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Toyota Corolla: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2018 (80/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2018 80 · 2016 80 · 2015 80 · 2024 78

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202682/100
Too New

11 complaints · 1 recalls

202478/100
Buy

59 complaints · 2 recalls

202364/100
Caution

71 complaints · 3 recalls

202176/100
Buy

182 complaints · 1 recalls

202064/100
Caution

302 complaints · 3 recalls

201973/100
Buy

200 complaints · 5 recalls

201880/100
Buybest year

133 complaints · 3 recalls

201778/100
Buy

187 complaints · 3 recalls

201680/100
Buy

211 complaints · 1 recalls

201580/100
Buy

218 complaints · 1 recalls

201478/100
Buy

267 complaints · 2 recalls

201364/100
Caution

201 complaints · 5 recalls

201264/100
Caution

445 complaints · 5 recalls

201164/100
Caution

590 complaints · 9 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2018?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2018 Toyota Corolla’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Toyota Corolla head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Toyota Corolla as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.