2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It’s available with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Some owners praise its fuel economy and safety features, while others find the base engine underpowered and the infotainment system dated.

Engine

1.8L 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. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, burning oil smell, and potentially blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: A possible fix could be to monitor oil levels and top off as needed. If the problem persists, a dealer may perform an oil consumption test. Depending on the results, repairs could range from replacing PCV valve to piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: PCV Valve replacement: $100 - $200; Piston ring replacement: $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Inline-4 (M20A-FKS)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (K120)

• CVT Shudder/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing a shudder or hesitation during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is struggling to find the right gear.
  • Solution: The transmission fluid should be checked for quality and level, and may require a drain and fill of the CVT fluid. In more severe cases, the CVT may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: CVT fluid change: $200 - $400; CVT replacement: $4,000 - $6,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report a clunking or squeaking noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: The source of the noise may be sway bar bushings or rear shocks. Replacing the worn or damaged components typically resolves the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway bar bushing replacement: $100 - $300; Shock replacement: $200 - $500 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or crash, requiring a reset. This can affect navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Performing a software update or reset can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (depending on whether dealer assistance is needed)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty TPMS Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: False low tire pressure warning due to a faulty TPMS sensor, even when tire pressure is correct.
  • Solution: Replace faulty TPMS sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Reflection
  • Description/Symptoms: Glare from the dashboard reflecting onto the windshield, causing visibility issues in certain lighting conditions.
  • Solution: Using a dashboard cover or applying a matte film to the windshield can reduce the glare.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2020 Toyota Corolla generally experiences minor issues, primarily related to the transmission, suspension, and infotainment system. The severity of these issues can vary, with some being easily resolved with software updates or minor repairs. More significant issues, such as CVT replacement or engine repairs, can be costly.