2018 Toyota Corolla Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The air bag system is a primary concern, with numerous complaints and a critical recall for potential non-deployment.
- Frequent fuel pump failures are another significant issue, leading to engine stalling and related complaints and recalls.
- Despite a high overall safety score, the documented reliability issues require diligent pre-purchase inspection.
- Fuel economy is a strong suit, offering efficient daily driving.
2018 Toyota Corolla
The 2018 Toyota Corolla offers a mixed ownership proposition. While it boasts an excellent 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating and a commendable 30 MPG combined fuel economy, its reliability is rated 'Below Average.' This is primarily due to critical recalls and a high volume of complaints concerning air bag non-deployment and fuel pump failures, which can lead to engine stalling. Potential buyers must be aware of these significant issues and factor in possible repair costs.
Critical Failure Risk
Airbags fail to deploy during a collision.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 132–140HP
- Torque
- 126–128 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize strong safety ratings and fuel efficiency.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Toyota Corolla Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Toyota Corolla.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 132-140 hp
- Torque
- 126-128 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 30
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 35 reports
2. Fuel System
Usage: 22 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $75 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Toyota Corolla reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Toyota Corolla is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 188.
How practical is the 2018 Toyota Corolla for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 313 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Toyota Corolla is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Toyota Corolla?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $700).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
Base MSRP is $19,435.
What engine is in the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
Engine specs list In-Line • 4 • 1.8. Output is 132-140 hp • 126-128 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2018 Toyota Corolla use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Corolla, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Corolla, fuel economy range is 27-36 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2018 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Corolla, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Corolla, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Toyota Corolla use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Corolla, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2018 Toyota Corolla good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2018 Toyota Corolla is a practical, fuel-efficient sedan. While not designed for aggressive performance tuning, it can benefit from thou...
Should I tune the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
The Toyota Corolla is a reliable and fuel-efficient car, but it is not known for its performance tuning potential. The engine is not designed for significant power upgrades, and there is limited aftermarket support for performance parts. While some cosmetic 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 2018 Toyota Corolla?
Top complaint category: air bags (35 reports, 18.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Toyota Corolla?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.