TroubleAtlas Score
TOYOTA MR2 (1989–2005) — Technical Guide, Fault Codes & Maintenance
Built 1989–2005 · all production years covered on this single page
2.2L I4 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost8.8
Parts & repairability4.0
Maintenance & durability6.6
Documentation & support3.7
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) uses Toyota Genuine 5W-30 engine oil. Its battery is group 35 (BCI), rated at 325A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 2.2L I4 engine. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Scheduled maintenance
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
1.0h
€70 – €90
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.3h
€21 – €27
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| ABS Pump | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Brake Booster | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Coolant Flush | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Airbag - Side | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Alternator | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Alternator Belt | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Amplifier | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Antenna | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Camshaft R&R | 8.0h | € 360–€ 600 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 15.0h | € 675–€ 1125 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 20.0h | € 900–€ 1500 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 6.0h | € 270–€ 450 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 8.0h | € 360–€ 600 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Downpipe | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| EGR Cooler | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
| EGR Tube | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EGR Valve | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.1h | € 4–€ 7 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Fuel Filter | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| AC Compressor | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| AC Condenser | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| AC Evaporator | 6.0h | € 270–€ 450 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| Idler Arm | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 3.5h | € 157–€ 262 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kickdown Cable | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Overdrive Solenoid | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Shift Cable | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Shift Linkage | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Transmission Control Module | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Transmission Cooler Lines | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Transmission Filter | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
🔧 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
Timing Chain And Tensioner—
Engine Oil And Filter8,000 km / 6 months
Tire Rotation8,000 km / 6 months
Brake System Inspection8,000 km / 6 months
Steering And Suspension Inspection8,000 km / 6 months
Driveshaft Boots Inspection8,000 km / 6 months
Exhaust System Inspection8,000 km / 6 months
Body And Chassis Inspection8,000 km / 6 months
📋 RECALLS & TSB (1)
NHTSA 91V223000
Air Bags
Date: 24/12/1991
THE DRIVER'S OCCUPANT PROTECTION SYSTEM (STEERING WHEEL AND AIR BAG) EXCEEDS THE 60G THORAX CRITERION IN NHTSA CRASH TESTS.
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
P0420
Powertrain
P0171
P0171
Powertrain
P0300
P0300
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
P0128
Powertrain
P0455
P0455
Powertrain
P0700
P0700
Transmission
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1661
powertrain
MODERATEP1658
powertrain
HIGHP1656
powertrain
MODERATEP1652
powertrain
MODERATEP1604
powertrain
HIGHP1510
powertrain
HIGHP1330
powertrain
HIGHP1315
powertrain
HIGHP1310
powertrain
HIGHP1305
powertrain
HIGHP1200
powertrain
HIGHP1765
powertrain
HIGHP1630
powertrain
HIGHP1512
powertrain
CRITICALP1129
powertrain
HIGHP1780
powertrain
HIGHP1405
powertrain
MODERATEP1150
powertrain
MODERATEP1700
powertrain
HIGHP1565
powertrain
LOW
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
60 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
Master Warning (Toyota)Electrical
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
Pre-Collision System Off (Toyota)ADAS
Lane Departure Alert Off (Toyota)ADAS
Slip Indicator (Toyota)Chassis
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
READY Light (Toyota)Electrical
EV Mode Indicator (Toyota)Electrical
B-Ready (EV Brake) (Toyota)Brakes
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
53 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Toyota Mr2 across model years 1989–2005. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
5 crash reports 2 fires 2 injuries
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 200318
Model year 199112
Model year 20026
Model year 19934
Model year 20004
Model year 20053
Model year 20012
Model year 20042
Most reported components (all years)
Power Train12
Engine And Engine Cooling9
Air Bags6
Vehicle Speed Control6
Engine5
Electrical System5
Sample reports
THE CAR WAS PARKED WITH ENGINE RUNNING AND PARKING BRAKE ON. I RELEASED THE BRAKE ON AND THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD CROSSING A CURB AND HITTING A ALUMINUM GUARD RAIL. THE SERVICE SEQ TRANSMISAME LIGHT CAME ON . AFTER BEING TOWED TO THE… (MY 2003)
DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN FROM EITHER SIDE OF VEHICLE. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND WOULD NOT REPAIR UNLESS COST GOES TO CONSUMER. *AK (MY 1991)
MY CAR HAS A HARD SHIFT PROBLEM. IT STOPS AT EVERY TRAFFIC LIGHT AND I HAVE TO START IT AGAIN. ALSO WHEN I SHIFT THE STICK IT CHANGES SO HARD, IT PUSHES ME AND SHAKE IT ITSELF SO HARD. I WAS GOING TO CRASH WHEN IT HAPPENED FIRST TIME. I… (MY 2003)
IN JUNE OF 2006 I HEARD A TICKING NOISE IN THE ENGINE OF MY 2000 MR2 SPYDER. WHEN I BROUGHT T TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY TOLD MY I HAD SPUN A BEARING DUE TO OIL STARVATION, EVEN THOUGH I HAD MY OIL CHANGED EVERY 3000 MILES. THE DEALERSHIP… (MY 2000)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1989–2005.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Toyota Mr2 have any safety recalls?
Yes — 1 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: AIR BAGS. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0300 mean on the Toyota Mr2?
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0128 mean on the Toyota Mr2?
Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0011 mean on the Toyota Mr2?
A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are electrical problems common on the Toyota Mr2?
Yes — 13 of 51 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AT 65 MPH HOOD FLEW UP AND SHATTERED WINDSHIELD AND T-TOP GLASS. SECONDARY LATCH FAILED TO CATCH HOOD FROM FLIGHT AND RESULTED IN HOOD, HOOD LATCH, WIPER COWL, WINDSHIELD, AND T-…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are transmission problems common on the Toyota Mr2?
Yes — 16 of 51 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the transmission. One owner reported: “I WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY THE THROTTLE WENT WIDE OPEN AND THE TACHOMETER WENT TO MAXIMUM RPMS. I DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH WHILE THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO REV AT MAXIMUM RPMS FOR A…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Toyota Mr2?
Yes — 17 of 51 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, CONSUMER HEARD A FLAPPING TYPE NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE A BELT HAD COME LOOSE. THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY DIED. CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE HAD FROZEN IN…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What is the right battery for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005)?
The battery specified for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) is group 35 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 325A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005)?
The engine oil specification for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) is Toyota Genuine 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
This spec sheet is updated with data verified from OEM sources and shop databases. If you spot an inaccuracy or have additional data on the Toyota Mr2 (1989–2005), let us know — every correction improves quality for all users.