2016 Toyota Corolla Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Airbag System Concerns: A critical recall and numerous owner complaints highlight potential issues with airbag non-deployment, making this a paramount inspection point.
- Brake and Steering Issues: Frequent complaints regarding the service brakes and steering systems warrant thorough pre-purchase examination.
- Fuel Efficiency: Expect good gas mileage, with a combined EPA rating of 30 MPG, contributing to lower running costs.
- Safety Ratings: The 2016 Corolla earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with perfect scores in frontal and side crash tests.
2016 Toyota Corolla
Critical Failure Risk
A critical recall (NHTSA Recall ID 20V024000) exists for the Air Bag Electronic Control Unit (ECU) due to inadequate protection against electrical noise, potentially disabling airbag and seatbelt pretensioner deployment. Numerous complaints also exist regarding airbag non-deployment.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 132HP
- Torque
- 128 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride for daily commuting.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a vehicle with a strong, unblemished reliability record.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Toyota Corolla Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Toyota Corolla.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 132 hp
- Torque
- 128 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- MSRP Range
- $17,230 - $23,125
- EPA Combined MPG
- 30
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 64 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 29 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake Inspection - Tire Inspection and Rotation
Est. shop cost: $70 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Toyota Corolla reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Toyota Corolla is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 305.
How practical is the 2016 Toyota Corolla for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 368 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Toyota Corolla is 8.3/10. Overall score is 8.3/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Toyota Corolla?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake Inspection - Tire Inspection and Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $362. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Control Module (estimated cost Min: $0).
What is the MSRP range for the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
MSRP range is $17,230 - $23,125.
What engine is in the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.8. Output is 132 hp • 128 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2016 Toyota Corolla use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Corolla, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
5 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Corolla, fuel economy range is 27-30 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2016 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Corolla, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Corolla, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Toyota Corolla use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Corolla, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2016 Toyota Corolla good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2016 Toyota Corolla is a reliable economy car, not built for aggressive performance tuning. Its 1.
Should I tune the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
The Toyota Corolla is a reliable and fuel-efficient compact car, but it is not typically modified for performance tuning. Its engine is not designed for significant power gains, and aftermarket support for performance parts is limited. While some aesthetic modifications are possible, the focus of this vehicle is on practicality and economy rather than sportiness.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
Top complaint category: air bags (64 reports, 21% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Toyota Corolla?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Civic and 2016 Mazda CX-3.