Toyota Ractis common problems: what to check before you buy
Credov's researched list of the 7 faults the Toyota Ractis is known for (2005–2011), 6 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
Known problems on the Toyota Ractis
Heavy steering, power steering warning
Safety risk
2010–2011 · 1KR-FE, 1NR-FE, 1NZ-FE · petrol · Suspension and steering
What to look for: Feel for the steering suddenly getting heavy turning lock to lock at walking pace, and watch for the power steering light.
Why it matters: The MLIT notification records that the terminal spacing and coil-wire humidity control in the sealed motor drive relay inside the EPS computer were inadequate, so moisture absorbed by the coil wire condenses, forms a short circuit between terminals, the computer detects a fault and steering effort increases. Toyota's remedy is replacement of the computer.
2005–2010 · 1KR-FE, 1NZ-FE, 2NZ-FE, 1SZ-FE · petrol · Suspension and steering
What to look for: Feel for movement or a knock when you push and pull the steering wheel up, down and side to side.
Why it matters: The MLIT notification records that the bracket fixing the steering column under the instrument panel was insufficiently strong, so repeatedly turning the wheel hard to full lock cracks it; continuing to use the car spreads the crack until, in the worst case, the steering column can no longer be held in place.
What to look for: Feel the driver's window switch for warmth after working every window several times, and smell for hot plastic.
Why it matters: The MLIT notification records that the method of applying lubricating grease to the switch was inadequate, leaving some switches short of grease; wear particles from the sliding terminals combined with moisture form a short circuit, the terminal heats, the switch and surrounding plastic burn and in the worst case a fire results.
What to look for: Look for leaves or standing water under the bonnet below the windscreen, and check all wiper speeds and brake lights work.
Why it matters: MLIT notification No. 3343 records that the drain shape at the wiper motor mounting is inadequate, so if leaves and debris are not removed the drain blocks; overflowing water then enters the motor and the wiring for items such as the brake lamps, and in the worst case the wipers or brake lamps stop working. Corroded wiring found later is an expensive and awkward repair, and non-working brake lights fail a warrant.
2005–2010 · 1NZ-FE · petrol · Exhaust and emissions
What to look for: Pull the dipstick: low or very black oil on a car that was "just serviced" is a warning.
Why it matters: Light use is just a top-up habit; heavy use fouls plugs, can damage the catalytic converter and points to an engine rebuild or swap. Left unrepaired this grows into a major repair bill.
What to look for: Look around the catch in the driver's door opening for Toyota recall stickers, and photograph any numbers you find.
Why it matters: The instruction to apply a numbered sticker near the driver's door striker appears in the text of the Toyota recall notifications themselves, which makes it the one field marker a New Zealand dealer can read without a scan tool or a dealer account.
Got a question about a Toyota Ractis? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
Also check on every car
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.