Avoid: 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2014 · Best recent: 2016
15 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 15 model years, the Toyota Yaris has 1,675 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 68 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and service brakes. 2007 drew the most complaints (592), 2014 the fewest (5).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Toyota Yaris vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $8,294–$13,195.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 18 |
| 2019 | 52 |
| 2018 | 12 |
| 2017 | 46 |
| 2016 | 10 |
| 2015 | 15 |
| 2014 | 5 |
| 2013 | 9 |
| 2012 | 35 |
| 2011 | 25 |
| 2010 | 180 |
| 2009 | 206 |
| 2008 | 465 |
| 2007 | 592 |
| 2006 | 5 |
Highest: 2007 (592 complaints). Lowest: 2014 (5).
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding reliability, low running costs, and practicality. The Yaris is consistently praised as a "bulletproof," economical, and easy-to-maintain vehicle, particularly in its older iterations (circa 2009-2014).
Engine cranks but does not start, potentially related to fuel delivery, spark, or immobilizer/key.
Particularly in higher-mileage manual examples; includes vague biting point and complete failure.
Noted as having poor noise insulation and a bouncy ride compared to some competitors.
Described as "underpowered," struggling on steep inclines and highway merging.
Linked to neglected oil changes in the 1.33L engine; can be remedied with maintenance.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Yaris. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy