Serpentine Belt Tensioner Fails on Toyota MR2 Spyder

Submitted by casey40510 · May 29, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

The serpentine belt tensioner on the 2000-2002 MR2 Spyder is known for bearing and/or spring failure, which will cause a rattle or grinding noise when the engine is running.

If the tensioner fails completely, the serpentine belt will separate from the engine, causing overheating, loss of power and air conditioning, battery drain, and illumination of the check engine and battery warning lights.

To correct the problem, the serpentine belt and belt tensioner must be replaced.

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