Most Common Failures of the Toyota Supra: Problems and Breakdowns

Common faults of the Toyota Supra

Although after its return it became one of the most sought after cars, there have been some complaints about the functionality of the Toyota Supra, and that is really what this article is about. Let’s get down to business.

1. Steering wheel tremors

One of the most common Supra problems is a malfunctioning steering wheel. There have been several complaints about the steering wheel shaking when the brakes are applied and it has become a source of great concern for many owners.

Possible causes and solutions

How about we look at all the reasons why this may be happening, as well as suggest optimal solutions?

1- Unbalanced tires

This is one of the most common reasons why steering wheels shake and shake. If the tires are misaligned, they will send jolts through the car’s system all the way to the steering wheels.

However, we must mention that if this is the reason for the problem, it is likely that you experience the shaking while accelerating.

If you are sure the tires are properly inflated, check the treads on the tires. If they are uneven, shaking is unavoidable, and you may need to rotate or replace them. That is subject to expert evaluation.

2- Defective brake rotors

If the steering wheel shakes a lot while driving, it’s probably an indication of a bad brake rotor . Either the rotors are completely worn out, have lost their shape, or have been installed incorrectly.

It could also be a problem with the brake pad or the entire braking system, and it would help if you investigated it as soon as possible.

3- Problems with suspension components

Unusual tremors in the steer wheels while driving could also be the result of problems with the suspension components. This is more likely to happen with very old cars because they often have worn tie rods.

To do?

We understand how scary and unsettling it is when your steering wheels suddenly start shaking. It could be for any of the above reasons, but before taking any action, we advise discussing these symptoms with an expert so that they can examine the car and come up with a concrete solution to the problem.

2. Loss of power

Many Supra owners have complained about the vehicle’s noticeable loss of power and rough operation. Some owners suspect a problem with the Supra’s exhaust system.

Owners have also noticed that the power problem often arises when the engine is restarted within a few minutes of turning it off.

Possible causes and solutions

Here are some reasons why your Toyota Supra may be losing power:

1- Clogged fuel filter

Fuel filters take on the noble responsibility of removing impurities from gasoline to block its entry into the engine. However, if the fuel filter is clogged , it allows contaminants free entry, ultimately resulting in a loss of power.

This is precisely why it is important to change and check filters regularly.

2- Obstructed exhaust

The Toyota Supra has an exhaust system that helps reduce the amount of pollution from the fumes. However, if the tube becomes clogged, it could weaken the engine and ultimately lead to a loss of power.

3- Clogged air filter

Like fuel filters, air filters protect from debris, dirt, allergens, and other contaminants. However, if filters are not cleaned regularly, they end up becoming hostages to the debris they are trying to avoid. The end result is loss of engine power.

To do?

If you own a sports car like the Supra, there’s no way you’d be comfortable with your car randomly losing power. For this reason we advise taking the car to a trusted mechanic if you have this problem.

In addition to that, you should also have a maintenance and service plan for your car. That’s one of the best precautions you can take to prevent the problem.

3. Thick white smoke from tailpipe

Going out for a spin in your car and watching it go crazy while exuding thick white smoke is not a great experience. Unfortunately, this is one of the most commonly reported problems with the Toyota Supra.

Many of the owners who complain about this have also reported that they notice the car overheating for no reason.

Possible causes and solutions

Here are the possible causes of thick white smoke coming from the exhaust of your Toyota Supra:

1- Broken stock

Cylinder heads, by their very composition, are vulnerable to cracking at some point. When this happens, coolants leak out and contaminate the engine oil, resulting in white smoke coming from the tailpipe.

2- Cracked head gasket

The head gasket is a seal between the cylinder head and the block, which serves to prevent coolants from reaching the engine cover. However, the head gasket tends to become damaged and worn over time, and its failure precipitates white smoke and overheating quite a bit.

A blown head gasket cannot be successfully repaired; you’ll have to get a spare.

3- Cracked engine block

Another reason for the thick white smoke coming out of the Supra’s exhaust is a problem with the engine block. Now, this is very unlikely, especially if your car is new or recent; however, it is a possibility.

Engine blocks are supposed to withstand extreme heat and keep it from reaching the most fragile components. However, if any of the engine components are faulty, it could bring the entire process to a standstill.

Aside from white smoke, other symptoms of a blown engine block include overheating, discoloration of coolants, and poor vehicle performance, among others.

There is no other way around it other than replacement, which is best done by a professional.

To do?

If you have thick white smoke coming from your Supra, take it to an expert for a proper diagnosis. In this way, you can be sure of what the problem and the solution really are.

4. The car stops regularly

We also found a number of complaints related to the Toyota Supra randomly stalling. Many Supra owners are concerned, and some have even noticed that it occurs after the engine has warmed up.

Possible causes and solutions

These are some of the possible reasons why the Toyota Supra stalls:

1- An empty tank

It goes without saying that a car doesn’t work properly when it has an empty or almost empty tank. If your car has stalled, you may want to make sure this is not the case.

2- A faulty EGR valve

The exhaust gas recirculation valve serves to reduce the pollutants emitted by the Toyota Supra. Like all other components, the EGR valve can develop malfunctions , and when it does, it can cause your car’s engine to stall.

You may have to clean or replace it, and of course, the latter costs a lot more money.

3- Hot coolant sensor

The Toyota Supra has a component known as a coolant temperature sensor. Its job is to measure engine coolant temperature and send a signal to regulate fuel injection and engine timing.

If the coolant sensor fails, it could cause the engine to overheat, stall or knock.

To do?

If the car has stopped for reasons other than an empty tank, we recommend that you go to an expert to carry out a diagnosis.

The good and the bad of the Toyota Supra

You already know the common faults of the Toyota Supra, however, it is also good that you are aware of the good things that this car has for you.

Advantages

The following are some pros or good points of the Toyota Supra:

1- Massive six-cylinder engine

The Toyota Supra has an inline six-cylinder engine with great power. It produces 382 horsepower, which translates to very quick acceleration.

Whether you’re going for a leisurely ride or competing in a race, you can be sure of top-notch performance. Fortunately, fuel economy is still decent, with a combined MPG of 25 based on EPA ratings.

2- Impressive handling

For a sports car like the Toyota Supra, the importance of great handling cannot be overstated. Therefore, the Toyota Supra comes with a refined and compliant suspension that makes for superb handling.

On top of that, the Supra has aluminum tie rods and an electric steering option that keeps you in sync with the road.

3- Resplendent exterior

The Toyota Supra has a unique and elegant exterior. It sports an exotic look befitting a car of its class and its styling has a classy touch. Not to mention other features like a six-lens headlight design and double bubble testing, among others.

Simply put, the Toyota Supra is as flashy as it is efficient.

4- Comfortable seats

Of course, cars like the Toyota Supra aren’t the best for cabin space due to their size. However, the Toyota Supra manages to dazzle in this area with its plush seats, quiet cabin, and decent head and legroom.

5- Great infotainment system

The Toyota Supra has a very good infotainment system with a long list of features to back it up. There is an 8.8-inch screen with fancy graphics and a built-in navigation system known as “Supra command”.

It also has a Bluetooth connection, connectivity with the iPhone and a standard stereo with 10 speakers (12 JBL speakers for the Pro model).

6- Top-notch security features

The Toyota Supra has some very sophisticated safety technologies, even in its standard versions. Among them are:

• Lane Keep Assist
• frontal collision system
• adaptive cruise control
• automatic headlights
• traffic sign recognition
• airbags
• Stability control
• Seat belt pretensioners
• Rear-view mirror
• Directional parking lights

Disadvantages

The cons or drawbacks that stand out the most in the Toyota Supra are:

• The steering wheel shakes
• Power loss
• Thick white smoke from the exhaust
• The car stalls regularly

What do the reviews say about the Toyota Supra?

The comments and opinions about the Supra are very good, among them the ones that stand out the most are the following:

“Is this automotive miracle worthy of the Supra name? Of course. It reinvents the concept in a way that makes sense for today’s world, and is offered at a price… that is a relative bargain when measured against its predecessor and competitor Porsche.”

 

It is a very complete coupe. Big enough inside, well equipped, handsome, fast and good-natured. It is adult, but compact, agile and smooth. It’s a clever piece of engineering. A car you’d enjoy driving anywhere, a car that probably achieves the best compromise of GT and sportiness of any car in its class.