Research · Two Seaters
2004 Toyota MR2Recalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints for the 2004 Toyota MR2. Most complaints involve power train (2). The EPA rates it 25–26 mpg combined.
Combined MPG
25–26mpg
EPA · 2 versions
NHTSA overall
—
Not rated by NCAP
Safety recalls
0campaigns
NHTSA
Owner complaints
2
Top: power train
Fuel cost / yr
$2,400est.
EPA estimate, best version
Safety recalls
NHTSA campaigns for this model year
0 recalls found in NHTSA data for the 2004 Toyota MR2 as of Nov 11, 2026.
Data from NHTSA Recalls API · synced Nov 11, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
Owner complaints by component
2 complaints filed with NHTSA · Feb 2012 – Jul 2025
- Power train2
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Data from NHTSA Complaints API · synced Nov 11, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
What owners report most
Verbatim excerpts from NHTSA complaints, by component
Power train
2 reports
“Within the first two weeks after purchasing the vehicle, I noticed a transmission issue where the vehicle would not properly shift gears. I sometimes would try to up or downshift but there would be no change in the display on the gear indicator. Later there became an issue where the vehicle would put itself into neutral while I was in gear and driving, which would cause the vehicle to stop completely in traffic, putting myself and other drivers in the vicinity at risk. This became more and more frequent, and the vehicle even got to the point where it would not shift beyond 2nd gear and was essentially inoperable. After taking the vehicle to Toyota, it was explained to me that they would not be able to repair the vehicle as one of the faulty parts has been discontinued, and advised that I get my money back on the car. The Toyota mechanic further explained that even if the part was replaced, the vehicle may continue to experience the same issue. The dealership that I purchased the vehicle from was unwilling to refund me, but did hold my vehicle for repairs for over 2 months. The vehicle seemed to drive normally for about 1,000 miles after that, but then the same…”
Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 11, 2026
Engines, transmissions & drive
2 versions rated by the EPA
- EPA class
- Two Seaters
- Engines
- 1.8L 4-cyl
- Transmissions
- Manual 6-spd · Manual 5-spd
- Drive
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Regular Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
Data from EPA fueleconomy.gov · synced Nov 11, 2026EPA listing
EPA fuel economy by version
City / highway / combined, annual fuel cost and CO₂
EPA
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR2 Man 6-spd, 4 cyl, 1.8 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 23 | 30 | 26 | $2,400 | 342 |
| MR2 Man 5-spd, 4 cyl, 1.8 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 25 | $2,500 | 355 |
- 26mpg comb.
- 25mpg comb.
Data from EPA fueleconomy.gov · synced Nov 11, 2026 · Fuel cost is EPA’s annual estimate (15,000 mi, 55% city)
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
1 tested variant
NHTSA has not published 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2004 Toyota MR2 as of Nov 11, 2026.
Data from NHTSA NCAP Safety Ratings API · synced Nov 11, 2026Vehicle 1293
Maintenance basics
General guidance, not the OEM schedule. Check your owner’s manual.
General guidance
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
Typical intervals for modern cars. Severe service (towing, short trips, extreme heat or cold) shortens them.
2004 MR2 questions
How many recalls does the 2004 Toyota MR2 have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 11, 2026.
What are the most common 2004 Toyota MR2 problems?
Owners filed 2 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are power train (2). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2004 Toyota MR2 get?
The EPA rates the 2004 Toyota MR2 at 25–26 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
Data from NHTSA & EPA · synced Nov 11, 2026