1985 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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Common 1985 Toyota Mr2 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1985 Toyota MR2, several common problems have been identified:
- Ignition Key Malfunction: Another issue that can arise at over 100,000 miles is related to the car's ignition key not working properly. This problem can be resolved by simply replacing the ignition key.
- Oversteering: The Toyota MR2 is known to have a tendency to oversteer, which can lead to potentially dangerous situations. Addressing this problem requires drivers to be cautious and skilled in preventing oversteering from occurring.
These common problems with the 1985 Toyota MR2 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly to ensure the continued reliability and safety of the vehicle.
Is a 1985 Toyota MR2 a good car?
The MR2 earned rave reviews from the press for its finely balanced handling, its superb five-speed gearbox, and its jewel-like twin-cam, sixteen-valve, four-cylinder 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.
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 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).
Is a 1985 Toyota MR2 a good car?
The MR2 earned rave reviews from the press for its finely balanced handling, its superb five-speed gearbox, and its jewel-like twin-cam, sixteen-valve, four-cylinder engine.
Are Toyota MR2 reliable cars?
Toyota's hard-earned reputation for reliability is evident in the MR2 and there's little to be worried about when buying this mid-engined roadster. However, it's worth checking for any signs of crash damage, or track day use such as excessively worn tyre edges.
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).
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.
1985 Toyota Mr2 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Mr2 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Toyota Mr2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Toyota Mr2 complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Toyota Mr2.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-30
- VIN: JT2AW15C5F0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THIS VEHICLE APPEARS TO USE A MECHANICAL (MADE OUT OF PLASTIC!) ROCKER LEVER THAT ENGAGES THE SEAT BELT REEL WHEN THE DOORS ARE SHUT. DUE TO HIGH SPRING TENSION ON THIS PART, BOTH LEVERS HAVE BROKEN OFF AND DO NOT ENGAGE THE SEAT BELT REELS AS THE ARE SUPPOSED TO WHEN THE DOORS ARE SHUT. THE MECHANISM IS INSIDE THE BODY AND THERE ARE NO WARNING LIGHTS, OR OTHER INDICATIONS, TO LET A DRIVER/OWNER KNOW THAT THE LEVER HAS FAILED. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2AW15C2F0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS GO OUT WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2AW15C6F0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DRIVING ON HIGHWAY, ANOTHER VEHICLE HONKED, TURNED TO LOOK, VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1985 Toyota Mr2 problems:
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