Owners have filed 560 complaints
about the 2004 Toyota Corolla with NHTSA between 2003 and 2026.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 8 of 34 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 67
Against the median year of the Toyota Corolla. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
24.6% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 63
37% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Frontal
1321.3%
Catalytic Convertor
1118.0%
Exhaust System
1016.4%
Power Window Devices AND Controls
711.5%
Body
58.2%
Emission Control
58.2%
Glass, Side/Rear
58.2%
Engine
58.2%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
279.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
238.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
3411.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
4917.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
3712.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
4515.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
3612.5%
150,000+ miles
3813.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jul 2003peak 24Apr 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2004 Toyota Corolla
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
EA15001Opened 24 Feb 2015Still openAIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
PE14016Opened 11 Jun 2014Closed 2 Mar 2015AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field fai...
EA08004Opened 5 Feb 2008Closed 1 May 2008VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
SIDE FRONT POWER WINDOW SHATTERS
FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE RETENTION FORCE OF THE REGULATOR BOLTS WHICH ATTACH THE FRONT SIDE WINDOW GLASS TO THE POWER WINDOW REGULATOR MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENT DUE TO AN INTERFERENCE OF THE RETENTION NUT AND THE BOLT SHOULDER RADIUS.IN THIS CONDITION THE BOLT MAY BECOME LOOSE, CAUSING A LOUD NOISE TO BE GENERATED WHEN THE WINDOW IS RAISED OR LOWERED.IF THE VEHICLE AND THE POWER WINDOW ARE CONTINUOUSLY OPERATED IN THIS CONDITION, THE BOLT MAY COMPLETELY SEPARATE, CAUSING THE GLASS TO BECOME MISALIGNED, AND IN THE WORSE CASE, THE GLASS MAY SHATTER DURING OPERATION O...
Recalls on the 2004 Toyota Corolla
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
19V741000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2002-2010 Lexus SC430, 2006-2012 Lexus IS250 and IS350 and 2010-2015 Lexus IS250C and IS350C vehicles. These vehicles had their driver or passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V627000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
Risk: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
18V883000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2002-2005 Lexus SC and Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2005 Toyota Corolla and Tundra, and 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
15V285000
AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015 that they are recalling certain model year 2004 Sequoia vehicles manufactured August 18, 2003, to August 19, 2004, and 2003-2004 Tundra vehicles manufactured March 18, 2003, to August 25, 2004. On June 16, 2015, Toyota expanded the recall to include an additional 1,270,468 vehicles, including model year 2002-2003 and 2005-2007 Sequoia, 2005-2006 Tundra, 2003-2007 Corolla, 2003-2007 Corolla Matrix, 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe and 2002-2007 Lexus SC vehicles. This is to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag inflator which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag. This recall addresses both the passenger side frontal air bags that were originally installed in the vehicles, as well as replacement air bags that may have been installed as replacement service parts. A replacement air bag may have been installed, as one example, if a vehicle had been in a crash necessitating the replacement of the passenger side frontal air bag.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
15V286000
AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015, that they are recalling 2005-2007 Lexus SC, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sequoia, and Pontiac Vibe, and 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles that were originally sold, or ever registered, in Florida, along the Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa. On June 16, 2015 Toyota expanded the recall to cover an additional 769,055 vehicles, including certain model year 2002-2004 Lexus SC, Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix, Toyota Corolla, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Tundra vehicles, as well the vehicles covered by the May 13, 2015 notification in the portions of Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas that were not previously included. The inflators in the front passenger air bags are susceptible to rupture in the event of a crash necessitating the deployment of the front passenger air bag.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
15V043000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla vehicles manufactured December 28, 2001, to May 2, 2004, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix vehicles manufactured January 6, 2002, to April 29, 2004, 2003-2004 Avalon vehicles manufactured June 5, 2002, to December 20, 2004, and 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles manufactured January 18, 2002, to April 27, 2004. Due to electrical noise, a component in the air bag control module may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
Risk: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags or the seat belt pretensioners increases the risk of an injury or crash.
13V029000
AIR BAGS
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix vehicles and 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The supplemental restraint system (SRS) circuits are susceptible to internal shorting. The electrical short may create an abnormal current flow and increased heat which can damage the circuits. This could result in an inadvertent deployment of the front airbags and/or seat belt pretensioners.
Risk: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags or the seat belt pretensioners may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
09E025000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202172355,683 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: This recall is for certain block heater kits installed on certain vehicles or sold as accessories at Toyota or Lexus dealerships. On certain vehicles, the engine block heater cable may not have enough heat protection and could be damaged by high temperatures. If this happens, the cable could short circuit while plugged in, and cause the wiring to overheat or melt. Note: This recall only affects the following block heater/cord part numbers: C014003034 PK5A408J09 PU14000904 C014003151 PK5A408J13 PU14000905 C014000885 PK5A489J11 PU14000907 C014000888 PK5A489J22 PU14000909 C014000907 PK5A410H00 PU14000911 C014100904 PU14000900 PU14000913 C014100907 PU14000901 PU14003571 C014100911 PU14000902 PK5A489J14 PK5A408J05 PU14000903 Safety Risk: Engine block heater wiring that overheats or melts could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: Toyota recommends that you should stop using the engine block heater immediately. Toyota will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to disable the engine block heater. For some vehicles, the corrective actions for this recall are under development. For others, a new engine block heater cannot be installed, and the owner will receive a refund of the purchase price of the engine block heater.
Recall 201952337,591 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator or airbag module replaced. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected. Additional Note: Vehicles may have had the original front passenger airbag inflator replaced as a "like-for-like" replacement under recall 2016-103 (Toyota Recall #'s SRC 241 & SRC 242) as a temporary remedy while evaluating a permanent remedy. These vehicles will receive the permanent remedy passenger airbag assembly under this recall.
Recall 201943355,723 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain cars, the passenger-front airbag that was installed during prior recall repair must be replaced. The airbag may not unfold properly when it deploys. This could cause the airbag to tear or not inflate properly in a crash. Safety Risk: An airbag that does not work properly could create an increased risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to replace the passenger-front airbag assembly.
Recall 20186995,369 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator or airbag assembly. <br><br> Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. Vehicles may have had the original front passenger airbag inflator replaced as a “like-for-like” replacement under recall 2013-133 (Toyota Recall #'s SSC 193/241 & SSC 194/242) as a temporary remedy while evaluating a permanent remedy. These vehicles will receive the permanent remedy passenger airbag assembly under this recall.
Recall 2016103400,124 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the passenger (frontal) airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the passenger airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2013113, 2014224, 2015197 and 2015269. Correction: All vehicles having not received a replacement inflator as part of the previous recall will now have a replacement inflator installed by dealers. For Matrix model vehicles, dealers may replace the front passenger airbag assembly with one equipped with a newly specified inflator.
Recall 2015269366,860 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the passenger (frontal) airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the passenger airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2016103. Please see recall 2016103 for more information. <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2016103">Click here for more information</a>
Recall 2014560141,214 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, a defect in the supplemental restraint system could result in an inadvertent deployment of the front airbag(s) and/or seatbelt pretensioner(s). Unintended seatbelt pretensioner and/or airbag deployment, in a non-warranted (non-impact) situation, could startle the driver, which could result in a vehicle crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. In some instances, inadvertent deployment could cause minor injuries to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace the airbag control module and may install an in-line jumper wiring harness to correct the issue. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2013032 and 2014097. Vehicles that were repaired under the previous campaign and did not receive a new airbag control module will also need to be repaired under this campaign.
Recall 2014224107,339 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the passenger (frontal) airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the passenger airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2016103. Please see recall 2016103 for more information. <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2016103">Click here for more information</a>
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Colorado Springs, COCrash
AIR BAGS
I got in an accident with a car who ran a stop sign when I didn't have one. I was going approximately 15-20mph and my entire front end collided with their passenger side. My air bags did not go off at all.
NHTSA complaint #11558245 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 184,000 milesDavie, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE BRAKES FAILED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT STRUCK A UTILITY POLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL THEIR LAWYERS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11101350 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 184,000 milesDavie, FLCrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE BRAKES FAILED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT STRUCK A UTILITY POLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL THEIR LAWYERS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11101350 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 191,000 milesEL Paso, TXCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
TAKATA AIRBAGS/ WHILE THE CAR WAS IN MOTION SLOWLY TURNING INTO A PARKING SPACE, THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. THE AIRBAGS IMPEDED THE DRIVER FROM CONTROLLING THE CAR AND CAUSED A CRASH INTO A BUILDING. THIS HAPPENED ON A PRIVATE PARKING LOT. THE CAR HAD RECENTLY BEEN SERVICED FOR THE TAKATA RECALL. NOTHING WAS STRUCK TO ENGAGE THE IMPACT SENSORS. THE ROAD AND PARKING LOT WAS FREE FROM OBSTACLES. WE WANT TO KNOW IF NON COMPLIANT SERVICE FOR THE AIRBAG RECALL CREATED A FAILURE WHICH CAUSED THE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY. WE ARE HAVING THE CAR INSPECTED BY TOYOTA AND WANT TO KNOW IF AN IMPARTIAL INSPECTOR CAN BE PRESENT TO OVERSEE THE PROCEDURE.
NHTSA complaint #11073356 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Blue ASH, OHCrash4 injured
SEAT BELTS
MY NAME IS [XXX] , I AM AN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATOR FOR THE CITY OF BLUE ASH OH POLICE DEPT. ON 8/16/16 A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA REAR ENDED A DODGE RAM VAN AT APPROX. 65 MPH ON EASTBOUND INTERSTATE 275 AT THE 48.5 MILE POST. THE INVESTIGATION SHOWS THAT ALL OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING THEIR SEAT BELTS, HOWEVER THE RIGHT REAR OCCUPANT SUFFERED LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES TO HER LIVER AND SPLEEN. THE SEAT BELT SHOWS SIGNS OF BEING WORN BUT THE RETRACTOR DID NOT LOCK. I THINK THAT THE SHOULDER STRAP PORTION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN WORN PROPERLY DUE TO THE WAY THE SEAT BELT WAS FOUND CINCHED UP INTO THE CLASP (PICTURES ATTACHED.) DO YOU HAVE ANY FEEDBACK REGARDING THE PICTURES? AND, HOW DO I TEST THE RETRACTOR TO SEE IF IT'S OPERATING PROPERLY OR POSSIBLY FAILED AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT? I BUCKLED THE BELT IN THE LAST FEW PICTURES TO SHOW IT BETTER. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME IN ADVANCE! [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #10897606 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 50,000 milesOrangeburg, SCCrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FELT STUCK. IN 2007, A CRASH OCCURRED WHEN THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE UNINTENTIONALLY ACCELERATED AND REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AFTER THE CRASH. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED ABRASIONS AND CONTUSIONS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
NHTSA complaint #10837172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Virginia Beach, VA
AIR BAGS
I received a "do not drive" recall for my vehicle in the mail because of defective air bags. The recall letter claimed that there have been twenty-eight confirmed deaths in relation to this recall. I entered Priority Toyota of Chesapeake, VA to address the issue. That was on Monday, April 6th, 2026. Even though there was a "do not drive" order on the recall, Priority Toyota of Chesapeake refused to give me a loaner vehicle. It is now Monday, April 13th, and Priority Toyota of Chesapeake has claimed that they are still waiting on an email to begin repairing the vehicle, which I need for transport. This is a formal complaint that Priority Toyota of Chesapeake, VA has failed to repair the recalls to the vehicle in a timely manner.
NHTSA complaint #11730961 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Virginia Beach, VA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I received a "do not drive" recall for my vehicle in the mail because of defective air bags. The recall letter claimed that there have been twenty-eight confirmed deaths in relation to this recall. I entered Priority Toyota of Chesapeake, VA to address the issue. That was on Monday, April 6th, 2026. Even though there was a "do not drive" order on the recall, Priority Toyota of Chesapeake refused to give me a loaner vehicle. It is now Monday, April 13th, and Priority Toyota of Chesapeake has claimed that they are still waiting on an email to begin repairing the vehicle, which I need for transport. This is a formal complaint that Priority Toyota of Chesapeake, VA has failed to repair the recalls to the vehicle in a timely manner.
NHTSA complaint #11730961 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Los Angeles, CA
AIR BAGS
I am attempting to complete a manufacturer-issued safety recall involving my vehicle’s airbag system, which includes a “Do Not Drive” advisory due to the risk of airbag inflator failure. Despite multiple good-faith attempts, I have encountered repeated barriers at the dealership level that have prevented timely completion of the repair. I scheduled a service appointment with Culver City Toyota and clearly indicated I required a rental vehicle to leave my car. My confirmation stated “Arrangement: Rental Vehicle,” and the appointment was scheduled accordingly. When I arrived, I was told no rentals were available and that they are first-come, first-served. I was turned away and told to return another day. When I returned, I was able to leave my vehicle, but was asked how long I would need the rental without being given a repair timeline. Only after asking was I told the repair would take approximately two days. This was not communicated in advance, and given the prior lack of rental availability, it is unclear how I would have been expected to proceed without transportation. This has occurred across multiple attempts: lack of rental availability and requests to leave my vehicle for extended periods without transportation have made it difficult or impossible to complete the recall. As a result, I have been placed in the position of continuing to operate a vehicle with a known safety defect under a “Do Not Drive” advisory due to the inability to access timely and practical repair. I am concerned that dealership-level processes are creating barriers that delay or prevent consumers from completing urgent safety recalls. As of today, I have left my car at this dealership for the recall repair, however the inconsistent communication and handling of this process have created uncertainty about whether the repair will be completed in a timely and reliable manner. Seeing reviews online, I'm not the only one who's had this issue and the GM is non responsive.
NHTSA complaint #11727004 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Davie, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
This complaint concerns two separate incidents, both involving defective interior door handles. First, in 2023, the driver side driver door handle broke abruptly when the driver attempted to exit the vehicle. As a result, the driver, [XXX] , was trapped in the vehicle and required someone else to let him out from the outside. This was repaired privately at substantial cost to the owner. Then, the exact same thing happened to the passenger side front seat interior door handle in January 2025. The handle mechanism seems to be made of cheap plastic and seems to have broken, preventing the passenger from exiting the vehicle at all and leaving them effectively trapped in the front seat. This has been a major issue recently when transporting family members to the hospital, as time was lost when they tried to get out of the driver side passenger door and found that the door handle mechanism was inoperable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11665704 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Colorado Springs, COCrash
AIR BAGS
I got in an accident with a car who ran a stop sign when I didn't have one. I was going approximately 15-20mph and my entire front end collided with their passenger side. My air bags did not go off at all.
NHTSA complaint #11558245 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tucson, AZ
SEAT BELTS
I have repaired all the safety recalls on my 2004 Toyota Corolla S. However, I just had another warning signal for the seatbelt/airbag today. Since this has been a recall previously, can I have the dealer look at the car and repair again? I wouldn't think the airbags/seatbelt warning would come back so fast after being repaired for the recall. Please advise. Thank you.
NHTSA complaint #11478711 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tucson, AZ
AIR BAGS
I have repaired all the safety recalls on my 2004 Toyota Corolla S. However, I just had another warning signal for the seatbelt/airbag today. Since this has been a recall previously, can I have the dealer look at the car and repair again? I wouldn't think the airbags/seatbelt warning would come back so fast after being repaired for the recall. Please advise. Thank you.
NHTSA complaint #11478711 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palo Alto, CA
AIR BAGS
We received the enclosed NHTSA notice about a vehicle repair that is need for a recall. However we no longer own this vehicle. We sold the vehicle in 2018 or 2019 and transferred the pink slip to the new owner. We have no way to contact him and he is responsible for the vehicle now. So we are just notifying you that we cannot take any action on this.
NHTSA complaint #11469390 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Simi Valley, CA
AIR BAGS
The contact's mother owned a 2004 Toyota Corolla. The contact's mother received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V741000 (Air Bags) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list as the vehicle was totaled. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted.
NHTSA complaint #11464882 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arleta, CA
AIR BAGS
Hello, In January 3, 2022. I took the vehicle to the Toyota Hamer dealer about one issue of the air bag recall in the Toyota Corolla with the VIN: [XXX] there after around 4:pm on the Sunday the vehicle it was released with unsolved problems by the dealer and now I am requesting that it be properly repaired due to chronic and faulty problems. That the vehicle has. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11447260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arleta, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Hello, In January 3, 2022. I took the vehicle to the Toyota Hamer dealer about one issue of the air bag recall in the Toyota Corolla with the VIN: [XXX] there after around 4:pm on the Sunday the vehicle it was released with unsolved problems by the dealer and now I am requesting that it be properly repaired due to chronic and faulty problems. That the vehicle has. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11447260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Miami, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
SHIFTER CABLE BROKE OFF AND THE CAR WAS NOT ABLE TO BRAKE/STOP. HAD IT TOWED AND DORAL TOYOTA REINSTALL SHIFTER CABLE ASSY ON. 09/03/2021. IF YOU NEED IT HAVE THE INVOICE AND PROOF OF PAYMENT, TOO. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY RISK! CABLE ASSY TRANSMISSION BROKE OFF. VEHICLE WILL NOT STOP. HAD IT TOWED AND DORAL TOYOTA ORDER PARTS AND PERFORMED THE LABOR ON 04/08/2015. HAVE THE INVOICE AND PROOF THE PAYMENT, TOO. THIS HAS HAPPED TO THIS VEHICLE TWICE AND THERE IS NO RECALL(?)
NHTSA complaint #11436818 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBolingbrook, IL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
IIT SOUNDS BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM, IN MOTION ON ANY ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #11416619 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBolingbrook, IL
SUSPENSION
IIT SOUNDS BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM, IN MOTION ON ANY ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #11416619 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Monica, CA
AIR BAGS
I KEEP GETTING RECALL LETTERS. SO I CALL THE NUMBER AND THE PERSON CLAIMED I COULD MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AND IT COULD BE DONE IN 1 OR 2 HOURS. THAT IS WHAT THE LETTERS CLAIM. I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT BUT WHEN I SHOW UP AT TOYOTA THE HAVE NO APPOINTMENT FOR ME. BUT HE CLAIMS IT WILL TAKE A "COUPLE HOURS". OKAY I WILL WAIT. SO HE SIGNS ME UP AND SAYS BE BACK AT 2 PM. SO NOW ITS GONE FROM 1 HOUR MIN TO 4 HRS MIN. MY CAR SITD INA PARKING LOT FOR 1 HOUR AND I HAVE AN "APPOINTMENT". THOSE [XXX] CLAIM THEY WANT TO FIX MY CAR BUT THRN THEY WANT TO JERK ME AROUND. I SCHEDULED MY DAY FOR 2 HOURS. IF ITS GONNA TAKE 4 HRS DONT SAY 1 OR 2. THIS DAY COSTS ME ALOT OF MONEY TAKING OFF FOR THIS [XXX]. ANYWAY I MADE A GOOD FAITH EFFORT BUT IF YOURE GONNA LIE TO ME JERK ME AROUND AND SCREW UP MY SCHEDULE THEN THEY ARE TRYING TO DISCOURAGE PEOPLE FROM GOING THRU THE INCREDIBLE HASSLE TO FIX THE VEHICLE. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11413585 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brooklyn, NY
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS) AND 15V285000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. BAY RIDGE TOYOTA (6401 6TH AVE, BROOKLYN, NY 11220) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUES. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11406121 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesSeattle, WA
AIR BAGS
AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ON FOLLOWING THE FIRST AIRBAG RECALL SERVICE. DEALERSHIP REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY, CLAIMING THEY ONLY REPLACED THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG, AND THAT THE CAUSE OF THE SERVICE LIGHT IS THE SPIRAL CABLE, WHICH IS IN THE STEERING WHEEL. DEALERSHIP MUST HAVE CHECKED THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG IN ORDER TO SEE IF THE INFLATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, WHICH MUST BE WHAT TRIPPED THE LIGHT.
NHTSA complaint #11386710 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 166 milesTampa, FL
AIR BAGS
I WAS DRIVING WHEN I FELT THE SEAT BELT TIGHTEN VERY HARD AND I SAW THE AIRBAG ICON ON THE DASHBOARD. LUCKILY THE TRAFFIC LIGHT TURNED RED AND I WAS ABLE TO STOP. AT THAT MOMENT THE AIRBAG EXPLODED. I DID NOT HIT MYSELF SO I MANAGED TO GET OUT OF THE CAR AND I SAW THE PASSENGER'S AIRBAG EXPLODED. MY CAR DID NOT HIT ANYTHING AND LUCKILY NO ONE WAS HURT.*DT*JB
NHTSA complaint #11383566 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V741000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT CALLED TOYOTA OF DALLAS (972)-584-9144) AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11325981 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Placentia, CA
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V285000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT MILLER TOYOTA OF ANAHEIM (LOCATED AT 1331 N EUCLID ST, ANAHEIM, CA 92801) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11309269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Manson, IA
AIR BAGS
I RECEIVED AN EMAIL TELLING ME THAT THERE IS A POSSIBLE SAFETY RISK INVOLVING THE AIRBAGS OF MY CAR.
NHTSA complaint #11270437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vernon, AL
AIR BAGS
TOOK MY CAR TO HAVE AIRBAG REPLACE TWICE IN SEPTEMBER 2018 AND WAS TOLD ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER. THEN FEBRUARY 2019 WAS TOLD THEY HAD AIRBAG WENT TWICE WAS TOLD THEY HAD IT WHEN I FIRST WALKED IN AND SAT THERE FOR THREE HOURS FOR THEM TO TELL ME THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE IT AND DIDN'T KNOW WHEN. GOT A PHONE CALL FROM THEM TELLING ME THEY MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE IT IN THE MIDDLE OF MARCH BUT SURE THEY WOULDN'T I ASKED ABOUT THE BUY BACK AND ABOUT THE TOYOTA LEMON LAW I KEEP GETTING THE RUN AROUND AND I'M TRIED OF IT THIS IS MY ONLY WAY OF GOING I HAVE PUT OFF DR APPT IN NORTHPORT AL DUE WITH THE FACT I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING IT AND ALSO WAS TOLD NOT TO DRIVE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11186019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vernon, AL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TOOK MY CAR TO HAVE AIRBAG REPLACE TWICE IN SEPTEMBER 2018 AND WAS TOLD ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER. THEN FEBRUARY 2019 WAS TOLD THEY HAD AIRBAG WENT TWICE WAS TOLD THEY HAD IT WHEN I FIRST WALKED IN AND SAT THERE FOR THREE HOURS FOR THEM TO TELL ME THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE IT AND DIDN'T KNOW WHEN. GOT A PHONE CALL FROM THEM TELLING ME THEY MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE IT IN THE MIDDLE OF MARCH BUT SURE THEY WOULDN'T I ASKED ABOUT THE BUY BACK AND ABOUT THE TOYOTA LEMON LAW I KEEP GETTING THE RUN AROUND AND I'M TRIED OF IT THIS IS MY ONLY WAY OF GOING I HAVE PUT OFF DR APPT IN NORTHPORT AL DUE WITH THE FACT I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING IT AND ALSO WAS TOLD NOT TO DRIVE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11186019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vernon, AL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TOOK MY CAR TO HAVE AIRBAG REPLACE TWICE IN SEPTEMBER 2018 AND WAS TOLD ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER. THEN FEBRUARY 2019 WAS TOLD THEY HAD AIRBAG WENT TWICE WAS TOLD THEY HAD IT WHEN I FIRST WALKED IN AND SAT THERE FOR THREE HOURS FOR THEM TO TELL ME THAT THEY DIDN'T HAVE IT AND DIDN'T KNOW WHEN. GOT A PHONE CALL FROM THEM TELLING ME THEY MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE IT IN THE MIDDLE OF MARCH BUT SURE THEY WOULDN'T I ASKED ABOUT THE BUY BACK AND ABOUT THE TOYOTA LEMON LAW I KEEP GETTING THE RUN AROUND AND I'M TRIED OF IT THIS IS MY ONLY WAY OF GOING I HAVE PUT OFF DR APPT IN NORTHPORT AL DUE WITH THE FACT I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING IT AND ALSO WAS TOLD NOT TO DRIVE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11186019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 237,000 milesMenisee, CA
VISIBILITY/WIPER
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 TOYOTA COROLLA. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GOSCH TOYOTA (350 CARRIAGE CIRCLE, HEMIT, CA 92545, (951) 356-2073) TO BE REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V162000 (VISIBILITY), BUT THE REMEDY WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDOWS MALFUNCTIONED AND CAME OFF TRACK. THE CONTACT SCHEDULED ANOTHER APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE RECALL APPLIED TO NON-ELECTRICAL WINDOWS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 237,000.
NHTSA complaint #11184835 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.