Most Common Failures Of The Toyota C-HR: Problems And Breakdowns
Toyota began production of its C-HR models in 2016, and it went on sale in 2017 in several countries, including the United States. The Toyota C-HR is a unique car, and that is clear from its name, which could mean “ Compact High-Rider or Cross Hatch Run-About ”. Stay until the end and find out all the common Toyota C-HR faults.
The Toyota C-HR is a vehicle known for its excellent fuel consumption, however, it is not exempt from problems and in this post you will know what they are
Common failures of the Toyota C-HR
The C-HR stands out for its efficiency in fuel consumption and its beautiful exterior, among other features. However, it does not mean that this is perfect.
Below, we list the most common failures that have been reported for the Toyota C-HR:
1. Untimely transmission problems
A good number of Toyota C-HR owners have complained that their transmission develops major problems prematurely.
Some owners reported hearing hum from the engine, which later changed to clicking and screeching sounds. They only discovered that it was a transmission failure when they reported the case to the dealers.
Owners also complained that transmission problems appeared too soon.
One owner in particular suspected a transmission problem in her C-HR, which has only driven 10,500 miles (16,800 kilometers). Some of the other reports refer to C-HR models with 35,000 to 100,000 miles (56,300 to 161,000 kilometers).
Other complaints concerned the cost of replacing the transmission. Some owners reported that they had to settle for a used one because of this.
Possible causes and solutions
Here are some of the reasons why your C-HR may develop early transmission problems and what to do about it.
1- Low transmission fluid
This is perhaps the most common reason why many automatic transmissions fail. A low transmission fluid level makes it almost impossible for the car to run as smoothly as it should. The solution to this is to flush the transmission, fix the leak, and revitalize the system by refilling it with fresh fluid.
2- A clogged filter
Filters are also very crucial to the proper functioning of the transmission, and the ugly thing about them is that they can become clogged. Things get uglier when you realize that a clogged filter can lead to total transmission failure.
The most common way to fix the problem is to get a new filter.
3- Defective torque converter
The torque converter is the heart of the transmission, as it is responsible for pumping transmission fluid throughout the system. A faulty torque converter makes it hard to push, leading to erratic behavior.
To do?
If you detect a transmission problem in your Toyota C-HR, we advise you to go to your dealer or a trusted automotive expert. Not all transmission problems require a total replacement; some just need a fluid top-up or filter change.
It is also important to take general transmission overhaul and maintenance seriously. This will be easier for you if you have an annual or bi-annual maintenance plan for your car.
2. Air conditioning failure
We also found several reports related to the air conditioning of the Toyota C-HR. Many of the owners reported that their air conditioners were blowing hot air instead of cold.
Some owners also complained that it was even more frustrating because the problems arose within a few months of purchase. Others, with newer models, were grateful that they were able to fix it for free under warranty.
We also noted a complaint that the air conditioner takes up to two minutes to cool down. Several owners corroborated this complaint, stating that it was on the make for the Toyota C-HR.
Possible causes and solutions
Here are the possible causes of C-HR AC problems and their solutions:
1- A freon leak
The most likely reason for an air conditioner not blowing cool air is a freon leak. Freon is a non-flammable refrigerant that causes the cooling effect of AC. As you’ve probably realized by now, it’s a vital component, and when you have a leak, your air conditioner essentially loses its cooling effect.
Early detection often leaves you with the free and least expensive option to repair the component. However, if the leak continues too long, moisture could get into the system and cause further damage.
2- Condenser blocked
Another possible reason for a cooling problem on Toyota C-HR is a blocked condenser . The condenser cools a refrigerant that is hot. It does this cleverly by borrowing airflow from the front of the car when it’s in motion.
However, if the condenser is blocked by dirt or an invisible debris load, it will be unable to cool the hot refrigerant.
3- Electrical problems
Electrical problems, including bad wiring, are often cited as reasons for C-HR air conditioning failures. This, like most other problems, is best handled by an expert.
4- Defective fans
Air conditioners have fans that help supply cooling to the condenser. If the fans are faulty, the car is likely blowing hot air.
Fans can be visually inspected, and problems are often characterized by cracks.
To do?
The truth is, air conditioning problems are less of a concern than most other vehicle problems. This is because they are often easy to fix, and repairs are not that expensive. However, we advise that problems be left to the care of an expert.
3. Recurring failures with the battery
Some Toyota C-HR owners have raised concerning complaints about the vehicle’s battery. Owners claim that the Toyota C-HR battery dies after a day of inactivity.
A couple of owners even reported that the C-HR’s battery had died twice in one week. These particular owners reported using the car on a daily basis, suggesting that the problem goes beyond idling.
We found these battery issues to be common on the 2017 and 2018 Toyota C-HR. Also, most of the complaints involved cars with at least 20,000 miles (32,186 kilometers) on them.
Possible causes and solutions
Here are the reasons why the battery of your Toyota C-HR may weaken faster than usual:
1- Old battery
Car batteries are not eternal and must be replaced at some point. If your car battery keeps dying, it could be because the battery is too old and needs to be replaced. By “too old”, we mean batteries that have been used for more than 3-4 years.
2- Corroded battery connections
There are terminals attached to the battery for the battery to function properly. However, these terminals are vulnerable to corrosion, and if that happens, it could prevent your car from starting. To reduce the likelihood of corrosion, experts advise cleaning the terminals regularly.
The terminals could also become detached over time, which could prevent proper power transmission to and from the battery.
3- Extreme climates
Frigid winter weather or scorching summer temperature may be the reason your battery has been dying. New batteries are usually resistant to these conditions, but old ones often shrink or die outright.
4- Defective alternator
The alternator keeps the vehicle’s battery charged when it is on the move. However, when the alternator is faulty , it cannot charge the battery effectively. This can make it extremely difficult to start your car, even if it has only stalled a bit.
To do?
If you experience battery problems similar to those described above, we advise you to visit your dealer for a full inspection. This will help to figure out what the problem is and find solutions to ensure that you won’t have to deal with the same problems again.
The good and the bad of the Toyota C-HR
Now that you know the common faults of the Toyota C-HR, it is also good that you know about some positive aspects that this truck has.
Advantages of the Toyota C-HR
These are some of the pros or strengths of the Toyota C-HR:
1- Affordable
The Toyota C-HR not only offers top-tier features, but offers them at a relatively low price. It is one of the cheapest in its class, although there are some price jumps when you go up a higher trim level.
2- Reputed brand
For a vehicle that was launched in 2016, the Toyota C-HR has managed to earn the trust of a large number of owners and reviewers. The truth is that this is not an auspicious fluke, but is due, in large part, to the reliability of the Toyota brand for a long time.
Basically, the Toyota behind the C-HR, along with its splendid qualities, has helped catapult it to the top of its class in just a few short years.
3- Fuel efficiency
Among the many strengths of the Toyota C-HR is its excellent fuel efficiency. It has an estimated 27 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for a combined 29 MPG. Fuel economy says the C-HR will help you save a lot of money per year compared to the average vehicle.
Sure, it’s not quite up there with what you get from a hybrid, but this is fair for the price and class.
4- Adjustable cabin
The Toyota C-HR has two-row seating, but here’s the kicker: The rear row was designed as a 60/40 split bench, and one side of the bench can be folded down if you need room for more cargo.
Normally, cargo space measures just 19.1 cubic feet, but using that method, it can be increased to 37 cubic feet.
5- Premium infotainment
What is a car today without music and entertainment in general? Well, you won’t find the answer to that in a Toyota C-HR, thanks to its comprehensive infotainment package.
Standard infotainment features include an eight-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and classic Sirius XM, among others.
6- Security features
The Toyota C-HR sports a host of excellent safety features that help reduce the chances of mishaps and accidents. These features work hand in hand with the driver to ensure that the car and its occupants are safe. These include:
- Automatic high beams
- Cruise control
- blind spot check
- rear view camera
- forward collision alert
- automatic emergency braking
- pedestrian detection
- Traffic signal assistance
Disadvantages of the Toyota C-HR
The cons or drawbacks present in a Toyota C-HR are:
- Untimely transmission problems
- Air conditioning failure
- Recurring battery failures
