1999 Toyota MR2 Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know

How to Fix

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.