1.33 Dual VVT-i (1NR-FE)
2012–2018 · petrol · 1329cc · 99hp
Engine codes: 1KR-FE, 1NR-FE
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Toyota Auris 1.33 Dual VVT-i (1NR-FE). Check this before you buy used.
The XP130 petrols (1.0 1KR three-cylinder and 1.33 1NR four) are chain-driven, frugal and dependable — owners regularly report 300,000 km on the little 1KR. 'Reliable' is well earned, with only honest age items: both can use a little oil past ~150,000 km, the timing-chain tensioner can rattle on cold start (Toyota flags inspection after ~150,000 km), the VVT-i solenoid can throw a check-engine light, and the water pump has a modest life. Modest on power but ideal for stress-free city and commuting use.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (1KR-FE) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
The chain tensioner can wear, giving a cold-start rattle; Toyota data flags inspection after ~150,000 km. Left unchecked, chain slack risks engine damage.
Fix / Workaround: Investigate a cold-start rattle; replace the chain kit (tensioner + guides) if noisy.
Repair cost: €300–€700
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Some units use a little oil past ~150,000 km; the VVT-i solenoid can fault and light the check-engine lamp.
Fix / Workaround: Check oil and top up; clean/replace the VVT-i solenoid if a code appears.
Repair cost: €0–€250
Typically appears after: 140,000 km
The water pump has a modest service life and the valve-cover gasket can weep oil with age.
Fix / Workaround: Replace water pump/gasket as needed; flush coolant periodically.
Repair cost: €120–€400
Typically appears after: 130,000 km
The water pump has a modest service life; periodic coolant flush protects it.
Fix / Workaround: Replace the water pump if weeping; flush coolant periodically.
Repair cost: €120–€350
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 150,000 km: Chain-tensioner rattle and mild oil use become more likely — inspect the chain kit.
After 200,000 km: Durable with oil and cooling-system care.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Cold start: listen for a chain-tensioner rattle
- ☐Check oil level; rule out a VVT-i code (CEL)
- ☐Check water pump / valve-cover for weeps
- ☐Modest power — low-worry buy
- ☐Check oil level / consumption
- ☐Cold start: listen for a chain-tensioner rattle; rule out a VVT-i code
- ☐Check water pump / cooling system
Frequently asked questions
Is the Toyota Auris 1.33 Dual VVT-i (1NR-FE) reliable?
Reliable — The XP130 petrols (1.0 1KR three-cylinder and 1.33 1NR four) are chain-driven, frugal and dependable — owners regularly report 300,000 km on the little 1KR. 'Reliable' is well earned, with only honest age items: both can use a little oil past ~150,000 km, the timing-chain tensioner can rattle on cold start (Toyota flags inspection after ~150,000 km), the VVT-i solenoid can throw a check-engine light, and the water pump has a modest life. Modest on power but ideal for stress-free city and commuting use.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Toyota Auris 1.33 Dual VVT-i (1NR-FE)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain tensioner rattle, Oil use / VVT-i solenoid, Water pump / valve-cover weep, Water pump / cooling.
Is a used Toyota Auris 1.33 Dual VVT-i (1NR-FE) worth buying?
Minor issues only, easy to maintain, no design flaws. A safe used buy.