain the car's performance.
- Gearbox/Casing Comes Apart Due to Stripped Bolt (1991 MR2): A complaint highlighted a problem with the gearbox/casing coming apart due to a stripped bolt in the 1991 MR2. This issue can lead to transmission fluid leaks, gear shifting issues, and potential safety hazards. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prevent further damage to the transmission system.
These common problems reported by Toyota MR2 owners emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to address issues early and ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle. Regular servicing by qualified professionals can help prevent these common problems and maintain the Toyota MR2 in optimal condition.
Are Toyota MR2s reliable?
Toyota MR2 Reliability Problems
MR2 owners have made 5 complaints over 15 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 5th in overall reliability out of 33 Toyota models , with some engine and transmission concerns.
Was the Toyota MR2 a good car?
Not only is the Toyota MR2 an iconic sports car from the 80s and 90s, but many agree that it is among the best sports cars Toyota has ever built. The MR2 was Akio Yoshida's take on the exotic – both in its stylish design and driving feel.
What to look out for when buying an MR2?
What goes wrong and what should you look for? Above all else when looking to buy a first-generation Toyota MR2, you need to check for rust, rust and more rust. Starting with the exterior bodywork, feel all around the front wheel arches for any crumbly metalwork, then check the sills.
Which generation MR2 is best?
second-generation MR2
The Toyota MR2 has been produced in several different generations and model years, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. However, many enthusiasts consider the second-generation MR2, produced from 1989 to 1999, to be the best overall.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Mr2 years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Mr2 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Mr2 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Mr2 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Mr2 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Mr2 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Mr2 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Mr2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mr2 model years
A total of 12 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mr2 model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mr2 model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 106 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Mr2 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Mr2 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Mr2 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-17
- VIN: JTDFR320810
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Size 185/55/R15 82B. A set of tires was purchased May 2024 from Tire Rack. After driving less than 400 miles - the front drivers tire went flat while driving. Upon inspection of all four tires we noted all four are dated 2013. We were sold tires that are 11 years old and are therefore a danger.
Toyota Mr2 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-27
- VIN: JTDFR320550
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Thanks for reading this - the Sequential Manual Transmission failed on the car - the warning light was on but it failed 3 times within 15 mins. Not sure if you are aware of this car and the transmission issues when the car was made new from 2003 to 2005. I have the parts to fix it but was there ever a recall on these types of cars?
Toyota Mr2 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2021-01-31
- VIN: JT2SW21M8M0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TOLD BY PATT LOBB TOYOTA IN MCKINNEY, TX THAT TOYOTA NA WILL BE REACHING OUT TO ME. "UNABLE TO REPLACE STEERING WHEEL" UNDER RECALL 91V223
Toyota Mr2 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-01-27
- VIN: JT2SW21M7P0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 TOYOTA MR2. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND TAKEN TO SEVERAL INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WHO WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE OR RETRIEVE FAULT CODES FOR THE FAILURE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
Toyota Mr2 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-29
- VIN: JT2SW21M3M0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: FOR YEARS I HAVE BEEN RECEIVING A RECALL NOTICE FROM TOYOTA EVERY FEW MONTHS. I THINK IT IS FOR AIRBAGS, BUT I'M NOT SURE. THE NOTICE ALWAYS SAYS TO CALL MY LOCAL DEALER, WHICH I HAVE DONE A FEW TIMES WITHOUT ANY SATISFACTION. THE LAST TIME I PURSUED THE REPAIR MORE VIGOROUSLY, AND TOYOTA TOLD ME THEY NO LONGER HAVE THE REPAIR KITS AND SO CANNOT FIX MY CAR. NOW I HAVE JUST RECEIVED ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE FOR THE SAME ISSUE, WHICH IS CLEARLY AN IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUE. I WANT THE CAR REPAIRED.
Toyota Mr2 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2018-09-02
- VIN: JT2SW21N8P0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL! MY AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON AND AN AUTO ELECTRICAL TECH SAID THE UNIT WAS PUTTING OUT AN ELECTRICAL CODE #41 (UNIT FAILURE). CHUCK PATTERSON SCHEDULED MY CAR FOR AN AIRBAG INSPECTION. THEN THEY WOULDN'T DO IT AND SUGGESTED TO SOMEONE THAT I SIMPLY COME PICK THE CAR UP. WHEN I QUESTIONED THE SAFETY OF DRIVING THE CAR LIKE THAT, AND SAID THAT I WOULD LIKE THE DIAGNOSIS AND RELATED INFO, COMMUNICATION BASICALLY STOPPED, AND MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THEIR SERVICE DEPARTMENT FOR A MONTH, AND THEY WILL NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS. SOMETHING IS WRONG! *JS
Toyota Mr2 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-06
- Date Complaint: 2017-11-06
- VIN: JT2SW22N6M0
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS CHECKING FOR THE TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL AND FOUND THIS RECALL WHICH INCLUDES STEERING WHEEL AND AIRBAG(91V223) AND THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP SAYS IT IS TO OLD OF A RECALL TO FIX.
Toyota Mr2 1991
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2017-08-24
- VIN: JT2SW22NXM0
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: NHTSA REFERENCE ID 91V223. ESCONDIDO TOYOTA SAYS THEY CAN'T REPLACE THE STEERING WHEEL.
Toyota Mr2 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-24
- Date Complaint: 2016-02-26
- VIN: JTDFR320X0X
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA MR2. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE STEERING AND GEARS SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS PUSHED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,500.
Toyota Mr2 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-16
- Date Complaint: 2015-09-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTDFR320330
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A CURB. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
Toyota Mr2 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-05
- Date Complaint: 2015-07-07
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHILE I AM DRIVING ON I65 IN MOBILE MY CAR WAS HIT BY SOME KIND OF STRONG THING BECAUSE OF THAT MY CAR ENGINE IS BROKEN. WHO'S GOING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS . I NEED JUSTIFICATION ..
Toyota Mr2 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2015-05-04
- VIN: 5TDZK22C17S
- Components: EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: RE; RECALL 14V273000, NEVER HAD A FAILURE,HAD ORIGINAL RECALL DONE YET SERVICE DEPT CUT OFF SPARE TIRE CARRIER CABLE AND RELOCATED SPARE TIRE TO INSIDE OF VEHICLE. WIFE IS HANDICAPPED AND WE CANNOT USE THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE TO TRANSPORT HER MOBILITY SCOOTER. I BELIEVE WAITING 7+ MONTHS FOR A FIX IS UNREASONABLE, ESPECIALLY SINCE SPARE TIRES HAVE BEEN LOCATED UNDER VEHICLES FOR DECADES.I WOULD HOPE TOYOTA COULD COME UP WITH A FIX INSTEAD OF SITTING AROUND AND DOING NOTHING ! *TR
Toyota Mr2 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-15
- Date Complaint: 2014-09-29
- VIN: JTDFR320430
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE GEAR WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE COMPUTER CHIP AND HYDRAULIC PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,800. UPDATED 12/2/14*CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY WAS REPAIRED UNDER WARRANTY. *JS
Toyota Mr2 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2014-09-12
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: 2003 TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER 6-SPEED TRANSMISSION/ SHIFTING MALFUNCTION - WHILE AT TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE CAR JERKED FORCEFULLY FORWARD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO PROCEED FROM STOPPED POSITION, THEN TURNED ITSELF OFF. THE CAR BECAME INCAPABLE OF SHIFTING AND HAD TO BE TOWED. ECU WAS REPLACED. SIMILAR PROBLEMS RESURFACED. *TR
Toyota Mr2 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-26
- Date Complaint: 2014-04-22
- VIN: JTDFR3203Y0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 TOYOTA MR2. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CONSUMED OIL AT AN ALARMING RATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 122,000.
Recalls Toyota Mr2
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Toyota Mr2.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Mr2 1991
- Report Received Date: 1991-12-24
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM (STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG) EXCEEDS THE 60G THORAX CRITERION IN NHTSA CRASH TESTS.
- Consequence: THE OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THEENERGY ABSORPTION REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 208. THIS REDUCES THE CRASH PROTECTIONAFFORDED BY THE STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG SYSTEMS IN EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE STEERING WHEEL WITH A MODIFIED WHEEL DESIGNED FOR INCREASED ENERGY ABSORPTION.
- Model: Toyota Mr2 1992
- Report Received Date: 1991-12-24
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR CO., LTD.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM (STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG) EXCEEDS THE 60G THORAX CRITERION IN NHTSA CRASH TESTS.
- Consequence: THE OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THEENERGY ABSORPTION REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 208. THIS REDUCES THE CRASH PROTECTIONAFFORDED BY THE STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG SYSTEMS IN EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE STEERING WHEEL WITH A MODIFIED WHEEL DESIGNED FOR INCREASED ENERGY ABSORPTION.
Latest negative Toyota Mr2 car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Mr2 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1993
I still love this car, after 10 years.
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Vehicle year: 1992
I've had this car for about 5 months now and I absolutely love it! I acquired it with 165,000 miles and it still runs strong. It's a good commuter, but even more fun in warm weather. Overall, it's a great car that can be improved to be a real monster. The 91-92 models need better syncros, although they are the easiest to find cheap. I would suggest doing a tranny swap from a 93-95 to get LSD. The handling on the 91-92 can also get a little tough in wet conditions due to a rear suspension fault that occurred in those years, but it really keeps you on your edge when you're fooling around in town. The engine is also a bit difficult to work on.
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Vehicle year: 1992
I bought this car when it had 50k miles on it and have added another 62k since then. Even though I don't use it for commuting anymore (only 12k miles per year), I still adore this little rocket ship. With its red color, t-tops, 200hp engine, and amazing sound system, it always makes for a fantastic day and an invigorating experience for anyone who gets behind the wheel. Every time I take it out of the garage, it just seduces me. It's definitely a car that collectors should consider.
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Vehicle year: 1992
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it used back in '97 and have put 130K miles on it since then. It's been such a reliable car, with the only costs being a timing belt replacement and new brake rotors. Even after all these years, it still runs perfectly and looks better than most cars with half the miles and age. I think it's the perfect car for anyone looking for a daily driver exotic. Plus, there's a huge cult following for these cars, which makes for some great club events!
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Vehicle year: 1992
I've always dreamed of owning an MR2. The sleek styling and incredible handling of one of the world's best-selling mid-engine cars have always fascinated me. At just 19 years old, I decided to take on this car as a project. Unfortunately, the previous owner(s) didn't take great care of it, and it was in pretty rough shape. While driving on the freeway, the engine spun a rod bearing (as expected), which gave me the perfect excuse to swap in a different engine. The original engine was fantastic - a real workhorse that responded well, got great gas mileage, and had cheap parts (these engines are everywhere). Plus, it was incredibly easy to work on. Surprisingly, the mid-engine design doesn't make basic maintenance any more difficult.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Mr2?
Maximilian Lowe 2024-10-18
Vehicle year: 1993
I've owned many cars throughout my lifetime, but unfortunately, this one didn't live up to my expectations. I bought it brand new in April 1993, but just two weeks later, it was in the shop due to rod problems. After getting it back, a few months later, it was back in due to transmission problems. I eventually decided to trade it in for a much better car, an eclipse.