IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2009 Toyota Yaris Mk2

The 2009 facelift brought revised styling and improved interior materials, while the mechanical package remained largely unchanged. This is the sweet spot of the Mk2 range, with the facelift addressing some early niggles while retaining the proven engines. Insurance groups remain very competitive and running costs are among the lowest available in the supermini class.

What changed for 2009

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

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear speed sensor corrosion triggering ABS warnings
  • !Airbag inflator recall on some production batches
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 2009 Toyota Yaris Mk2

  • Check for ABS warning lights — rear speed sensor corrosion is a common and expensive fix
  • Verify the airbag inflator recall has been completed via Toyota or DVSA website
2006–20082010
Check a 2009 Toyota Yaris Mk2 by Registration