Summary
The Toyota Yaris has 18 recalls spanning 2006 through 2020, with the most serious being a fuel pump failure on 2019 models where the low-pressure pump can cause a sudden loss of engine power while driving, raising the risk of a crash.
The fuel pump issue extends into 2020 as well, where an impeller inside the pump can crack and deform, causing the engine to stall. On 2015-2017 models, the wire harnesses for the side airbag sensors inside the front doors can crack and corrode, preventing the side and curtain airbags from deploying in a crash. The 2015 model year has two suspension-related issues: improperly tightened rear axle hub bearing bolts can loosen during driving and cause the wheel to lock up or damage the rear brakes, and the front strut mounting bearing can be damaged by a hard impact such as a large bump, potentially causing the strut rod to separate and a sudden loss of vehicle stability. A 2012-2015 recall covering vehicles sold in Puerto Rico addresses a roof headliner that does not meet impact protection requirements, raising injury risk in a crash.
The 2012 model year has an electric power steering relay that can short circuit and shut off steering assist, forcing the driver to steer manually with considerably more effort, particularly at low speeds. Going back further, 2006-2010 models have front seat rail springs that can break, allowing the seat to slide unexpectedly in a crash. On 2006-2007 models, the pyrotechnic pretensioner in the front seatbelts can ignite nearby sound-insulating material when deployed, raising the risk of a post-collision fire. The 2006 model year also has a power window master switch on the driver's side that can stick or short circuit due to contact wear, and a separate issue where the front seat position mechanism can appear locked while it is not.
