1995 Toyota MR2

Introduction

The 1995 Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine, two-seater sports car. It was available with a 2.2L naturally aspirated inline-4 engine producing 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The MR2 was known for its handling and performance, but it also had several issues that could cause problems for owners.

Engine

• 2.2L Inline-4
  • Leaking Head Gaskets
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace head gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Synchros Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace synchros
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Shift Solenoids Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, erratic shifting
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoids
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace trailing arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No crank, no start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drainage Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin through the sunroof
  • Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drainage plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cruise Control Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control does not work
  • Solution: Replace cruise control switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motors
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace power window motors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1995 Toyota MR2 is a fun-to-drive sports car, but it has several potential issues that can be costly to fix. The most common problems include leaking head gaskets, transmission issues, and electrical problems. If you are considering buying an MR2, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a decision.