1988 MR2 Repair Manual

The 1988 Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car featuring a 1.6L 4A-GE engine, 5-speed manual transmission, independent suspension, and unique t-top options. This repair manual covers comprehensive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, brakes, and body components. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, and troubleshooting guides.

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for 1988 Toyota MR2 AW11 model with 4A-GE engine.

Specification	Description
Engine	1.6L 4A-GE inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Power Output	112 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque	97 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual (C50), 4-speed automatic optional
Drivetrain	Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Suspension	Independent MacPherson strut (front), independent strut (rear)
Brakes	Ventilated discs (front), solid discs (rear)
Wheelbase	91.3 inches
Curb Weight	2359 lbs (manual)
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
3. Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles
4. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
5. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years
6. Transmission Fluid: Manual - 30,000 miles; Auto - 60,000 miles

WARNING! Use only Toyota-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Repair Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for 4A-GE engine maintenance and repair.

1. Valve Adjustment: Check every 15,000 miles; adjust to 0.008" (cold)
2. Timing Belt Replacement: Align marks at TDC; tension properly
3. Oil Pump Service: Inspect for wear during timing belt replacement
4. Head Gasket Replacement: Torque sequence critical - follow factory pattern
5. Water Pump: Replace with timing belt service

CAUTION! Engine removal requires special equipment due to mid-engine layout.

Transmission & Drivetrain

• Manual Transmission: C50 5-speed; fluid capacity 2.1 quarts 75W-90 GL-4
• Clutch: Hydraulic system; pedal free play 0.2-0.6 inches
• Drive Axles: CV joints; inspect boots every 15,000 miles
• Differential: Integral with transmission; no separate service required
• Shift Linkage: Adjust if shifting becomes difficult

Suspension & Steering

MacPherson strut system with rack-and-pinion steering.

Front Suspension: Struts, lower control arms, stabilizer bar. Rear Suspension: Struts, lateral links, toe control arms.

Alignment Specifications: Front - Camber -0°45' ± 45', Toe 0 ± 0.08"; Rear - Camber -1°20' ± 45', Toe 0.08" ± 0.08". Steering: Rack-and-pinion, 2.7 turns lock-to-lock.

Brake System

Front: 10.0" ventilated discs; Rear: 10.3" solid discs.

1. Pad Replacement: Front - 0.39" minimum thickness; Rear - 0.16" minimum
2. Rotor Specifications: Front - 0.906" minimum thickness; Rear - 0.394" minimum
3. Bleeding Procedure: RR, LR, RF, LF sequence
4. Parking Brake: Adjust at rear calipers

Tip: Always replace pads in axle sets; bed-in new pads properly.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 70-amp alternator.

1. Battery: Group 35, 450 CCA; located in front trunk
2. Alternator: 70-amp output; test at 2000 rpm
3. Starter: 1.4 kW; draw current 90 amps max
4. Fuse Box: Located in engine compartment and under dash
5. Wiring Diagrams: Color-coded for circuit identification

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Body & Interior

Steel unibody construction with plastic bumper covers.

T-top Models: Seal inspection every 6 months; drainage channel cleaning. Interior: Bolster repair common on sport seats. Body Panels: Aluminum hood and engine cover.

Cooling System

Dual radiator system with front and side-mounted coolers.

• Coolant Capacity: 6.3 quarts with heater
• Thermostat: Opens at 180°F (82°C)
• Radiator Cap: 13 psi pressure rating
• Coolant Type: Toyota Long Life Coolant or equivalent

Fuel System

Electronic fuel injection with 13.2 gallon tank.

1. Fuel Pump: In-tank electric; pressure 38-44 psi
2. Injectors: High impedance; 180-200 cc/min flow rate
3. Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles
4. Tank: Plastic; capacity 13.2 gallons

CAUTION! Relieve fuel pressure before servicing fuel system components.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel pump, ignition, timing	Check fuel pressure, spark, timing belt alignment
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat, radiator	Check coolant, test thermostat, flush system
Poor shifting	Linkage, fluid, synchros	Adjust linkage, change fluid, inspect synchros
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, stuck calipers	Resurface or replace rotors, free caliper slides
Electrical issues	Ground connections, alternator	Clean grounds, test alternator output

Technical Support: Toyota Technical Assistance 1-800-331-4331

Parts: Genuine Toyota Parts 1-800-272-5364