Toyota · 2007–2018
Common Toyota Auris problems, and how to check them
These are the 4 faults owners and garages report most often on the Toyota Auris, from the most common down. For each one: what goes wrong, how to check it yourself, and the usual fix, so you know what you’re dealing with before you buy parts.
Fact-checked by a licensed car technician · last reviewed 27 September 2026
Problem 1
Toyota Auris: Hybrid won’t switch on: flat 12-volt battery
What goes wrong
The small 12-volt auxiliary battery (not the big hybrid battery) goes flat or wears out, especially when the car stands still or does short trips. Without it the hybrid system can’t switch on.
How to check it yourself
Measure the 12-volt battery: below about 12.2 V at rest it’s flat, and a battery that won’t hold charge overnight is worn. The hazard lights not working or a dead dashboard point to it.
The usual fix
Charge or jump-start from the 12-volt jump point (see the handbook) and replace a worn battery with the correct type. The main hybrid battery is rarely the cause.
Signs: No crank, Battery warning light, Hard starting
Fault codes: P0562
Problem 2
Toyota Auris: Early clutch wear and dual-mass flywheel judder on the diesels
What goes wrong
Diesel torque and stop-start city driving wear the clutch early; 2007-2012 diesels also suffer from worn dual-mass flywheels.
How to check it yourself
Check for a high biting point or slipping; a rattle at idle that stops when the clutch is pressed points to the flywheel.
The usual fix
Replace the clutch, and the flywheel if it has too much free play.
Signs: Clutch slipping, Rough idle
Problem 3
Toyota Auris: High oil consumption from sticking piston rings
What goes wrong
Piston rings on some petrol Auris engines seize with carbon and stop scraping oil off the cylinder walls.
How to check it yourself
Measure top-ups over 1,000 km; above about 0.5 litre per 1,000 km is too much.
The usual fix
Ask a Toyota dealer about the service bulletin for piston ring replacement on 1.33 engines; keep the oil topped up meanwhile.
Signs: High oil consumption, Blue smoke
Problem 4
Toyota Auris: Clogged EGR valve or DPF on the D-4D
What goes wrong
Short trips clog the EGR valve and particulate filter.
How to check it yourself
Read codes and live data for EGR position and DPF soot load.
The usual fix
Clean or replace the EGR valve; regenerate or clean the DPF.
Signs: Loss of power, Black smoke, Check engine light
Fault codes: P0401, P2002
General guidance, not a professional inspection. Confirm faults with measurements before buying parts, and use a qualified mechanic for brakes, steering, fuel leaks, airbags, and other safety-critical work. Terms and disclaimer