1990 Toyota Supra

Vehicle Introduction:

The 1990 Toyota Supra was a sports car that came equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 230 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Supra was known for its sleek design, powerful performance, and handling capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of issues.

Engine

• 3.0L Inline-Six
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, water pump noise
    • Solution: Replace water pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start, rattling or ticking noises
    • Solution: Replace timing belt
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, slipping gears, burning smell
    • Solution: Replace clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises during acceleration or shifting
    • Solution: Repair or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fails to engage or hesitates
    • Solution: Repair or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shift Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in gear
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or knocking noises during turns, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficult starting, battery drain
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to start, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key turns but engine doesn’t start, no power to accessories
  • Solution: Replace ignition switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: UV damage causes clear coat to peel or break down
  • Solution: Repaint or touch up clear coat
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to operate smoothly or stuck
  • Solution: Replace window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks form on the plastic dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system malfunctioning or inoperable
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats inoperable or malfunctioning
  • Solution: Repair or replace power seat module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 1990 Toyota Supra is a well-loved sports car, it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include engine gasket failures, water pump failures, transmission slippage, strut mount failure, and clear coat peeling. While some of these issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be costly. It’s worth noting that these issues are not limited to the Supra and are found on many vehicles of this era. Overall, the Supra is a reliable and fun-to-drive car, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues before purchasing one.