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2016 Toyota Yaris Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2016 Toyota Yaris Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Focus on the air bag system and service brakes during inspection.
  • Confirm all recall work, especially for the air bag sensor wiring, has been completed.
  • The Yaris's fuel economy is a strong point, but its overall reliability is average, demanding careful scrutiny of its mechanical and electrical health.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Toyota Yaris

The 2016 Toyota Yaris offers a practical, fuel-efficient package for urban commuting. Its compact size and straightforward operation make it an accessible option for many drivers. However, potential buyers should be aware of a notable number of recalls and common complaints, particularly concerning safety-critical systems. The vehicle's average reliability rating suggests that individual vehicle condition and maintenance history will be paramount. Given the 4 recalls, potential repair costs associated with any lingering issues should be factored into the ownership equation.

Critical Failure Risk

Recall 19V319000 addresses potential cracking and corrosion of wire harnesses for side and curtain shield airbag sensors, which can lead to non-deployment or improper deployment. Owner complaints also cite non-deployment issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

8
Air Bags2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
32
MPG
City
30
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency and maneuverability for city driving.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing robust safety features and long-term, worry-free reliability.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Toyota Yaris Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Toyota Yaris.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
32

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Structure & Body

Usage: 2 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels. Inspect wiper blades. Visually inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs. Rotate tires. Replace engine oil and oil filter (if using conventional oil).

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Toyota Yaris reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Toyota Yaris is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 8.

How practical is the 2016 Toyota Yaris for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Toyota Yaris is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 6.2/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Inspect and adjust all fluid levels. Inspect wiper blades. Visually inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs. Rotate tires. Replace engine oil and oil filter (if using conventional oil). at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500 - $2,500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Toyota Yaris use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Yaris, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Yaris, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Toyota Yaris use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Toyota Yaris, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2016 Toyota Yaris good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2016 Toyota Yaris is a reliable subcompact car not designed for aggressive performance tuning. Its naturally aspirated 1.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (2 reports, 25% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Toyota Yaris?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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