1992 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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Common 1992 Toyota Paseo problems
The Toyota Paseo, a compact sports car produced from 1991 to 1999, is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it has some common problems reported by its owners.
- AC Compressor Replacement: Some Toyota Paseo owners have reported the need to replace the AC compressor, which can be a costly repair. The average cost for this repair is between $1,029 and $1,587, depending on the location and the specific repair shop.
- Ignition Coil Replacement: Another common problem reported by Toyota Paseo owners is the need to replace the ignition coil. This repair can cost between $200 and $300, depending on the location and the specific repair shop.
- Wheel Problems: Some Toyota Paseo owners have reported issues with the wheels, such as scratching sounds when driving. This could be due to various factors, such as worn-out wheel bearings or damaged wheel components.
- Rust Problems: Some Toyota Paseo owners have reported rust problems, particularly on the 1993 model. Rust can be a serious issue, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to costly repairs.
- Electrical Issues: Some Toyota Paseo owners have reported electrical issues, such as problems with the car's electrical system or the battery. These issues can be difficult to diagnose and repair, as they can be caused by various factors, such as faulty wiring or damaged components.
- Body and Paint Problems: Some Toyota Paseo owners have reported problems with the car's body and paint, such as peeling paint. These issues can be cosmetic, but they can also affect the car's value and appearance.
In summary, the Toyota Paseo is a reliable and fuel-efficient car, but it has some common problems reported by its owners. These problems include engine issues, AC compressor replacement, ignition coil replacement, wheel problems, rust problems, electrical issues, and body and paint problems. If you own a Toyota Paseo or are considering purchasing one, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and to maintain the car properly to minimize the risk of these issues.
Are Toyota Paseos reliable?
THE Paseo is generally a reliable little car and little goes wrong with it on a regular basis. Look for a well-cared for car, with low mileage if possible, and definitely with a service record. Check for crash repairs, dropped doors, varying panel gaps, and paint mismatches.
Why was the Toyota Paseo discontinued?
Discontinuation. The Toyota Paseo was discontinued in July of 1999. One reason for this was the poor reception and sales of this vehicle.
Is the Toyota Paseo a sports car?
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.
How much is a 1993 Toyota Paseo worth?
The value of a used 1993 Toyota Paseo ranges from $1,305 to $5,567, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Is Toyota Paseo reliable?
THE Paseo is generally a reliable little car and little goes wrong with it on a regular basis. Look for a well-cared for car, with low mileage if possible, and definitely with a service record. Check for crash repairs, dropped doors, varying panel gaps, and paint mismatches.
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 - 40 kph | 2.5 s |
|---|---|
| 80 - 120 kph (5) | 16.9 s |
| 1/4 mile | 17.7 s |
| Top speed | 180 kph (112 mph) |
| 100 kph - 0 | 42 m (138 ft) |
What does Toyota Paseo mean?
The Toyota Paseo is the export name for a compact model known as Cynos in Japan. The name "Paseo" means "walk" in Spanish. The compact sports-style coupe or convertible was produced from 1991 to 1999.
1992 Toyota Paseo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Paseo problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1992 Toyota Paseo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1992 Toyota Paseo complaints
The NHTSA has received 19 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1992 Toyota Paseo.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-02
- 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,.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-15
- 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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- 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
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CAR CAN'T HANDLE SNOWY OR RAINY ROADS. CONSTANTLY FISH-TAILS AND SPINS OUT IN SNOW OR RAIN.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-07
- 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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- 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
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-02-11
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: HOOD LATCH DISCONNECTED AND STRUCK WINDSHIELD AND ROOF OF THE VEHICLE WHILE TRAVELING (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *MJS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-10
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CLUTCH WENT OUT THREE TIMES
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JT2EL45F7N0
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT WEBBING IS SHREDDING/COMING APART FROM TOP PART OF SEAT BELT, WHICH IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT CONSUMER WILL NOT BE PROTECTED. DEALER WILL NOT FIX PROBLEM BECAUSE IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT FULLY, IF AT ALL AND NEVER HAS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-27
- VIN: JT2EL45FIN0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PLASTIC RADIATOR FAILURE. NO METAL REPLACEMENT PARTS AVAILABLE FOR PASEO PER MECHANIC.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-06
- VIN: JT2EL45FONO
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DRIVING ALONG HIGHWAY APPROXIMATELY 50MPH ,ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON, WITHIN MINUTES BEGAN TO FEEL LOSS OF POWER, HEARD A TINGY NOISE AND BLACK SMOKE STARTED TO COME FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD AND VEHICLE STOPPED. IN FOR REPAIR , CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-12-01
- VIN: JT2EL45F7N0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: POWER WINDOW SWITCH REGULATOR FAILED 4 TIMES.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-29
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: GOODYEAR VIVA TIRES HAVE POOR TRACTION. *SD
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-15
- VIN: JT2EL45F5N0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHEEL BEARING IN THE FRONT WHEELS HAVE FAILED TO THE POINT OF THE WHEEL BEING LOOSE *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-24
- VIN: JT2EL45FXN0
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: REAR BEARING SEAL LEAKED FLUID ON BRAKE DRUM, CAUSING BRAKES TO LOCK UP WHEN APPLIED, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE. *DSH
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JT2EL45F0N0
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK LID DOES NOT STAY OPEN, CAUSING INJURY. *SD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-15
- VIN: JT2EL45F7N0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CRANK SHAFT WHEN OUT. TT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-19
- VIN: JT2EL45FXN0
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS PROBLEMS STARTING. *SKD
Positive 1992 Toyota Paseo car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1992 Toyota Paseo problems:
1992 Toyota Paseo Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Top 1992 Toyota Paseo Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages · Engine Problems Due to Pickup/Iginition Coil Failure Inside ...
What's Wrong with the Toyota Paseo?
What Paseo Owners Complain About ; Worst Issues. rust problem for parts in the 1993 Paseo. 1 ; What Breaks the Most. Engine. 1 ; Years to Avoid. 1992. 3 ...
Toyota Paseo Problems and Complaints - 28 Issues
Top Toyota Paseo Problems · P0770/P0773 fault code at higher mileage due to failed 3-way lock-up solenoid · Warped front brake rotors can cause steering wheel to ...
1992 Toyota Paseo Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1992 Toyota Paseo? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
1992 Tercel shift/clutch issues | Toyota Nation Forum
Jun 18, 2019 ... China bearing=short life. Put molybdenum disulfide grease on the splines, shift fork to ball, shift fork to bearing contact points. No grease ...
Other years of Toyota Paseo
Are you having problems with your 1992 Toyota Paseo?
Pablo Okuneva 2025-05-12
Your first car sounds like a real labour of love! It's amazing how much work you've put into it over the past four years. I love how you've customized it with a 12” sub in the trunk, changed the lights inside and outside the car, and even changed the dash lights. It's great to hear that it was all so easy to do! I'm impressed that you're currently in the middle of an engine swap - you're definitely a speed freak! Even though 100 horsepower isn't a lot, it's pretty zippy for this car. I can't wait to hear about how it performs with 150 horsepower!
Jimmie Jakubowski 2025-04-28
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my '92 Paseo. I bought it 3 years ago for only $550 and it's been amazing ever since! With over 340K miles on it, it's still going strong and looks great. Not to mention, it's super fun to drive and gets over 40 mpg! Of course, it's required some maintenance like new tires, brakes, shocks, and spark plugs, but nothing major. It's hard to believe it's already 23 years old, but I see no end in sight for my trusty Paseo.
Henri Bergstrom 2025-04-24
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my Paseo. I actually got it from a friend who got it from an older gentleman who used it for a year and a half. When I first got it, it needed a new air hose (which was hard to find, but we were able to synthesize it) and some rubber transmission seals that had worn down. Once those were fixed, the car ran like a dream! The driver and passenger seats are roomy and comfortable, but the back seat is a little tight for taller people - it's perfect for kids though! The engine is steady and reliable, and all the features are easily accessible. For example, the spark plugs are readily available for changing right after you open the hood. Overall, I would definitely recommend this car for a new couple or a kid learning how to drive a stick. Let me know if you have any questions!
Norbert Muller 2025-03-20
Hey there! I loved reading about your first vehicle, a 1986 Toyota 4x4 truck. It's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with Toyotas and that your current car is still running beautifully after all these years. I can see why your friend was so impressed that they bought the exact same car! It's amazing that your car can start up even in the coldest of conditions, although I can understand that icy roads can be a bit tricky. Thanks for sharing your story!
Omari Kunze 2025-03-14
This car has been a reliable backup and gas saver for myself, family, and friends for the past 5 years. It has taken us on numerous trips all over the Eastern US, from New England to Florida, and has been a daily commuter around town. I purchased it with 216k miles on it, and have since added over 200k miles of my own. Remarkably, it still has the original engine, transmission, and clutch. Although it burns half a quart of oil for every tank of gas, it still manages to get 30+ mpg and starts up every day without fail. The only major repair it has needed was welding an exhaust flange back to the pipe. Overall, it has been a great investment and a reliable mode of transportation.