Toyota MR2: Soft-top hydraulic pump motor failure (Spyder convertible)

The W30 MR2 Spyder features a power-operated soft top using a hydraulic pump motor to drive rams that raise and lower the hood. The pump motor brushes wear out with age and the motor housing seals allow moisture ingress, causing internal corrosion and motor seizure. A failed pump leaves the soft top inoperable mid-cycle — potentially stuck open or partially raised. The pump relay also fails independently. Replacement OEM pump motors are discontinued; aftermarket and rebuilt units are available but quality varies.

• Roof fails to raise or lower when switch is pressed
• Grinding or labouring noise from pump under rear tonneau cover
• Roof stops mid-cycle
• Pump runs but roof does not move (hydraulic pressure loss)

1. 1

   Operate the roof through a complete open-close cycle.

2. 2

   Listen for the pump motor running (audible under rear tonneau).

3. 3

   Check that the roof latches fully and seals correctly at all four corners.

4. 4

   Inspect the pump motor housing for corrosion.

Parts involved: Body corrosion.

≈A$550 to ≈A$1,840 at independent workshop rates, shown as an approximate guide in Australian dollars. That is for this job on its own, not for the car.

An estimate, converted to Australian dollars, for the repair as normally carried out. What a specific car costs depends on which part has failed and what it damaged on the way — treat this as the floor for a negotiation, not a quote.

• “Does the roof operate fully and reliably in both directions?”
• “Has the pump motor or relay ever been replaced?”
• “Has the roof ever stuck or stopped mid-cycle?”

The failure described above is documented in published sources — owner forums, technical service bulletins, recall notices and workshop write-ups — held in our fault database. The inspection instructions and the cost estimate are KickTyres’ own interpretation of them, and it is a starting point for an inspection rather than a manufacturer statement.