2018 Toyota Corolla Problems: 6 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2018 model year · 3,069+ owner reports · Updated April 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,069+ owner reports, the 2018 Toyota Corolla has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure ($150-$4,500 repair) and Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure with 678 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:

Community Reported

678 owners

On the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla, the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in 2014-2019 Corollas may experience shuddering, jerking during acceleration, high RPM before shifting, and in severe cases complete transmission failure. Issues are particularly reported when accelerating from a stop or during downshifting. Some owners have experienced catastrophic failures at relatively low mileage.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Infiniti QX60, Mitsubishi Outlander

Common Symptoms

Jerking or shuddering when accelerating from a stop
High RPM before the transmission engages
Hesitation or slipping during acceleration
Transmission not shifting into gear
Complete loss of power while driving

How to Fix

Perform CVT fluid change at recommended intervals (every 60,000 miles). Software update from Toyota dealer for transmission control module. Replace torque converter if diagnosed as failed. Complete CVT transmission replacement in severe cases.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 678+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Toyota Corolla forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeCVT fluid specifically formulated for continuous variable transmissions (Valvoline CVT Transmission Fluid)
View on Amazon
UpgradeReplacement CVT transmission filter to maintain fluid cleanliness (ATP CVT Transmission Filter Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$150 - $4,500

Research This Issue

678+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence678 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

567 owners

On the 2018-2020 Toyota Corolla, certain 2018-2020 Corollas have a low-pressure fuel pump with an impeller that can deform due to excessive fuel absorption. This can cause reduced fuel delivery, engine hesitation, and in worst cases, engine stalling while driving - creating a significant crash risk. This is a safety recall affecting multiple Toyota models.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Lexus IS

Common Symptoms

Engine hesitation or loss of power during acceleration
Engine stalling while driving
Difficulty starting the vehicle
Check engine light illumination

How to Fix

Replace fuel pump assembly with improved part (covered under recall).

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 567+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Toyota Corolla forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeDelphi fuel pump module — OE-quality direct replacement (Delphi Fuel Pump Module)
View on Amazon
UpgradeBosch fuel pump — reliable OEM alternative (Bosch Fuel Pump)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

567+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence567 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

567 owners

On the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla, a common issue affecting many 11th-generation Corollas is a squeaking or clunking noise from the front suspension when driving over speed bumps, uneven surfaces, or when turning. The noise originates from the front lower suspension arm rear bushing and can occur even at relatively low mileage. Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin addressing this issue.

Common Symptoms

Squeaky or creaky noise when going over speed bumps
Clunking noise when turning left or right
Noise more pronounced at slow speeds over uneven pavement
Creaking sound when entering driveways or going over railroad tracks

How to Fix

Replace front lower suspension arm assemblies with updated parts. Replace worn control arm bushings. Replace strut mounts if diagnosed as failed.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 567+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThis repair is covered under Toyota Basic Warranty (36 months/36,000 miles)
UpgradePolyurethane bushing kit for longer life and tighter handling than OEM rubber (Energy Suspension Bushing Kit)
View on Amazon
UpgradeSway bar end links to eliminate clunking over bumps (Moog Sway Bar Link Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

Research This Issue

567+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence567 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

456 owners

On the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla, the electric power steering (EPS) system in 2014-2019 Corollas is reported to be overly sensitive, causing the vehicle to wander or drift at highway speeds. Owners report needing constant steering corrections and the vehicle reacting to wind, passing trucks, and road imperfections. In more severe cases, owners have reported complete loss of power steering assist while driving.

Common Symptoms

Vehicle wanders or drifts at speeds over 50-60 mph
Excessive steering correction needed on highways
Steering wheel feels light and twitchy
Intermittent loss of power steering assist
Steering wheel difficult to turn when assist fails

How to Fix

Wheel alignment check and adjustment. Software update for EPS control module. EPS motor or rack replacement in severe cases. Check for worn suspension components affecting steering feel.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 456+ owners who fixed this issue

TipHave wheel alignment checked first - this resolves many drift complaints
UpgradeComplete strut and shock absorber set for full suspension refresh (KYB Excel-G Strut/Shock Set)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFour-wheel alignment kit with cam bolts for proper tire wear correction (Moog Alignment Cam Bolt Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$100 - $1,500

Research This Issue

456+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence456 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

345 owners

On the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla, front wheel bearings in 2014-2019 Corollas may fail prematurely, producing a characteristic growling or humming noise that increases with vehicle speed. The noise typically becomes louder when making turns. While generally reliable, some owners report wheel bearing issues occurring earlier than expected, particularly on vehicles driven in harsh conditions.

Common Symptoms

Growling or humming noise from front wheels
Noise increases with vehicle speed
Noise changes pitch when turning
Vibration felt through steering wheel
Play or looseness in wheel when checking by hand

How to Fix

Replace failed wheel bearing assembly. Inspect and replace related components if damaged (ball joint, tie rod end, ABS sensor).

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 345+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteDo not continue driving on a failed wheel bearing - the wheel can come off in extreme cases
UpgradeQuality wheel bearing/hub assembly for noise-free and safe wheel rotation (Timken Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$250 - $530

Research This Issue

345+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

Medium Confidence345 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

456 owners

On the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla, the Entune 2.0 infotainment system, particularly premium versions with navigation and apps, experiences widespread failures including getting stuck in boot loops, unresponsive touchscreens, random rebooting, and complete radio failure. The touchscreen digitizer layer commonly fails, causing portions of the screen to become unresponsive. Issues often manifest just after the 36-month warranty expires.

Common Symptoms

Radio stuck in reboot loop with loading bar that never completes
Touchscreen unresponsive or only partially responsive
System randomly reboots while driving
Bluetooth connectivity failures
Complete radio/display blackout

How to Fix

Check and replace blown fuses. Perform hard reset by disconnecting battery for 30 minutes. Software update at Toyota dealer. Replace head unit with new or refurbished unit.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 456+ owners who fixed this issue

TipConsider aftermarket head units as a more reliable and cost-effective replacement
UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
View on Amazon
UpgradeOEM-quality replacement battery with reliable performance (ACDelco Professional AGM Battery)
View on Amazon
UpgradeAutomatic battery maintainer to prevent parasitic drain issues during storage (Battery Tender Junior 12V Battery Charger Maintainer)
View on Amazon
UpgradeProfessional OBD-II diagnostic scanner for reading infotainment and body module codes (BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scan Tool)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$100 - $1,625

Research This Issue

456+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence456 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Corolla problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,069+ owner reports, the 2018-2018 Toyota Corolla has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure, Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation, Front Lower Suspension Arm Bushing Squeak/Clunk. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Toyota Corolla reliable?

The 2018-2018 Toyota Corolla has 6 known issues documented across 3,069+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure and Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Corolla problems?

Repair costs for known Toyota Corolla issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure, typically costs $150-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure?

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in 2014-2019 Corollas may experience shuddering, jerking during acceleration, high RPM before shifting, and in severe cases complete transmission failure. Issues are particularly reported when accelerating from a stop or during downshi… Repairs typically run $150-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2020 Toyota Corolla Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation?

Certain 2018-2020 Corollas have a low-pressure fuel pump with an impeller that can deform due to excessive fuel absorption. This can cause reduced fuel delivery, engine hesitation, and in worst cases, engine stalling while driving - creating a significant crash risk. This is a sa… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Front Lower Suspension Arm Bushing Squeak/Clunk?

A common issue affecting many 11th-generation Corollas is a squeaking or clunking noise from the front suspension when driving over speed bumps, uneven surfaces, or when turning. The noise originates from the front lower suspension arm rear bushing and can occur even at relativel… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Entune Infotainment System Failure?

The Entune 2.0 infotainment system, particularly premium versions with navigation and apps, experiences widespread failures including getting stuck in boot loops, unresponsive touchscreens, random rebooting, and complete radio failure. The touchscreen digitizer layer commonly fai… Repairs typically run $100-$1,625. Severity: medium.

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Electric Power Steering Sensitivity and Drift Issues?

The electric power steering (EPS) system in 2014-2019 Corollas is reported to be overly sensitive, causing the vehicle to wander or drift at highway speeds. Owners report needing constant steering corrections and the vehicle reacting to wind, passing trucks, and road imperfection… Repairs typically run $100-$1,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Front Wheel Bearing Premature Failure?

Front wheel bearings in 2014-2019 Corollas may fail prematurely, producing a characteristic growling or humming noise that increases with vehicle speed. The noise typically becomes louder when making turns. While generally reliable, some owners report wheel bearing issues occurri… Repairs typically run $250-$530. Severity: medium.

All 6 Known Issues

2014-2019 Toyota Corolla: CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2018-2020 Toyota Corolla: Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2014-2019 Toyota Corolla: Front Lower Suspension Arm Bushing Squeak/Clunk#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2014-2019 Toyota Corolla: Electric Power Steering Sensitivity and Drift Issues#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2014-2019 Toyota Corolla: Front Wheel Bearing Premature Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2014-2019 Toyota Corolla: Entune Infotainment System Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Toyota Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Corolla problems?

Is the Toyota Corolla reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Corolla problems?

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla CVT Transmission Shudder and Failure?

What is the 2018-2020 Toyota Corolla Fuel Pump Impeller Deformation?

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Front Lower Suspension Arm Bushing Squeak/Clunk?

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Entune Infotainment System Failure?

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Electric Power Steering Sensitivity and Drift Issues?

What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla Front Wheel Bearing Premature Failure?