Toyota Yaris reliability: common problems by model year

Across 10 model years, the Toyota Yaris has 999 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 39 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and service brakes. 2007 drew the most complaints (592), 2014 the fewest (4).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Toyota Yaris vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $8,294–$13,195.

Which Yaris years have the most problems?

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.

Highest: 2007 (592 complaints). Lowest: 2014 (4).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

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). Long-term owne

• Intermittent starting/cranking issues (non-specific): Engine cranks but does not start, potentially related to fuel delivery, spark, or immobilizer/key. Frequency: recurrent.
• Clutch wear/failure: Particularly in higher-mileage manual examples; includes vague biting point and complete failure. Frequency: recurrent.
• Oil consumption: Linked to neglected oil changes in the 1.33L engine; can be remedied with maintenance. Frequency: isolated.
• MMT automated manual transmission jerkiness: Noted in cold conditions or with worn components/battery. Frequency: isolated.
• Excessive road noise and firm ride: Noted as having poor noise insulation and a bouncy ride compared to some competitors. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Yaris. Individual model years are broken down above.