What Is the Most Common Problem with Toyota Yaris?

The Toyota Yaris has long been a reliable option for those seeking a practical, fuel-efficient car.

Whether you’re commuting to work or navigating city streets, it offers a smooth and comfortable ride.

But like any vehicle, the Yaris isn’t without its quirks and occasional issues.

In this article, we’ll dive into the most common problem owners experience with their Toyota Yaris, along with a few other potential concerns.

Understanding these issues can help you stay ahead of the game and keep your Yaris running in tip-top shape for years to come.

Common Issues Owners Face

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s worth noting that no car is perfect.

Even with Toyota’s reputation for building long-lasting, dependable vehicles, the Yaris can have its share of hiccups.

Regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing or minimising the impact of these issues, but it’s always good to be aware of what might crop up down the road.

The Most Common Problem: Faulty Power Steering

When it comes to the Toyota Yaris, one issue seems to crop up more than others – problems with the power steering.

If you’re a Yaris owner, you might have experienced this yourself.

Power steering problems can make your car harder to steer, and you might notice a sudden stiffness in the wheel or even a warning light popping up on the dashboard.

What Exactly Is Power Steering?

Power steering is the system that makes it easier to turn your wheel, especially when you’re driving at low speeds or manoeuvring into a tight parking spot.

Without it, your arms would be working overtime to get the car where you want it to go.

When the system starts to malfunction, steering can become much heavier, and this makes it tricky to drive, especially in urban environments.

How the Power Steering Issue Manifests

In the Toyota Yaris, power steering issues can arise unexpectedly.

You might find that the wheel becomes difficult to turn, almost as if the assistance has been turned off.

In some cases, the power steering warning light on the dashboard will illuminate, signalling that something isn’t quite right.

Most commonly, this issue is due to a fault in the electric power steering (EPS) system.

Some Yaris owners have reported that the steering would intermittently fail, particularly after the car had been driven for some time.

While it’s an inconvenience, it’s also a serious safety concern that needs to be addressed promptly.

Affected Models and Causes

This power steering problem is most frequently reported in Yaris models manufactured between 2007 and 2011.

The issue is usually linked to the EPS motor, which can wear out over time, or the EPS control module, which may need resetting or replacing.

Although this isn’t a universal issue, it’s one of the more common complaints among Yaris owners, especially in older models.

Other Known Problems with Toyota Yaris

While power steering problems are the most commonly reported issue, there are a few other concerns Yaris owners should keep in mind.

Airbag Issues

In certain Toyota Yaris models, airbag problems have been noted, particularly with the Takata airbags that were subject to widespread recalls.

Faulty airbags can fail to deploy correctly in an accident, which is obviously a major safety risk.

It’s worth checking whether your model was affected by any recalls related to airbag issues.

If you’re dealing with a faulty vehicle, you might want to check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car for further guidance.

Transmission Problems

Some Toyota Yaris models have experienced transmission problems, especially when it comes to shifting gears.

This is more prevalent in automatic transmissions and can lead to difficulties when accelerating or changing gears smoothly.

While not as widespread as the power steering issue, it’s something to keep an eye on, particularly if your Yaris is an older model.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Oil consumption is another issue that some Toyota Yaris owners have encountered.

In these cases, the engine burns through oil faster than expected, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.

If you find yourself constantly topping up your oil, it’s best to get your car checked by a professional.

You can also learn more about how long it takes to service a car at a dealership and ensure you stay ahead of these maintenance tasks.

Brake Problems

There have also been reports of brake-related issues in some Yaris models.

These include instances of premature brake wear or even brake failure, which can be particularly concerning for drivers.

Regular brake checks during service intervals can help to prevent any serious issues from developing.

How to Address Common Yaris Problems

If you’re a Toyota Yaris owner and have encountered any of these problems, don’t panic – most of these issues are fixable.

Here are some steps you can take to address common Yaris concerns:

• Power Steering Fix: If you’re experiencing power steering problems, the first step is to take your Yaris to a qualified mechanic. In some cases, the EPS module may just need resetting, while others might require a replacement of the EPS motor.
• Routine Maintenance: Keeping up with regular maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent issues like excessive oil consumption or brake wear. Follow your vehicle’s recommended service intervals to stay on top of things.
• Warranty Coverage: Many of these problems may still be covered under Toyota’s warranty, depending on the age of your vehicle. It’s always worth checking with your dealer to see what’s included.
• Repair Costs: Repair costs can vary depending on the issue. Power steering repairs, for example, might cost a few hundred pounds, while more complex problems like transmission repairs can be pricier. Always get an estimate before committing to any major repairs.

Toyota’s Response to Yaris Problems

Toyota has a reputation for providing excellent customer service, and they’ve generally been proactive in addressing any common issues that arise in their vehicles.

In cases where problems have led to recalls, such as with the airbags, Toyota has offered free replacements to affected customers.

If you’re experiencing any recurring issues with your Yaris, it’s always a good idea to contact your local Toyota dealership.

They can provide you with the latest information on recalls or service bulletins that might affect your car.

If you’re curious about where your Toyota Yaris was manufactured, check out our page on Toyota’s global production.

Preventive Measures for Yaris Owners

Prevention is always better than cure, so it’s important to take steps to avoid common Yaris problems before they escalate.

Here are some tips:

• Regular servicing: Stick to the maintenance schedule recommended by Toyota. This includes oil changes, brake checks, and regular inspections of the power steering system.
• Keep an eye out: Pay attention to warning signs such as dashboard lights or unusual sounds
• Are you looking to buy a new used car? Contact us today and we can help you!

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