The Yaris subcompact was previously Toyota’s least expensive model. But it was also its worst seller, so the automaker discontinued it in the United States last year. And now, 31,000 Toyota Yaris models face a recall for a potentially dangerous fuel pump problem.

The embattled Toyota Yaris

Toyota produced the Yaris for the U.S. market from 2006 to 2020, offering the subcompact in hatchback and sedan body styles. It was Toyota’s smallest and least expensive car.

According to Consumer Reports, the Yaris gets excellent gas mileage and is easy to park, but that’s where the praise ends. CR also says the Yaris has various issues with comfort and performance, likely a result of its inexpensive parts and finishes.

Yaris sales had fallen sharply before its retirement, with sales down almost 70% in 2020 over 2019, MotorTrend reports. Toyota sold about 22,000 Yaris models per year, which paled compared to the number of Corollas sold in only one month, MotorTrend added. Toyota initially had a fun marketing campaign for the Yaris but hadn’t invested much into promoting it since then. 

Fuel pump problems prompt a Toyota Yaris recall

The Toyota Yaris recall involves faulty fuel pumps manufactured by Denso. These fuel pumps might develop cracks and suddenly stop working while the car is in motion. The malfunction causes the car to come to a sudden halt. Consumer Reports explains that the Yaris might exhibit loud engine noises or other problems before the fuel pump halting, with some cars even displaying a “check engine” light. 

The recall includes 31,000 Yaris hatchbacks and sedans. Those affected include 2019 and 2020 sedans manufactured from October 2018 to February 2020 and 2020 hatchbacks made from August 2019 to January 2020, Kelley Blue Book reports.

Toyota is not sure which recalled Yaris models have faulty low-pressure fuel pumps. So authorized dealerships will replace the fuel pumps in all 31,000 models at no cost to owners.

In addition, dealers will assist Yaris owners with filing the appropriate paperwork for reimbursement if they have already replaced the fuel pumps on their own. 

Toyota has already recalled over 3 million vehicles for the problematic fuel pumps, which were among a batch of 2 million that were defective, Consumer Reports notes.

What to do if you need more information about the recall

There are several ways owners can check if their Toyota Yaris falls under the recall. They can call Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331 for more information. 

Owners can also enter the car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website to check any open recalls, including the fuel pump recall. It’s good to check for recalls periodically because carmakers may issue recalls throughout the vehicle’s life.

The NHTSA has a vehicle safety hotline for help with any suspected safety issues with vehicles or tires. If owners suspect a defect or have questions, they can call 1-888-327-4236.

The NHTSA campaign number for this Yaris recall is 21V617. Toyota also references its own recall numbers, which are 21TB05 and 21TA05.