2002 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 2002 Toyota Mr2 problems
The Toyota MR2, a classic sports car from the Japanese automaker, has been discontinued for many years but is still a popular car among enthusiasts. Despite its popularity, the MR2 has quite a few problems that potential buyers should be aware of, particularly if the car has a lot of mileage on its odometer.
One of the most common issues with the Toyota MR2 is related to its automatic transmission. At high mileages, over 125,000 miles, the automatic transmission may not shift correctly. This problem can be fixed without necessarily replacing the entire transmission. Instead, the shift solenoid may need to be replaced, or the throttle position sensor may need to be repaired.
Another problem that occurs at high mileages, over 100,000 miles, is that the car's 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. This problem is harder to solve and requires drivers to know how to prevent oversteering from happening. It is essential to have the necessary driving skills to control the car in such situations.
Some problems have been reported with the suspension, but much of this is down to cars being bumped up kerbs. The MR2 is a low-slung sports car and, as such, is more at risk from this kind of abuse. Therefore, it is essential to check for any signs of crash damage or track day use such as excessively worn tyre edges.
The exhaust can rot from the inside if the car has been used for lots of short journeys. This is a pricey fix, so it is essential to ask the vendor what sort of trips they've taken it on.
Toyota's hard-earned reputation for reliability is evident in the MR2, and there is little to be worried about when buying this mid-engined roadster. However, it is essential to check for any signs of crash damage, or track day use such as excessively worn tyre edges. It is also important to make sure the MR2 has four quality tyres with the same tread pattern - mismatched tyres can adversely affect the handling.
In summary, the Toyota MR2 is still a fun and capable car to drive, but potential buyers should be aware of the common problems that may arise, particularly if the car has a lot of mileage on its odometer. It is essential to check for any signs of crash damage, track day use, and ensure that the car has four quality tyres with the same tread pattern to ensure safe handling.
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.
2002 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
- Service brakes problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Toyota Mr2 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Toyota Mr2
The NHTSA has received 32 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Toyota Mr2. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Toyota Mr2 vehicles.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-20
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2002 TOYOTA SIENNA MINIVAN. WHEN I TRY TO OPEN THE DRIVER SIDE SLIDING DOOR, I CAN HEAR IT UNLATCH BUT REMAINS SHUT. YOU HAVE TO PUSH THE REAR PART OF THE DOOR BACK IN UNTIL YOU HEAR A CLICK, THEN YOU HAVE TO VIOLENTLY PULL THE HANDLE AND THE DOOR WILL OPEN. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-27
- VIN: JTDFR320120
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A CLUTCH REPLACEMENT WHEN HE WAS ADVISED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD ALSO NEED REPLACING. BOTH WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, WHEN THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE OFF THE DEALER'S LOT, THE ENGINE SEIZED. THE ENGINE WAS REPLACED BY A DIFFERENT DEALER. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO BECOME STUCK IN CERTAIN GEARS AND WOULD STALL SPORADICALLY. THE TRANSMISSION WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED SINCE THE DATE THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FURTHER DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 47,000. UPDATED 01/31/11/ *BF THE ENGINE GASKETS AND CATALYTIC CONVERTER WERE REPLACED. UPDATED 04/20/11
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-12
- VIN: JTDFR3209Y0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA MR2. WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO LOOSE POWER AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE OVER 30MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE GARAGE. THE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING LOCATED THE FAILURE AT THE CATALYTIC COVERTER, WHICH HAD BLOCKAGE CAUSING THE SENSORS TO FAIL. THE ESTIMATED COST TO REPLACE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND SENSORS WAS $3,800.00. THE MANUFACTURER TOOK A REPORT 1004210579;AND STATED THE VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY THEREFORE THEY WILL NOT ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-16
- VIN: JTDFR320520
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA MR2. THE VEHICLE HAS EXPERIENCED UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVING 35 MPH OFF OF AN ON RAMP AND STARTING TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE EVEN AFTER TAKING HIS FOOT OFF OF THE GAS PEDAL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-15
- VIN: JTDFR320720
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 2002 TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER MID-DRIVING, SMT SLIPS OUT OF GEAR INTO NEUTRAL. ONLY WAY TO FIX IT IS TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY & LET IT SIT OVERNIGHT, DISCONNECTED. THIS RESETS THE COMPUTER & THEREAFTER THE GEARS WORK AGAIN UNTIL IT HAPPENS AGAIN. I'VE SEEN AT LEAST 50 COMPLAINTS ONLINE ABOUT SAME PROBLEM, WHICH IS HOW I LEARNED HOW TO FIX IT. TOYOTA IGNORES COMPLAINTS. IT WILL HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING IT, ON THE ROAD. RECURS, NOT A ONE TIME INCIDENT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-19
- VIN: JTDFR320220
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TOYOTA MR2 SPYDER SMT TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. (5 SPEED - CLUTCHLESS SHIFTING SYSTEM) SMT TRANSMISSION WENT OUT ON MY MR2 SPYDER CAR. GOT IT FIXED (OR SO I THOUGHT)AT THE DEALERSHIP AFTER EXCESSIVE EXPENSE ($3,500) REPLACING TWO ASSEMBLIES WITHIN THE SYSTEM. AFTER THIS INITIAL FIRST TRIP TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SUPPOSEDLY REPAIR, I WAS ADVISED BY DEALERSHIP THAT THE CAR WAS THOROUGHLY TESTED, ALL CODES ERASED ON THE ON BOARD COMPUTER, AND CAR TRANSMISSION WAS FIXED AND WORKING PROPERLY. SO I DROVE IT HOME. DROVE AND SHIFTED FINE FOR ABOUT 1 1/2 WEEKS AND I THOUGHT IT WAS FIXED. THEN ONE NIGHT WHILE DRIVING, SURROUNDED BY TRAFFIC AND A FEW TRUCKS, THE TRANSMISSION SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING, BEGAN LURCHING - MIS SHIFTING WITH NEW SQUEALING NOISES COMING FROM THE BACK. I ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR - NOT THE STEERING - THE MOMENTUM OF THE CAR VANISHED ALMOST IMMEDIATELY - WITH RANDOM SHIFTING OCCURRING WITHOUT EVEN TOUCHING THE STICK SHIFT. I WAS VERY, VERY LUCKY GETTING THE CAR OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT GETTING HIT BY ANY OF THE TRAFFIC AROUND ME AT THAT TIME. THE CAR IS VERY SMALL AND COULD EASILY BE CRUSHED BY LARGER VEHICLES IN THAT REDUCED OPERATION CONDITION. IT WAS ALSO DARK. I ALSO WAS VERY LUCKY THAT I COULD "LIMP" IT HOME FROM THERE AFTER I TRIED TO SURMISE WHAT HAD HAPPENED TO IT. SO IT SQUEALED AND MISSHIFTED ALL THE AWAY HOME - I HAD TO STAY IN SECOND OR THIRD GEAR GOING SLOW ON SECONDARY ROADS WITH MY FLASHERS ON. AFTERWARDS - I HAVE REQUESTED HELP FROM TOYOTA THE CORPORATION AND DEALERSHIP FOR WHAT I FEEL IS A DEFECTIVE SMT SYSTEM. THIS SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN ESPECIALLY AFTER IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE FIXED AFTER ALL OF THE DIAGNOSTICS/TESTING/ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENTS, ETC. THAT THEY PERFORMED! WHY WOULD TOYOTA ALLOW SOMEONE TO DRIVE AWAY WITH SUCH A POTENTIAL HAZARD LIKE THAT? RIDICULOUS AND DANGEROUS! I TOOK IT BACK TO DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID THEY DID MORE DIAGNOSTICS - RECOMMEND MORE REPLACEMENT OF VERY VERY EXPENSIVE PARTS - HELP!!!! *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-16
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA WITH 62,000 MI. I HAVE BEEN TO TWO TOYOTA DEALERS TO FIGURE OUT MY PROBLEM. THE VSC TRAC, VSC OFF, ABS AND BRAKE LIGHTS ARE COMING ON. FINALLY AFTER @$700 OF MY MONEY, THEY FIGURED OUT THE PROBLEM TO BE THE ECU. THIS WILL NOW COST ME @1800 FOR PARTS, AND WHO KNOWS YET FOR LABOR. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT MANY OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE SITUATION, UNLESS YOU HAVE THE EXT. WARRANTY. I FEEL THAT TOYOTA NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS, MAYBE RECALL THIS AND FIX THESE CARS BEFORE THERE IS AN ACCIDENT. I LIVE IN NEW YORK WHERE THERE IS ALOT OF SNOW. MY VSC WILL NOT WORK UNTIL I GET THIS FIXED. I HAVE TWO SMALL CHILDREN AND HAVE TO RELAY ON STANDARD BRAKES IN THE SNOW UNTIL THIS IS FIXED. TOYOTA SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR REPUTABLE NAME AND FIX THESE PROBLEMS ASAP..... *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-01
- VIN: JT2BK18U820
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. EACH TIME THE VEHICLE IS DRIVING FORWARD OR IN REVERSE AT APPROXIMATELY 4 TO 10 MPH, IT SHAKES VIOLENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURS INTERMITTENTLY AND USUALLY IN COLD WEATHER. THE VEHICLE SHAKES ROUGHLY AFTER IT HAS BEEN DRIVEN FOR A WHILE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER ON TWO OCCASIONS. SERVICE BULLETIN NUMBER 20040604 WAS REFERENCED. THE DEALER DISCOVERED THAT THE STEERING RACK AND STEERING COMPUTER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT THE COST OF $2,200. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-22
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA IN NOVEMBER 2002. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED THE SALES PERSON TOLD ME THAT THE HEATING/AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM APPEARED TO BE A POORLY DESIGNED, BUT I DID NOT THINK THAT A BIG OBSTACLE TO MY PURCHASE. I HAD CONTINUAL PROBLEMS TRYING TO REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE IN THE VEHICLE. IT WAS EITHER 65 DEGREES AND THE NEXT LEVEL DOWN WAS COLD. I WAS ALWAYS FLIPPING THE KNOB BACK AND FORTH TRYING TO REGULATE THE TEMPERATURE. THIS WAS NOT A BIG SAFETY ISSUE UNLESS TAKING MY EYES OFF THE ROAD FOR THESE ADJUSTMENTS CAN BE CONSIDERED HAZARDOUS. BUT I LIVE IN A SOMEWHAT COLD CLIMATE AND I HAVE HAD TROUBLE KEEPING THE WINDOWS DEFROSTED ON SOME DAYS PARTICULARLY IF THE HUMIDITY WAS HIGH. THIS COULD BE CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE. I JUST TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE AIR CONDITIONER LIGHT WAS BLINKING. LOOKING AT A REPAIR BILL OF AROUND $1,600.00 FOR A NEW COMPRESSOR AND CLUTCH. OF COURSE, I DO NOT HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AS THIS WAS MY SIXTH TOYOTA ,AND I HAVE NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS SUCH AS THIS IS THE PAST. SINCE I HAVE READ THAT OTHERS HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEMS I WOULD URGE SOMEONE TO LOOK INTO THE ISSUE BEFORE SOMEONE GOT KILLED BECAUSE OF INABILITY TO SEE OUT THE FRONT WINDOW. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-11
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ONE WEEK AGO I WAS RUNNING ERRANDS WITH THE TOYOTA SEQUOIA, BUT THE CAR REFUSED TO START ONCE I COMPLETED MY ERRANDS. EVENTUALLY, THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED AND THE REPAIR SHOP REPORTED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT BRACKET AND LEVER WERE BROKEN AND THEREFORE PREVENTED THE GEAR FROM PROPERLY GOING INTO PARK. THE REPAIR SHOP REPORTED SEEING SEVERAL SUCH CASES RECENTLY BUT STATED THAT TOYOTA HAS INFORMED HIM THAT THE PROBLEM RESULTED FROM IMPROPER HANDLING OF THE GEAR SHIFT. I HAD THECAR FOR MORE THAN 5 YEARS AND HAVE ALWAYS FOLLOWED THE PROPER PROCEDURE. PERHAPS THIS NEEDED FURTHER INVESTIGATION. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-20
- VIN: 5TDZT34A92S
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1:40 PM, JAN 20, 2007, I WAS DRIVING MY SEQUOIA N/B ON SIERRA HWY IN THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA. I WAS TRAVELING APPROX 40-45 MPH. I NOTICED A SLIGHT STIFFNESS IN THE STEERING. A SHORT TIME LATER THE LEFT FRONT OF MY VEHICLE VIOLENTLY FELL TO THE GROUND. THERE WERE VEHICLES BEHIND ME AND WITH DIFFICULTY I STEERED TO THE CURB. WHEN THE VEHICLE FELL TO THE GROUND, I HEARD A LOUD 'BANG', AND I FELT THAT I LOST SOME OF MY BRAKES. ONE OF THE DRIVERS BEHIND ME TOLD ME SHE SAW SPARKS COMING FROM UNDER MY VEHICLE. I LOOKED AT THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE. I SAW THE LEFT FRONT TIRE, WHEEL & HUB (ALL STILL ATTACHED) FOLDED UNDER THE LEFT RUNNING BOARD PREVENTING THE FRONT FENDER AND BUMPER FROM FALLING DIRECTLY TO THE ROADWAY. I SAW THAT THE BRAKE LINES APPEARED TO BE BROKEN. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO TOYOTA ON MON, JAN 22, 2007. I WAS TOLD THAT IT APPEARED THE LEFT UPPER BALL JOINT HAD BROKEN CAUSING THE WHEEL TO BREAK AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALERSHIP CONTACTED THEIR SERVICE DIRECTOR TO DETERMINE WHAT REPAIRS SHOULD BE MADE. I WAS SUBSEQUENTLY TOLD THAT MY VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND THAT TOYOTA HAD 'NO LIABILITY' TO REPAIR MY VEHICLE AT THEIR EXPENSE. REPAIR ESTIMATE IS APPROX $5,000. + THE RENTAL VEHICLE THEY ARRANGED. I WAS TOLD A REGIONAL SERVICE INSPECTOR WOULD LOOK AT MY VEHICLE. I TOLD THEM THAT I WANTED THE OLD PARTS IF REPAIRS WERE TO BE MADE. I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE. I WENT TO THE TOYOTA WEB SITE AND NOTICED NUMEROUS RECALL NOTICES FROM TOYOTA FOR FRONT BALL JOINT FAILURES ON MY TYPE OF VEHICLE. I RECEIVED NO RECALL NOTICES FROM TOYOTA. TOYOTA STATED MY VIN WAS NOT ON THE LIST FOR ANY RECALL NOTICES. THE TOYOTA SERVICE DEPT STATED THAT THIS WOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED 'NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR' THAT WOULD REQUIRE ME TO HAVE THIS ITEM CHECKED DURING ALL OF MY REGULAR MAINTENANCE SERVICES. THIS FAILURE COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY TO MYSELF AND OTHERS ON THE ROAD. AS OF THIS DATE I HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED THAT THE REGIONAL INSPECTOR HAS INSPECTED MY VEHICLE. *JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTDFR320720
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON JUNE 3, I HAD A COLLISION WITH ANOTHER AUTO THAT HAD RUN A RED LIGHT. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS CROSSING IN FRONT OF ME ABOUT 30 MPH AND I IMPACTED HER CAR ON THE PASSENGERS SIDE AT ABOUT 25 MPH. THE AIR BAG ON MY 2002 TOYOTA MR2 DID NOT DEPLOY. HAVE NOT HAD THE CAR REPAIRED YET. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-25
- VIN: JT3GN87R020
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT: 2002 TOYOTA RUNNER. THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FOR LOWER BALL JOINT. THE CONSUMER STATED THE WHEELS WERE CUTTING THE TIRES ON FRONT WHERE LOWER BALL JOINT WAS LOCATED. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED TOYOTA, WHO SAID IT IS NOT RELATED TO LOWER BALL JOINT, AND THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING ELSE FOR THE CONSUMER. THIS HAS BEING HAPPENING SINCE THE CONSUMER BOUGHT VEHICLE. IT HAS 30,000 MILES , AND NEEDED NEW TIRES.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-10
- VIN: 5TDZT34AX2S
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: I PURACHASE MY TOYOTA SEQUOIA IN AUGUST 2003 FOR THE FIRST SEVERAL MONTH THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVE THAT MUCH, BECAUSE OF MY WIFE'S ILLNESS. WITHIN EIGHT MONTHS THE FRONT DOOR HANDLE BROKE, IT WAS UNDERWARRANTY AND I DID NOT THINK MUCH OF IT, IN APRIL OF THIS YEAR 2005, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR HANDLE BROKE AND AGAIN I DID NOT THINK MUCH OF IT. THREE WEEKS AGO ON SUNDAY ONE OF THE MEMBER FROM THE CHURCH WAS ATTEMPTING TO RETREIVE HIS BAG AND THE HANDLE BROKE. WHEN I WENT TO THE DEALER SHIP TO ASK ABOUT REPAIR THEY INFORMED ME THAT IT WOULD BE $300.00, AND 200.00 TO FIX THE PASSANGER SIDE. MY COMMENT TO THEM WAS CONCERNING THE REAR DOOR, WHICH I HAD NOT USED THAT MUCH AND OVER THE LAST 6 MONTH MAYBE 3 TIME AT THE MOST PER WEEK, CERTAINLY NOT ALOT. WHAT WAS AMAZING TO ME WAS THAT THE DOOR HANDLE MECHANISM IS MADE OF PLASTIC AND SO IS THE PASSENGER DOOR HANDLE. MY CONCERN AS A CONSUMER THAT TOYOTA DID NOT DO DUE DILIGENCE TO USE A PLASTIC DOOR HANDLE AND MECHANISM AND GIVEN THAT THINGS BREAK SHOULD NOT HAVE A PRICE TAG OF 300.00 TO REPLACE. I CONTEND THAT METAL PARTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN USED WITH THE UNDERSTANDING AND CONSIDERATION OF THE USE OF THE HANDLES. CONSUMERS SHOULD NOT BE AT THE MERCY OF CAR MANUFACTURES TO PUT ANYTHING INTO A CAR THAT WOULD UTIMATELY WOULD PROVE NOT IN THE CONSUMERS BEST INTEREST. I AM SUGGESTING THAT THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON ALL TOYOTA' DOOR HANDLES. PARTICULARLY THE TRUCK WHICH BY DESIGN ARE SUPPOSE TO ENDURE TOUGH USESAGE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-05
- VIN: 5TDBT48A01S
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I BOUGHT A TOYOTA SAQUOIA LIMITED 4X4 USED IN 2003. WHEN I TOOKIT TO A FRIENDS HOUSE HER HUSBAND SIAD I SHOULD GET THAT TICKING NOISE CHECKED OUT. I TOLD HIM THAT ALL OF THE SUV'S AT THE DEALERSHIP MADE THE TICKING NOISE. WELL, HE WAS RIGHT. WHEN I TOOK IT IN TO BE INSPECTED I WAS TOLD THAT I HAD A CRACKED MANIFOLD. THE MECHANIC SAID THAT ALL OF THE TOYOTA SUV'S AND TRUCKS HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR MANIFOLDS. IF THIS IS TRUE, WHY HAVE THEY NOT DONE A RECALL TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM? I MANIFOLD IS NOT A CHEAP PART TO REPLACE.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-16
- VIN: 5TDBT48A82S
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: I AM DEALING WITH UNDERSIZED BRAKE CALIPER AND ASSOCIATED ROTOR AND BRAKE PAD QUALITY PROBLEMS. THE CARS SHAKES VIOLENTLY QWHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES. THEY ARE CAUSING THE ROTORS TO OVERHEAT CAUSING THE ROTORS TO WARP AND EXCESS WEAR. WHILE TOYOTA RECOGNIZED THAT THE CALIPERS ARE TOO SMALL FOR THE 2002 SEQUOIA, THEY WOULD ONLY REPLACE THEM UNDER WARRANTY. NOT SURE WHY THEY ARE ONLY TOO SMALL UNDER WARRANTY. DO THEY GROW AFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRES? THIS IS BAD POLICY. THE DEALER RECOMMENDED I SPEND THE $2000 TO FIX THE PROBLEM, WHICH TOYOTA SAYS IS NOT A PROBLEM AFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRES. WHEN I SPOKE TO THE LOCAL DEALER,BOULDER TOYOTA, HE STATED IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE, ONLY A QUALITY QUESTION. I SEEM TO GET TWO DIFFERENT STORIES FROM THE DEALER AND TOYOTA "CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE". I HAVE RESEARCHED A NUMBER OF SITES INCLUDING NHTS AND AUTOBYTEL. APPARTENTLY I AM NOT UNIQUE AND MANY OTHERS ARE CLAIMING PROBLEMS WITH TOYOTA SEQUOIA BRAKES. THIS IS NOT THE QUALITY I EXPECTED FROM A TOYOTA.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-01
- VIN: 5TDBT48A82S
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: STRONG VIBRATIONS FROM FRONT BRAKES
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-25
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HAD AN SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENT WHILE DRIVING MY 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA. WAS HIT BY A TRUCK TRAVELING BETWEEN 45-50 MPH. STRUCK RIGHT IN FRONT OF DRIVERS DOOR. DRIVERS HEAD WENT THROUGH DRIVERS WINDOW. VEHICLE WAS EQUIPED WITH SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED ENOUGH TO BE CONSIDERED TOTALED. (ESTIMATE WAS OVER $23,000) TO FIX. WANT TO KNOW WHAT WENT WRONG? PAID EXTRA FOR AIRBAGS THAT DIDN'T WORK. WHO'S RESPONSIBLE?
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-15
- VIN: JTDFR320320
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TOYOTA 2002 MR2 SPYDER: SEQUENTIAL MANUAL TRANSMISSION (SMT) CREEPING WHILE IN FORWARD OR REVERSE GEAR. THIS HAPPEN TO THE CAR IN DEC OF 2004 BUT WENT AWAY BY ITSELF AFTER A WEEK. I REPORTED TO FREMONT TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN CA BUT THEY SAID IT WAS NORMAL. AGAIN ON APRIL 15TH 2005, THE SMT CREEPING RECURRED. I BROUGHT THE CAR BACK TO THE SAME DEALERSHIP, THEY REPLACED THE ECU BUT CREEP IS STILL EXIST. AGAIN, THE DEALER PERSISTS THAT THIS IS NORMAL. ACCORDING THE MANUAL BOOK, IT STATES THAT UNLIKE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, SMT DOES NOT CREEP. PLEASE HELP. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-26
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA LIMITED. THE BRAKES NEEDED REPLACING AT 21000 MILES.THIS IS CONCIDERED NORMAL , FOR THIS HEAVY CAR. THE DEALER REQUESTED $330.00 TO REPLACE PADS I SHOPPED AROUND GOT THE JOB DONE FOR $250.00. BUT THE BRAKES STARTED VIBRATING WHENEVER I APPLIED THEM. TOOK IT BACK TO REPAIR CENTER THEY RE-DID THE ENTIRE BRAKE JOB WITH DIFFERENT FACTORY PADS (26000 MI) , SAME RESULT. I THEN TOOK IT TO THE DEALER I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM (33000 MI) , THEY CHECKED IT OUT, PROBLEM NOT OCCURING AT THIS TIME. NO REPAIR DONE. I TOOK IT TO THE TIRE CENTER I ALWAYS USE FOR TIRES, THEY REPLACED REAR ROTORS, PROBLEM NOT FIXED. I THEN REPLACED THE FRONT ROTORS & PADS MYSELF. VIBRATION STILL OCCURING. I HAVE SPENT $800.00 TO FIX THE VIBRATION. TALKED TO TOYOTA ABOUT IT THERE IS A SERVICE BULITTEN ABOUT THIS COMPLANT, IT SHOULD BE FIXED FREE OF CHARGE. BUT THE CAR IS AT 41000 MI NOW. THE WARRANTY IS 36000 MILES.TOYOTA REFUSED TO MAKE NECESSARY REPAIRS UNDER WARRANTY, EVEN THOUGH COMPLAINT WAS ORIGINALLY PLACED DURING WARRANTY PERIOD. REPAIR COST APPROX $2000.00 PER SERVICE WRITER. I WILL NEVER DEAL WITH TOYOTA AGAIN! *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-01
- VIN: 5TDBT44A02S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ONCE YOU COME TO A STOP DURING NORMAL BREAKING, AND TAKE YOUR FOOT OFF THE BREAK PEDAL TO START MOVING FORWARD, THERE IS A ?THUMP? AS IF YOU ARE BEING HIT FROM THE REAR. THIS IS SIMILAR AS BEING REPORTED IN ODI?S 10089480 AND 10092834. DEALER STATES THIS IS NORMAL IN TRUCKS, THAT IT IS THE NATURAL SPACING IN THE DRIVE SHAFT WITH REAR WHEEL DRIVE.THE ONLY WAY FOR THE PROBLEM NOT TO OCCUR, IT TO GLIDE TO A SMOOTH STOP.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-02
- VIN: 5TDZT34A52S
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 2002 TOYOTA SEQUOIA BRAKES VIBRATE SEVERELY. VSC SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT FREQUENTLY COMES ON. PROBLEM HAS EXISTED SINCE CAR HAD 10,000 MILES, NOW HAS 36,000 AND DEALER AND TOYOTA CLAIM IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. TOYOTA CLAIMS THAT CAR HAS NO BRAKE PROBLEMS, NO SAFETY PROBLEMS AT ALL, AND THAT ORIGINAL BRAKES ARE NOT DEFECTIVE IN DESIGN. I AM INFORMED THAT TOYOTA ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN, ALTHOUGH TOYOTA DENIED THIS THE DEALER ADMITTED THAT IT EXISTED, BUT I HAD TO SPECIFICALLY COMPLAIN ABOUT THE SPECIFIC BRAKE PROBLEM, OR THEY WOULD NOT AND DID NOT ADVISE ME OF THE REMEDY. THESE BRAKE ISSUES ARE A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-11
- VIN: 5TDZT34A12S
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: PLASTIC DOOR HANDLES ON TOYOTA SEQUOIAS EASILY BREAK OFF, VERY FLIMSY. THIS COULD LEAD TO SOMEONE GETTING TRAPPED IN THEIR CAR, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND NEED TO OPEN THE DOOR QUICKLY OR AGGRESSIVELY. MY NEIGHBOR HAPPENS TO HAVE THE SAME VEHICLE EVEN THE SAME COLOR AND I ASKED HIM HOW HE LIKES IT AND HE SAID FANTASTIC, EXCEPT WE HAVE BROKEN OFF 2 DOOR HANDLES. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THE SERVICE WRITER CASUALLY MENTIONED, "OH, WE GET THESE IN ALL THE TIME". I CONTACTED THE DEALER AND THE TOYOTA ZONE OFFICE AND THEY WILL NOT PAY FOR THE $175 REPAIR. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFTEY HAZARD AND A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT.*AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
- VIN: 5TDZT38A02S
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 2002 TOYOTA SAQUOIA IN THE YEAR OF 2002,IN THE YEAR 2003 MY AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM WENT OUT IN MY NEW VEHICAL UPON TAKING IT TO THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER I WAS TOLD THAT MY COMPLETE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED,I HAVE WENT A COMPLETE YEAR WITH OUT AN AIR CONDITION SYSTEM MIND YOU I LIVE IN AUGUSTA GEORGIA,THIS CAUSES SEVERAL THINGS TO NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY SUCH AS GAS GAGE NOT PROPERLT WORKING,WHEN YOU DRIVE THE CAR 60 MPH OR OVER THE TRUCK BEGAN TO BURN,THE AIR COMES ON AUTOMATICLLY AND THE TRUCK BEGAN TO JUMP VERY BADLY LIKE THE CAR IS GOING TO BLOW UP,THE HEAT ONLY WORKS WHEN YOU SET IT AT 80 DEGREES OR HIGHER SO YOU CAN ONLY LEAVE IT ON FOR SO LONG THEN YOU MUST TURN IT OFF AND WHEN IT GETS COLD AGAIN YOU HALF TO TURN IT ON AGAIN THIS GOES ON ALL DAY LONG.I CAN'T SEM TO GET ANY ONE FROM TOYOTA TO HELP ME WITH THERE DEFAULT, MY WIFE WON'T EVEN DRIVE THE CAR.SO WHEN I TOOK IT TO A NOTHER DEALER TO SEE IF THIS WAS REALLY THE PROBLEM HE TOLD ME THAT THE SYSTEM WAS REALLY BLOWEN.SIRS I WORK VERY HARD FOR MY MONEY AND I DON'T HAVE A LOT OF IT TO GIVE AWAY,IREALLY DON'T APPRICIATE A PRESTEGIOUS COMPANY SUCH AS TOYOTA TO PRAY ON ON IT'S CONSUMER. WHEN THE VEHICAL WAS CHECKED TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL AT MY REQUEST THERE WAS WHAT YOU CALL A BULLITEN ON THIS PROBLEM,I THEN ASKED IF YOU KNOW THAT THIS PROBLEM ENOUGH WHY ISN'T THERE A RECALL I REALLY DON THINK THAT I THE CONSUMER SHOULD HALF TO FOOT A $2000 BILLL ON SOMETHING THAT WAS NOT MY FAULT I AM VERY SORRY THAT I PICKED A TOYOTA SEQUOIA THIS IS NOT A CHEAP VEHICAL IF YOU CAN HELP ME AND MY FAMILY PLEASE DO SO.THANK YOU IN ADVANCE. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-05
- VIN: 4T1BE32K62U
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DOOR HANDLE ON INSIDE OF DRIVER'S SIDE BROKE. IMPOSSIBLE TO OPEN DOOR. UNFORTUNATELY IT HAPPENED WHEN MILEAGE IS AT 38,000 AND PAST WARRANTY BY 2000 MILES. COST TO REPAIR WAS $117. TECHNICIAN STATED PROBLEMS WITH CAMRY AND COROLA WITH THAT RESPECT. THE HANDLE WAS NEVER TREATED ROUGHLY, JUST BROKE ONE DAY.*AK
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