2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder problems

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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.

2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder

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Common 2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder problems

The Toyota MR2 Spyder, manufactured between 2000 and 2007, is known for its performance and fuel economy. However, it has also gained a reputation for being one of the most dangerous cars in the world due to certain design and handling characteristics.

One of the primary issues with the MR2 Spyder is its rear-end weight bias, which contributes to 'snap oversteer' and almost zero understeer. Snap oversteer is an unpredictable and potentially fatal problem where the rear of the car steps out suddenly, making it difficult to control and prone to spinning off the road. This issue is common in all generations of the MR2, including the Spyder, and is a result of the mid-engine layout. While this layout provides faster acceleration and stable handling, it can be dangerous if not handled correctly, especially by inexperienced drivers.

Additionally, the MR2 Spyder is known for its dangerously powerful and fast performance. The car demands advanced car control skills to avoid pushing the limits, and it can take control away from the driver without much warning. The engine, especially the Turbocharged versions, churns a significant amount of power, which, when combined with the Spyder's sharp handling, can be challenging to manage for inexperienced drivers.

The MR2 Spyder also suffers from poor traction, making it difficult to drift the car without it snapping back, especially in rainy or wet road conditions. This issue is further exacerbated by the lack of safety controls in the car. Modern safety mandates would not allow a car like the MR2 Spyder to be produced today due to its lack of safety features.

The MR2 Spyder has little to no safety aids, with only electronic stability control, standard anti-skid brakes, and front airbags for the driver and passenger. Features like auto emergency braking, lane keep assist, blindspot warning, reversing camera, side curtain airbags, and driver attention detection are not included in the car. This lack of safety features, combined with the car's power and handling characteristics, makes it one of the most dangerous cars in the world.

Despite these issues, the MR2 Spyder is still a popular car due to its fun and adrenaline-pumping driving experience. However, it is essential to be aware of these potential dangers and handle the car with care, especially for inexperienced drivers.

2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder engine

Are MR2 engines reliable?

Reliable: Toyota is known for producing reliable cars, and the MR2 is no exception. With proper maintenance, it can last for many years. Fuel efficient: The MR2's small size and efficient engine make it a fuel-efficient car.

Is Toyota MR2 hard to maintain?

The 00–07 Toyota MR2 Spyder isn't much more expensive or difficult to work on than many other Toyotas of the era. Toyota didn't make any other mid-engined cars, so many components are unique to the Spyder (which means there are no other compatible models to borrow parts from).

Which year MR2 is the best?

The 1993-1995 models are particularly desirable, as they featured several upgrades, including revised suspension tuning and larger brakes. Ultimately, the "best year" for a Toyota MR2 will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as performance, styling, and reliability.

Is a Toyota MR2 a good buy?

Toyota is known for creating reliable, high-quality vehicles. While the Toyota MR2 may not be the most famous Japanese sports car, it's a great and notable choice for driving enthusiasts.

Is Toyota MR2 hard to maintain?

The 00–07 Toyota MR2 Spyder isn't much more expensive or difficult to work on than many other Toyotas of the era. Toyota didn't make any other mid-engined cars, so many components are unique to the Spyder (which means there are no other compatible models to borrow parts from).

Are MR2 engines reliable?

Reliable: Toyota is known for producing reliable cars, and the MR2 is no exception. With proper maintenance, it can last for many years. Fuel efficient: The MR2's small size and efficient engine make it a fuel-efficient car.

Which year MR2 is the best?

The 1993-1995 models are particularly desirable, as they featured several upgrades, including revised suspension tuning and larger brakes. Ultimately, the "best year" for a Toyota MR2 will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as performance, styling, and reliability.

Is a Toyota MR2 a good buy?

Toyota is known for creating reliable, high-quality vehicles. While the Toyota MR2 may not be the most famous Japanese sports car, it's a great and notable choice for driving enthusiasts.

2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Positive 2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder car reviews

  1. Dave McDermott 2025-07-27

    I purchased my Spyder back in December 2007 with 8,666 miles on it. I had actually looked at a Spyder a few years prior, but at the time, I was hesitant to buy it because it didn't have a trunk. I was surprised to learn that a car could be without a trunk. However, being single, I decided to buy what I wanted and not worry about pleasing anyone else. I simply put my groceries in the passenger seat. Not only is this car fun, but it's also more economical than a Miata since it uses regular unleaded gas. During the summer, I average about 28.5 mpg, and about 27 in the winter. Additionally, this car handles well in the snow with snow tires.

  2. Thaddeus Rolfson 2025-07-07

    I had a Spyder last year and unfortunately got into a head-on collision while driving 60 MPH on the freeway and hit a concrete barricade. Despite the severity of the accident, both my passenger and I walked away without any injuries, except for a small bruise on my passenger's nose caused by the airbags. I felt incredibly safe in the Spyder, which is why I decided to purchase another one.

  3. Tyrell Bartoletti 2025-07-06

    For the money, you really can't beat it! The car has great handling and is very stylish. The build quality is excellent and it's also very economical. Plus, it's just so much fun to drive!

  4. Zachery Luettgen 2025-05-13

    If you're considering purchasing an MR2 spyder with the SMT, it's important to be aware of potential issues with the electronics. Toyota has a reputation for over-engineering their products, which can sometimes lead to malfunctions. It's recommended to purchase a Toyota with a long warranty to ensure that any potential issues can be addressed. While repairs can be expensive, it's important to address any issues promptly to avoid further complications.

  5. Jerome Ritchie 2025-05-11

    You have such a fun car to drive! People always compliment how cute it is. The top is also really easy to put up and down. It's a fantastic car!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2005 Toyota Mr2 spyder problems:

common mr2 spyder problems? : r/mr2
common mr2 spyder problems? : r/mr2
https://www.reddit.com/r/mr2/comments/15ywzgq/common_mr2_spyder_problems/

Aug 23, 2023 ... common mr2 spyder problems? · Before '03, 1ZZs had a design flaw that causes oil burning. · Before late '05, 1ZZs had a design flaw that ...

How common are SMT problems? | MR2 SpyderChat
How common are SMT problems? | MR2 SpyderChat
https://www.spyderchat.com/threads/how-common-are-smt-problems.43150/

Aug 19, 2010 ... Toyota killed the Spyder in '05 and truth be told, with it....any interest in dissecting SMT-related issues (beyond the pre-03 creep tech serv ...

Q&A: Toyota MR2 Spyder 2005 Problems - Engine, Maintenance ...
Q&A: Toyota MR2 Spyder 2005 Problems - Engine, Maintenance ...
https://www.justanswer.com/toyota/9nl7b-problem-start-toyota-mr2-spyder-2005-every.html

Apr 17, 2016 ... before i ask you , i did everything, all connections, fuses . Maybe is something wrong with the gear position sensor, so i kept the keys in ...

2000 Spyder motor problems | MR2 SpyderChat
2000 Spyder motor problems | MR2 SpyderChat
https://www.spyderchat.com/threads/2000-spyder-motor-problems.157495/

May 19, 2021 ... Is it common to have major engine ... issue's for 2005 to 2006 (and after) 1ZZ-FE. ... SpyderChat Forum is a community for Toyota MR2 Spyder ...

2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2005-toyota-mr2-spyder/problems

Problem with your 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder.

Other years of Toyota Mr2 spyder

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Mr2 spyder 2003
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