1999 Toyota Paseo Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know
1999 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 1999 Toyota Paseo has 2 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 2 Known Issues
On the 1992-1999 Toyota Paseo 1.5L 5E-FE I4, the Paseo uses a mechanical clutch cable (not hydraulic) that is prone to fraying and eventual snapping, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. The cable route includes sharp bends at the firewall that accelerate wear. When the cable breaks, the clutch cannot be disengaged, stranding the driver. The issue is more common in colder climates where the cable housing becomes brittle.
Common Symptoms
- Clutch pedal feels stiff or sticky
- Clutch pedal goes to floor with no resistance
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Fraying visible at firewall pass-through
- Complete clutch failure (cable snap)
How to Fix
Replace the clutch cable with an OEM Toyota cable or quality aftermarket equivalent ($50-$100 for parts). The replacement involves routing the new cable through the firewall and adjusting free play at the pedal. Lubricate the new cable with white lithium grease during installation. Adjust clutch pedal free play to 5-15mm as specified in the service manual. Inspect and replace every 60,000 miles as preventive maintenance.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipKeep a spare clutch cable in the trunk. They're $50 and can be replaced roadside in 45 minutes if you've done it before. This car strands people with cable snaps regularly.
- UpgradeMobil 1 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for differential and transfer case (Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Oil 75W-90)
- UpgradeFel-Pro gasket kit for drivetrain service (Fel-Pro Gasket Kit)
On the 1992-1999 Toyota Paseo 1.5L 5E-FE I4, the Paseo's cast iron exhaust manifold is prone to cracking due to thermal cycling, typically developing cracks between cylinders 2 and 3. The crack allows exhaust gases to escape before the catalytic converter, causing a ticking noise on cold starts that may quiet down when warm. The leak can also cause inaccurate O2 sensor readings and a check engine light.
Common Symptoms
- Ticking noise on cold start from engine bay
- Exhaust smell in cabin
- Check engine light
- Slightly reduced fuel economy
- Noise quiets when engine warms up
How to Fix
Replace the cracked exhaust manifold. Aftermarket manifolds are available for $80-$150. Replace the manifold gasket and all studs/nuts at the same time, as they typically corrode and break during removal. Apply anti-seize to new studs. A header upgrade is a popular alternative that also improves performance slightly.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipSoak the manifold studs in PB Blaster for a week before attempting removal. They WILL break otherwise. Budget for an EZ-out set or plan to drill and re-tap.
- UpgradeWalker catalytic converter — EPA-compliant direct fit (Walker Catalytic Converter)
- UpgradeMagnaFlow catalytic converter — high-flow performance option (MagnaFlow Catalytic Converter)
- UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold — solves cracking issues on many models (Dorman Exhaust Manifold)
- UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold bolt and stud kit (Dorman Exhaust Manifold Hardware Kit)