2014 Toyota Yaris
Introduction:
The 2014 Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability. It is available with two engine options: a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine producing 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a CVT transmission. While the Yaris is generally well-received for its practicality, some owners have reported issues with various components.
Engine
1.5L 4-cylinder Engine
Leaking Valve Cover Gasket Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover area, resulting in a burning smell and potential engine damage. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
1.8L 4-cylinder Engine
No Issues Found
Transmission
5-speed Manual Transmission
Grinding Gears Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, accompanied by grinding noises. Solution: Replace the synchronizers or the entire transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ Recalls: None Found
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Torque Converter Failure Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, delayed engagement, or shuddering while shifting. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
CVT Transmission
Pulley Bearing Failure Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noises during acceleration, especially in low speeds. Solution: Replace the pulley bearing. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found
Suspension
No Issues Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, resulting in loss of power or difficulty starting the engine. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Clear Coat Peeling Description/Symptoms: Clear coat on the paint peeling or bubbling, exposing the underlying paint. Solution: Repair or repaint the affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Dashboard Rattle Description/Symptoms: Loose dashboard components causing annoying rattling noises. Solution: Disassemble the dashboard and tighten or replace loose parts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Sunroof Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening, closing properly, or making excessive noise. Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or tracks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Airbag Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light staying illuminated, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system. Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty airbag components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary:
Overall, the 2014 Toyota Yaris has some reported issues, but their severity and cost of repair vary. The transmission issues, particularly with the manual and CVT transmissions, can be costly to fix. Other issues, such as the valve cover gasket leak and dashboard rattle, are relatively minor and less expensive to address. While most issues are not widespread, some, like the clear coat peeling and sunroof malfunction, have affected a significant number of owners. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential problems before making a purchase decision.