2019 Toyota Corolla

The 2019 Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The standard engine is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder producing 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available on some trims, offering 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission. Owners often praise the Corolla for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of standard safety features. Common complaints include uninspired driving dynamics, road noise, and the sometimes sluggish performance of the base engine.

Engine

1.8L 2ZR-FAE

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent topping off between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Toyota has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) for oil consumption, outlining procedures such as performing an oil consumption test and potentially replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of repairs needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, reduced power, and illumination of the check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may indicate misfires on specific cylinders.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the misfire (ignition coils, spark plugs, fuel injectors, vacuum leaks, etc.) and repair/replace as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L M20A-FKS

• No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (K120)

• Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted jerky shifting, particularly at low speeds or during acceleration. Hesitation or a delay in response when pressing the accelerator pedal.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) or a CVT fluid change might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, CVT replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update), $200 (fluid change), $4,000 - $6,000+ (CVT replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure leading to inability to accelerate, unusual noises, or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Full CVT replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. This can sometimes be attributed to worn or loose suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspection of the rear suspension components (shocks, struts, bushings, sway bar links) and replacement of any worn or damaged parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash, requiring a system reboot. This issue can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update, if available), $500 - $1,500+ (infotainment unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera image may intermittently fail to display, be blurry, or have distorted colors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the camera system, including wiring and connections. Replacement of the camera unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates or areas with prolonged sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (dashboard cover), $1,000 - $2,000+ (dashboard replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Toyota Corolla generally maintains Toyota’s reputation for reliability, but some common issues exist. The most concerning issues revolve around the CVT transmission and potential engine problems, particularly excessive oil consumption. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and backup camera are also reported. The severity of these problems varies, but transmission and engine repairs can be costly. While the Corolla is generally reliable, it’s important to be aware of these potential issues when considering a purchase and to have the vehicle inspected for these problems.