Used Toyota Corolla

What to know before buying: Toyota Corolla

From 3 video reviews and 2 press tests · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The 12th-generation Corolla is a simple, economical and easy-to-park daily car; its cabin materials and ride comfort are notably improved over the previous generation.[1]one source12th generation
• The 2020 hatchback has a well-finished, solid-feeling cabin and an excellent driving position, but rear legroom trails key rivals.[2]one source12th generation
• Every reviewed 2020 Corolla has independent rear suspension; it rides bumps well, turns in sharply and remains composed through corners.[2]one source12th generation
• The 12th-generation six-speed manual is described as highly durable; with proper use, its clutch can also last beyond 100,000 km.[3]one source12th generation

Typical faults

• The 1.2-litre 8NR-FTS ignition coils may fail around 100,000 km or sooner, causing a check-engine light, misfires, rough idle and increased fuel use.[3]one source12th generation

  1.2 8NR-FTS

• The M15B-FKS water-cooled EGR heat exchanger can corrode and leak coolant; deposits may jam the EGR valve, with white exhaust, power loss and overheating among the symptoms.[3]one source12th generation

  2021+ · 1.5 M15B-FKS

• The K3-family CVT can accelerate in surges once warm; diagnosis traced the fault to its valve body. Cases occurred at 35,000–40,000 km and also at 100,000–150,000 km.[3]one source12th generation

  35 000–150 000 km · 1.6 petrol with K3 CVT

• Some 2019–2021 Corollas, especially 2020 cars and 2019–2020 hatchbacks, can retain water inside the doors because of blocked drains, causing sloshing and a potential rust risk.[1]one source12th generation

  2019–2021

• On 2020 non-hybrid 1.8-litre cars, the Valvematic actuator can fail at low mileage, causing power loss, a check-engine light or a no-start condition.[1]one source12th generation

  2020–2020 · 1.8 2ZR-FAE non-hybrid

• A recall of 2023–2024 gasoline and hybrid Corollas concerns cracks in a steering-shaft joint that may grow until the joint separates, causing loss of steering.[4][5]12th generation

  2023–2024 · gasoline, hybrid

Which engine and version to take

• The 2.0-litre M20A-FKS is the preferred gasoline choice: the review praises its performance and economy and reported no recurring problems at the time.[1]one source12th generation
• The 1.8-litre hybrid with e-CVT is described as possibly the best Corolla variant; its hybrid-system generation has been used since 2016, and the review reported no problems.[1]one source12th generation

What to avoid

• Treat the 2020 non-hybrid 1.8-litre cautiously: its Valvematic actuator may fail at low mileage, and the repair is described as expensive.[1]one source12th generation
• The M15B-FKS warrants particular caution because its water-cooled EGR heat exchanger can corrode, leak coolant and contribute to EGR-valve seizure.[3]one source12th generation

What to check at the inspection

• After rain, move each door and listen for water sloshing; inspect the drain openings and lower door seams for corrosion.[1]one source12th generation
• On a 2020 non-hybrid 1.8, check the cold start and test drive for a check-engine light, weak power or starting trouble that may indicate a Valvematic fault.[1]one source12th generation
• Test the CVT fully warm: accelerate smoothly several times and watch for repeated rpm drops and recoveries accompanied by surging.[3]one source12th generation
• On an M15B-FKS, check coolant level, white exhaust, power loss and overheating signs; scan for P319300 and P0401 codes as well.[3]one source12th generation
• For 2023–2024 cars, verify recall status by VIN and obtain repair records; steering vibration or excess play may indicate the recalled steering-shaft defect.[4][5]12th generation
• For 2022–2024 cars, confirm completion of the skid-control software recall; the fault can require greater pedal force and increase stopping distance.[5]one source12th generation

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]The Car Care Nut — Should you buy a Toyota Corolla? Review and Common Problems · ▶ video
2. [2]carwow — Toyota Corolla 2020 in-depth review | carwow Reviews · ▶ video
3. [3]АВТО ПЛЮС — Проблемы будут, но решить их несложно. Toyota Corolla 12 поколения | Подержанные автомобили · ▶ video
4. [4]autos.yahoo.com — 4 Common Problems With The Toyota Corolla · press
5. [5]carsguide.com.au — Toyota Corolla Problems & Reliability Issues · press

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