IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2005 Toyota Yaris Mk2

The Yaris Mk2 launched as a more substantial and refined supermini, building on the success of the Mk1. The 1.0 and 1.3 VVT-i petrol engines were carried over, while the MMT automated manual gearbox was introduced as an alternative to the conventional manual. The MMT would later become notorious for actuator failures, making the manual the clear recommendation.

What changed for 2005

  • •Complete redesign with more substantial and refined styling
  • •Introduction of the MMT (Multi-mode Manual Transmission) automated gearbox

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !MMT gearbox actuator failure on automated manual models
  • !Water pump weeping on 1.0 and 1.33 petrol engines
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

MMT Gearbox Actuator Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The automated manual (MMT) gearbox can suffer actuator and ECU faults, leaving the car stuck in neutral or unable to select gears - a known weak point on Mk2 Yaris automated models that often requires specialist repair.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Flashing "N" on dash, Refusal to select gears, Jerky take-off

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive in stop-start traffic
  • Check for clutch smell
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Airbag Inflator Recall

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Some models are subject to a recall for degraded airbag inflators that may not deploy correctly.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Recall)
Warning Signs:

Airbag warning light, Recall notice received

What to Inspect:
  • Check if the recall has been completed via Toyota or DVSA website
  • Confirm with a Toyota dealer using the VIN that the inflator replacement is signed off
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated
Official Recalls & Reference Documents:

Water Pump Leak

ModerateCooling System

The water pump on the 1.0 and 1.33 petrol engines is a known failure point, often showing as pink crusty coolant residue around the pump and a dropping coolant level; left unchecked it can cause overheating.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£350
Warning Signs:

Pink "fur" around pulley, Dropping coolant level, Sweet smell when hot

What to Inspect:
  • Visual check of the pump area
  • Look for pink staining on the underside of the bonnet
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Rear Speed Sensor Corrosion

ModerateBrakes

The speed sensors in the rear wheel bearings are prone to corrosion, triggering ABS warnings.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300
Warning Signs:

ABS warning light, Brake failure warning, Erratic speedometer

What to Inspect:
  • Check for ABS warning lights
  • Inspect rear wheel bearings for corrosion
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2005 Toyota Yaris Mk2

  • Avoid MMT gearboxes unless essential — the 1.33 petrol manual is the pick of the range
  • Check for pink coolant residue around the engine front, indicating water pump weep
2006–2008
Check a 2005 Toyota Yaris Mk2 by Registration