Common 11th gen 2014 to 2016 Toyota Corolla problems include problems with the transmission and engine mounts. Our experts explain what the causes and symptoms are for these common issues and more, and how you can fix them.
1. Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Problems
Symptoms of a Bad MAF Sensor
- Check engine light for code P0171 or P0172
- Lower fuel economy
- Transmission issues
- Affected throttle response
Causes of a Bad MAF Sensor
Usually a faulty MAF sensor triggers these codes but other parts like an engine air filter or the intake tube can too.
How to Fix a Bad MAF Sensor
Inspecting the MAF Sensor
- Check the wires for damage
- If you are able to read the sensor with a scan tool and the reading fluctuates when the electrical connector’s wire is moved, there is an issue with the connector’s wiring
Replacing the MAF Sensor
- To change the MAF sensor, disconnect the electrical connector
- Remove the screws from the sensor
- Remove the sensor
- We recommend not trying to clean the MAF sensor for 11th gen Corollas and to just replace it
2. EVAP Problems
Symptoms of EVAP Problems on the 11th Gen Toyota Corolla
- A common problem on the 11th gen Toyota Corolla is not being able to clear the EVAP codes
Causes of EVAP Problems
A faulty fuel tank, vent solenoid, purge valve solenoid can all cause EVAP problems on the 14-16 Corolla, but it’s usually from a problem with the gas cap.
How to Fix EVAP Problems
How to Check the Gas Cap
Steps for Checking the Gas Cap
- Test for Looseness
Without turning the gas cap, wiggle the gas cap and feel for looseness
- Check the Gasket
Check the gas cap gasket for tearing, splitting, or cracking
- Test the Ratchet
See how the gas cap ratchets and if it tightens
- Check the Fuel Filler Neck
Check the fuel filler neck for cracking or rusting
How to Clear a Permanent EVAP Code
If you reset the code and you get a permanent code, the vehicle needs to go through a few drive cycles to clear it
3. Fuel Issues
Symptoms of Fuel Issues
- Engine runs rough
- Vehicle starts up and shuts down promptly
Causes of Fuel Issues
Clogged fuel injectors are a typical problem on the 14-16 Toyota Corolla, which is usually caused by dirtier gas
How to Fix Fuel Issues
- Drive with cleaner gas
- Get a professional grade fuel injection cleaning, which might require a special tool to clean the valves and the fuel injection
4. Bad Engine and Transmission Mounts
Symptoms of Bad Engine and Transmission Mounts
- Front end noise when shifting or shifting from drive to reverse or park to revers
- Extreme thud, vibration or chattering more than normal
- Steering wheel shakes
Causes of Bad Engine and Transmission Mounts
- The engine mount near the front of the vehicle with a rubber bushing will disintegrate over time
- Mount at the rear of the exhaust and behind the axle can fail
- Mount at the top of the transmission underneath the air box can fail
How to Fix a Vehicle with Bad Engine and Transmission Mounts
- Test by opening the hood
- Press the brake pedal
- Press the gas
- Have an assistant see if the engine is rocking excessively
5. CVT Transmission Problems
Symptoms of CVT Transmission Problems on the 14-16 Toyota Corolla
- Difficulty shifting and odd RPM readings
Causes of CVT Transmission Issues
11th Gen Toyota Corolla transmissions are different than conventional automatic transmissions They are variable transmission without gears
How to Fix CVT Transmission Issues
- Change fluid regularly to the intervals in the owner’s manual
- Need to remove a flute/plastic tube at the top of the transmission to drain all of the transmission fluid since removing the plug is not enough
- If there is metal in the fluid the transmission has internal damage, and the transmission will probably need to be replaced
A fluid change will not fix drivability issues. We recommend bringing the vehicle to a professional. If there is a check engine light for transmission codes, there is likely an issue with the internal parts, which a fluid change will not fix.
Parts Featured in This Article
Related Articles
- How to Fix P0171 Code
- How to Test a MAF Sensor
- Gas Cap Throwing a Check Engine Light? [Diagnose & Fix]
- Bad Fuel Injector Symptoms [Advice to Diagnose & Fix]
- Why Your Car Struggles to Start [Low Fuel Pressure]
- What are the Symptoms of Bad Motor Mounts?
- 3 Reasons Your Car Shakes When Accelerating
- Is your Transmission Slipping, Jerking, or Low on Fluid?
- Signs of transmission failure and ways to prevent it
11th Generation Toyota Corolla Models
