Faults:
Faint grinding noise that becomes noticeable when car is at speed 60+Kph.
Speed sensor fault that causes the O/d light to flash. May be overheating. Fault code 42.
Boot hatch rattle.
So many noises coming from the interior paneling and behind the dash.
Exhaust from cat back completrly rusted through and needed replacing.
Rear spoiler connection not an exact fit causing dew and moss build up.
General Comments:
I bought the car considerably cheaper than the market value at an auction. It appeared that the last owner had lost interest in it and let the vehicle run down a little.
This Supra was completely stock Na, auto apart from being lowered considerably and uprated suspension.
I didn't know much about supra and bought the car basically on sleek sporty looks, performance, 2doors, legroom and Toyota's reputation.
I soon found out that there was a herd of horses lying under the bonnet that were dying to be set free. Releasing them was the easy part!
Upkeep: I threw out the old rusted exhaust and upgraded to a simple straight through system that gave it a sporty and somewhat anoying hum at low revs.
Handling is amazing! uprated suspension and lowering gives the car super glue like cornering ability's.
Although 70/30 weight distribution coupled with its power make sliding the rear end on accleration a breeze, especially in the wet. consider wider rear tyres to control this problem.
Money spent on the new exhaust and minor repairs to boot hatch and tiny rust repairs are negligible. Although it must be mentioned that Genuine Toyota replacement parts are a complete rip-off. consider the big selection of used or aftermarket parts and save$$$
I removed the over sized rear spoiler which gave the car nice clean lines. and prevented further accumulation of grime between the seal.
Apart from the faint rear end grinding noise the car has been mechanically fine for the first 5k@140k on the clock.
Nice styling, perfomance and leg room. If the cost of gas is an issue look elsewhere, if driver satisfaction is a priority then this Japanese Ferarri is for you.
31st Dec 2007, 13:50
I have a supra and don't have rattles etc however what people have to bear in mind is that some of these cars are 14-15 yrs old.