Toyota Mark II The 90th body (JZX90/JZX100) is a legendary Japanese sedan that is still popular among car enthusiasts. However, even such reliable cars are not immune to engine starting problems. If your Mark 2 suddenly stopped starting, do not rush to panic: in 80% of cases the reason lies in typical malfunctions that can be diagnosed and fixed independently.

In this article we will look at all possible reasonswhy won't it start Toyota Mark II 90 - from a commonplace discharged battery to serious problems with the fuel system or electronics. You will receive step by step instructions on diagnostics, repair tips and recommendations when to turn to professionals. We will pay special attention to the specifics of models with engines 1JZ-GE, 1JZ-GTE and 2JZ-GE, since their design features affect the nature of the faults.

Before you begin repairs, remember: systematic approach saves time and money. Start with the simplest checks and gradually move on to more complex ones. In 60% of cases, the problem is solved by replacing consumables or cleaning contacts - without expensive intervention in the engine.

1. Check the battery and electrical system

The first thing to do if Mark 2 90 won't start - check battery. Even if the machine was working fine yesterday, the discharge could have occurred due to a current leak or a faulty generator. Start with a visual inspection:

  • 🔋 Check the voltage at the terminals with a multimeter: normal - 12.6–12.8 V (no load). If less 11.8 V, the battery is low.
  • 🔌 Inspect the terminals for oxidation or poor contact. White deposits are a sign of electrolyte leakage.
  • 🔄 Try to “light” from another car. If the engine starts, the problem is in the battery or generator.

If the battery is ok, but when you turn the key you only hear relay clicks, check starter. On Mark II 90 The solenoid relay often fails or the brushes wear out. Characteristic symptom: The starter turns idle, but does not engage the flywheel.

⚠️ Attention: Never try to jump start a car if there is less than 5 liters of gasoline in the tank! On Mark 2 with 1JZ-GTE this can lead to oil starvation of the turbine.
📊 How often do you check your battery charge?
Once a month
Only when problems arise
Never
I trust the on-board computer

2. Diagnostics of the ignition system

If the starter turns, but the engine does not catch, the problem may lie in ignition system. On Toyota Mark II 90 Most often they fail:

  • 🔥 Spark plugs - check the gap (standard for 1JZ: 0.8–0.9 mm) and the presence of soot.
  • 📶 Ignition coils - on models with 1JZ-GTE The individual coil of the 3rd cylinder often overheats.
  • 🔌 High voltage wires - resistance must be within 5–10 kOhm.
  • 🛠️ Distributor (distributor) - on atmospheric 1JZ-GE The Hall sensor often wears out.

To check the spark, unscrew the spark plug, put a high-voltage wire on it and apply it to the engine ground. Ask an assistant to turn the starter - if there is no spark, the problem is in the coils, wires or ECU. On turbo versions 1JZ-GTE lack of spark in cylinders 1–2 is often associated with a faulty knock sensor.

If there is a spark, but the engine does not start, proceed to checking the fuel system. On Mark II 90 with 2JZ-GE Injectors often become clogged due to low-quality gasoline.

☑️ Ignition diagnostics for Mark 2 90

Done: 0 / 4

3. Problems with the fuel system

Lack of fuel or improper supply is the second most common reason why it won’t start. Toyota Mark II 90. Start diagnostics by checking:

  1. Fuel pump. When you turn on the ignition, you should hear a characteristic buzzing sound from under the rear seat (on Mark II the pump is located in the tank). If there is no sound, check the fuse EFI 15A and pump relay.
  2. Fuel rail pressure. Norm for 1JZ/2JZ: 2.5–3.0 kg/cm². It is measured by a pressure gauge connected to the fitting on the ramp.
  3. Injectors. With the engine not running, apply 12V to the injector contacts - a characteristic click should be heard.

On Mark II 90 with mileage >150 thousand km it often gets clogged fuel filter (located under the bottom near the tank). It is recommended to change it every 40–50 thousand km. Also check fuel pressure regulator - if it malfunctions, the engine may start and immediately stall.

Symptom Probable Cause Verification method
The starter turns, but the engine does not catch Fuel pump does not work Check the fuse EFI and relay, listen to the pump
The engine starts and immediately stalls The injectors are clogged or the pressure regulator is faulty Measure the pressure in the rail, check the return
Engine stutters after starting One or more injectors are clogged Check the injector resistance (normal: 12–16 Ohm)
Gasoline smell from exhaust Fuel overflow (mass air flow sensor or lambda probe faulty) Check error codes, inspect spark plugs (wet = overflow)
⚠️ Attention: On Mark II 90 with 1JZ-GTE Never start the engine without the crankshaft position sensor connected! This may damage the ECU.

4. Problems with electronics and ECU

Electronic control unit (ECU) on Toyota Mark II 90 - one of the most vulnerable places, especially on cars with turbo engines. Typical symptoms of an ECU malfunction:

  • 🚨 Lights up on the dashboard all indicators (check engine, ABS, charging)
  • 🔌 The engine does not respond to turning the ignition key
  • 📉 The car starts, but is unstable and jerks
  • 🔧 After replacing the battery or removing the terminals, the ECU is “reset”

For diagnostics, check:

  1. Fuses ECU-IG 10A and EFI 15A in the block under the hood.
  2. Contact status on the ECU connectors (located under the glove compartment). Oxidation or corrosion is a common cause of failure.
  3. Supply voltage on contacts +B and IGSW (must be 12V and 12V respectively).

On Mark II 90 with 1JZ-GTE often fails immobilizer, which blocks the launch. If the key does not have a chip or it is not recognized, the engine will not start. The problem can be temporarily circumvented by disabling the immobilizer (a soldering iron and knowledge of the circuit are required).

How to reset ECU errors without a scanner?

On Toyota Mark II 90 To reset ECU errors, simply remove the battery terminal for 10–15 minutes. However, this will not permanently remove the errors - they will return if the problem persists. A complete reset requires a diagnostic scanner or a special procedure involving shorting the contacts in the diagnostic connector (located under the hood near the battery).

5. Mechanical engine problems

If all previous checks have failed, the problem may lie in mechanical part of the engine. On Mark II 90 with mileage >200 thousand km the most common are:

  • 🔧 Timing belt wear. On 1JZ-GE belt moves 80–100 thousand km, on 1JZ-GTE — 60–80 thousand km. If the valve breaks, it bends!
  • 🛢️ Oil pump jammed. Symptom: When trying to start, a metallic grinding noise is heard.
  • 🔥 Valve burnout. The engine may start, but stall and smoke white smoke.
  • 🔄 Camshaft problems. On 2JZ-GE The camshaft beds often wear out (symptom: knocking noise at the top of the engine).

To check compression you will need a compression gauge. Normal values for Mark II 90:

  • 1JZ-GE: 11–13 kg/cm² in each cylinder (dispersion no more 1 kg/cm²)
  • 1JZ-GTE: 10–12 kg/cm² (due to the turbine the compression is lower)
  • 2JZ-GE: 12–14 kg/cm²
⚠️ Attention: If the compression in one cylinder is lower by 3 kg/cm² and more, this is a sign of a serious malfunction (burnout of the valve, stuck rings). You cannot operate such an engine!
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On Toyota Mark II 90 with 1JZ-GTE Before checking the compression, be sure to turn off the fuel pump (pull out the fuse EFI)! This will prevent water hammer when gasoline enters the cylinders.

6. Problems with the turbine (for 1JZ-GTE)

If your Mark II 90 equipped with a turbo engine 1JZ-GTE, the reason that the car does not start may be a malfunction of the turbine or related systems. Typical problems:

  • 🌀 Oil leak through the turbine seals. Symptom: Blue smoke from the exhaust when starting.
  • 🔥 Turbine jammed. Symptom: When trying to start, a whistling or grinding noise is heard.
  • 🛠️ wastegate malfunction. The engine may start but run rough.
  • 🔌 Broken or shorted boost pressure sensor wiring.

To diagnose the turbine:

  1. Check the oil level - if it is critically low, the turbine could be jammed.
  2. Inspect the intercooler and hoses for cracks or leaks.
  3. Rotate the turbine shaft by hand (with the air duct removed). Play or difficulty turning is a sign of wear.

On Mark II 90 with 1JZ-GTE often fails boost controller (boost control valve). If the engine starts but does not rev above 3000 rpm, check the boost pressure with a pressure gauge.

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On turbo versions Toyota Mark II 90 Never turn off the engine immediately after intense driving! Allow the turbine to cool at idle speed for 1–2 minutes, otherwise the oil in the turbine will coke, which will lead to its failure.

7. Diagnostics by sounds and smells

Experienced mechanics can determine the cause of the problem by characteristic sounds or smells. Here's what yours can tell you Mark II 90:

Symptom Probable Cause Actions
Clicks when turning the key, but the starter does not turn Low battery or faulty solenoid relay Check battery voltage, clean terminals
The starter turns, but a metallic grinding noise is heard Problems with starter bendix or flywheel Remove the starter for inspection
Gasoline smell from exhaust Fuel overflow (injectors or mass air flow sensor faulty) Check the pressure in the rail, inspect the spark plugs
Burnt oil smell Oil leakage onto hot engine or turbine parts Inspect the turbine pipes and valve cover gasket
A dull knock when cranking the starter Problems with connecting rod or main bearings Don't start the engine! Needs major renovation

If the engine doesn't start but you hear hissing from under the hood, this could be a sign of a vacuum leak. On Mark II 90 Brake booster hoses or valves often crack PCV.

8. When to turn to professionals

Some malfunctions Toyota Mark II 90 require specialized equipment and experience. Contact a car service if:

  • 🔧 Diagnostics showed low compression in the cylinders (engine disassembly will be required).
  • 💻 Lights up on the dashboard Check Engine, but the scanner does not read errors (problem with the ECU).
  • 🔥 Engine jammed (the starter does not turn the crankshaft).
  • 🛠️ Required turbine repair or replacement (on 1JZ-GTE).
  • 🔌 Necessary ECU flashing (for example, after installing a non-standard turbine).

Average diagnostic cost Mark II 90 in the service:

  • Computer diagnostics: 1500–2500 ₽
  • Compression check: 1000–1500 ₽
  • Turbine diagnostics: 2000–3000 ₽
  • Checking electrical equipment: 1200–2000 ₽
⚠️ Attention: If you decide to renovate Mark II 90 yourself, always use original spare parts or high-quality analogues (for example, Denso for candles, NGK for wires). Cheap Chinese parts often cause repeated breakdowns.
💡

On Toyota Mark II 90 with a mileage of more than 200 thousand km, before purchasing, be sure to check the condition of the timing belt, turbine (if any) and compression in the cylinders. These components are most susceptible to wear and tear and may require expensive repairs.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the launch of Mark 2 90

My Mark 2 90 will not start after replacing the battery. What's the problem?

On Toyota Mark II 90 After replacing the battery, the ECU adaptation may be reset. Try:

  1. Remove the battery terminal for 10 minutes, then connect it back.
  2. Turn the key to position ON (without starting the engine) for 30 seconds.
  3. Try to start the car. If this does not help, diagnostics of the immobilizer is required.
The starter turns, but the engine does not catch. Where to start diagnostics?

Check sequence:

  1. Check for spark at the spark plugs.
  2. Make sure the fuel pump is running (you can hear a sound when you turn the ignition on).
  3. Check the fuel rail pressure.
  4. Inspect the fuses EFI and IGN.

If everything is in order, but the engine does not start, check the timing marks (the belt may have broken).

Mark II 90 with 1JZ-GTE starts and immediately stalls. What to do?

Typical reasons:

  • Defective idle air control (clean the throttle valve).
  • Air leaking through cracked vacuum hoses.
  • Defective throttle position sensor.
  • Nozzles are clogged (needs cleaning).

Start by checking for error codes (even if Check Engine does not light up).

What kind of gasoline should I put in the Mark 2 90 with 1JZ-GTE?

For Toyota Mark II 90 with turbo engine 1JZ-GTE petrol recommended AI-98. Minimum allowable - AI-95, but only from proven gas stations. Usage AI-92 leads to:

  • Detonations (knock of fingers).
  • Turbine overheating.
  • Accelerated engine wear.

If it is not possible to fill AI-98, use octane enhancers (for example, Liqui Moly).

How much does a 1JZ-GTE overhaul cost?

Cost of major repairs 1JZ-GTE on Mark II 90 depends on the scope of work:

  • Replacing piston rings and liners: 80 000–120 000 ₽ (with spare parts).
  • Block head repair (replacement of valves, guides): 50 000–70 000 ₽.
  • Turbine replacement: 30 000–60 000 ₽ (depending on model).
  • Complete overhaul (block boring, new pistons, etc.): 150 000–250 000 ₽.

Advice: before investing, check the offers on contract engines - sometimes it’s cheaper (price 1JZ-GTE in good condition: 120 000–180 000 ₽).