1994 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 1994 Toyota MR2 has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Snap Oversteer Under Lift-Off (SW20) ($300-$1,500 repair) and CT26 Turbocharger Failure ($800-$2,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $300 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-1999 Toyota MR2, the second-generation MR2 (SW20, 1990-1999) is well-known for snap oversteer, particularly during mid-corner lift-off or abrupt throttle changes. The mid-engine layout with short wheelbase and rear weight bias causes the rear end to break loose suddenly when weight transfers forward during deceleration. Toyota revised the rear suspension geometry in 1993 (Rev 2) and again in 1994 (Rev 3) to improve predictability, but the inherent characteristic remains. Proper driving technique is essential.
First inspect tire condition and pressures, then verify the car has a matched performance tire setup with adequate rear grip; many SW20 handling problems are worsened by stagger mismatch, old tires, worn rear toe-control arm bushings, bad struts, or incorrect alignment. Perform a full suspension inspection and 4-wheel alignment, setting rear toe slightly in for stability and correcting any worn ball joints, bushings, strut inserts, or damaged links; on early 1991-1992 cars, the best fix is updating to the later 1993+ rear suspension geometry components/subframe where practical, or at minimum rebuilding the rear suspension to later-spec alignment settings. Typical costs are about $150-$300 for alignment, $400-$1,200 for tires, and $800-$2,500+ if replacing multiple rear suspension parts or converting to later components. After repairs, the driver should avoid abrupt mid-corner lift-off and use smooth throttle inputs, especially in wet conditions, because this is also a vehicle dynamics characteristic rather than a single failed part.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 1991-1995 Toyota MR2 2.0L 3S-GTE Turbo I4, the SW20 MR2 Turbo's CT26 turbocharger commonly fails between 80,000-120,000 miles. The turbo develops shaft play, oil leaks, and wastegate actuator failure. Oil starvation from the mid-engine oil line routing accelerates bearing wear. The ceramic exhaust wheel (used on early models) is fragile and can shatter, sending debris into the catalytic converter and exhaust system.
Replace or rebuild the CT26 turbocharger. Many owners upgrade to a CT27 or aftermarket turbo (Garrett GT28/GT30 series) for improved reliability and performance. Always replace the oil feed line with a braided stainless steel line, and replace the oil return line if restricted. Install a turbo timer or allow 60 seconds of idle time before shutting off to cool the turbo. Use quality synthetic oil and change every 3,000 miles.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 1994-1994 Toyota MR2 has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Snap Oversteer Under Lift-Off (SW20), CT26 Turbocharger Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 1994-1994 Toyota MR2 has 2 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Snap Oversteer Under Lift-Off (SW20) and CT26 Turbocharger Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Toyota MR2 issues range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Snap Oversteer Under Lift-Off (SW20), typically costs $300-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The second-generation MR2 (SW20, 1990-1999) is well-known for snap oversteer, particularly during mid-corner lift-off or abrupt throttle changes. The mid-engine layout with short wheelbase and rear weight bias causes the rear end to break loose suddenly when weight transfers forw… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: high.
The SW20 MR2 Turbo's CT26 turbocharger commonly fails between 80,000-120,000 miles. The turbo develops shaft play, oil leaks, and wastegate actuator failure. Oil starvation from the mid-engine oil line routing accelerates bearing wear. The ceramic exhaust wheel (used on early mod… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
