Hi all, this is my first time here and I'm relatively new to the wonderful world of MR2's but I've got an issue. On my way home from work the other week my check engine light appeared, and the car went into limp mode. I didn't have time then to sort it out and didn't have far to go to get home anyway. Next day, car starts fine, drives fine, and does so all week with no issue. Suddenly I'm finding the light come on more and more frequently, but for no particular reason. I can be driving slowly through a school zone or going for a spirited drive on the highway and it'll kick in randomly.

After checking the error codes, it's telling me it's the knock sensor. I went to my local Toyota to get it fixed but they won't touch it because it's an import. Is it likely to be a faulty sensor or the result of something more sinister and what's the best and most cost effective way to find out? I'm not aware of any mechanics in my area that are familiar with MR2's unfortunately.

Also, is there an easy way to find the part number so I can try get a price for replacing it?

Thanks!

Where are you? Someone will be able tooint you to a mech in your area competent with mr2s, or someone could supply you with another knock sensor to test if its the sensor itself which is the issue.

Sounds like a faulty knock sensor, but could also be a bad batch of fuel. Sure it had a good tank in it?

Woy Woy, central coast nsw's is where i'm at. I've filled it up probably 3 times since this all started so I don't feel it's the fuel.

One mechanic has quoted me $860 to replace knock sensor and fuel filter. Seems a little rich, but I don't know what the part is worth.

brand new from toyota i can imagine they're quite pricey.
 
what year engine/chassis is it? best to just fit a second hand one that's not stuffed to make sure that is the problem first, it may be damaged wiring for the knock sensor and why it's not working all the time etc.

See if you can borrow a knock sensor to test. They are quite expensive new but easily fitted. I would recommend buying one from lithia Toyota in the states and install yourself.

1990 sw20 gen 2. I don't have access to a second hand one to try unfortunately.

Brand new from Toyota here they want $310 ex from Sydney, lithia Toyota have one listed for a 1991 mr2 and charge $186 - but doesn't mention post cost.

So, can anyone recommend a good mechanic on the central coast nsw's? Would the 1991 knock sensor fit my 1990 model?

And how hard are they to fit?? Starting to wish I took up a mechanic trade after high school now...

Thanks for the assistance and advice everyone, i really do appreciate it.

Before I moved from the Central Coast to Sydney, I used to take my (other) car to 'Terrigal Mechanical', the guy's name is Dave and he is a great mechanic.

Hi there, I have had dramas with my knock sensor. Replaced 3.  They are $180 each and can be obtained through your Toyota dealer. I went through Toyota Castle hill i think  and then the local Toyota dealer. No problems.  You need the numbers off the compliance build plate to get the right part. For what it is worth these sensors are a pain in the butt if you have modified the engine with forged pistons etc. Go to ATS Racing on the net. They have a replacement part  for racing applications which is modified and much cheaper. Problem cured for me since I changed  over to the ATS item.They are in the Us but deliver fast!
 
regards

Hi there, I have had dramas with my knock sensor. Replaced 3.  They are $180 each and can be obtained through your Toyota dealer. I went through Toyota Castle hill i think  and then the local Toyota dealer. No problems.  You need the numbers off the compliance build plate to get the right part. For what it is worth these sensors are a pain in the butt if you have modified the engine with forged pistons etc. Go to ATS Racing on the net. They have a replacement part  for racing applications which is modified and much cheaper. Problem cured for me since I changed  over to the ATS item.They are in the Us but deliver fast!Oh yeah, it takes 5 minutes to fit including getting the tools out
 
regards