The Toyota MR2 (AW11) is a beloved classic, particularly known and appreciated in New Zealand for its accessible price point and sporty handling. This guide provides valuable insights for MR2 owners, focusing on maintaining optimal performance and addressing potential issues common to these vehicles.
Owners of the Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base in New Zealand should be aware of the following potential issues: • Rust: Sills and rear arches are prone to rust. • Oil Leaks: Distributor O-ring leaks are common as vehicles age. • Gearbox Wear: Worn synchros in the gearbox, particularly 2nd gear, can cause shifting problems. This commonly manifests between 150,000-250,000 km.
WOF tips
When taking your Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) in New Zealand, be mindful of these common check points: • Rear Trailing Arm Bushes: These bushes are a common point of failure and should be inspected for wear and damage. • Rust (Sunroof): If your MR2 is equipped with a sunroof, inspect the surrounding area for rust. • Headlight Alignment: Ensure the pop-up headlights are properly aligned for optimal visibility.
About the Toyota MR2 RWD 1.5L Petrol
Owning and maintaining a Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base requires understanding its strengths and potential weaknesses. A key aspect of maintaining this vehicle is consistent and conscientious upkeep.
Consider the following areas as your MR2 ages: • Rust Prevention: The AW11 is known for rust issues, especially in the sills and rear arches. Regular inspections and rustproofing treatments are highly recommended, particularly in New Zealand's coastal climate. • Engine Maintenance: Watch out for oil leaks from the distributor O-ring; replacement is a relatively straightforward task. Regular inspections and timely replacements can prevent larger issues. • Gearbox Health: Pay attention to the gearbox, as worn synchros in the gearbox are a reported common issue. Watch for grinding or difficulty shifting, especially into 2nd gear. Servicing or replacing the gearbox may become necessary. • Standard Fitment Components: Consider the condition of brakes, filters, and suspension components, as these need to be addressed to maintain reliability and safety.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots I should check on my 1984-1989 Toyota MR2 (AW11) in New Zealand?
Owners of the Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base in New Zealand should pay close attention to the sills and rear arches, as these areas are particularly prone to rust. If your MR2 has a sunroof, also inspect the surrounding area for rust, especially given New Zealand's coastal climate.
My 1984-1989 Toyota MR2 (AW11) is having trouble shifting into 2nd gear. Is this a common issue?
Yes, difficulty shifting into 2nd gear, often accompanied by grinding, is a common issue in the Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base. This is typically due to worn synchros in the gearbox and commonly manifests between 150,000-250,000 km. Servicing or replacing the gearbox may be necessary.
What should I look out for during a WOF inspection for my Toyota MR2 (AW11) in NZ?
When preparing your Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base for a WOF in New Zealand, pay close attention to the rear trailing arm bushes, as these are a common point of failure and should be inspected for wear and damage. Also, ensure your pop-up headlights are properly aligned, and check for rust around the sills, rear arches, and sunroof area if applicable.
Where can I get replacement distributor O-rings for my 1984-1989 Toyota MR2 (AW11) in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 165 SKUs for the Toyota MR2 (AW11) Base, and replacement distributor O-rings are a common part due to frequent oil leaks. You can find these and other essential components on the CARFIX website or by visiting a CARFIX store in New Zealand.
How often should I service my 1984-1989 Toyota MR2 (AW11)?
The recommended service interval for the Toyota MR2 (AW11) is every 10,000 km. Consistent and conscientious upkeep, including regular oil changes and inspections, is crucial for maintaining this vehicle's reliability.
Are there any common oil leaks on the 1984-1989 Toyota MR2 (AW11) I should be aware of?
Yes, oil leaks from the distributor O-ring are a common issue as the Toyota MR2 (AW11) ages. Replacing the distributor O-ring is a relatively straightforward task and can prevent larger issues if addressed promptly.