Despite its relatively short-lived fame in European countries, Toyota Yaris 2007 still left quite an impression on Asian vehicle owners: most express utter pleasure with its sleek design, beautiful finish, and simplistic interior.
However, like most other models from Toyota, there are still some 2007 Toyota Yaris problems that you need to be aware of. Keep scrolling through my guide to learn what they are.
What Are The Most Common 2007 Toyota Yaris Problems? Possible Solutions
There are lots of negative 2007 Toyota Yaris reviews regarding its airbag modules, vibration issues, paint peeling, brakes, front seats, acceleration, air conditioning smell, and cracked rear axle beams.
Aig Bag Recalls and Reliability Issues
According to numerous customer feedback records, airbag-related problems are the most cited complaints among Toyota Yaris drivers.
Criticisms were especially heated for 2006 to 2012 models: the airbag inflators had allegedly exploded at unexpected timing, firing numerous metal pieces at the car’s occupants. In certain cases, serious injuries (and even fatalities) were reported.
Other drivers also stated that the steering electrical cables broke whenever the steering wheels were turned, deactivating the airbag modules and rendering them extremely inactive during emergencies or crashes.
Some people had their noses broken and lips cut as a result!
Solution:
You should run some VIN checks (either on NHTSA or on the Toyota website is fine) to see whether your current Yaris model is affected by the manufacturer’s recalls.
If yes, you can have the airbag or electrical connection replaced at zero cost!
Do not mess around with the airbag system on your own, as that might void your warranty. The best bet is to leave the hard work to professionals.
Vibrations Stemming From Broken Engine Mounts
Vibrations are another issue you should keep an eye on – especially if you own Yaris from 2007-2010 and 2012-2014. Worse, models with stick shifts or manual transmissions have to suffer from weird engine vibrating sounds, too.
These issues became the most noticeable when changing gears or speeding up from an extended stop.
The car shakes badly, then suddenly stops to give drivers a false sense of security -before picking up where it left off!
Solution:
Most of the time, technicians will tell you to replace the damaged engine mounts.
In more serious cases, the transmission mount (taking charge of the transmission) might need replacements as well.
Paint Problems
Fans of car aesthetics probably would not like this: clear paint and coat peeling have plagued Yaris 2006-2008 models, worsening when you reach the 65-000 mile benchmark.
More specifically, the paint on the rear bumpers starts peeling off, cracking, chipping, and fading.
Blue-paint Yaris seems to encounter this issue the most for some reason, yet the brand has been infuriatingly tight-lipped about it.
Solution:
Have your car repainted; the price will fluctuate from 1500$ to 2000$. You may do the job yourself to save the cost, though I doubt beginners or inexperienced drivers will find it easy.
- And to reduce the damage risks, keep these tips in mind:
- Wax and wash the car regularly
- Keep it in safe garages away from bird droppings, dirt, and grime.
Service Brake Issues
The Yaris from 2006 to 2008 has been the most recognized victim of these problems.
Here are several Toyota Yaris common problems with the brakes and other standard features, summarized from consumer reports:
- Brakes have slow response rates after drivers depress the pedals
- The power steering and brakes malfunction for no reason
- The ABS (anti-lock brakes) fails to work or has bad modules
- Feet slip from the braking pedals
- Squeaking brake pedals
- ABS lights switch on and off randomly in cold temperature
Solution:
Despite numerous complaints and negative owner feedback regarding these Toyota Yaris problems, the brand did not issue any recalls regarding their Yaris brakes.
Again, you have no other choice but to turn to professional technicians for ABS sensor replacements.
Front Seat Discomfort
Though not a serious problem, this design flaw should still be noted if you consider buying a 2007 Yaris.
The front seats will give off weird creaking noises whenever you move – the result of poor-ergonomic structures, zero lumbar support, thin, hard foam, and too-outward angles.
Greasing them up might solve the issue, but it leads to a horrible WD-40 smell.
Solution:
There are no other ways to go about it – except for replacing the seats.
Thankfully, changing seats is quite straightforward; unless you do not feel confident in your skills, doing these swaps at home is totally possible.
Car Accelerating By Itself
Unlike issues with the front seats, this problem is much more dangerous and alarming: the Yaris is reported to “accelerate by itself,” usually when drivers depress the brakes.
All Yaris models from 2007 to 2015 receive complaints regarding this.
Unsurprisingly, accidents happened as a result; some drivers reported crashing into nearby houses or trees!
Solution:
Sudden accelerations are often the result of failing throttle bodies or electronic malfunctions.
Since the defect is pretty serious, I do not recommend working on it on your own. Seek mechanic/professional help as soon as possible.
A/C Moldy Smell
Several clients recounted the funky, strong smell from Yaris’ A/C system. The smell grew extremely gross during air conditioner start-ups or at low temperatures.
Solution:
You have three options:
- Replace the cabin filters
- Steam clean the entire system (that would require you to take everything apart, by the way) at 1500$
- Unclog the condensation tubes to let the water escape
Cracked Rear Axle Beams
Rear axle beams – bars spanning the car’s width – connect with your rear wheels via a lateral shaft.
When fractured or damaged, they cause the vehicle to track inaccurately, pull to the side, or, worse, be inoperable.
Drivers of 2007 to 2010 Yaris have to face these major issues very often; they also report hearing strange rubbing sounds from the axle.
Solution:
I suppose the low-quality materials contribute to these disasters. What else is there to do – other than to replace them?
And to keep excessive rust away from your axle beam, do not forget to follow these tips:
- Dry and wash your car regularly: Especially the car’s underside, during winter!
Only then can the grim, dirt, and salt – the notorious culprits of rusty beams – be eliminated.
Have automobile shops wash all underneath compartments thoroughly for you when winter is about to end.
- Garage: Store the Yaris in garages to keep it from tough weather
- Rustproofing: An expensive (yet totally worth it) treatment for those who want to keep their 2007Toyota Yaris for a long, long time.
Krown/Rust Check is the most popular choice when it comes to rustproofing services.
How Many Miles Does A 2007 Toyota Yaris Get?
Guaranteed great care, your 2007 Yaris can last about 300,000 miles (a whopping 20 years!).
That’s why I cannot stress enough the importance of regular maintenance and upkeep.
Extra Tips to Avoid Toyota Yaris 2007 Problems And Make It Last Longer
- Drive slowly and carefully to extend the tire’s and engine’s life. Unless you are in extreme emergencies (which only come once in a while), there is no point driving like a madman on the street.
- Do not let dirty, dark oil sit in the tank for too long. Replace or top it every 5000 miles.
- Carrying too much cargo might decrease fuel economy. Only choose the most essential items for your trip.
Conclusion
There are numerous 2007 Toyota Yaris problems. While they can still be repaired, it would be best to think twice before buying them – especially if your family is tight-budget.
For more support, feel free to write to me.