IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Toyota Aygo Mk1

The 2009 facelift brought revised styling and improved interior materials, while the mechanical package remained largely unchanged. This is the sweet spot of the Mk1 range, with the facelift addressing some early niggles while keeping the proven engines. Insurance groups are very low, making these ideal for new and young drivers.

What changed for 2009

  • •Revised front grille, bumper and headlight design
  • •Improved interior trim materials and revised instrument cluster

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Clutch wear on urban-driven cars, especially those used by learners
  • !Door lock actuator failure on central locking system
5
Known Issues
0
Serious
4
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Water Ingress (Boot/Rear)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Leaking rear light seals and high-level brake lights let water into the boot, leaving damp carpets and a musty smell; a known Mk1 weak point on UK cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£200
Warning Signs:

Wet boot carpet, Condensation, Misty lights

What to Inspect:
  • Lift boot carpet and check for water or rust
  • Check the rear light seals and boot rubber for perishing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Clutch Wear

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Many owners upgrade to the 190mm clutch from later models to resolve premature wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£500
Warning Signs:

High biting point, Slipping in high gears

What to Inspect:
  • Pull away in 2nd with handbrake on
  • Feel for judder or slipping when pulling away
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Door Lock Actuator Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The central locking actuators can seize or fail, preventing doors from locking or unlocking remotely.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£200 per door
Warning Signs:

Door won't lock/unlock with key fob, Manual lock still works, Clicking noise from door

What to Inspect:
  • Test all door locks with the key fob
  • Listen for actuator clicking
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Starter Motor Wear

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The starter motor can wear prematurely, especially on cars used for frequent short urban trips.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£350
Warning Signs:

Slow cranking, Clicking noise when turning key, Car fails to start in cold weather

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for slow cranking or clicking on startup
  • Check battery terminals are tight and clean
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Exhaust Silencer Corrosion

MinorExhaust & Emissions

The rear silencer is prone to rusting through, especially on UK cars exposed to road salt.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

Exhaust rattle or growling noise, Failed MOT for exhaust leak, Visible rust on rear silencer

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear silencer from underneath
  • Listen for exhaust noise at idle
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2009 Toyota Aygo Mk1

  • Test the clutch for slipping by pulling away in second with the handbrake on
  • The facelift models have better interior quality and fewer electrical gremlins
2006–20082010–2011
Check a 2009 Toyota Aygo Mk1 by Registration