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Is the Toyota Corolla safe in a crash?


The Toyota Corolla has long been one of the most popular compact cars on the market, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. But when it comes to safety, especially in the event of a crash, how does the Corolla measure up? In this article, we’ll explore the safety features, crash test ratings, and real-world performance of the Toyota Corolla to help you make an informed decision.


Crash Test Ratings: A Strong Performer


The Toyota Corolla consistently earns high marks in crash tests conducted by reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Here’s a breakdown of its performance:



  • NHTSA: The Corolla typically receives a 5-star overall safety rating, with strong scores in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.

  • IIHS: The Corolla is often awarded the "Top Safety Pick" or "Top Safety Pick+" designation, thanks to its excellent crashworthiness and advanced safety features.


These ratings indicate that the Corolla is designed to protect occupants effectively in a variety of crash scenarios.


Advanced Safety Features


One of the reasons the Toyota Corolla performs so well in crash tests is its suite of advanced safety features, many of which come standard. These include:



  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Helps detect potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.

  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Warns drivers if they unintentionally drift out of their lane and provides gentle steering corrections.

  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

  • Automatic High Beams: Adjusts the headlights for optimal visibility without blinding other drivers.


These features not only help prevent accidents but also mitigate the severity of crashes when they occur.


Real-World Safety Performance


In addition to crash test ratings and safety features, real-world data supports the Corolla’s reputation as a safe vehicle. Studies and insurance claims data show that Corolla drivers and passengers experience fewer severe injuries compared to occupants of many other compact cars. This is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to safety engineering and innovation.


Conclusion: A Safe Choice for Peace of Mind


The Toyota Corolla is undoubtedly a safe vehicle, offering excellent crash test ratings, a robust suite of standard safety features, and strong real-world performance. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a family driver, or a first-time car buyer, the Corolla provides peace of mind on the road. At Kevin’s Autos, we always recommend prioritizing safety when choosing a vehicle, and the Toyota Corolla is a standout option in this regard.


Frequently Asked Questions

What year of Corolla to stay away from?


Quick Answer: Avoid 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, and 2014 Toyota Corollas. Throughout the lifespan of the Toyota Corolla, one of the most commonly reported problems is excessive oil usage in the engine. This was more common in the 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2009 model years, though it did appear in other years such as 2014 ...



What car is most commonly crashed?


The Most Accident-Prone Cars in the U.S. Overall

  • Ford Fusion. Crashes per Number of Sold Cars: 16.39%
  • Nissan Maxima. Crashes per Number of Sold Cars: 7.00%
  • Ford Mustang. Crashes per Number of Sold Cars: 3.67%
  • Honda Accord. Number of Crashes in US States per 100,000 Sold Cars: 2,627.84.
  • Nissan Altima.
  • Chevrolet Silverado.



What Toyota car is safest?


Toyota SUV Top Safety Picks
Peace of mind comes standard on the new Toyota Highlander and RAV4 SUVs thanks to their many safety awards. The Highlander received the NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating in 2023 and 2024, while also being named a 2023 Top Safety Pick+.



Are Corollas safe in crashes?


The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a wide range of vehicles to see their crashworthiness. The 2021 Toyota Corolla received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating in all test assessments.



What is the 1 safest car?


1. Audi Q7. TLD: The Audi Q7 leads the pack with a composite safety score of 91.32, making it the top choice for family safety. It has a low crash rate of 0.7554 per 1,000 cars, a spacious interior with 144.10 cubic feet, and seats seven adults.



What is the safety rating of a Toyota Corolla?


Crashworthiness

Evaluation criteriaRating
Small overlap front: driver-sideG
Small overlap front: passenger-sideG
Moderate overlap front: original testG
Moderate overlap front: updated testM



What are the disadvantages of owning a Toyota Corolla?


Cons

  • Slow acceleration.
  • Too much road noise on the highway.
  • Less rear headroom than most rivals.



What car brand is #1 in safety?


1. Volvo – Volvo leads the automotive industry in balancing AI-boosted crash protection and protective vehicle design. 2. Toyota/Lexus – Toyota and Lexus rank high in terms of safety, reliability, and technological integration.



What vehicle is the safest in a crash?


What Is the Safest Type of Car in an Accident?

  • 2025 Subaru WRX (small car)
  • 2025 Subaru Forester (small SUV)
  • 2025 Subaru Outback (midsize car)
  • 2025 Volvo XC90 (midsize luxury SUV)
  • 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid (midsize luxury SUV)



What is the weakness of the Toyota Corolla?


While it's possible for any model of car to experience an oil leak at some point, the Toyota Corolla Versa has been known to have a particular problem with frequent oil leaks. Additionally, some Corolla drivers have reported excessive oil use from their Corolla models.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.