TOYOTA MR2 (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,029 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,029
Avg Mileage
92,036 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2002 TOYOTA MR2 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the TOYOTA brand average of 84%.
At 22 years old, 75% of TOYOTA MR2s from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,029 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 92,036 miles.
How does the 2002 TOYOTA MR2 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 TOYOTA MR2 has 92,036 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a TOYOTA MR2?
The most reliable year is the 2008 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 1992 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2002 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2002 TOYOTA MR2 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
TOYOTA MR2 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 93% | 61 | 89,184 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 123 | 109,094 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 1,274 | 73,036 mi |
| 2005 | 77% | 1,482 | 83,599 mi |
| 2004 | 77% | 2,267 | 87,135 mi |
| 2003 | 77% | 2,505 | 94,368 mi |
| 2002 | 75% | 2,029 | 92,036 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,597 | 94,735 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 1,896 | 96,510 mi |
| 1999 | 76% | 863 | 106,803 mi |
| 1998 | 76% | 1,374 | 108,993 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 903 | 106,809 mi |
| 1996 | 73% | 613 | 107,294 mi |
| 1995 | 73% | 521 | 115,810 mi |
| 1994 | 73% | 535 | 100,166 mi |
| 1993 | 72% | 885 | 112,683 mi |
| 1992 | 70% | 840 | 114,466 mi |
| 1991 | 74% | 711 | 115,453 mi |
| 1990 | 79% | 713 | 115,872 mi |
Checking a specific TOYOTA MR2?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 TOYOTA MR2
The 2002 TOYOTA MR2 is a family car with a 1794cc petrol engine. 2,029 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 92,036 miles at 22 years old, TOYOTA MR2 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 TOYOTA MR2 Fuel Costs
The 1794cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 TOYOTA MR2?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TOYOTA MR2 Reliability Trend
Newer TOYOTA MR2s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 TOYOTA MR2
At 22 years old, the TOYOTA MR2 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2008 model has the highest pass rate at 93%.
Alternatives to the 2002 TOYOTA MR2
The TOYOTA MR2 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2004) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 36,444 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2004) 69% pass rate (-6%) from 29,927 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 29,898 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2004) 67% pass rate (-8%) from 26,290 tests