Toyota Gr corolla problems

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The Toyota GR Corolla (Japanese: トヨタ・GRカローラ, Hepburn: Toyota Jīāru Karōra) is a compact car manufactured by Japanese marque Toyota since 2022 with assistance from the company's Gazoo Racing (GR) division. It is a hot hatch variant of the E210 series Corolla.

The GR Corolla was introduced on March 31, 2022. The GR Corolla is built mainly for the North American market as Europe received the GR Yaris (which is not sold in Canada and the United States). Both vehicles are assembled at the "GR Factory" inside the Motomachi plant, a production line dedicated to GR-branded vehicles. Aside from North America, the GR Corolla is also sold in Japan, Thailand (limited to nine units), Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Brazil, South Africa, and Indonesia.

Overview

In 2020, Toyota unveiled the GR Yaris, a hatchback developed by the company's Gazoo Racing (GR) division for its World Rally Championship (WRC) team. It is not sold in the United States and Canada because the regular Yaris, upon which it is nominally based, isn't sold in those markets due to lack of demand.

The decision led to years of speculation that Toyota would eventually bring a hot hatch to the United States and Canada. The introduction of the vehicle was delayed by a year, because Akio Toyoda, then CEO of Toyota, also a racing driver, was not satisfied with the tuning of a prototype, and asked the GR team to make changes. Development of the vehicle was led by chief engineer Naoyuki Sakamoto.

On March 31, 2022, the GR Corolla was introduced, which while based on the larger E210 series Corolla compact hatchback, includes several features originally developed for the GR Yaris. The vehicle is powered by the 1.6-liter G16E-GTS turbocharged straight-three engine that powers the GR Yaris. The version of the engine found in the GR Yaris makes up to 200 kW (268 hp; 272 PS), but the version for the GR Corolla generates 221–224 kW (296–300 hp; 300–304 PS) and 370–400 lb⋅ft (502–542 N⋅m) of torque. Among other strategies to achieve this increased power output, the GR Corolla has three tailpipes for reduced backpressure. A six-speed manual transmission is standard in the GR Corolla.

The GR Corolla also uses the GR-Four all-wheel drive system first developed for the GR Yaris. The standard setting is a 60:40 front to rear torque distribution, but it can go as rear-wheel biased as 30:70.

The vehicle is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems and Toyota's updated audio multimedia system that debuted on the XK70 series Tundra.

The GR Corolla is produced alongside the GR Yaris at the "GR Factory" inside Toyota's Motomachi plant. Unlike most automobile plants, the "GR Factory" does not use a conveyor belt assembly line. Instead, vehicles are built at stations with more manual assembly processes. The "GR Factory" employs experienced technicians recruited from throughout the company.

photo of Toyota Gr corolla car production

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Toyota Gr corolla model years

toyota gr corolla 2023 photo
Gr corolla 2023
Toyota

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4.5
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Common Toyota Gr corolla problems

The Toyota GR Corolla, introduced in 2023, has garnered significant attention among enthusiasts for its 1.6-liter three-cylinder powertrain, rally-inspired all-wheel-drive system, and manual transmission. Despite its popularity, there are several common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most significant issues is the limited availability of the GR Corolla in the United States. Toyota has intentionally kept the supply low to maintain the car's value and exclusivity, resulting in high dealer markups and long waiting lists. This scarcity has made it challenging for potential buyers to acquire the car at or near the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).

Another issue that has surfaced is a catastrophic engine failure in a 2023 GR Corolla. The car in question experienced a hole in the side of the block, smashed valves, and a second hole in the transfer case.

The GR Corolla's interior and build quality have also been criticized. While the car offers a comfortable cabin with climate control, heated seats, and an infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, some owners have reported issues with single-zone climate control and a headliner that feels out of place in a performance car.

In summary, the Toyota GR Corolla has faced challenges such as limited availability, high dealer markups, catastrophic engine failure, and interior quality concerns. These issues have affected the car's appeal and accessibility for potential buyers, despite its impressive performance capabilities.

Toyota Gr corolla

What is the most common issue of Toyota Corolla?

Some common problems with the Toyota Corolla include:

  • Oil leaking/excessive oil use.
  • Jerky acceleration.
  • MAF sensor problem.
  • Car vibrating.

Is there a recall on the Toyota Corolla GR?

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Recalls

There have been no safety recalls issued from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Who builds the GR Corolla engine?

Propelled into being for the 2023 model year by former CEO and all-around car guy Akio Toyoda, the GR Corolla is the handiwork of Toyota's performance and motorsports division, Gazoo Racing.

Is the GR Corolla safe?

The Toyota GR Corolla's safety should be beyond reproach and although the NHTSA has not tested this specific model, the GR shares its structure with the normal 2023 Corolla Hatch, which has achieved a five-star overall crash-test rating at the NHTSA.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Gr corolla years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Gr corolla cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Toyota Gr corolla model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Gr corolla model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Gr corolla years

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

Toyota Gr corolla car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Power train problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Gr corolla vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Gr corolla model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Gr corolla . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Gr corolla vehicles.

List of Toyota Gr corolla complaints

Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
  • VIN: JTNABAAE4PA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The clutch system on my car is prematurely failing. I understand that it is a wear and tear item. This is not my first manual transmission car. I have been driving vehicles with manual transmissions for over 20 years. The issue I am having now is not normal behavior for a for a brand new car, let alone for a performance oriented vehicle. I first noticed it when the car was brand new with a distinct clutch burning smell. It would come and go and the general community of owners with the same car said it was a normal occurrence. This is my first brand new car purchase so I thought nothing of it. I then noticed the problem get worse at 7k miles. The clutch was slipping in all gears just ever so slightly when driving close to the car's redline. I am now at 13k miles and the problem is getting worse. I know how to drive a manual transmission and this is not a driver error. I have heard of other drivers of the same car had their clutch fail completely during driving on the highway. I would hate to be put in a perilous situation if my clutch fails to operate on the road/highway and my car will not be able to move or avoid a life threatening event. It has not been inspected by a Toyota dealership yet. I was just made aware of how much bigger the clutch issue is amongst the community of owners of the same model car as I researched the issue. I will be initiating the inspection/diagnosis with a Toyota dealership very soon.
Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
  • VIN: JTNABAAE9PA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Toyota GR Corolla. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to slow the vehicle during a rainstorm, the brake pedal required excessive effort to depress while slowing the vehicle. After the rainstorm had stopped, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-03
  • VIN: JTNABAAE7PA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: My compilation of known issues are: 1. Bumper gap: front bumper gets dislocated from the main body of the car that can cause road debris/hazard 2. Flimsy / slipping clutch: causing grindy shifter (1-2-3) or lose control of the vehicle’s acceleration 3. Oil overheating and rear differential 2WD: might contribute to car’s sudden combustion
Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-11
  • VIN: JTNABAAE7PA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I was driving my car at about 25 mph and I was not able to switch gears (manual transmission). I sent the car to the dealer and they told me that the clutch was burnt and I also needed to change the flywheel for a total cost of over USD 6,300. The repair was not covered by the warranty and the car was only under 5,500 miles and under a year of bought. I have read similar cases in the web and I am pretty sure that this is a manufacturing problem. The car is a GR Corolla, which is advertised as a sports car, but the dealer is saying that the car was abused, without providing any proof. I am an experienced driving, never abused of the car, and only drove it in streets. I am amazed this happened. I filed a claim to Toyota and received the following answer "According to your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) [XXX] , the warranty for the part you are inquiring is 5 years or 60,000 miles whichever comes first starting from the vehicle's in-service date: [XXX]. Vehicle component failures that are not caused by a manufacturer's defect are not covered under factory warranties. We have communicated with Fred Haas Toyota Country dealer personnel and confirmed your vehicle clutch and flywheel concerns were not as a result of a manufacturer's defect, but due to outside influence. Therefore, we apologize, we must decline your request for vehicle repair reimbursement assistance. While there are situations where we gladly look into out of warranty financial assistance requests, we are simply unable to offer any assistance as the vehicle clutch, flywheel concerns are not covered by the factory warranty. We know this is not the response you were hoping to receive, and understand the reasons for bringing this request to us. The experience you have had with your 2023 Toyota GR Corolla Circuit is important to Toyota, and the information has been documented under your reference number." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-06
  • Date Complaint: 2024-01-23
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JTNABAAE5PA
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: the vehicle caught fire, only 5073 miles we don’t know why
Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-11-27
  • VIN: JTNABAAE7PA
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: The 2024 whom are being sold at the same time as the 2023 GR Corollas have had improvements to both the front brake cooling with aluminum and have had the ducting reopened after the safety correction. To ensure the safety of the drivers and passengers, quality of the vehicle and its longevity. Recommend recalling all 2023 circuit editions to also adjust the from driver and passenger side brakes and their coolant ducting to be on par with the 2024 versions. The 2023 versions over have paid higher markups and have heavier rims due to inequality currently being provided by Toyota on the GR Corollas. We were originally informed that all ducting would be functional only to be missing parts due to shortages and now I am at risk of a flaw in the overheating of our front brakes. Request recall to modify the 2023 version before people start trying to fix it themselves as they were originally promised and could potentially cause major safety or fire hazards.

Recalls Toyota Gr corolla

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Toyota Gr corolla.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Toyota Gr corolla 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2024-07-23
  • Manufacturer: Gulf States Toyota, Inc.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
  • Consequence: A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: GST will mail new labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R2.

Latest positive Toyota Gr corolla car reviews

  1. Jack Harris 2024-10-11

    Vehicle year: 2023

    Looking for a fun manual for everyday driving? I highly recommend checking out the CIRCUIT, which ranked #2 on my list (with the WRX Limited with STI pipes coming in at #1). I test drove the Core, which has the same engine as the Circuit. The pros include a rumbly sound, great front interior design, intriguing 3-cylinder engine, and a smooth ride. However, there are a few cons to consider, such as the MVA making it overpriced for its caliber, some turbo lag, and a cramped rear seat. Additionally, the power isn't especially impressive (it would be better with a 4th cylinder).

  2. Orlo Moore 2024-03-02

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I haven't had time to break it in yet. It's been great so far!

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