Toyota Supra Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Toyota Supra we've analyzed (28 years), these are the 3 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Supra years.
Proceed with caution
1985 Toyota Supra
The 1985 Toyota Supra, with its legendary 5M-GE engine, offers a robust and engaging classic driving experience, but as a nearly 40-year-old vehicle, it presents an elevated risk for age-related failures. While its core mechanicals are durable, expect significant investments in addressing neglected maintenance, electrical gremlins, and potential rust issues common to its era. This isn't a modern 'set it and forget it' daily driver; it's a project for the enthusiast willing to invest time and money.
Why this year scores low
Critical rust often affects rocker panels, rear wheel arches, strut towers, the fuel filler area, and chassis frame rails. This is often the death knell for these cars, compromising structural integrity and requiring extensive, costly fabrication.
Aging wiring harnesses become brittle, leading to intermittent failures in everything from power windows and mirrors to dash gauges, lighting, and engine sensors (AFM, O2). ECU capacitor leakage is also a concern for older electronics, causing various running issues.
The 5M-GE engine is generally stout, but prolonged overheating due to neglected radiators, hoses, or water pumps can lead to premature head gasket failure, a known weakness if not properly managed. Fan clutch failure is also common.
Proceed with caution
1990 Toyota Supra
The 1990 Toyota Supra Mk3, while an iconic Japanese GT, presents a moderate risk due to its age and well-documented engine reliability concerns. It's not a 'set it and forget it' classic; expect to invest time and resources, particularly into addressing the infamous 7M head gasket issue, to truly enjoy this powerful machine for years to come.
Why this year scores low
The primary weakness of the 7M series engine is the head gasket, prone to failure due to insufficient factory torque specifications and heat cycling. This leads to coolant consumption, overheating, and potential catastrophic engine damage.
After 30+ years, wiring insulation becomes brittle, leading to shorts, intermittent failures, and general electrical gremlins. Common issues include power window/mirror malfunctions, gauge cluster capacitor failures, and sensor errors.
Supra Mk3s are susceptible to rust, especially in regions with road salt. Common areas include rear wheel arches, rocker panels, floor pans, subframe mounting points, and the hatch area, compromising structural integrity and aesthetics.
Proceed with caution
1986 Toyota Supra
The 1986 Toyota Supra is a classic '80s sports car offering engaging driving dynamics and a distinctive style, but it carries a notable risk with its turbocharged engine. While the naturally aspirated version offers typical Toyota longevity, the 7M-GTE turbo engine is widely known for a critical head gasket flaw that demands careful consideration and often proactive repair to ensure long-term reliability.
Why this year scores low
The 7M-GTE engine is notorious for a factory-deficient head gasket, leading to overheating, coolant consumption, and eventual catastrophic failure if not addressed. This stems from insufficient head bolt torque during assembly.
Over time, the original wiring harnesses, relays, and motors (especially power windows) can fail. This leads to intermittent electrical gremlins, non-functional accessories, and harder-to-diagnose issues.
Like many vehicles of its era, the Supra is susceptible to rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt or moisture. Common spots include rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe mounting points, and floor pans.