Engine Overview and Common Failures
The engine number 2GR-FXE is located on the cylinder block. The problem with the fifth cylinder is that despite being a fairly late modification of the 2GR power unit lineup, scoring in the fifth cylinder occurs as often as with its predecessors. The cause is believed to be overheating due to a defect in the motor cooling system design.
Another well-known issue with engines in this series is the cracking of the phase regulators, and many owners of such engines have spent a lot of effort and money trying to get rid of it. For some, replacing only the sprockets helps, but often new couplings have to be purchased.
Other problems associated with this power unit include short-lived water pumps, ignition coils, and fuel quality-sensitive AFS sensors and lambda probes. There are quite a few complaints on forums regarding oil leaks, especially from the timing cover.