Question: When I went to start my Toyota Yaris this morning, it wouldn’t start. It’s never done this before and it’s only a few years old. What would cause a Toyota to just die overnight?
Answer: I’m sorry to hear your Toyota Yaris is not starting. The sudden car failure on a relatively newer vehicle is most likely due to a dead battery. However, here are the top possible reasons for why your Yaris isn’t running, how to fix it, and the estimated repair costs.
Dead battery
If the battery is dead in your Toyota Yaris, the electrical components like the lights and radio won’t be working. You may hear a clicking sound when you try to start the car, but if the battery is completely dead, you won’t hear anything.
How to fix it: Try jumpstarting your Yaris. Let it run for about 15 minutes so the alternator can charge the
battery. If the problem continues, you may need to replace the battery. Visit an auto parts store or mechanic to have your battery tested. They can determine if the battery is still bad or if the problem is the alternator.
Repair cost estimate: $369 to $380
Electrical glitch
An error in the electrical system could prevent your Yaris from starting. It’s important to check your fuses to make sure they’re all working properly to rule that problem out first.
How to fix it: You can sometimes fix electrical glitches by resetting the system. To do this, disconnect the battery, wait about 10 minutes, then reconnect it. If resetting the system or replacing the fuses doesn’t work, take your car to a certified repair shop to prevent further damage.
Repair cost estimate: Varies based on whether it was a glitch or a bigger problem
Bad fuel pump
A malfunction in your fuel pump can lead to low fuel pressure, which will prevent it from starting. If the problem is your fuel pump, your lights and radio will be working, and you’ll hear the engine attempt to start when you turn the key in the ignition.
How to fix it: This is a complex issue and best left to an expert.
Repair cost estimate: $1,089 to $1,266
Malfunctioning ignition switch or starter
The ignition switch and starter are both critical components in starting your engine. If the starter is going bad, you may hear a clicking, whirring, or spinning noise when you turn the key. Whether the noises happen every time you drive or just on occasion, the issue needs to be fixed immediately. If the problem is the ignition switch, the vehicle might not respond to the key at all.
How to fix it: If you are comfortable with replacing the ignition switch, then you will need to disconnect the wiring, remove the old switch, and ensure the new switch is tested and working before you secure it in place. If you aren’t comfortable with replacing your ignition switch, this should be a quick fix for your dealer or mechanic.
Repair cost estimate: $196 to $232
Sensor failure
If your camshaft position sensor or crankshaft position sensor fail, the vehicle’s computer won’t be able to regulate the timing of the engine. This should cause your check engine light will come on.
How to fix it: Resetting your sensors will not work, and unplugging them can cause issues with the engine’s performance. This problem is best left to experienced mechanics.
Repair cost estimate: $182 to $247
Expert insurance writer and editor Amy Bobinger specializes in car repair, car maintenance, and car insurance. Amy is passionate about creating content that helps consumers navigate challenges related to car ownership and achieve financial success in areas relating to cars. Amy has over 10 years of writing and editing experience. After several years as a freelance writer, Amy spent four years as an editing fellow at WikiHow, where she co-authored over 600 articles on topics including car maintenance and home ownership. Since joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2022, Amy has edited over 2,500 articles on car insurance, state driving laws, and car repair and maintenance.
Patrick Price is an insurance writer with a background in creative writing. Patrick brings a passion for building general vehicle knowledge to his mission of creating content that saves car owners time and money on car expenses. Patrick has written over 1,000 articles for Jerry, including on topics such as how to find the best mechanic in your city to where to find EV charging stations. Prior to joining Jerry, Patrick pursued his MFA in creative writing from Augustana College and worked as a writer and editor for Floodmark Magazine and Saga Magazine.
Ashley Eneriz is an editor and finance writer with over 15 years of experience in a wide range of financial topics, including car loans and insurance. In editing for Jerry, Ashley aims to make all car material reader-friendly for both the new driver and car enthusiast alike. Prior to joining Jerry, Ashley was the financial deputy editor for ConsumerAffairs. Her work is featured on Forbes, Yahoo, MSN, The Hartford and more.
