1992 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 1992 Toyota Mr2 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Toyota MR2 1992, several common problems have been reported:
- Automatic Transmission Shifting: At high mileages, particularly over 125,000 miles, the automatic transmission in the Toyota MR2 may not shift correctly. This issue can impact the driving experience and may require repairs such as replacing the shift solenoid or repairing the throttle position sensor to address the shifting problems.
- Ignition Key Malfunction: Another common problem reported by owners of the Toyota MR2 1992 is related to the ignition key. After reaching over 100,000 miles, the ignition key may start to malfunction, leading to difficulties starting the car. In such cases, replacing the ignition key can resolve this issue.
- Oversteering: The Toyota MR2 is known to have a tendency to oversteer, which can be dangerous if not managed properly. Oversteering occurs when the rear wheels lose traction during a turn, potentially causing the car to spin out of control. Addressing this issue requires drivers to be cautious and skilled in handling the car to prevent oversteering incidents.
These common problems with the Toyota MR2 1992 can impact the performance, safety, and overall driving experience of the vehicle. Owners facing these issues should consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose and address the specific problems to ensure the continued reliability and functionality of their Toyota MR2.
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 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.
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.
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.
1992 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:
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Toyota Mr2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1992 Toyota Mr2 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Toyota Mr2.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- VIN: JT2SW21NXN0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) I BOUGHT MY USED (9,000 MILES APPROX) FROM STEVSON TOYOTA IN AUORA, COLORADO ON MARCH 8, 1993. I WAS NEVER INFORMED BY THE SALESMAN THAT THE INTERNAL TRUNK RELEASED KIT WAS REQUIRED TO FIX THE PROBLEM (NHTSA 39588). OF COURSE THE RECALL NOTICE WAS PRIOR TO MY PURCHASING THE MR-2. I RECALL THAT THE ONLY DISCUSSION CENTER AROUND AS TO WHY THE PREVIOUS OWNER WANTED TO TRADE IN HER CAR. I WAS TOLD BY THE SALESMAN, SHE WANTED A TURBO MR-2 AND LIVED IN CASTLE ROCK, COLORADO. THUS, THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. HOWEVER, ON SEVERAL OCCASION WHILE HAVING WORK PERFORMED ON MY CAR, I WOULD TELL THE SERVICE TECH ABOUT THE PROBLEM WITH THE TRUNK. I WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WOULD FIX ITSELF, BY THE MOVING PARTS FALLING BACK INTO PLACE. FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS, STEVSON TOYOTA SERVICED MY MR-2. THEY DID CALL ME AT MY WORK PLACE REGARDING THE REPLACEMENT OF THE STEERING WHEEL SAFETY BAG WHICH LATER BECAME AN ISSUE. I WAS NEVER CONTACTED BY STEVSON TOYOTA REGARDING THE BULLETIN NHTSA #39588 ALSO!! SINCE THAN, NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THE TRUNK INCLUDING A $400.00, BY LOCKSMITH NOT TO DAMAGE MY CAR IN ORDER TO HAVE THE GARAGE REPLACED THE CARS STRUTS. AS TO THE SECOND RECALL, WHICH REQUIRES EDR VACUUM MODULATOR REPLACED AS STATED, NEVER ANY CONTACT BY THIS DEALERSHIP. IT HAS BEEN APPROXIMATELY 6 MONTHS SINCE THE TRUNK LOCK WORK, WITH PERSONAL ITEMS INSIDE THE TRUNK. [XXX] *TR
1992 Toyota Mr2 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1992 Toyota Mr2.
- 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.
Positive 1992 Toyota Mr2 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1992 Toyota Mr2 problems:
1992 Toyota MR2 2.2 reliability? : r/cars
Feb 4, 2014 ... As you now know, they should be pretty bullet-proof, but at 22 years old and with 162,000 miles, you will soon have to deal with normal age- ...
1992 Toyota MR2 Problems and Complaints - 23 Issues
Top 1992 Toyota MR2 Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · Replace ignition key by 100,000 miles · Failed Emissions Test ...
MR2 mk2 - potential problems & costs - Page 1 - Japanese Chat ...
Aug 26, 2012 ... Things to go wrong? The aerial can stick, making an awful noise when you switch the car on. Mine had a rust spot on the bottom of the driver's ...
1992 Toyota MR2 as a daily? : r/askcarguys
Jul 23, 2020 ... The interior and engine aren't going to be the problem on that car. The suspension is 30 years old, as are the electrics/sensors, the fuel ...
5S-FE MK2 Non-Turbo Engine mkII mr2 NA common problems ...
Toyota MR2 Message Board > Toyota MR2 Generations > MK 2 MR2 ... mr2 NA common problems ... That's actually considered normal for 91-92 transaxles ...
Other years of Toyota Mr2
Are you having problems with your 1992 Toyota Mr2?
Cloyd Hermiston 2024-11-26
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.
Jarred Mayer 2024-11-20
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.
Cleo Crist 2024-11-17
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!
Wayne Hill 2024-11-17
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.
Ladarius Rempel 2024-11-14
I bought this car brand new and drove it for 160,000 miles. I only had to replace the alternator, brakes, and tires. I do, however, change the oil often and only run supreme fuel. It's a fun, cool, and fast car!