Is the Toyota Yaris Reliable?
2007–2020 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Toyota Yaris? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
electrical problems / no-start
Component: electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery
⚠ Historically, 2% of DP investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Toyota Yaris Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 0 | 7 | — | — | 87 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 2 | 22 | 1 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2018 | 1 | 4 | — | — | 87 | Excellent |
| 2017 | 1 | 8 | — | — | 81 | Good |
| 2016 | 1 | 23 | 7 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2015 | 1 | 11 | 11 | — | 64 | Good |
| 2014 | 1 | 2 | — | — | 89 | Excellent |
| 2013 | 1 | 6 | 3 | — | 74 | Good |
| 2012 | 5 | 25 | 6 | 1 | 64 | Good |
| 2011 | 3 | 15 | 7 | — | 64 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Yaris Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Yaris scores 7 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Toyota Yaris Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 123 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toyota Yaris reliable?+
The Toyota Yaris scores 79/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 16 recall campaigns and 123 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Yaris is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2014 Yaris achieved the highest reliability score of 89/100 with 1 recall and 2 complaints.
How many miles does a Yaris last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Toyota Yaris owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Yaris will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Toyota Yaris Research
Check a Specific Toyota Yaris VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →