What is the most common problems with Toyota?

In brief, the most frequently reported problems tend to cluster around engine oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines, occasional transmission quirks in certain generations, and major safety recalls such as Takata airbag inflators. Despite these issues, Toyota’s overall reliability remains among the best in the mainstream market.

Beyond that headline, the frequency and nature of problems vary by model and year. This article surveys the kinds of issues owners commonly report, how they differ across Toyota’s lineup, and practical steps to mitigate risk or expense.

Common mechanical concerns across Toyota models

From owner feedback and recall data, the most frequently discussed mechanical concerns fall into a handful of system areas. The list below highlights these patterns and helps prospective buyers and owners understand what to watch for in different generations.

• Engine and fuel systems: occasional oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines and related fuel/EVAP system concerns. These problems tend to be tied to specific model-year ranges rather than the entire lineup.


• Drivetrain and transmission: reports of hesitation, slipping, or rough shifting in certain automatic transmissions and some hybrid systems; frequency varies by generation and model.


• Hybrid and battery systems: for older Prius and other hybrids, battery degradation and higher replacement costs have been reported as cars age, though newer hybrids have shown improved long-term reliability.


• Electrical and electronics: infotainment glitches, sensor notices, and issues with power windows or door regulators are common complaint areas across many brands, including Toyota, especially in aging vehicles.


• Safety components and recalls: airbags, brake/sensor electronics, and related safety systems have been targets of recalls, with Takata airbag campaigns being the most prominent in recent memory.

Taken together, these issues represent the most frequently cited trouble spots. Regular maintenance, timely recall repairs, and model-year-specific research help keep ownership problems to a minimum.

Recalls and safety-related issues affecting Toyota vehicles

Safety recalls have affected a broad swath of Toyota models over the years, often spanning multiple model years. The most significant topics have centered on airbag inflators, unintended acceleration remedies, and ongoing electronics safety campaigns. The chronology and scope vary by region and model, and owners should check their VIN against recall databases regularly.

Below are the major recall themes that have historically affected Toyota vehicles, with a look at how they were addressed and what owners should know today.

Takata airbag inflator recalls

The Takata airbag inflator recalls affected a wide range of Toyota models across many years. Inflators were replaced under recall campaigns, with most vehicles updated through extensive dealer campaigns over the 2010s and early 2020s. Owners should verify recall status for their specific vehicle and ensure all replacements have been completed.

Unintended acceleration and related pedal/floor-mat campaigns

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, several Toyota models were part of campaigns addressing unintended acceleration concerns. Remedies typically included redesigned accelerator pedals, floor mat adjustments, and related software updates. Most vehicles involved have since been updated, but owners should verify any lingering campaign requirements for older units.

Other safety recall campaigns

Beyond airbags and pedal-related issues, Toyota has conducted recalls for various safety components—such as fuel system hardware, brake switch or actuator assemblies, and seat belt pretensioners—in specific models and years. These campaigns are model-year dependent and often tied to new findings or manufacturing changes. Owners should routinely check official recall databases for updates tied to their exact vehicle.

It is crucial for Toyota owners to stay current on recalls via official channels such as the NHTSA (U.S.) or corresponding agencies in other countries, and to have a qualified technician inspect any intermittent symptoms promptly.

What to do if you own a Toyota and notice a problem

For persistent or unusual symptoms, consult a Toyota-certified technician or a trusted mechanic. Regular maintenance, timely software or recall updates, and prompt attention to any warning lights reduce the risk of minor issues becoming costly repairs.

Summary

Toyota vehicles are widely recognized for reliability, but no brand is free of recurring concerns. The most common problems tend to cluster around engine oil consumption in some four-cylinder engines, occasional transmission or hybrid-system quirks, and safety recall campaigns (notably Takata airbags) that span model years. With proactive maintenance, attentive model-year research, and prompt recall compliance, owners can enjoy long-term value and a strong overall reliability profile.

What is the most common issue with Toyotas?

What Are Common Toyota Vehicle Issues?

• Common Toyota Vehicle Issues. Some Toyota owners report excessive oil consumption over time.
• Electrical System Concerns.
• Brake and Suspension Problems.
• Air Conditioning and HVAC Issues.
• Why Professional Help Matters.

What model Toyota is being recalled?

Toyota has multiple recent recalls, affecting different models with different issues. One major recall involves over a million 2022-2026 model year vehicles (including the bZ4X, Camry, Crown, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, and Sienna) for a faulty rearview camera system that may fail. Another recall is for approximately 127,000 2022-2024 Tundra, 2022-2024 LX, and 2024 GX vehicles due to potential engine problems caused by manufacturing debris. A separate recall includes certain 2025 Camry Hybrid, 2023-2025 Lexus NX, and 2024-2025 Lexus RX models for a potential second-row center seat belt webbing issue. 
Major recalls

• Rearview Camera: Over 1 million vehicles from model years 2022-2026 are affected by a potential software error that can cause the backup camera image to freeze or go blank. 
  • Models: bZ4X (2023-2025), Camry (2025-2026), Crown (2023-2026), Crown Signia (2025), Grand Highlander (2024-2026), Highlander (2023-2025), Land Cruiser (2024-2025), Mirai (2023-2025), Prius (2023-2025), RAV4 (2023-2025), Sienna (2025), Venza (2023-2024), and certain Lexus and Subaru models. 
  • Fix: Dealers will update the parking assist software for free. 
• Engine Debris: Approximately 127,000 vehicles may be at risk of engine stall or loss of power due to machining debris from the manufacturing process. 
  • Models: 2022-2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX. 
  • Fix: Toyota is developing a remedy, and customers will be notified by early January 2026. 
• Seat Belt: A recall has been issued for certain models where the second-row center seat belt webbing may be damaged. 
  • Models: 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid, 2023-2025 Lexus NX250, NX350, NX350 Hybrid, 2024-2025 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, and RX500 Hybrid. 

How to check for recalls

• Check the Toyota website: Visit Toyota.com/recall and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 
• Use the Toyota app: Check the "health" section of your Toyota or Lexus app for recall information. 
• Visit the NHTSA website: You can also check for recalls on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website by entering your VIN. 

What is the most unreliable Toyota model?

The most unreliable Toyota models are often specific generations or years, with common issues including the 2010 Toyota Prius (hybrid system glitches, brake issues), the 2007 Toyota Camry and 2007 RAV4 (excessive oil consumption in the V6 engine), and certain Corolla models with CVTs (2014-2017) (transmission problems due to software and design issues). Older models like the Previa and certain RAV4/Corolla models from the early 2000s also have reports of specific problems like turbo failure and transmission issues, respectively. 
Most frequently cited unreliable models 

• 2010 Toyota Prius: Prone to a range of issues, including software glitches in the hybrid system, problems with the hybrid battery, and issues with the brake pressure accumulator, which led to a recall. 
• 2007 Toyota Camry: The 3.5L V6 engine in this model was known for excessive oil consumption. It also had a major recall due to a defect with the floor mats that could cause the gas pedal to get stuck. 
• 2007 RAV4: Similar to the 2007 Camry, this model also had issues with the 3.5L V6 engine's oil consumption. 
• 2014-2017 Toyota Corolla (with CVT): These models experienced problems with their Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), including shuddering, hesitation, and eventual failure, largely due to software calibration and potential issues with the steel belt system. 
• 2009 Toyota Corolla: This model year is frequently mentioned for potential transmission problems. 
• 1997 Toyota Previa: Known for poor performance and frequent turbo failures. 

Key issues to be aware of

• Oil Consumption: The 3.5L V6 engine found in models like the 2007 Camry and RAV4 is known for consuming excessive amounts of oil. 
• CVT Transmission Problems: Certain Corolla and RAV4 models from 2014 to 2017 with CVTs had software and design issues that could lead to poor performance and premature failure. Regular fluid changes are essential for these vehicles. 
• Hybrid System Issues: The third-generation Prius, particularly the 2010 model, had several recall-worthy issues with its hybrid system, including problems with the brake pressure accumulator and a software glitch. 

What to do if you own one of these models

• Check for Recalls: Visit the manufacturer's website or a third-party site like the NHTSA to check if any recalls apply to your specific vehicle and ensure all have been completed.
• Follow Maintenance Schedules: Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for things like CVT fluid changes, which are often overlooked but critical for the longevity of those transmissions. 
• Be Proactive with Symptoms: If you notice any symptoms like hesitation, shuddering, warning lights, or excessive oil consumption, have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle immediately. 

Which Toyotas have engine problems?

Toyota is recalling about 127,000 pickup trucks and SUVs over potential issues related to the vehicles' engines that could increase the risk of a crash. The recall covers model year 2022-2024 Toyota Tundra pickup trucks, model year 2022-2024 Lexus LX SUVs and model year 2024 Lexus GX SUVs equipped with V35A engines.