Toyota Corolla Years to Avoid
Every Corolla model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 16, 2026.
Which Corolla years should you avoid?
The 2009, 2010 and 2011 Corolla have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2013, 2018 and 2008 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 31 | 16 | 0 | Brakes |
| 2024 | 65 | 22 | 2 | Emergency Braking |
| 2023 | 73 | 18 | 3 | Steering |
| 2022 | 101 | 20 | 0 | Electrical |
| 2021 | 186 | 31 | 1 | Airbags |
| 2020 | 310 | 44 | 3 | Engine |
| 2019 | 204 | 26 | 5 | Transmission |
| 2018 | 135 | 15 | 3 | Fuel System |
| 2017 | 178 | 18 | 3 | Airbags |
| 2016 | 215 | 20 | 1 | Airbags |
| 2015 | 220 | 18 | 1 | Airbags |
| 2014 | 269 | 21 | 2 | Airbags |
| 2013 | 201 | 14 | 5 | Airbags |
| 2012 | 446 | 30 | 5 | Airbags |
| 2011 | 584 | 37 | 9 | Airbags |
| 2010 | 1,244 | 73 | 17 | Airbags |
| 2009 | 1,459 | 81 | 13 | Airbags |
| 2008 | 314 | 17 | 6 | Airbags |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Toyota Corolla?
The 2009 Corolla, with 1,459 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the airbags.
What is the best year for the Toyota Corolla?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2013 Corolla has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Toyota Corolla years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2009, 2010 and 2011 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.