PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated February 2026
100+
complaints (Takata airbags dominate)
2006–2013
Model years affected
$5,000 – $7,500+
Typical repair cost, by problem
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
Tell us what's happening and get a preliminary diagnosis, typical cost range, and trusted shops near you.
Answer a few questions and get a preliminary read plus shops near you.
Start my diagnosis →Documented fatal crash: 1 death, 2 injuries
Check engine light: On
One documented crash (NHTSA ODI #11728168) describes a 'remote services' malfunction that turned off traction control, causing the throttle to stick open, resulting in 1 death and 2 injuries. This is a separate safety issue from the Takata airbag recall on this generation.
Reverse and 3rd gear failure
Check engine light: On
Reverse and 3rd gear failure reported, with the owner noting shops refused warranty work, explicitly citing "so many problems with these transmissions" — a notable instance of a repair shop's own skepticism about warranty coverage documented directly in a complaint.
Motor 'threw a rod,' requiring bottom-end rebuild
Check engine light: On
Motor 'threw a rod' at 62,000 miles, requiring full replacement/rebuild; a second, separate case of rod knock required a full bottom-end rebuild at 69,000 miles — the two highest-cost repairs reported on this generation are both engine rod-related failures at relatively low mileage.
Water-soaked wiring harness reportedly caused 'electrical smoke' in traffic
Check engine light: On
A water-soaked wiring harness reportedly caused 'electrical smoke' in traffic in one documented case. Also implicated: door panel, trunk, carpet, and dashboard water intrusion generally, and Smart Junction Box failures with replacement parts reported unavailable.
Complete differential replacement required
Check engine light: On
Complete differential replacement required following a seized bearing carrier at 62,620 miles.
Convertible rear window glass detaches from the top, causing leaks
Check engine light: Off
Convertible rear window glass detaches from the top, causing leaks. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 56 owner reports on file.
Squeaking noise while turning due to worn outer tie rod ends
Check engine light: Off
Squeaking noise while turning due to worn outer tie rod ends. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 87 owner reports on file.
Camshaft position sensor synchronizer makes noise or is damaged
Check engine light: Off
Camshaft position sensor synchronizer makes noise or is damaged. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 55 owner reports on file.
Intake manifold and/or valve cover gaskets leak oil
Check engine light: Off
Intake manifold and/or valve cover gaskets leak oil. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 27 owner reports on file.
No-start condition with the theft light flashing, due to damaged wiring and a possible anti-theft fault
Check engine light: Off
No-start condition with the theft light flashing, due to damaged wiring and a possible anti-theft fault. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 27 owner reports on file.
Creak or pop noise when turning
Check engine light: Off
Creak or pop noise when turning. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 22 owner reports on file.
Smelling coolant and overheating with no visible leaks
Check engine light: Off
Smelling coolant and overheating with no visible leaks. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 21 owner reports on file.
Check engine light after hesitation or stalling
Check engine light: On
Check engine light after hesitation or stalling. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 20 owner reports on file.
Rough idle due to a cracked PCV hose
Check engine light: Off
Rough idle due to a cracked PCV hose. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 19 owner reports on file.
Rough idle caused by a sticking EGR sensor
Check engine light: Off
Rough idle caused by a sticking EGR sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 18 owner reports on file.
Blower motor only works on the high setting
Check engine light: Off
Blower motor only works on the high setting. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 18 owner reports on file.
Rough idle and stalling
Check engine light: Off
Rough idle and stalling. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 17 owner reports on file.
Fuel filling issues due to a manufacturing defect in the fuel tank, requiring replacement
Check engine light: Off
Fuel filling issues due to a manufacturing defect in the fuel tank, requiring replacement. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 14 owner reports on file.
This generation has a confirmed, severe Takata airbag recall (Campaigns 16V384000, 15V319000, 17V024000, 19V001000) with extreme parts-unavailability — some owners reported waiting 3 years for parts. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
This generation has two separate severe safety problems. First: a documented fatal crash (1 death, 2 injuries) was traced to a 'remote services' malfunction that turned off traction control and caused the throttle to stick open. This is separate from the airbag recall below. Second: a Takata airbag recall with extreme parts-unavailability (some owners waited 3 years) and unusually severe downstream consequences, including an airbag deployment that injured a driver's face with metal shards during an otherwise survivable 45 mph accident.