The 2021 Toyota C-HR has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 32 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Toyota C-HR. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (14), Electrical System (5), Unknown Or Other (4).
C-HR reliability snapshot
77/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (high)
$441
Avg annual repair cost
#8/32
Ranking in category · better than 75% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Toyota C-HR before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Power Train14
Electrical System5
Unknown Or Other4
Air Bags2
Seat Belts2
Steering1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Toyota C-HR
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Check for transmission noises like whining or growling
☐Test drive to ensure the car accelerates smoothly and shifts gears properly
☐Inspect for any warning lights or error messages on the dashboard
☐Verify the functionality of advanced safety systems like Lane Tracing Assist and Pre-Collision System
☐Inspect seat belts for proper locking and tension release
What owners reported
2021 Toyota C-HR owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 3 crashes and 3 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Toyota C-HR. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints14
POWER TRAIN
Owners report significant issues with the transmission of the 2021 Toyota C-HR, frequently describing abnormal noises such as whining, whistling, or growling, which often precede complete transmission failure. These issues typically emerge around 60,000 miles, with some reports as early as 40,000 miles. Complaints often highlight the need for costly transmission replacements, with estimates ranging from $11,000 to $13,000. Several owners mention that the vehicle may not drive forward or is unable to exceed 25 mph, though no crashes or loss of control are specifically noted. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, particularly given the absence of a recall or extended warranty coverage from the manufacturer.
Owner complaints5
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners of the 2021 Toyota C-HR frequently report issues related to the vehicle's electrical systems. Common symptoms include the illumination of multiple warning lights and messages such as "Service Vehicle Now," with some owners noting these issues around 82,000 miles. Additionally, problems with advanced driver-assistance systems are noted, such as the inability to connect or recalibrate systems like Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Pre-Collision System after windshield replacement, often around 27,529 miles. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of unprovoked automatic braking and lane-keeping assist malfunctions, which some owners describe as causing near-accidents. Buyers should be aware of these electrical and safety-related concerns when considering this model.
Owner complaints4
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Toyota C-HR report several distinct issues. One owner describes a transmission failure at around 100,000 miles, requiring costly repairs. Another issue involves the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), where a sensor broke off inside a tire without external damage, raising concerns about potential safety risks from tire imbalance. Additionally, some owners experience problems with the Toyota Safety Connect system, including unintended 911 calls and erroneous airbag deployment signals, which can lead to emergency responses. Lastly, there is a report of the rear windshield shattering spontaneously while the vehicle was stationary, with no apparent external cause. These issues highlight potential safety implications, such as emergency miscommunications and tire imbalance, that prospective buyers should consider.
Owner complaints2
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2021 Toyota C-HR report issues with air bags not deploying during crashes, as well as problems with unintended acceleration. In one instance, a crash at approximately 32,000 miles resulted in air bags failing to deploy and the driver's seat belt not retracting, leading to neck and back injuries. Another report describes sudden acceleration while parking, resulting in multiple impacts with walls and another vehicle, although no injuries were mentioned. These incidents highlight potential safety implications, particularly concerning air bag deployment and vehicle control during low-speed maneuvers. Buyers should be aware of these issues, especially in vehicles with mileage around 32,000.
Owners of the 2021 Toyota C-HR report issues with the seat belt system, specifically mentioning that the driver's seat belt locks up unnecessarily when the tension feature is not needed. Additionally, one owner describes needing to keep a pair of scissors on hand due to seat belt lock issues, suggesting a potential safety concern. These complaints do not specify mileage ranges, but they do highlight safety implications, such as the possibility of accidents or injury due to the seat belt malfunctioning. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported seat belt issues and the associated safety risks.
2021 C-HR recalls (1)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 C-HR. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2021 C-HR vehicles. The radar sensor may not have been activated during production, making the pre-collision system (PCS) inoperative.
Consequence: An inoperative PCS that does not provide a malfunction indicator to the driver, or braking assist as expected, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and activate the radar sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TA02.
2021 Toyota C-HR on the road
35,707 2021 Toyota C-HR units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Toyota C-HR stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2021 Toyota C-HR scores a 77 out of 100, placing it above the segment average of 73. This indicates a solid reliability profile. With only one recall, the recall count is limited, suggesting no widespread systemic issues. Complaints are relatively low, but they are concentrated in the power train category, which could be a point of concern for some buyers.
While the electrical system and other categories have fewer complaints, their presence suggests some variability in reliability. The vehicle is in its fourth year of the generation, which typically benefits from the resolution of earlier model issues. However, the concentration of power train concerns warrants attention.
Overall, the 2021 Toyota C-HR presents a moderate risk level, with reliability that is above average for its segment.
What you get in a 2021 Toyota C-HR report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Toyota C-HR now
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2021 Toyota C-HR — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Toyota C-HR reliable?
The 2021 Toyota C-HR scores a 77 out of 100, placing it above the segment average of 73. This indicates a solid reliability profile. With only one recall, the recall count is limited, suggesting no widespread systemic issues. Complaints are relatively low, but they are concentrated in the power train category, which could be a point of concern for some buyers.
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota C-HR have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2021 Toyota C-HR. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Toyota C-HR problems?
The most-reported 2021 Toyota C-HR problem areas are: Power Train (14), Electrical System (5), Unknown Or Other (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Toyota C-HR?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Toyota C-HR, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
