Toyota Paseo problems
The Toyota Paseo (known as the Toyota Cynos (Japanese: トヨタ・サイノス, Toyota Sainosu) in Japan and other regions) is a sports-styled subcompact car sold from 1991 until 1999 by Toyota and was directly based on the Tercel. It was available as a coupé and in later models as a convertible. Toyota stopped selling the car in the United States in 1997, however the car continued to be sold in Canada, Europe and Japan until 1999. The Paseo, like the Tercel, shares a platform with the Starlet. Several parts are interchangeable between the three.
The name "Paseo" is Spanish for "a walk" or "a stroll", while the name "Cynos" is a coined word taken from "cynosure", meaning "the target of attention". In Japan it was exclusive to Toyopet Store locations.
First generation (L40; 1991)
The first-generation Paseo was made from 1991 until 1995. Based on the L40 series Tercel, it is powered by a 1.5-liter 5E-FE inline-four engine. In most markets, the Paseo's engine was rated at 74.5 kW (100 hp; 101 PS) at 6,400 rpm and 123 N⋅m (91 lb⋅ft) of torque at 3,200 rpm. In 1993, in California and other states with California level emissions standards, it was rated at 69 kW (93 hp; 94 PS) and 136 N⋅m (100 lb⋅ft) of torque. It was offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
In Japan, the Cynos was available in α (Alpha) and β (Beta) trim levels. The α trim is powered by a 5E-FE engine producing 77 kW (105 PS; 104 hp), while the β trim is powered by a 5E-FHE engine producing 85 kW (115 PS; 113 hp). In β trim, four-wheel disc brakes and TEMS electronically controlled suspension can be selected as options.
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Toyota Paseo model years
Common Toyota Paseo problems
Based on the complaints from Toyota Paseo owners, several common problems have been reported:
- Rust Issues: Owners have observed occasional rusting in certain parts of the car, such as the wheel wells, fenders, or undercarriage. Regular maintenance, including frequent washing, waxing, and prompt addressing of any rust spots, can help mitigate this concern and preserve the vehicle's longevity.
- Transmission Faults: Complaints have been made about transmission issues, particularly the P0770/P0773 fault code at higher mileage due to a failed 3-way lock-up. This problem can affect the vehicle's performance and may require professional repair.
These common problems with the Toyota Paseo highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Is Toyota Paseo reliable?
Toyota Paseo Reliability Problems
Paseo owners have made 4 complaints over 8 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 4th in overall reliability out of 33 Toyota models , with some engine and electrical concerns.
What happened to the Toyota Paseo?
Toyota stopped selling the car in the United States in 1997, however the car continued to be sold in Canada, Europe and Japan until 1999. The Paseo, like the Tercel, shares a platform with the Starlet.
How fast is the Toyota Paseo?
Performance
| 0 - 80 kph | 7.1 s |
|---|---|
| 1000 m | 32.4 s |
| 60 - 100 kph (4) | 11.1 s |
| 80 - 120 kph (5) | 16.1 s |
| Top speed | 185 kph (115 mph) |
What is the top speed of the Toyota Paseo 1994?
The Toyota Paseo 1.5 90 PS claimed top speed is 185 km/h / 115 mph.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Paseo years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Paseo cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Paseo model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Paseo model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Paseo years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Paseo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Paseo , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Paseo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Paseo model years
A total of 16 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Paseo model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Paseo model years
There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 47 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Paseo . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Paseo vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-14
- VIN: JT2EL45F0N0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TAKATA. EVER SINCE I'VE HAD THIS CAR. I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE SPEED CONTROL, TURN SIGNALS FREEZE WHILE IN USE, TRANSMISSION LEAKS AND WORKS IN 2ND GEAR BETTER THAN 1ST GEAR, BOTH BACK BREAK SHOES AND BEARINGS NEEDS REPLACED, FRONT CRACKED WINDSHIELD, BOTH SIDE WINDOWS ARE BROKEN AND ENGINE WARNING LIGHT STAYS ON 24/7. ALL THIS IS DRIVING ON STREETS AND HIGHWAYS ETC,.
Toyota Paseo 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2008-09-09
- VIN: JT2EL45U5P0
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 TOYOTA PASEO. THE VEHICLE HAS DOUGLAS TIRES, SIZE 185/60/ R14. IN A ONE YEAR SPAN, BOTH FRONT TIRES AND THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SPONTANEOUSLY BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH. THE FAILURE INCREASED THE RISK OF A CRASH AND SERIOUS INJURY. THE TIRES HAVE NOT BEEN INSPECTED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RETURNED THE TIRES TO WAL-MART FOR FOUR REPLACEMENT TIRES. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 250,755. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. UPDATED 10/21/08 *BF THERE WAS A SLASH ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE WHICH CAUSED THE BLOWOUTS. UPDATED 10/22/08.*JB
Toyota Paseo 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2005-06-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1993 TOYOTA PASEO ENGINE STALLED AND THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPPED.*MR THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER BUT THEY ASSUMED NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DEFECTIVE ENGINE AND BLAMED THE CONSUMER FOR THE PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER REQUEST COMPENSATION FOR THE FAULTY VEHICLE. *NM
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2004-01-15
- VIN: JT3VN39W4N0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON 3/29/03 I HAD MY CAR SERVICED AT WORLDTOYOTA ON PEACHTREE INDUSTRIAL BLVD. I HAD AN OIL & FILTER CHANGE, 19 PT. INSPECTION, SPRING SERVICE AND BRAKES FOR A WHOPPING $488. I HAVE HAD A DIAGNOSTICS TEST DONE ON MY VEHICLE WITHIN THE PAST 6 MONTHS AT WORLDTOYOTA. IN THE PAST YEAR I HAVE ALSO REPLACED MY TRANSMISSION, MAIN SEAL, TRANSMISSION SEAL AND CV AXLE, TIMING BELT, TUNE-UP AND REGULAR OIL CHANGES. ON 4-28-03 I THREW A ROD IN MY ENGINE. I IMMEDIATELY CHECKED THE OIL AND THERE WAS NO OIL IN THE ENGINE (MARKED ABOUT A 1/4" FROM TIP OF DIP STICK). AS CONFIRMED BY WORLDTOYOTA I HAVE NO OIL LEAKS AND I HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED ANY SMOKE OR FUME EMMITTING FROM MY EXHAUSE. LAST EMISSION INSPECTION 1/03. IF SOMEONE (NAMELY WORLDTOYOTA) CAN GIVE ME A FEASIBLE EXPLANATION AS TO WHAT HAPPEN TO THE 5 QUARTS OF OIL THAT WAS SUPPOSEDLY REPLACED DURING THE OIL CHANGE I CAN MAYBE GET SOME UNDERSTANDING. BUT OIL DOES NOT JUST EVAPORATE OUT OF THE ENGINE. MY NEXT SCHEDULE OIL CHANGE WAS 138,019 MILES OR 5/29/03. I AM A SINGLE MOM AND THIS IS MY SOLE MEANS OF TRANSPORTAION. I CONSISTENTLY TAKE NECESSARY STEPS TO MAINTAIN MY VEHICLE.
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2002-05-31
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOLD BY TOYOTA IN NEVADA THAT THE PULLEY ON THE ALTERNATOR SIDE IS TEARING APART. IS THIS NORMAL?*AK
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2001-08-03
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CAR CAN'T HANDLE SNOWY OR RAINY ROADS. CONSTANTLY FISH-TAILS AND SPINS OUT IN SNOW OR RAIN.*AK
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2001-02-09
- VIN: JT2ELA5F3N0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AFTER CONSUMER HEARD A NOISE WHILE DRIVING HE TOOK WHEEL OFF TO INVESTIGATE. DISCOVERED THAT NOISE WAS CAUSED BY FRONT AXLE BREAKING OFF. *AK
Toyota Paseo 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2000-10-03
- VIN: JT2EL45U0P0
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TAKING TURN AT 15MPH RIGHT REAR WHEEL, HUB, BRAKE COMPONENTS FELL OFF AXLE.
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2000-09-13
- VIN: JT2EL45F2N0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MAJOR MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 1 TO 11/2 WEEKS PRIOR TO ENGINE CRANKSHAFT SEIZING , OIL AND FLUID LEVELS REMAINED OKAY IN SPITE OF ENGINE FAILURE.*AK
Toyota Paseo 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2000-07-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2EL45U9R0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK LEAKS, WONDERING IF IT WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND IF IT WAS ABLE TO BE FIXED BY THE MANUFACTURER. *AK
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-11
- Date Complaint: 2000-04-04
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HOOD LATCH DISCONNECTED AND STRUCK WINDSHIELD AND ROOF OF THE VEHICLE WHILE TRAVELING (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *MJS
Toyota Paseo 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2000-03-28
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE AIR FUEL SENSOR HAS POSSIBLY FAILED. *SLC
Toyota Paseo 1992
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-10
- Date Complaint: 1999-10-08
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH WENT OUT THREE TIMES
Toyota Paseo 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-05-10
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTC052H2T00
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS IN A FRONT END ACCIDENT AT 40 MPH AND THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, BOTH DRVER AND PASSENGER WHERE INJURED IN THIS ACCIDENT. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Toyota Paseo 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-22
- Date Complaint: 1999-02-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JT2EL45U7P0
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE I WAS DRIVING IN FAST LANE ON I-10, DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG EXPLODED INTO MY FACE. WAS ABLE TO BRING CAR UNDER CONTROL AND INTO LEFT MEDIAN UNTIL HIGHWAY PATROL CUT OUT BAG AND GUIDED ME OFF FREEWAY, WHERE CAR WAS TOWED. THERE WAS NO INDICATION THAT MY CAR HIT ANYTHING, AND SUBSEQUENT INSPECTION BY MY INSURER AND THE INSURER'S REPAIR FACILITY, FAILED TO DISCLOSE ANY DAMAGE TO THE CAR THAT WOULD INDICATE A COLLISION WITH AN OBJECT OR A ROAD HAZARD. $1900 DAMAGE IS TO REPAIR/REPLACE AIR BAG. *AK
Latest negative Toyota Paseo car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Paseo car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1992
Your Toyota is the best little car you ever drove. With gas prices today, it costs very little to fill up, and a full tank lasts forever. The Paseo is a good little car for someone who is short, but it may not be the best fit for taller people, especially in the back seat. You can easily find parts at any automotive parts seller.
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Vehicle year: 1997
This is my first car and I really love it! The design is great, and it has excellent gas mileage and handling. It's also a great car for the winter. I haven't had any problems with it since I bought it last year.
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Vehicle year: 1992
This has been my commuter car for a little over a year and I must say, it's been a great ride! I haven't had a single problem with it. It handles very well and has just enough power to fight through traffic. The gas mileage is awesome too, I average about 37mpg.
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Vehicle year: 1997
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share some information about my car with you. I purchased it back in 1998 when it only had 7500 miles on it! It's been a reliable car for me and I'm happy to say that as of November 1st, 2022, it has 342,250 miles on it and is still going strong! I've made sure to take good care of it by getting regular oil changes every 3k miles, as well as replacing the brakes and filling up with gasoline. Thanks for taking the time to read about my car!
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Vehicle year: 1993
Your Toyota is the best little car you ever drove. With gas prices today, it costs very little to fill up, and a full tank lasts forever. The Paseo is a good little car for someone who is short, but it may not be the best fit for taller people, especially in the back seat. You can easily find parts at any automotive parts seller.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Paseo?
Edgardo Heller 2024-11-23
Vehicle year: 1997
Hi there! I've been driving my 1996 Paseo for about a year and a half now. While the power isn't the most impressive thing about it, I'm really impressed with the handling. I recently tested it out going 60mph in a roundabout and still felt completely safe. In fact, I think the Paseo's handling beats out a BMW's any day. And I should know - I also own a BMW E36 318i!
Arnaldo Abbott 2024-11-02
Vehicle year: 1997
I've owned my Toyota Paseo since new. It's essentially a sporty Toyota Tercel. It's a great car to drive, very reliable, has excellent fuel economy, and is perfect for commuting.
Emile Mann 2024-10-07
Vehicle year: 1997
Hi there! I noticed that you have a 96 Paseo with 238,000 miles. It's great to hear that you haven't had any major mechanical issues with it! However, I understand that it's getting up there in age and you need to add a quart of oil every 2000 miles. It sounds like you've done a great job with basic maintenance on the car. While it may not be the fanciest car out there, it handles well and has good AC. I'm glad to hear that it served you well as a commuter car when you were driving 800 miles a week. Thanks for sharing your experience with me!
Bennie Feeney 2024-08-07
Vehicle year: 1996
The Toy Paseo may not be the fastest car out there, but it gets you where you need to go. It has great handling and is perfect for getting around town. While it may not have a lot of trunk space, it is a great car for commuting. The back seat can be a bit cramped, but it's still a comfortable ride. Although I had to replace the engine at 99k miles and spent around $3000 on other engine repairs, it's still a reliable car. It's important to note that insurance charges are similar to those of a sports car, but it won't exceed 110.
Okey Deckow 2024-07-06
Vehicle year: 1997
The backseat of this car is quite small, so it may not be suitable for individuals with longer legs. The engine lacks power and the handling is not ideal for a sports car. Additionally, the stock radio is not of the best quality. I have had to replace the brake pads and rotors multiple times, even though the car has only 102,000 miles on it. However, I found that using Performance Friction Carbon Metallic pads greatly improved the braking performance. Lastly, there seems to be a clicking noise coming from the engine compartment.