1993 Toyota Mr2 problems

Common 1993 Toyota Mr2 problems

The Toyota MR2, a classic sports car produced by Toyota, is known for its powerful engine and handling capabilities. However, like any car, the MR2 has its share of common problems, especially as it ages.

One of the most common issues with the Toyota MR2, particularly in high-mileage vehicles, is transmission shifting problems. At high mileages, over 125,000 miles, the automatic transmission may not shift correctly. This issue can be fixed without necessarily replacing the entire transmission by replacing the car’s shift solenoid or repairing its throttle position sensor.

Another problem that occurs in Toyota MR2s with over 100,000 miles is that the ignition key may not work as well. This issue can be fixed by simply replacing the ignition key.

The MR2 is also known for its tendency to oversteer, which can lead to dangerous results if not handled correctly. This issue can be addressed by drivers learning how to prevent oversteering from happening.

Rust is another common problem in the Toyota MR2, particularly in the sills. This is due to some foam that Toyota thoughtfully installed underneath, which soon soaks up any water coming its way. This foam absorbs the water and rots the car from the inside out. It is essential to check for any bubbling on the exterior bodywork and look under the boot carpet for any signs of rust.

The cooling system is another nightmare for MR2 owners. If the car is leaking water, headaches are likely to follow. For instance, there are a couple of copper heater hoses that run over the top of the fuel tank, and they tend to crack at the brackets. Changing them is a massive job, as the fuel tank needs to come out along with the handbrake cable. Rubber replacements can prevent this problem from arising in the future.

The radiators in the MR2 tend to get damaged from the front end because they are so open. This can lead to leaks and other cooling system issues.

The ECU in the 1993 MR2 is not compatible with earlier models, and certain resistors in the ECU may blow or swell, causing problems with the engine's operation. Without knowing the specific resistors that have blown, it is difficult to purchase the correct parts to fix the issue.

A faulty O2 sensor can cause the engine to run in an over-rich or over-lean condition, leading to hesitation, lag, bucking, idle issues, stalling, and other problems.

In summary, the Toyota MR2 is a great car, but like any car, it has its share of common problems. By being aware of these issues and taking the necessary steps to address them, MR2 owners can ensure that their cars remain reliable and enjoyable to drive.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

1993 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:

• Power train problems
• Air bags problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems
• Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Toyota Mr2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.