Top Toyota Yaris fixes every owner should know

TL;DR

Toyota Yaris owners should be aware of common faults like water pump failure and ignition coil issues. Repairs can often be done DIY, saving on labour costs, with parts ranging from £20 to £300. Garage labour typically costs between £50 and £150 per hour, depending on the repair.

Water Pump Failure

The water pump in the Yaris, particularly in models from 2006 to 2011, can fail, leading to overheating. This issue is often due to wear and tear on the seals. Replacing the water pump is the best solution. This is a DIY job if you have mechanical skills, but a garage will charge around £150 to £250 for parts and labour.

Ignition Coil Issues

Ignition coils can fail in Yaris models from 2007 to 2014, causing engine misfires and poor performance. Replacing the faulty ignition coil is straightforward. You can do this yourself for about £30 to £50 for the part. A garage might charge between £100 and £150 for the job.

Exhaust System Problems

Exhaust issues, particularly with the catalytic converter, commonly affect Yaris models from 2005 to 2012. This can lead to increased emissions and MOT failures. Depending on the issue, you might need to replace the entire exhaust system or just the catalytic converter. Parts can cost between £100 and £300, with garage labour adding another £70 to £120.

Brake Pad Wear

Brake pads in the Yaris, especially in models from 2008 to 2015, can wear out quickly, affecting braking performance. Replacing brake pads is a common DIY task. Parts usually cost about £30 to £60. If you opt for a garage, expect to pay around £100 to £150 for the full job.

Suspension Issues

Suspension problems, such as worn shock absorbers, are reported in Yaris models from 2006 to 2013. This can lead to a bumpy ride and reduced handling. Replacing shock absorbers is essential for safety. This is a more complex job, so while DIY is possible, it’s recommended to go to a garage. Parts can cost around £100 to £200, with labour costs ranging from £100 to £200.

Toyota Yaris MOT record

From 473,864 recorded MOT tests, 19.7% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
Registered	Tests	Failed	Median mileage
2023	2,124	3.3%	17,720 mi
2022	35,789	4.4%	19,188 mi
2021	25,679	5.4%	24,246 mi
2020	20,340	7.3%	26,590 mi
2019	27,575	9.6%	31,533 mi
2018	27,571	12.2%	37,921 mi
2017	26,525	14.2%	42,978 mi
2016	28,250	13.8%	49,241 mi

Most common reasons for failure

Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements23.8%
A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn21.6%
A tyre seriously damaged19.9%
A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened18.6%
Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded16.2%

Figures cover every Toyota Yaris tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults in the Toyota Yaris?

Common faults include water pump failure, exhaust issues, and faulty ignition coils.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Many issues are DIY-able, but some may require professional help.

How much do repairs typically cost?

Parts can range from £20 to £200, while garage labour can cost between £50 and £100 per hour.

Is it worth repairing an older Yaris?

It depends on the overall condition and value of the car.