2018 Toyota C-HR

The 2018 Toyota C-HR is a subcompact crossover known for its distinctive styling and surprisingly agile handling. It came standard with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While owners generally appreciate the C-HR’s unique appearance and fuel efficiency, some common complaints revolve around the lack of all-wheel drive, limited rear visibility, and the engine’s somewhat underpowered feel for highway driving.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (2ZR-FAE)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. There is no smoke from the exhaust. It is more common as the vehicle accumulates mileage.
  • Solution: There is no permanent fix from Toyota. Some owners have reported success with using a thicker oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies; oil changes ($50 - $100), engine replacement (if severe) can be $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (K114)

• Hesitation/Jerking During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced a noticeable hesitation or jerky feeling during acceleration, particularly from a stop or at low speeds. This behavior may be more pronounced in cold weather.
  • Solution: Some dealers have had success with reflashing the transmission control module (TCM) with updated software. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Reflash ($100 - $200), CVT Replacement ($3,000 - $5,000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Some sources suggest the issue may be related to the rear shock absorbers or stabilizer bar links. Replacing these components may resolve the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Shock absorber replacement ($200 - $500 per pair), stabilizer bar link replacement ($100 - $300 per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Entune Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the Entune infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some of these issues. If the problems persist, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update (often free at dealership), head unit replacement ($500 - $1500+)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Wire Harnesses
  • Description/Symptoms: The wire harnesses in the vehicle can develop problems over time, leading to various electrical issues.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected wire harness may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the rear hatch struts weaken over time, causing the hatch to not stay open properly or close unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear hatch struts with new ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: In certain climates, owners have reported cracking or warping of the dashboard material, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: There is no permanent fix; dashboard replacement is the only solution. Using a sunshade can help prevent future damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard Replacement ($1,000 - $2,000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Toyota C-HR has a few recurring issues that potential buyers should be aware of. While some problems like infotainment glitches and suspension noises may be relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others such as excessive oil consumption or CVT issues can be more serious and costly. Overall, the C-HR is a generally reliable vehicle, but pre-purchase inspection focusing on these potential weak points is recommended.