williamwagner1

MR2 Transmission Oil Temperature Sensor Issue

Alright, I'm pulling my hair out! My 2004 Toyota MR2 (gasoline engine) is throwing a fit. It's got 123,654 km on the clock and the engine warning light keeps popping up. I scanned it and it's showing an error related to the transmission oil temperature sensor. The weird thing is, the gearbox seems to be in emergency mode sometimes, shifting poorly, almost slipping and sometimes makes a horrible grinding noise, especially when cold. I'm fearing the worst...Could it be something simple, like the sensor itself, or am I looking at a major transmission rebuild?

The 2004 Toyota MR2 was experiencing issues with the engine warning light and poor transmission performance, including emergency mode and grinding noises. The problem was traced to a transmission oil temperature sensor error. A potential cause identified was low transmission oil level, which can lead to incorrect sensor readings and transmission issues. The solution involved checking and topping off the transmission oil, replacing the faulty sensor, and flushing the system, which resolved the problem without needing a major transmission rebuild.

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4 comment(s)

I had a similar issue with my MR2. From what you describe, it definitely sounds like the transmission oil temperature sensor acting up. Before panicking about a rebuild, have you checked the transmission oil level? Low oil level can cause the sensor to read incorrectly and trigger all sorts of wonky symptoms, including the emergency mode and rough shifting.

Whoa, really? Low oil level? I hadn't even considered that! Where is the dipstick located, and is there any special procedure involved when checking the level? What oil should I use?

Okay, so on the MR2, there isn't a traditional dipstick for the automatic transmission. To check the level correctly, you'll need to access the check plug on the side of the transmission. The process involves warming up the engine, lifting the car safely, removing the plug, and checking if oil drips out, it is a bit tricky. Honestly, with those symptoms, I'd recommend taking it to a trusted mechanic to avoid any further damage. They can properly diagnose the problem and ensure the correct oil is used and at the correct level.

Huge thanks! I took your advice and went to my local shop. Turns out you were spot on. The transmission oil level was indeed low! They topped it off, replaced the faulty sensor (which was also contributing to the problem), and flushed the system. The bill came to around 365€, which is a heck of a lot better than a new transmission! Shifts like butter now. Thanks again for your help!

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TOYOTA

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MR2