Toyota Corolla Years To Avoid | 20 Best & Worst Years 2023

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Source: carbuzz

It is widely believed that the Toyota Corolla, produced continuously since 1966 and sold over 44 million units as of 2016, is the best-selling automobile in history. However, this may be contested because the Corolla encompasses several distinct models.

One of the most popular vehicles, the Toyota Corolla, has earned praise for its reliability and dependability. Nevertheless, not every model has met the brand’s standards, as seen by a wide range of engine issues and ridiculous repair costs.

The model years 2011, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2003, 2002, and 1997 are the worst model years that should be avoided. However, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2008 are the best and most reliable Toyota Corolla Years Ever Made. This result is conducted from the reliable sources of Edmund, Jd Power, NHTSA, and Kelley Blue Book.

Based on actual facts and ratings, we are able to give you the most accurate and authentic list of the worst Toyota Corolla years that you should avoid and the best Toyota Corolla years that you should give a shot. We have rated the cars using Edmund’s consumer rating, Jd Power rating, Kelley Blue Book rating, NHTSA recalls, and NHTSA complaints.

Let’s begin with the worst Toyota Corolla years exist in history.

What Are The Worst Toyota Corolla Years To Avoid?

Although the Toyota Corolla has earned a reputation for dependability, it has also been the subject of several complaints over the years, particularly about the standards of some variants. In particular, the following years of these automobiles should be avoided.

#1 Worst Year: 1997 Toyota Corolla (3.98 Stars)

Source: Vauxford / Wikipedia

The 1997 Corolla is a reliable vehicle that can cover tens of thousands of kilometers without needing any major maintenance. Owners who have had the car for over 20 years still rave about how well it handles and how quickly the HVAC system responds.

Operating among the best cars is also incredibly enjoyable, including an innovative cabin design and advanced safety equipment.

This vehicle has unbelievably high standards of reliability and quality. Its mileage is significantly lower compared to its rivals’ newest models.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#2 Worst Year: 2002 Toyota Corolla (3.93 Stars)

Source: jbcarpages

The NHSTA cited numerous complaints about the 2002 Toyota Corolla, including the car’s engine, seat belts, and airbags.

Complaints concerning the engine included excessive oil consumption, engine failure, tapping noises, and buzzing sounds during acceleration.

Typical issues:

  • Excessive oil consumption.
  • Engine failure.
  • Tapping noises.
  • Buzzing sounds during acceleration.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#3 Worst Year: 2007 Toyota Corolla (3.9 Stars)

Source: Netcarshow

Although it has a low starting price and respectable fuel efficiency, the automobile is unsuccessful due to its several reported complaints.

It has been reported multiple times that airbags did not deploy during incidents. As a result, people suffered more severe injuries than they would have had if the safety features had been working properly.

Typical issues:

  • The airbag failed to deploy.
  • Flaking paint.
  • Extreme corrosion.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#4 Worst Year: 2011 Toyota Corolla (3.82 Stars)

Source: Netcarshow

Many customers complained that Toyota was too sluggish to fix the problem with their 2011 Corolla airbags. The airbag status indicator kept blinking, according to several owners.

Typical issues:

  • Paint and clear coat problems.
  • Inoperative horn.
  • Surging engine.
  • Malfunctioned Air conditioner.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#5 Worst Year: 2006 Toyota Corolla (3.69 Stars)

Source: Christian / Cargurus

Due to airbag problems, the 2006 Toyota Corolla’s airbags did not always deploy in the case of a crash.

Typical issues:

  • Problems with airbag deploying.
  • The engine jerks when the car stops.
  • Paint chipping.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#6 Worst Year: 2005 Toyota Corolla (3.34 Stars)

Source: Nick / foothillsalesandleasing

In 2005, Toyota Corollas had issues with their airbags, so they didn’t always go off when they should have.

Typical issues:

  • No airbags went off
  • Peeling paint
  • Engine problem.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#7 Worst Year: 2003 Toyota Corolla (3.3 Stars)

Source: Ifcar / Wikipedia

There were severe gearbox problems with the 2003 Toyota Corolla, which caused a lot of people to worry. Consequently, many criticisms were leveled against this model because of this, which is why this is the least rated and worst Toyota year ever built.

Typical issues:

  • Wrong Warning indicator for deployed airbags.
  • Failure of the transmission.
  • Troubles with the transmission and differential.
  • Terrible oil sludge and engine performance.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#8 Worst Year: 2009 Toyota Corolla (3.2 Stars)

Source: Netcarshow

The Toyota Corolla that came out in 2009 received widespread critical reviews. Both users and the NHTSA reported a high frequency of problems. Specifically, many had issues with the car’s engine, safety belts, and airbags.

Typical issues:

  • Poor fuel efficiency.
  • Problems with the water pump.
  • Deafening engine noise.
  • Car surging.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#9 Worst Year: 2010 Toyota Corolla (3.09 Stars)

Source: Netcarshow

The 2010 Toyota Corolla was examined somewhat after consumers were exposed to the problems that plagued the previous year’s model, 2009. However, this model’s steering wheel was the most noticeable flaw. Steering wheel failures were reported, resulting in some serious crashes. Source: Netcarshow

Typical issues:

  • Airbag damage.
  • Faulty steering.
  • Sound of grinding brakes.
  • Airbag damage.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

What Are The Best Toyota Corolla Years To Buy?

These Corollas are the best of the best and will likely continue to stand the test of time. You can put your trust in them. Let’s have a look at them.

#1 Best Year: 2012 Toyota Corolla (4.09 Stars)

Source: izmocars

The 2012 Toyota Corolla, like the 2014 model, experienced numerous problems with its airbags. After an accident where the automobile flipped over and rolled many times, the owner reported that none of the airbags had been deployed. Some customers also reported having quick, unexpected acceleration.

Typical issues:

  • Squealing brakes.
  • The airbags did not activate.
  • Accidental acceleration.
  • Problems with the air conditioner.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#2 Best Year: 2021 Toyota Corolla (4.12 Stars)

Source: Jennifer / cars.com

Since the 2020 Corolla was so well appreciated, Toyota has been under pressure to keep up the quality of its offerings and preserve its position at the forefront of the next generation of automobiles.

With its lengthy list of safety features, great fuel economy, comfortable ride quality, and simple controls, the Corolla 2021 accomplished this with relative ease.

One of the 2021 Corolla family had Supersonic Red paint and a special body package, while the Special Edition trim was available in 1,500 units.

The limited-edition Apex Edition had a well-rounded engine, summer tires, and a conventional manual transmission.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

  • Edmunds: 2021 Corolla got 4/5 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2021 Corolla got N/A consumer ratings.
  • NHTSA: 2021 Corolla got 0 recalls and 38 complaints.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2021 Corolla got 4.2/5 ratings.

#3 Best Year: 2019 Toyota Corolla (4.17 Stars)

Source: Jim / cartalk

As an alternative that won’t break the bank, the 2019 Toyota Corolla comes highly recommended by customers and critics alike for its combination of reliability, low cost of ownership, and low incidence of mechanical issues.

A hatchback variant, built on an entirely new chassis, was introduced for this generation.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#4 Best Year: 2008 Toyota Corolla (4.18 Stars)

Source: netcarshow


No major changes were made to this model year compared to its immediate predecessors, but the steep decrease in complaints and issues seen in NHTSA statistics landed it on this list.

When the next-generation Toyota Corolla came out, the 2008 model was regarded as the least reliable car in its class.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#5 Best Year: 2018 Toyota Corolla (4.19 Stars)

The 2018 Toyota Corolla is a conventional four-wheel-drive five-seat Sedan. Nonetheless, it has recently updated graphics, design, and a solid array of modern features, which propels it to a significant position on this list. Source: EurovisionNim / Wikipedia

The 2018 Toyota Corolla is reliable if you’re trying to save money without sacrificing new trends.

Many built-in safeguards and high-tech features like touch screens and app connectivity boost user experience.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#6 Best Year: 2013 Toyota Corolla (4.27 Stars)

Source: EurovisionNim / Wikipedia

Though newer models get greater gas mileage, the 2013 Corolla stood out for its reliability, quiet cabin, and smooth ride.

A new audio system (touchscreen display) was added to the higher-end trims and standards on all models, and the grille was modified for the entire lineup.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#7 Best Year: 2014 Toyota Corolla (4.35 Stars)

Source: myautoworld

The 2014 Toyota Corolla model had numerous issues within just a few years of its release. An issue with the EVAP system caused the engine light to turn on. In contrast to the model year 2001 version, this light did not suddenly quit functioning. Instead, it showed utterly inaccurate data.

Typical issues:

  • Problems with the air conditioner
  • Problematic Infotainment system
  • The air bags did not work.
  • Rattling sound from the dashboard

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#8 Best Year: 2020 Toyota Corolla (4.36 Stars)

Source: carbuzz

With this model, Toyota got off to a strong start with their latest generation of Corollas.

To kick off the new generation with a bang, Toyota released the redesigned 2020 Corolla, which not only improved the class’ exterior appeal but also lifted the bar for the average sedan by providing a roomier cabin, more convenient amenities, cutting-edge safety features, and a fun driving experience.

Because of the engine’s low noise level and the car’s refined suspension and handling, it provides a smooth driving experience.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#9 Best Year: 2022 Toyota Corolla (4.46 Stars)

Source: carbuzz

The 2022 Corolla has many helpful driver aids built in, a sleek design, and a top-notch 5-star safety rating.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla, the third in the current range of the latest generation of Corolla, retains the same features as its forerunners, including a variety of safety features, decent fuel economy, and general comfort.

The model has a fuel-saving hybrid variant, automated braking, and a range of driver assistance features. Although no new functionality or other noticeable change exists, this vehicle meets the criteria.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

#10 Best Year: 2023 Toyota Corolla (4.48 Stars)

Source: Netcarshow

It’s hardly surprising that certain newer models are at the top of the list, given that they have cutting-edge features and have been greatly improved upon since their beginnings.

Toyota updated the look of its gas and hybrid vehicles for 2023 by making a few minor modifications to the outside and making numerous updates to the trim levels and powertrains. Moreover, the smaller displays were phased out in favor of a new standard 8-inch infotainment panel in all Corollas.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints

What Are The Common Toyota Corolla Problems?

1. Problematic Transmission

Vehicles from the first decade of the 200-series were notorious for transmission failure, even after thorough servicing. Sometimes the transmission would make a grinding noise before finally giving out while driving. This is an extremely risky issue that requires significant resources to resolve.

2. Accidental Acceleration

Further investigation revealed that some Toyota vehicles with defective floor mats experienced unexpected acceleration; Toyota was aware of this issue yet continued making the cars despite repeated warnings from buyers.

3. Excessive Oil Consumption

This problem has plagued multiple models, requiring monthly oil changes due to excessive consumption. The problem’s origin was not determined, although fixes included everything from replacing a few components to getting a new engine.

4. Issues with the Airbags

Because of this issue, nearly 5.8 million vehicles had to be recalled. The first was that the airbag might explode, sending metal pieces flying at the riders.

The airbag failed to deploy at all in one instance. One such reason was a malfunctioning sensor. However, this issue has been fixed in newer models, so be wary of purchasing an older model.

5. EVAP Concerns

The EVAP system was problematic in various devices, resulting in a random on-screen warning. The issue was difficult to diagnose, with many customers thinking a broken charcoal canister or a defective gas cap caused it. If this is not fixed, the situation could get even worse.

Conclusion

The Toyota name is well-known in the auto industry due to the many different models it has developed; nonetheless, the Corolla series stands out as the greatest and most well-known of all Toyota’s offerings.

Although the company has encountered some tough times, such as the 2010 model that is universally despised, it continues to make attempts to manufacture great automobiles, such as the newer models that are bringing the brand back into the spotlight, such as the model 2023.

Based on the data presented above, Both the 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla have many remarkably comparable customer complaints. However, the latest 2023 Toyota Corolla is the best year to purchase if you want a new one with the most advanced and top-notch quality.

Now that you know which model years of the Toyota Corolla are the greatest and worst, you can make an informed decision while shopping for one.

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