The Worst Problems for Every Toyota Model and Generation

A large pile of crushed cars

Car problems happen. But there's something we can do about it.

By matching owner complaints with recall, investigation and technical service bulletin data we've come up with a list of the most common Toyota problems for every model and generation. We've even ranked vehicles by their reliability.

Trending Problems

A few problems that keep popping up. There's plenty more where that came from.

  2. Toyota Excessive Oil Consumption

    An increasing number of Toyota vehicles are experiencing excessive oil consumption which may be the result of defective piston rings. Toyota, in all their 'deny-til-we-die' splendor, is reportedly denying warranty coverage on many oil consu…

    Continue reading article "Toyota Excessive Oil Consumption"

  3. Melting Dashboards

    One of the automotive world's worst science projects is coming to an end. Toyota dashboards have long been known to melt under the heat of the sun. The melted dashes warp and extrude a strange, goo-like substance that is oddly shiny and sti…

    Continue reading article "Melting Dashboards"

All Problems

What Owners Complain About the Most

Sorting out which topics, problems, and model years have the most overall complaints from owners on CarComplaints.com.

Worst Issues view all problems

What Breaks the Most view all topics

Years to Avoid view all years

The Least Reliable Toyota Models

Some models just can't seem to get out of their own way. We've created a list of the least reliable GMC models using data such as complaint volume, average cost of repairs, age of the car when it breaks down, and recall frequency.

All Models

Key Numbers

  1. 38 models

    Each with their own trim levels, bodystyles, and special blend of headaches.

  2. 94 generations

    A group of years for a specific model with the same design, features, and problems.

  3. 31 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  4. 14,177 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  5. 14,889 service bulletins

    Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems.

  6. 642 recall campaigns

    Time-sensitive, free repairs for widespread safety problems.

Worst Generations

A generation is a group of model years where little, if any, changes were made. They tend to have the same problems and some generations have horrible reputations for reliability. Here's a handful you should avoid.

See All Generations

Recent Toyota News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. A lawsuit wonders how Toyota can keep calling their bluetooth implementation "hands-free" when owners very much need to use their hands to prevent echos on each and every call.

    For years owners have complained about this issue, but Toyota's only suggestion has been to pickup the phone and turn it's volume all the way up after the call has been initiated. Oh, and also make sure the radio volume is below level 45. Sorta defeats the point, don't you think?…

    keep reading article "Illinois Lawsuit Says Toyota's Hands-Free Calling is Unusable"

  5. Someone at Toyota forgot to make sure the new RAV4 Prime's headlights are only adjustable by a certified mechanic.

    And that's a no-no under federal law. So here we are, less than six months from when they were first made available for sale and 700 owners of the PHEV SUV are already dealing with their first recall. At least they were able to get their hands one.

    The recall is expected to begin in early January 2021 and will make sure the headlight's aiming caps are properly closed.

    keep reading article "The New RAV4 Prime Has Been Recalled for Headlights That Break the Law"

See More News

Having car trouble?

Tell Us What's Wrong With Your Toyota

The best way to find out what's wrong with a vehicle is from the people who drive them. Not only do owner complaints help us rank vehicles by reliability, but they're often used to spark class-action lawsuits and warranty extensions. Plus, they're a great way to vent.

Add a complaint