Last updated: 2026-07-26
2020 Toyota C-HR Reliability Report
The 2020 Toyota C-HR scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 55 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
55
Complaint Rate
12.8per 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 (41)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- STEERING (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 received a facelift update for the First generation (AX10/AX50).
- Changes: New front and rear design; Updated interior features; Introduction of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.
- Year 3 in this generation (2018–2022).
- 1st generation C-HR (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2018: First generation (AX10/AX50) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year (Refresh)
2020 received a facelift update for the First generation (AX10/AX50).
Should You Buy the 2020 Toyota C-HR?
At 76/100, the 2020 Toyota C-HR lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 received a facelift update for the First generation (AX10/AX50).
Owners log 55 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 (41). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Toyota C-HR, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2019 Toyota C-HR for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −POWER TRAIN: Bearing failures in the CVT transmission (41 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (3 complaints)
Compare 2020 Toyota C-HR With
2020 Buick Encore GX
Reliability: 70/100
2020 Buick Encore
Reliability: 77/100
2020 Jeep Renegade
Reliability: 75/100
2020 Ford Ecosport
Reliability: 58/100
2020 Cadillac XT4
Reliability: 68/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (41)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2020 Toyota C-HR carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
12.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 20.2
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Toyota C-HR Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2020 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.
Buying a used 2020 Toyota C-HR? Check its history first
Every 2020 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
2020 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 2020 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 2020 Toyota C-HR.
Listen for whining or grinding noises from the transmission
Test drive to check for smooth acceleration and gear shifting
Verify if the transmission has been replaced or repaired
Check for any transmission-related recalls or warranty extensions
Inspect brake pads and rotors for excessive wear
2020 Toyota C-HR Common Problems by Component
55 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
41 complaintsOwners report frequent transmission issues with the 2020 Toyota C-HR, primarily involving bearing failures in the CVT transmission. Complaints commonly mention symptoms such as a high-pitched whining noise, grinding sounds, and sudden loss of acceleration. These issues typically appear around 77,000 to 118,000 miles. Safety implications include unexpected vehicle stalling, sudden loss of propulsion, and delayed shifting, which could lead to potential rear-end collisions or loss of control, as one injury has been reported. Used car buyers should be aware of the significant repair costs associated with these transmission problems, which often approach or exceed the vehicle's value.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Toyota C-HR frequently report issues with the CVT transmission, including whining noises and complete transmission failure. Symptoms described include a persistent whining sound and the need for transmission replacement as diagnosed by mechanics. These issues are often reported to occur before reaching 120,000 miles. While the complaints do not explicitly mention any safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control, potential buyers should be aware of these transmission concerns when considering a used 2020 Toyota C-HR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Toyota C-HR report issues with the electrical system, primarily involving the communication computer and vehicle stalling. Complaints frequently mention liquid leakage from the cup holder into the console, leading to short circuits and communication errors, such as key fob malfunctions. Another reported issue is vehicle stalling, often accompanied by warning lights like low tire pressure, with one owner noting this issue at approximately 7,384 miles. Safety implications include instances of the vehicle seizing or stalling while driving, which could lead to traffic disruptions or potential hazards. Buyers should be aware of these electrical concerns, particularly regarding liquid exposure and vehicle reliability at lower mileages.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Toyota C-HR report issues related to steering, primarily involving tire problems that may affect vehicle control. Complaints frequently mention tire blowouts and excessive tread wear, with one owner associating these issues with a potentially defective tie rod, although a dealer inspection did not confirm this. One report involves a loss of control while turning, resulting in a crash. These issues are reported at low mileages, around 5,000 to 9,500 miles, suggesting they may occur early in the vehicle's life. Potential safety implications include the risk of losing control of the vehicle, which could be a concern for prospective buyers.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintTO: CarMax Corporate Relations Attn: Jennifer Sheppard, AVP Customer Service Excellence 12800 Tuckahoe Creek Parkway Richmond, VA 23238 [XXX] National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Vehicle: 2020 Toyota C-HR 4D Sport Utility VIN: [XXX] Subject: Formal Safety Complaint, Inspection Failure, and Demand for Buyback To the Representatives of CarMax Corporate and NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a severe safety incident and a gross failure of the CarMax Certified Quality Inspection process. The negligence displayed by the CarMax Orlando staff not only violated the terms of our purchase contract but actively endangered my life and the lives of others on the road. 1. Timeline of Events and Staff Negligence On 04/30/2026, I purchased the above-referenced vehicle from CarMax Orlando. Upon attempting a test drive, I was denied by sales consultant Boris Iniquez, who stated the vehicle could not be driven until it was cleaned. On 05/01/2026, I took delivery and immediately noticed the brakes were non-responsive and emitting a loud "air brake" sound. I returned to the dealership on 05/02/2026. Mr. Iniquez performed a ride-along, personally witnessed the brake malfunction, and was informed of my immediate need to drive 450 miles to Atlanta, GA, for my role as a Site Inspector. Rather than providing a safe loaner or grounded vehicle, Mr. Iniquez and the acting manager explicitly instructed me to drive the vehicle to Atlanta, asserting that the car had "passed all inspections." 2. Mechanical Safety Failure Upon reaching Atlanta, the vehicle's condition became untenable. On 05/07/2026, CarMax GA inspected the vehicle and found: - Total failure of all four brake pads. - Front rotors requiring immediate replacement. It is mathematically and mechanically impossible for a vehicle with metal-on-metal rotors and failing pads to have passed a legitimate 125+ INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaint2020 CHR transmission failure. There were no lights no notice nothing appeared to warn me. The car started making a faint winding sound. Bought car brand new 2020 and Toyota Fred Anderson Raleigh diagnosed with internal transmission failure 2/28/26. The car is 20000 miles over warranty so they are telling me there’s no coverage for me and billed me 12000$ for a new transmission
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaintThe collision system turns off with the bad weather and the very bad transmission failure at 95 thousand mills
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint1. The rear seat belts are malfunctioning. At times, they fasten properly, while at other times they fail to do so. 2. The warning light on the information board intermittently activates and deactivates. 3. IMPORTANT: The transmission system emits a dreadful noise. As the speed rises, the noise intensifies. It remains constant. Driving this vehicle makes me feel UNSAFE! I am worried for my safety and the safety of others.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintOne tire blowout less than 2k miles, Sidewall and tread on all other tires, not holding air, losing traction causing lose of control and hydroplaning 215/60 17R Pro Continental
When Do 2020 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).
2022
2021
2020
(Current Model)
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 2020 Toyota C-HR reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Toyota C-HR?
How many recalls does the 2020 Toyota C-HR have?
Is the 2020 Toyota C-HR expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 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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