Toyota C-hr problems

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The Toyota C-HR (Japanese: トヨタ C-HR, Hepburn: Toyota Shīeichiāru) is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured by Japanese automaker Toyota since 2016. The development of the car began in 2013, led by Toyota chief engineer Hiroyuki Koba. The C-HR is built on the same TNGA-C (GA-C) platform as the E210 series Corolla and positioned between the Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross in Toyota's crossover SUV lineup since 2020. According to Toyota, the C-HR is a mixture of hatchbacks, B-segment SUVs and compact car platform, and has been described as a coupe crossover.

First generation (AX10/AX50; 2016)

Concept model

The Toyota C-HR was first previewed by the Scion C-HR Concept, and then the Toyota C-HR Concept.

Production model

The production version of the C-HR was unveiled at the March 2016 Geneva Motor Show and started production in November 2016. It was launched in Japan on 14 December 2016. It went on sale in Europe, Australia, South Africa and North America in early 2017, and in Southeast Asia, China and Taiwan in 2018. The name C-HR can stand for either Compact High Rider, Cross Hatch Run–about or Coupe High Rider.

Initial production was in Japan and Turkey. The 2018–2020 model year North American-spec C-HR is imported from Turkey.

photo of Toyota C-hr car production

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Toyota C-hr model years

toyota c-hr 2021 photo
C-hr 2021
Toyota

15

1

17

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota c-hr 2020 photo
C-hr 2020
Toyota

7

1

28

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota c-hr 2019 photo
C-hr 2019
Toyota

32

3

20

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota c-hr 2018 photo
C-hr 2018
Toyota

131

1

26

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Toyota C-hr problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Toyota C-HR, several common problems have been reported:

  1. Transmission Jerks:
    Owners have experienced transmission issues with the Toyota C-HR, leading to jerking movements. This problem can be caused by various factors, impacting the driving experience and potentially requiring costly repairs.
  2. Engine Trouble:
    The Toyota C-HR has been known to face engine problems, including a shorter lifespan than expected. This issue can result in significant expenses for repairs and maintenance, affecting the overall reliability of the vehicle.
  3. Lack of Power:
    Many owners have complained about the C-HR's lack of power, especially when accelerating on hills or passing other vehicles. This issue can be frustrating for drivers who expect better performance from their vehicle.
  4. Noisier Engine:
    The engine of the Toyota C-HR is reported to be noisy, particularly when cold. This noise could be due to a faulty timing belt or pulley, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to further damage and costly repairs.
  5. Excessive Vibrations:
    Excessive vibrations have been a common complaint among Toyota C-HR owners. Identifying the root cause of these vibrations can be challenging without specialized equipment, potentially indicating issues with the steering or suspension systems.
  6. Recalls and Reliability Concerns:
    The Toyota C-HR has faced several recalls, including issues with the high-pressure fuel pump, brake pedal bracket bolts, and radar sensor initialization. These recalls highlight potential safety risks and the importance of ensuring all necessary remedial work has been completed.

These problems collectively contribute to concerns about the Toyota C-HR's reliability and maintenance costs, making it essential for prospective buyers to carefully consider these issues before purchasing this model.

Toyota C-hr

What is the most common problem with the Toyota C-HR?

Possible causes and solutions. Below are some of the reasons your CHR May develop early transmission issues. And what to do about. It low transmission fluid.

Is the Toyota C-HR a reliable car?

Reliability Survey, the Toyota C-HR ranked eighth out of 34 cars in the family SUV class with an overall score of 97.4%. An excellent result.

Does the Toyota C-HR have transmission problems?

I've since discovered that the Toyota C-HR has had transmission issues in North America, and I am not sure why the faint whining noise was not diagnosed as a pending failure during one of the regular service appointments.

What is the best year of Toyota C-HR to buy?

Overall, the Toyota C-HR is an excellent choice for your next vehicle. We recommend going with 2017, 2019, or 2020 selection for the best, most affordable time on the road.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota C-hr years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota C-hr cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Toyota C-hr model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota C-hr model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota C-hr years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Toyota C-hr car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Toyota C-hr , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota C-hr vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by C-hr model years

A total of 16 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by C-hr model years

There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 185 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota C-hr . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota C-hr vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX6JR
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Car transmission is having issue and car has only 64000 mile, also multiple place that I got opinion mentioned this car model is having transmission issue.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX0JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Toyota C-HR. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound, and the transmission was slipping. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the transmission was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Toyota C-hr 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX2MR
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: On 09/12/2024 Ran over a small sharp object in the road and popped the rear drivers side tire and the tire sensor light came on. Two days later on 09/14/2024 we took the car to the dealership and had them change all four tires. We were told the mechanic found a broken off sensor in one of the tires. It was not in the blown out tire, it was in a tire that had no damage to the tire or rim. I talked to the service manager about how the sensor could have broken off the stem in side the tire. He said the mechanic was sure he didn't break the sensor off the stem when changing the tire, that it happens, the sensor can break off the stem and he has seen this before. I asked if they had saved the defected part and he said that he didn't have it and the mechanic had probably thrown it out in the trash. I asked if the manufacturer knows that sensors are just breaking off in side tires. He said he didn't see any recalls for sensors at this time. I would think the manufacturer would want to see the defected TPMS to determine why the TPMS broke off the stem and if a recall is necessary. At this point I'm feeling uneasy about having three other original TPMS's that can break off at any time and having an unbalanced tire situation. I would like to know if this is a safety issue, having a TPMS break off and leaving a tire unbalanced, especially in a front tire when going up to 85 miles an hour on some roads in this country?
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX0JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? CVT Transmission How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Dealership, second opinion scheduled with another Toyota on Oct 15th Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Roughly 2-3 weeks ago began hearing a buzzing/ humming noise when accelerating CVT Transmission is blowing. This vehicle only has 140K miles on it and has been serviced at only Toyota dealers. I have records of every service performed and have stayed up to date on maintenance.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX0JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Failing transmission at 80k miles, multiple reports of similar incidences happening with same vehicle. Inspected by multiple mechanics, including Toyota Dealership, confirmed to be transmission, recommended to replace. No warning lamps, only indication was progressively worsening noise.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-09
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-11
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX2JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: My car would not go forward nor backwards after the transmission making crazy sounds Now I'm a disabled woman who the dealer that I financed this car from has said I have no warranty whatsoever. Alot of customers are having to replace their transmission on this year and make Toyota with odometer reading as low as 33,xxxx miles to mine which has 94,xxxx and others with lower mileage than mine Toyota or you all should do what's right by us and recall these transmissions
Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
  • VIN: JTNKHMBX1K1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: While driving, my vehicle suddenly jerked and lost significant speed without warning, putting my life at serious risk on the road. When I took it to Toyota, they quoted me over $11,000 to replace the faulty transmission. This issue has been widely reported with Toyota vehicles, yet it remains unresolved. It's alarming to think that someone might have to lose their life before the company takes meaningful action to address this dangerous defect.
Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
  • VIN: JTNKHMBX9K1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Toyota CHR 2019 only 115964 miles Used local , transmission failure 10,000 to fix .
Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-05
  • VIN: JTNKHMBX1K1
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Transaxle bearing is failing making loud noise affecting speed control ability and adaptive cruise issues. Vehicle was inspected by Manufacturer representative and repair replacement was denied under warranty, although replacement was recommended.
Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
  • VIN: JTNKHMBX8K1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: This is unacceptable almost every CHR I have heard of has this same problem and Toyota refused to take responsibility for it! There transmissions in these cars are horrible and need to be addressed. Every 80k the transmission need to be replaced. Us people who continuously have to buy new cars or new transmissions are suffering because Toyota refuses to fix the issue. Instead they slide it under the rug and decline to help there customers.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-12
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX2JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The car started making a whining noise in the front end around 80,000 miles. The noise became progressively worse and around 84,000 miles I took it to the dealership. They said it was a transmission failure and quoted the repair at approximately $10,000.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-22
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX7JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I've had a second CVT transmission failure. The first one happened at 85906 miles, and now my second one is at 98995 six months later. Vehicle has been dealership serviced it whole life. These transmissions have some sort of fault that needs looking into and accountability needs to be taken. Toyota claims that there are no known issues with the part, but myself and many others with the Turkey built models are having these problems. Critical parts on vehicles should not be treated as disposable, and that's Toyotas attitude on it. $9,000 replacement cost on a 20,000 car is ridiculous.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-18
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX9JR
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Transmission problem with only 100k miles
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-15
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX9JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: Bought this vehicle brand new in 2018 from Toyota dealer and took it to all scheduled maintenance intervals at Toyota dealerships, including the 50,000 mile service at 48,000 miles in 2024. At 48,800 miles began hearing a whining noise from the engine. Took it to dealer at 48,882 miles and was informed I would need a new transmission with a quoted repair price of $8,900 USD. Search of C-HR forums and NHTSA reviews shows this to be a common and recurring problem. Dealer told me I was outside of my warranty based on the age of the vehicle. Dealer suggested I contact Toyota corporate for assistance as this is extremely low mileage for such an extensive repair. Toyota corporate only confirmed that the age of the vehicle was outside of warranty, offered zero assistance with repair costs, and indicated it would be an "out of pocket expense". This CVT is clearly an issue and could create an unsafe condition for drivers who are completely not expecting a Toyota powertrain to fail so early in its life. The fact that Toyota refuses to acknowledge, or provide assistance, is a travesty considering the reputation of the brand.
Toyota C-hr 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-10
  • VIN: NMTKHMBX7JR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: There is a whining and vibrating(knock) sound coming out of the transmission. it increases as the vehicle accelerate. There have been a lot of complaint about this toyota model transmission.

Latest 5 recalls Toyota C-hr

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the Toyota C-hr.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Toyota C-hr 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2022-02-24
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: RADAR
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021 C-HR vehicles. The radar sensor may not have been activated during production, making the pre-collision system (PCS) inoperative.
  • Consequence: An inoperative PCS that does not provide a malfunction indicator to the driver, or braking assist as expected, can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and activate the radar sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TA02.
  • Model: Toyota C-hr 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2019-12-11
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 C-HR and 2020 Corolla and Corolla Hybrid vehicles equipped with rear seat belt assemblies with a dual-mode locking mechanism. The seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended.
  • Consequence: In the event of a crash involving multiple impacts, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seat belt assembly production dates, and replace the assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 19TB22 and 19TA22.
  • Model: Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2019-12-11
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 C-HR and 2020 Corolla and Corolla Hybrid vehicles equipped with rear seat belt assemblies with a dual-mode locking mechanism. The seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended.
  • Consequence: In the event of a crash involving multiple impacts, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seat belt assembly production dates, and replace the assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 19TB22 and 19TA22.
  • Model: Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2019-03-27
  • Manufacturer: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.
  • Model: Toyota C-hr 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2018-10-11
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Toyota C-HR vehicles. The rear axle hub bearing bolts may have been insufficiently tightened, causing the bolts to loosen and damage the rear brake components or cause a rear wheel to detach.
  • Consequence: If the bolts loosen and damage the rear brake components, or cause a rear wheel to detach, it would increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear axle hub bearing bolts. If a bolt is found to be loose or detached, the dealer will replace the rear axle hub bearing assembly and rear axle carrier sub-assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0Y.

Latest negative Toyota C-hr car reviews

  1. Sylvester Bradtke 2024-11-20

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I have recently acquired my first new car since 2007. Although it was advertised to get 27-31 MPG, I have found that it only gets 14-17 MPG. The acceleration is slow and the braking is noisy and grindy. Additionally, the ride could be smoother. However, after test driving the car and picking up another of the same model a few days later, I am confident in my decision to lease this vehicle for the time being.

  2. Melvina Kozey 2024-11-17

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my review. Unfortunately, I have had some issues with my car's transmission. Despite maintaining it well with the Toyota care package, it failed suddenly at 76,000 miles. The dealership has quoted me $9500 to replace it, which is quite expensive. I am disappointed that this has happened and I am currently exploring my options. Thank you for your attention.

  3. Merl Hamill 2024-11-02

    Vehicle year: 2021

    This car may be suitable for a 16 year old new driver, but it may not be the best option for others. One of the features that I personally dislike is the seat belt alarm, which can be quite obnoxious. However, I understand the importance of wearing a seat belt and safety while driving. In my case, I have two American Akitas, both weighing over 100 lbs, and I can only fit one of them in the back seat. The other one has to sit in the front, which triggers the alarm. It can be quite distracting and a potential liability. Overall, I have mixed feelings about this car and wish I could return it.

  4. Vito Streich 2024-11-01

    Vehicle year: 2021

    Although the car has some weaknesses, it is still a good option for those on a budget. The acceleration may not be the strongest, and there are some blind spots, but the car's unique design makes up for it. The gas mileage is decent, and the car is affordable. While it may not be the best option for larger grocery trips, it is still a practical choice for everyday use. However, if you have a bit more to spend, the Rav4 may be a better option for you.

  5. Geovany Morissette 2024-11-01

    Vehicle year: 2018

    The bearing in my transmission went out at 63K miles. Unfortunately, Toyota would not warranty the part as it was 3K miles over the 60K mile warranty. It seems that this is a common transmission issue with the C-HR that Toyota has yet to address. Before purchasing a C-HR, it may be worth doing some research.

Latest positive Toyota C-hr car reviews

  1. Isadore Koss 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2018

    This thing caught my eye and has not failed to impress. All the extras have made this the most fun vehicle I have ever had. I believe that reviewers who say it has problems accelerating haven't put the car in sport mode. In sport mode, it flies. The Toyota safety package is what sold me on this though. The other comparable crossover SUVs don't offer nearly what Toyota has standard here.

  2. Randal Gleason 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2019

    The 2019 Toyota c-hr really surprised me. It's powerful, comfortable, and spacious. It's like it slithers around corners very smoothly. And the price is perfect for it. Oh, it's also a beautiful vehicle!

  3. Carlos Bednar 2024-11-18

    Vehicle year: 2019

    This car is perfect!

  4. Declan Heidenreich 2024-11-15

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Great car! I love the nice looks. It would be even better with a sunroof and 4-wheel drive, but overall it's very good.

  5. Diamond Sauer 2024-11-14

    Vehicle year: 2020

    This vehicle was surprising in a great way. I downsized from a Rav4 because I didn't need all the room and this was a great choice. I have the room I need and comfort that I was used to but it handles like a sports car. Great pickup and maneuverability. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants an SUV without the bulk!

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