2021 Toyota C-HR

The 2021 Toyota C-HR is a subcompact SUV known for its distinctive styling, good fuel economy, and standard safety features. All 2021 C-HR models come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While appreciated for its unique design and nimble handling, some owners have voiced concerns regarding the C-HR’s limited cargo space and somewhat sluggish acceleration.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-ups between scheduled oil changes. The cause is not definitively pinpointed but often involves the piston rings.
  • Solution: Oil consumption tests can determine the extent of the issue. Depending on the severity, repair options range from replacing the PCV valve to a more involved engine rebuild or replacement of piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Jerky Acceleration/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted jerky acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, or hesitation when accelerating from a stop. This is often attributed to the CVT’s programming and behavior.
  • Solution: Software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) may improve the smoothness of the CVT. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $6,000+ depending on whether a software fix or replacement is needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, lags, or crashes, requiring a restart. This can affect access to navigation, audio, and other vehicle settings.
  • Solution: A software update can resolve the issue. Replacing the entire infotainment unit if the system can not be salvaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $1,000+ (if unit replacement is needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Malfunctioning Rear Hatch Latch
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch latch may fail to open consistently or become completely inoperable.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear hatch latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or other interior trim pieces, particularly when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve adding padding or tightening loose fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the complexity of the fix.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Toyota C-HR generally has a good reputation for reliability, but some owners have experienced issues such as excessive oil consumption, CVT behavior quirks, and infotainment system glitches. While the oil consumption issue can potentially lead to costly engine repairs, other reported problems are generally less severe and less expensive to address. Potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing.