Last updated: 2026-07-26
2019 Toyota C-HR Reliability Report
The 2019 Toyota C-HR scores 70/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 101 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
101
Complaint Rate
20.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$441
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (55)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (5)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 2 of the First generation (AX10/AX50).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- A refresh arrives in 2020.
- 1st generation C-HR (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2018 (redesign year) vs 2019+ pricing and recalls.
2018: First generation (AX10/AX50) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is year 2 of the First generation (AX10/AX50).
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Toyota C-HR?
At 70/100, the 2019 Toyota C-HR lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 2 of the First generation (AX10/AX50).
Owners log 101 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train and power train (55). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Toyota C-HR, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2018 Toyota C-HR for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (55 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (23 complaints)
Compare 2019 Toyota C-HR With
2019 Buick Encore
Reliability: 76/100
2019 Jeep Renegade
Reliability: 75/100
2019 Ford Ecosport
Reliability: 58/100
2019 Cadillac XT4
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (55)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (23)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2019 Toyota C-HR. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
20.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 21.2
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Toyota C-HR Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Toyota C-HR. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SEAT BELTS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019-2020 C-HR and 2020 Corolla and Corolla Hybrid vehicles equipped with rear seat belt assemblies with a dual-mode locking mechanism. The seat belt webbing sensor locking mechanism may not lock as intended.
Consequence
In the event of a crash involving multiple impacts, the seat belt may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seat belt assembly production dates, and replace the assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 19TB22 and 19TA22.
EQUIPMENT
Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.
POWER TRAIN
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Toyota C-HR vehicles. The rear axle hub bearing bolts may have been insufficiently tightened, causing the bolts to loosen and damage the rear brake components or cause a rear wheel to detach.
Consequence
If the bolts loosen and damage the rear brake components, or cause a rear wheel to detach, it would increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear axle hub bearing bolts. If a bolt is found to be loose or detached, the dealer will replace the rear axle hub bearing assembly and rear axle carrier sub-assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0Y.
Buying a used 2019 Toyota C-HR? Check its history first
Every 2019 Toyota C-HR has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Toyota C-HR NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 14.3%
Safety Technologies
Toyota C-HRRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$441
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
29 MPG
Running cost: $2,650/yr
Fuel + repair
27 city / 31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-HR 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S7) | 27 | 31 | 29 | $2,050 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Toyota C-HR.
Inspect for unusual noises from the transmission, such as grinding or humming
Check for any existing warranty coverage on the CVT transmission
Verify if the transmission has been replaced or serviced recently
Test drive to ensure no sudden loss of propulsion or acceleration issues
Inspect for any visible structural corrosion, especially on suspension components
Check for windshield cracks that may have formed without impact
2019 Toyota C-HR Common Problems by Component
101 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
55 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent transmission failures in the 2019 Toyota C-HR, particularly concerning the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Common symptoms include unusual noises such as grinding, humming, or metallic sounds, often without any warning lights. These issues typically emerge between 60,000 and 140,000 miles, with some cases noted as early as 20,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as some owners describe sudden loss of propulsion while driving, which could increase the risk of accidents. Buyers considering a used C-HR should be aware of potential high repair costs, with replacements often exceeding $10,000, and may wish to investigate any existing warranty coverage or service history.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
23 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Toyota C-HR frequently report issues with the CVT transmission, with symptoms including humming, grinding, and whirring noises, as well as hard jerks during acceleration. These issues typically arise before reaching the suggested mileage for service, often appearing between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Many complaints indicate that the transmission failure can lead to a loss of vehicle control, posing a potential safety risk. Additionally, owners mention high repair costs, often quoted between $10,000 and $15,000, and express frustration over the lack of manufacturer support or recall, which is particularly relevant for potential buyers considering the long-term maintenance implications.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Toyota C-HR frequently report electrical system issues, particularly involving sudden battery failures and alternator problems. Typical symptoms include the vehicle suddenly losing power, warning messages related to braking and collision systems, and the inability to start or accelerate the vehicle. These issues are reported at mileage ranging from approximately 31,000 to 60,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, such as loss of power steering and inability to activate hazard lights, which could pose risks during driving. Additionally, some owners mention problems with rodent damage to soy-based wiring, which is not covered by warranty or recall, indicating potential additional costs for repairs.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (5 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Toyota C-HR frequently report issues with windshield cracks appearing spontaneously without any apparent impact. Common symptoms include cracks originating from the bottom or top edges of the windshield, often while the vehicle is stationary, such as when parked overnight or in a driveway. These cracks are described as lengthy, with some extending up to 55 cm, and typically show no signs of impact damage like starburst patterns. Complaints do not indicate any direct safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control, but the sudden appearance of large cracks could potentially obstruct visibility. The issues are reported at various mileages, with one specific mention at 4,500 miles, and owners frequently express dissatisfaction with the manufacturer's and dealers' responses, often facing denial of warranty claims.
ENGINE (3 complaints)
ENGINE
3 complaintsOwners report issues with the engine of the 2019 Toyota C-HR, particularly involving starting failures and the appearance of multiple warning lights, including Check Engine. One complaint details a failure with the valve lift controller and an inoperable housing sub-assembly around 96,000 miles. There are no direct safety implications mentioned, such as crashes or loss of control, related to these engine issues. Buyers should be aware that these problems may require diagnostic tests and part replacements.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedI had two mayor accidents, one was from the rear and the other on the left doors from the passenger side. The airbags didn't deployed and I'm concerned. The body shop said he doesn't unsdertand why they didn't deployed.
FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Toyota C-HR. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was sputtering while driving after 20 minutes of driving. Their vehicle failed to accelerate. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, who confirmed there was no recall coverage. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the failure was due to the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. An independent mechanic was contacted, who determined the failure was due to the fuel pump. The manufacturer was contacted, who referred him to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 39,000.
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintSevere structural corrosion was discovered on a low-mileage 2019 compact SUV affecting critical suspension components, including the front subframe, lower control arm mounting points, and structural attachment areas. The issue was identified during inspection at a dealership. The technician documented that suspension components were severely rusted, subframe bolts were rusted and cracking, and lower control arms were deteriorating due to corrosion. The technician advised that the vehicle should not be driven and recommended towing for further structural inspection. These components are part of the load-bearing suspension system and may pose a safety risk if failure occurs. This level of corrosion is unusual given the vehicle has approximately 27,000 miles and has been operated in a region without exposure to road salt or severe winter conditions. Independent mechanics who inspected the vehicle also expressed concern about the severity of the corrosion. The problem was confirmed by both a dealership and an independent repair facility. The vehicle was not inspected directly by the manufacturer. No warning lights or messages were present prior to discovery of the issue. Photographic evidence shows rust perforation, material loss, and metal delamination along structural seams, indicating corrosion progressing internally. This condition may compromise suspension mounting integrity and increase the risk of failure while driving. The affected components were repaired and are available for inspection upon reque
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThe Bridgestone AllSeason WeatherPeak 225/50R 18 tire tread was worn out at 15800 miles. Tires were rotated and alignment performed routinely at Firestone. Inflation was checked every two weeks. Many complaints for this issue by other customers. Early tread wear is dangerous and will cause accidents. How could this tire have a 700 tread rating and who is performing the test for the 700 tread rating?
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintThe camera that controls Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking shuts off during high-temperature weather. This was brought up to the dealer, and they dismissed it as normal. This occurs randomly and during the adaptive cruise control use. The car will beep, show the system off, and revert to manual control.
When Do 2019 Toyota C-HR Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Toyota C-HR Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Toyota C-HR Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Toyota C-HR year is 2022 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2021 (77/100) and 2020 (76/100).
Toyota C-HR Years to Avoid
The worst Toyota C-HR year is 2018 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to power train (193) issues.
Toyota C-HR Reliability Score Trend
Toyota C-HR reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 78/100 compared to 68/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 80/100 | Excellent |
Toyota C-HR Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Toyota C-HR reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Toyota C-HR?
How many recalls does the 2019 Toyota C-HR have?
Is the 2019 Toyota C-HR expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Toyota C-HR without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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