Owners have filed 1,770 complaints
about the 2009 Toyota Corolla with NHTSA between 2008 and 2024.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 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 — 100
Against the median year of the Toyota Corolla. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
23.8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
60% 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.
Body
2831.5%
Accelerator Pedal
2730.3%
Engine
77.9%
Frontal
77.9%
Automatic Transmission
66.7%
Vacuum
55.6%
Front
55.6%
Side/Window
44.5%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
13412.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
20418.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
20619.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
19618.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
11810.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1029.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
857.9%
150,000+ miles
373.4%
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 2008peak 263Apr 2024
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 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...
DP14003Opened 19 Sep 2014Closed 29 Apr 2015VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Low-speed surging
The Agency received a petition on September 11, 2014 requesting an investigation into, low-speed surging in the 2006-2010 Toyota Corolla [vehicles] with ETCS-i, in which the brakes fail to stop the vehicle in time to prevent a crash.NHTSA conducted a technical review of the material cited and provided by the petitioner, material Toyota submitted in response to a NHTSA formal request, interviews with complainants and manufacturer representatives, as well as the results of testing of the complaint vehicle.Taking into account the allocation of agency resources, agency priorities, and the likeliho...
PE10008Opened 18 Feb 2010Closed 4 May 2011STEERING
Steering Wander or Drift
On February 18, 2010, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE10-008 to investigate complaints of steering wander or drift in model year (MY) 2009 and 2010 Toyota Corolla and Matrix vehicles.The complaint descriptions indicated dissatisfaction with the on-center steering feel in the subject vehicles. Some drivers (~25%) related the feel to driving in a strong crosswind and others indicated that the effort and attention required to maintain heading increased driver fatigue on long trips.These complaints all relate to the system operating as designed and do not...
Recalls on the 2009 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.
18V024000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, IS-F, and GX460 vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP (Saipan), and the U.S. VI or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, ES350, IS-F, GX460, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2009 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350, IS-F, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." 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
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V006000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, Yaris, Scion xB, Lexus ES350, GX460, IS-F, IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, and Lexus LFA vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2009 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Yaris HB, Scion xB, Pontiac Vibe, Lexus, ES350, IS250, IS350, and IS-F vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Toyota is recalling certain 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and IS350, 2007-2008 Lexus ES350, Toyota Yaris, Yaris HB, and 2008 Lexus IS-F and Scion xB vehicles originally sold, or ever reg
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V396000
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
Risk: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
16V340000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009-2011 Toyota Corolla and Corolla Matrix, 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007-2011 Lexus ES350, and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, 2006-2008 Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350 and 2007-2008 Lexus ES350 vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Vehicles of these model years and models that were not originally sold or ever register
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
15V689000
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion xB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. During the manufacturing of the Power Window Master Switch (PWMS), grease lubricant may have been inconsistently applied to the sliding electrical contacts.
Risk: If the sliding electrical contacts are not protected by lubricant, debris and moisture that get into the switch may cause a short circuit and the switch assembly may overheat and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
14V168000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical connections to the driver's airbag module housed in a spiral cable assembly, which includes a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC). Due to the shape and location of the FFC's retainer, the FFC could become damaged when the steering wheel is turned.
Risk: If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically necessitates deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver.
12V491000
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Camry, Camry Hybrid, RAV4, Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Tundra, Sequoia, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Yaris, Scion xB, Scion xD and Pontiac Vibe vehicles. The power window master switch assemblies in some of these vehicles were built using a less precise process for lubricating the internal components of the switch assemblies. Irregularities in this lubrication process may cause the power window master switch assemblies to malfunction and overheat.
Risk: If the switch overheats, it may melt, possibly resulting in a fire.
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 2018014123,165 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: Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will either replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator, or replace the airbag assembly. 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.
Recall 2015493315,091 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, inconsistent application of grease during the manufacturing process could cause the driver's side power window master switch to stick or become inoperative due to electrical contact point wear. This could cause debris to accumulate between the contact points, potentially resulting in an electrical short circuit. If a short circuit occurs, the switch assembly may overheat, produce smoke, melt and/or potentially lead to a fire causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect the driver's power window master switch and apply a specialized grease that inhibits heat build-up, or replace the power window master switch circuit board, as necessary. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2012-338.
Recall 2014124344,870 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, electrical circuitry in the steering wheel assembly may become damaged. As a result, the driver's airbag may not function as intended, causing the instrument panel airbag warning lamp to illuminate. Failure of the driver's airbag to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the spiral cable assembly.
Recall 2013317144,744 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, the trunk lid may begin to close after it has been opened. Contributing factors may include the trunk lid being in the partially open position, windy conditions, the vehicle being parked on an incline, or weight (such as snow or ice) acting on the trunk lid. As a result, interaction could occur between a person and the trunk lid, which could lead to minor injury. Correction: Owners who are dissatisfied with the performance of their vehicle’s trunk lid may have the trunk springs replaced under special warranty coverage.
Recall 2012338239,459 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, due to improperly applied grease, the driver's side power window master switch could stick or become inoperative. If attempts are made to lubricate the switch, the switch assembly could overheat and melt. A melting switch may produce smoke and potentially lead to a fire causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the driver's power window master switch and apply a specialized grease that inhibits heat build-up, or replace the power window master switch circuit board, as necessary.
Recall 2010012273,050 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, accelerator pedal movement may become rough, slow to return, or the pedal may stick in a depressed position. This could result in a loss of throttle control and a vehicle crash, causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will install a steel reinforcement bar to the accelerator pedal assembly. With this reinforcement in place, the excess friction that can cause the pedal to stick is eliminated.
Recall 2009290437,445 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the accelerator pedal may become stuck in the wide open position due to an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat. A stuck open accelerator pedal may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death. Correction: Dealers will reconfigure the shape of the accelerator pedal. Certain models will also have the shape of the floor underneath the accelerator pedal modified and/or a brake override system installed.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 103,000 milesHollywood, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2009 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 5 mph and exiting a parking lot when the vehicle accelerated on its own, veered to the left, and crashed into a gate. No warning lights were illuminated and the air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injury to the right shoulder, right foot, and right hand, but did not seek medical attention. No police report was filed. The vehicle was totaled and towed to a towing company. Additionally, the contact stated in 2021 while reversing from a parking space, as the vehicle was driving forward, it veered to the left and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was towed to the to be diagnosed and repaired. Per the contact, the dealer offered no diagnosis or reason for the acceleration. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
NHTSA complaint #11565031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesHollywood, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The contact owned a 2009 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 5 mph and exiting a parking lot when the vehicle accelerated on its own, veered to the left, and crashed into a gate. No warning lights were illuminated and the air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injury to the right shoulder, right foot, and right hand, but did not seek medical attention. No police report was filed. The vehicle was totaled and towed to a towing company. Additionally, the contact stated in 2021 while reversing from a parking space, as the vehicle was driving forward, it veered to the left and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was towed to the to be diagnosed and repaired. Per the contact, the dealer offered no diagnosis or reason for the acceleration. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
NHTSA complaint #11565031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Glendale, AZCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
My daughter was hit by a red light runner at 60mph and her airbags did not deploy at all. Her head hit the door and she sustained a broken collarbone, concussion and mild brain bleed.
NHTSA complaint #11562148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Berlin, CT
STEERING
The contact's mother owns a 2009 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that on several occasions while he was driving straight at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle began to drift to the left and right inadvertently. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11583367 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Owl's Head, ME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I purchased my car in March 2023. From the first week, it wouldn't start sometimes. Id wait 5 minutes, then it would start fine. I thought it was when it got wet, at first. I also had a certain part replaced air flow compressor, possibly was called?, thinking this would fix it. It did not. In fact, the problem seemed to be happening more and more but, always, if I waited 5 to 10 minutes, sometimes messed around under the hood, it would start. This was not very comforting however, when it would stall at a light and not start right back up. I took it to AutoZone and was run on the diagnostics machine. Was told it needed new spark plugs and ignition coil packs. Which I got and replaced. Still happening. I took back to AutoZone, had it run again on diagnostic. This time it said battery. So I had a new battery put in. Still happening. All along, might I add, my fuses will blow randomly, my headlights And taillights will blow for no reason. One taillightooks like it melted through the plastic before it decided to blow. I e replaced some fuses, only to have blown again. I also have replaced the light bulb in taillight, only to have blown twice more. This is very dangerous, especially at a traffic light or, late at night if I need to go somewhere or leave somewhere And it won't start. I've been stuck in the middle of the road, on the wring sidevif the riad, in the midfle if a snowstorm, with it not starting for me. Also, it was gett5really cold without heat and, I was nearly hit several times as i was also at the bottom of a steep hill when my car decided to stop sliding backwards and stall on me and would not restart. That was the most fearful I have been with this issue and with good reason! I now see several others having similar issues with their same exact car. Why isn't Toyota addressing this?
NHTSA complaint #11570463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesHollywood, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2009 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 5 mph and exiting a parking lot when the vehicle accelerated on its own, veered to the left, and crashed into a gate. No warning lights were illuminated and the air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injury to the right shoulder, right foot, and right hand, but did not seek medical attention. No police report was filed. The vehicle was totaled and towed to a towing company. Additionally, the contact stated in 2021 while reversing from a parking space, as the vehicle was driving forward, it veered to the left and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was towed to the to be diagnosed and repaired. Per the contact, the dealer offered no diagnosis or reason for the acceleration. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
NHTSA complaint #11565031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesHollywood, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The contact owned a 2009 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at 5 mph and exiting a parking lot when the vehicle accelerated on its own, veered to the left, and crashed into a gate. No warning lights were illuminated and the air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained injury to the right shoulder, right foot, and right hand, but did not seek medical attention. No police report was filed. The vehicle was totaled and towed to a towing company. Additionally, the contact stated in 2021 while reversing from a parking space, as the vehicle was driving forward, it veered to the left and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was towed to the to be diagnosed and repaired. Per the contact, the dealer offered no diagnosis or reason for the acceleration. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
NHTSA complaint #11565031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Manchester, NH
AIR BAGS
I have been sent two different recalls on my cars airbags. I had one repaired. I do not know how to tell what repairs were were not done. They’ve all been marked as being done yet. Four years later less than four years later my airbag warning light is on. I’m concerned that supposedly the sensor was a rotating and warmer climate and then it was that it would propel shop objects and now I don’t have a recall, but I’ve had a light on, and of course, now other Toyotas of the same group that mine is usually in Corolla Tacoma on and on , I’m having a similar problem with the light being on and I’m very concerned that one are both of those airbags are not properly working. I’ve tried to explain to Toyota that I need to be able to identify and have problems fixed that are due to their manufacturing issues. my mats were never fixed by Toyota. I had to fix them myself. Having this repair investigated is going to cost me a lot of money and what I’m gonna find out. I bet is that other colors were recalled for it. What’s the likelihood that my car still has airbag issues , especially where all the recalls are marked is done and I know that I only had took it in once to have it fixed and that was for the sensor and I don’t even know how the parts the flying parts play into this. I hope you can find out if Ty should be expanding this recall, or if they’re just getting nailed with the recent ones Because there’s not enough 2009 Corolla on the road anymore to justify a recall .
NHTSA complaint #11562527 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Glendale, AZCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
My daughter was hit by a red light runner at 60mph and her airbags did not deploy at all. Her head hit the door and she sustained a broken collarbone, concussion and mild brain bleed.
NHTSA complaint #11562148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
AIR BAGS
UNKNOWN airbag light is on and never goes off. This worries me because it could affect my safety.
NHTSA complaint #11558664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Winchester, KY
STEERING
Power steering fails to operate causing loss of control while navigating turns.
NHTSA complaint #11549792 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterey, CACrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle speed control / sudden unintended acceleration. This was NOT a "misapplication of pedal" by driver! It was clearly a mechanical failure—apparently accelerator pedal (not floor mat, which was secured on its pegs). NO warning lamp, msg, symptom prior to crash. Afterward, saw NHTSA rpts others FIXED speed control issue & same prob STILL recurred! My VIN wasn't listed as unrepaired (likely the original owner repaired recall issue/s)—yet car was still dangerous! At slow speed, approx 1-2 mph, I was entering my garage in usual way, turning R. Car abruptly sped up uncontrollably (self-accelerated); couldn't stop it! Crashed thru garage doorpost & wall, then backyard fence. Lucky I'm alive & no one in yard. VERY traumatic! Physical injury (neck/back) helped by ibuprofen. FWIW air bag didn't deploy. AAA said they'd only tow for repair, not inspection. I wasn't going to repair; I'd NEVER trust driving that car again & wouldn't sell to ANYONE to drive, due to grave concern same issue'd recur! Available for inspection at PickNPull, Moss Landing, CA. PnP corp agreed they'd haul away ONLY for its OTHER parts—order taker understood it had UNTRUSTED accelerator pedal / vehicle speed control. They also promised me they wouldn't let anyone drive it! Of 2009 Corolla NHTSA's 1,523 rpts, "vehicle speed control" is 3rd highest, far > nearly all other rpts. Below, a few of MANY related examples. (Note: dates may be either report or incident dates.) 10/26/21 NHTSA #11438174; 5/31/17 #10992371; 7/16/16 #10885246 ("CAR WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL...STILL AN ISSUE WITH UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.); 6/3/16, #10872355; 10/2/14 #10640760 ("VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT FAILURE RECURRED"); 9/30/14 #10640098; 9/25/14 #10639073; 11/16/13 #10552563; 3/4/12 #10450183; 2/10/12 #10450183 ("ALREADY HAD ALL OF TOYOTA'S "RECALL" REMEDIES";) 1/29/12 #10447756; 6/22/10 #10343426 (recall work had been done); 6/23/10 #10340943 (work had been done); 6/6/10 #10339969; 5/18/10 #10330952.
NHTSA complaint #11473163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Centreville, VACrash1 injured
STEERING
The steering stopped responding, car started spinning hitting both left and right retaining walls. Normal high way driving. Great dry weather. NO WARNING- no shake- no rattle-no lights- no noise-NOTHING
NHTSA complaint #11471536 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Seguin, TX
ENGINE
Once you turn on your car the lifters become stuck and make a loud clicking noise on the engine. It makes the car hesitate to turn on and at times it shuts off the car automatically at any time.
NHTSA complaint #11469873 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sandy, UT
Other/I am not sure
Side styrofoam piece broke with just basic use and installation. Seems to occur frequently with this seat.
NHTSA complaint #11468766 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Wendover, NV
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My driver’s side window controls are slowly falling into the doors. I read where there was a recall online, but I have never received any paperwork. I am the original owner and have had all work done at various Toyota’s for 13 years now. Will I be able to have a dealer fix this? Thank you,
NHTSA complaint #11465452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Wendover, NV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My driver’s side window controls are slowly falling into the doors. I read where there was a recall online, but I have never received any paperwork. I am the original owner and have had all work done at various Toyota’s for 13 years now. Will I be able to have a dealer fix this? Thank you,
NHTSA complaint #11465452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Caguas, PR
AIR BAGS
El auto muestra en el panel el simbolo de la bolsa de aire .Fui a un taller autorizado Toyota y le hicieron el diagnostigo y me imformaron que la computadora de las bolsas de aire no sirve y que hay que cambiarla por una nueva y habia que ordenarlas porque no la tenian en inventario.
NHTSA complaint #11452791 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Caguas, PR
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
El auto muestra en el panel el simbolo de la bolsa de aire .Fui a un taller autorizado Toyota y le hicieron el diagnostigo y me imformaron que la computadora de las bolsas de aire no sirve y que hay que cambiarla por una nueva y habia que ordenarlas porque no la tenian en inventario.
NHTSA complaint #11452791 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mukwonago, WI
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
My 2009 Toyota Corolla is once again exhibiting undesired acceleration. Toyota has deemed this vehicle repaired in response to the recall that covered this issue. I was told it was caused by the floormat which it obviously was not. The accelerator pedal sticks and they will not fix it under the previous recall. Is there any steps I can take to get this situation resolved? I was told the car is no longer under warranty so any repairs regarding this issue would be put on me.
NHTSA complaint #11438174 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The car speed variable when I try speed up became slow or sometimes it speed up one time it stops in the middle of rail crossing and completely stop then I moved out and the car pushed up other side and the car accelerated not working properly nod the fuel system also I have big doubt about this car!
NHTSA complaint #11429143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
The car speed variable when I try speed up became slow or sometimes it speed up one time it stops in the middle of rail crossing and completely stop then I moved out and the car pushed up other side and the car accelerated not working properly nod the fuel system also I have big doubt about this car!
NHTSA complaint #11429143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The car speed variable when I try speed up became slow or sometimes it speed up one time it stops in the middle of rail crossing and completely stop then I moved out and the car pushed up other side and the car accelerated not working properly nod the fuel system also I have big doubt about this car!
NHTSA complaint #11429143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Durham, NCCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
2009 Toyota Corolla S was involved in an accident where the car flipped several times. Not a single airbag deployed.
NHTSA complaint #11421414 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orange Park, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have had my 2009 Toyota Corolla since day 1. I seen another post in here that is having the same issue as myself. I have had to replace my battery 3 times all because the “wiring harness” on this vehicle is faulty. Toyota knew about this beforehand. As customers we put our trust and faith in these big corporations to do the right thing when making these vehicles. We, as customers, shouldn’t have to purchase and pay for labor when all while Toyota was aware of the faulty wiring harness. This causes more issues than 1 because it controls everything inside and outside of your car.
NHTSA complaint #11418234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Raleigh, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My Toyota power door lock actuators continue to fail, even after multiple replacements. The failure mode starts as intermittent operation, often leaving doors unlocked when using the electronic locking system. Eventually the door lock actuator fails to respond at all. The intermittent nature of the failure onset puts consumers at risk for not realizing the system left their car unlocked, providing an opportunity for someone to enter the vehicle and wait in the car for vehicle owner to return or to have things stolen from the vehicle. Based on the repeated failures, the actuator design or manufacturing process is clearly defective. The repeated actuator failures requires the customer to be vigilant for failures and the pay for replacement, several hundreds of dollars each time, out of their own pocket since Toyota refuses to acknowledge an egregious failure rate on their power door lock mechanisms. Cynical observers may note that the failures generate a regular revenue stream for Toyota service departments. Thank you for your time.
NHTSA complaint #11417402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.