2018 Toyota Corolla
The 2018 Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The standard engine is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder producing 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. A more efficient version of the same engine is also available which offers 140 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. The primary transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), though a six-speed manual was offered on the Corolla iM trim. Owners often praise the Corolla for its comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, and excellent fuel economy. Common complaints include the somewhat uninspired driving experience and the basic interior materials.
Engine
1.8L 2ZR-FAE/FE
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning light, engine knocking, and blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings has been known to resolve this issue. In other cases, owners have found that the PCV valve is the cause.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+ for piston ring replacement. $50-$200 for PCV valve replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Hesitation/Jerking During Acceleration
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience hesitation or jerking, especially during initial acceleration or when attempting to pass. This can be more noticeable at lower speeds.
- Solution: A software update or CVT fluid change may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, CVT replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid change, $100 - $500 for software update, $3,000 - $5,000+ for CVT replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a clunking or squeaking noise coming from the rear suspension when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This may be due to worn or failing rear shock absorbers or sway bar links.
- Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components is the typical fix. This usually involves replacing the rear shock absorbers and/or sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Backup Camera Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The backup camera display may intermittently fail to display an image, or the image may be distorted or blurry.
- Solution: Replacement of the backup camera unit or checking/repairing the wiring harness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing phones, frequent disconnections, or inability to stream audio.
- Solution: Resetting the infotainment system, updating the infotainment software, or replacing the Bluetooth module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset/update) to $500+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for dashboard replacement, $50 - $200 for a dashboard cover.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Toyota Corolla generally exhibits good reliability, but some common issues can arise. The excessive oil consumption in the 1.8L engine can be a costly repair if it requires piston ring replacement. CVT transmission issues, while not always severe, can affect the driving experience and could potentially lead to expensive replacements. Other reported problems such as the rear suspension noise and backup camera issues are typically less severe and less costly to resolve. The interior dashboard cracking is a common complaint and more of a cosmetic issue. While not every 2018 Corolla will experience these problems, being aware of them can help prospective buyers make an informed decision.