Last updated: 2026-03-04

2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross scores 69/100 ("Good"). With 8 recalls and 168 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2023 is the last model year of the First generation (XG10).
Recalls
8
Complaints
168
Complaint Rate
26.2
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
N/A
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
8 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the First generation (XG10).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 1st generation Corolla Cross (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
First generation (XG10)
Should You Buy the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross?
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross scores 69/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2023 is the last model year of the First generation (XG10).
Its complaint rate (26.2 per 10k sold) is above the SUV segment average of 12.7. The most common reports involve steering (43).
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to steering (43). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross, which scored 13 points higher. See also the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Well-established generation
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- STEERING issues reported (43 complaints)
Compare 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross With
2023 Honda HR-V
Score: 73/100
2023 Chevrolet Equinox
Score: 76/100
2023 Kia Sportage
Score: 67/100
2023 Hyundai Tucson
Score: 75/100
2023 GMC Terrain
Score: 75/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 8 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- STEERING (43)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (39)
- ENGINE (23)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12)
- AIR BAGS (9)
- POWER TRAIN (8)
- SERVICE BRAKES (6)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)
- STRUCTURE (2)
- VISIBILITY (2)
- PARKING BRAKE (1)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- SEATS (1)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
Recall Overview
8
recalls on record
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross has 8 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
26.2
per 10k soldSegment avg: 12.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
6
Fires
0
Injuries
5
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Recall Details
8 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STEERING, AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired under previous NHTSA recall number 23V-480. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 25LA02.
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Corolla Cross Hybrid and 2023-2025 Corolla Hybrid vehicles. A software error in the skid control electronic control unit (ECU) may result in a loss of power brake assist when turning a corner.
Consequence
A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the skid control ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2024. Additionally, notifications to owners of the Corolla Hybrid vehicles were mailed January 17, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 24TA11.
EQUIPMENT
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GST will mail new labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2024. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 24R2.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Safety Technologies
HEV Powertrain
Safety Technologies
Toyota Corolla Cross Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test auto start/stop system for engine restart issues at stoplights
- Inspect sunroof for cracks or signs of stress
- Verify airbag recall repairs and check airbag deployment in a safe environment
- Check headlight and taillight visibility at night
- Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual resistance
- Ensure forward collision avoidance system functions correctly
Check Any 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2023 Corolla Cross in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Toyota Corolla Cross with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Common Problems by Component
168 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
43 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross frequently experiences issues with the vehicle stalling or shutting off, particularly when the windshield wipers are in use and the auto start/stop feature is engaged. Typical symptoms include warning messages such as "Steering Power Low" and "Engine Stopped," accompanied by a loss of power steering and the need to restart the vehicle manually. These incidents often occur at stoplights or in traffic, with some complaints noting the problem arises in rainy conditions. Mileage at the time of these occurrences varies, with some reports indicating issues as early as 4,600 miles. While no crashes are directly reported, the sudden loss of power and steering in traffic poses significant safety risks.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
39 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Toyota Corolla-Cross frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the auto start/stop feature. Complaints often describe the engine unexpectedly shutting off at stoplights, especially during rainy conditions when windshield wipers are in use. Symptoms typically include dashboard messages like "steering power low" and the need to restart the car manually. One complaint involves a crash with injuries, highlighting potential safety risks associated with these malfunctions. These issues are reported in vehicles with a range of mileages, from as few as 2,500 miles to over 30,000 miles, suggesting they may occur at various stages of vehicle use.
ENGINE
23 complaintsOwners report that the 2023 Toyota Corolla-Cross frequently experiences engine shutdowns, particularly when the vehicle is stopped at red lights, often in wet conditions. Typical symptoms include the engine failing to restart after the auto stop/start feature engages, with dashboard messages indicating "Engine Stopped" and "Steering Power Low," requiring the driver to shift to park and manually restart the vehicle. Complaints often cite occurrences at low mileages, sometimes as early as 100 miles, and issues persist despite dealer visits. While no crashes or fires are reported, the engine shutdowns in traffic present potential safety risks due to the sudden loss of motive power, especially in busy intersections. This pattern of engine issues may be a consideration for used car buyers assessing the reliability of this model.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
15 complaintsOwners report several issues with the exterior lighting on the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, primarily involving poor headlight and taillight performance. Complaints frequently mention inadequate headlight illumination, with dark spots or shadows affecting visibility, particularly on low beam, and some owners note this defect at very low mileage. Taillights are described as dim or poorly positioned, making the vehicle less visible at night, which has led to near rear-end collisions. Some vehicles also have non-functional fog lights due to a missing relay from the factory. These lighting issues are noted by owners to pose potential safety risks, especially in low visibility conditions.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
12 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Toyota Corolla-Cross frequently report issues related to the vehicle's start/stop system and electronic warning lights. Symptoms include the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving or when stopped at red lights, often accompanied by warning messages about low steering power and prompts to restart the engine. These issues commonly occur when the vehicle has low mileage, with some reports mentioning problems as early as 300 miles. Additionally, several complaints involve the car's multimedia system requiring a potentially insecure app, and roof racks secured with double-sided tape failing. These problems pose safety risks such as loss of control and distraction while driving.
AIR BAGS (9 complaints)
AIR BAGS
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Toyota Corolla-Cross report issues primarily related to airbag non-deployment during crashes, with three incidents involving crashes and two resulting in injuries. Complaints frequently mention that airbags failed to deploy in severe collisions, leaving occupants unprotected. Additionally, multiple owners describe receiving recall notices about defective airbags, particularly affecting the front passenger side, with some indicating no available fix at the time of reporting. These issues arise shortly after purchase, often within months, and have significant safety implications, as evidenced by the crashes and injuries reported. Buyers should be aware of potential unresolved airbag recalls and the importance of verifying repair status before purchase.
POWER TRAIN (8 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
8 complaintsOwners report that the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross frequently experiences issues with the auto stop/start feature, which intermittently fails to restart the engine after stopping. Common symptoms include the vehicle stalling at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic, with dashboard warning lights such as "engine power low" and "check engine" appearing. These incidents often require drivers to manually restart the vehicle by shifting into park, leading to potential safety risks, especially in traffic. Complaints typically arise within the first few months of ownership, with mileage often around 3,000. This pattern of malfunction poses a significant inconvenience and potential hazard for drivers, particularly in busy or adverse weather conditions.
SERVICE BRAKES (6 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
6 complaintsOwners report several issues with the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross's braking system. Multiple complaints describe the brake pedal becoming hard and unresponsive during deceleration, particularly at low to moderate speeds, with some owners needing to apply significant force or repeatedly press the pedal to regain braking function. Additionally, there are instances where the vehicle stalls and fails to restart after the auto stop/start feature engages, particularly in rainy conditions with the wipers on. These issues tend to occur at relatively low mileages, around 1,000 miles in some cases. Safety implications include the risk of delayed stopping, which could lead to near-collisions, as described by owners.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
3 complaintsOwners report issues with the forward collision avoidance systems in the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, including unexpected system malfunctions and false activations. Complaints frequently mention warning messages such as "System Malfunction - Contact Dealer" and "Secondary Collision Brake System Malfunction" appearing while driving, with one owner noting this occurred at approximately 2,800 miles. Another owner describes the automatic braking system engaging abruptly when a pedestrian was 25 feet away, leading to an injury and recurring issues that could not be duplicated by the dealer. Additionally, adaptive cruise control is reported to fail in detecting vehicles in rainy conditions, requiring manual intervention to prevent collisions. These issues, particularly the unexpected braking and failure to detect other vehicles, have potential safety implications for drivers and pedestrians.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross report issues with the sunroof glass shattering unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention a loud noise, described as a shattering or gunshot sound, followed by the discovery of shattered or fractured sunroof glass. These incidents occur at mileage as low as 2,500 and around 12,000 miles. No crashes or injuries are reported, but the sudden shattering poses a potential safety risk due to the distraction and presence of glass inside the vehicle. Prospective buyers should be aware of these reports and consider inspecting the sunroof condition closely.
When Do 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Toyota Corolla Cross Years
Best Toyota Corolla Cross Years to Buy
The best Toyota Corolla Cross year is 2025 with a reliability score of 86/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (82/100) and 2022 (80/100).
Toyota Corolla Cross Years to Avoid
The worst Toyota Corolla Cross year is 2023 with a score of 69/100, primarily due to steering (43) issues.
2023(this page)
8 recalls · 168 complaints
Toyota Corolla Cross Reliability Score Trend
Toyota Corolla Cross reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 84/100 compared to 75/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 86/100 | Excellent |
Toyota Corolla Cross Reliability Compared to Other Years
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Reliability by Powertrain
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is available with 2 powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 166 | 4 | 6 | N/T |
| HEV | 2 | 4 | 0 | N/T |
| Total | 168 | 8 | 6 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross?
How many recalls does the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross have?
Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross expensive to maintain?
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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