Toyota Auris: Servicing Guide

The Toyota Auris, a stalwart of the family hatchback segment in the UK from the mid-2000s to the late 2010s, effectively took over the mantle from the venerable Corolla. It offered a compelling blend of practicality, passenger comfort, and economical running costs, making it a popular choice for many households. If you're still fortunate enough to own a Toyota Auris, ensuring its regular maintenance is paramount to preserving its renowned reliability and performance. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about keeping your Auris in tip-top condition, starting with a brief look back at its history.

A Brief History of the Toyota Auris

The Toyota Auris enjoyed two distinct generations, both proudly manufactured at Toyota's UK plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire. The first generation (codenamed E150) was produced between 2007 and 2012. It was later succeeded by the second generation (E180), which rolled off the production line from 2012 until 2018. Both iterations were built on a versatile platform that also underpinned other popular Toyota and Lexus models, including the RAV4, Avensis, Prius, and the Lexus CT. While the Auris name was prominent in Europe, it was marketed as the Toyota Blade in Japan, the Scion iM in North America, and retained the Corolla moniker in Australia. This global presence underscores the Auris's widespread appeal and adaptability.

First Generation (E150)

The initial Auris models offered a diverse range of powertrains. Petrol engine options included 1.33-litre (introduced in 2009), 1.4-litre (2007-2008), 1.6-litre, and 1.8-litre units. For those favouring diesel, there were 1.4-litre, 2.0-litre, and 2.2-litre variants. However, a standout and highly sought-after model was the Auris Hybrid, launched in 2010. This pioneering hybrid system, shared with the third-generation Prius, provided exceptional fuel efficiency and a refined driving experience, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers seeking a more conventional aesthetic than the Prius.

Second Generation (E180)

Continuing its UK manufacturing legacy, the second-generation Auris introduced several enhancements. Engine choices expanded to include a 1.2-litre turbo four-cylinder, the reappearance of the 1.33-litre petrol engine, alongside 1.5-litre, 1.6-litre, and 1.8-litre options throughout its lifecycle. The diesel engine line-up featured 1.4-litre, 1.6-litre, and 2.0-litre variants. The popular hybrid model also returned, featuring a 1.8-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor for seamless hybrid operation. A significant development for this generation was the introduction of the Auris Touring Sports estate, which offered enhanced practicality and versatility for families, with many of the same powertrain options, including hybrid technology.

Toyota Auris Service Intervals: Keeping You on the Road

Maintaining your Toyota Auris is generally a straightforward affair, with most models requiring servicing every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. For the initial 100,000 miles of the car's life, services typically alternate between an 'Intermediate' service and a 'Full' service. This structured approach ensures that all essential components are regularly inspected and maintained, preventing minor issues from escalating into more significant problems.

A Note on the 1.6 D-4D Diesel Engine

An exception to the standard service schedule applies to the second-generation Auris models equipped with the 1.6-litre D-4D diesel engine (engine code WWE185), sold between 2015 and 2018. This particular engine, developed through a collaboration with BMW, has a slightly extended service interval. While the time between services remains 12 months, you can cover a greater distance of 12,500 miles before the engine requires attention. The service levels over the first 100,000 miles for this specific engine are also structured differently:

It's crucial to consult your Auris's owner's manual or speak with a Toyota-approved technician to confirm the exact service schedule for your specific model and engine variant.

What Happens During a Toyota Auris Service?

Regardless of which service interval your Auris is approaching, or its particular powertrain, your local Toyota service centre is equipped to provide comprehensive servicing and maintenance. Toyota technicians conduct a thorough 37-point vehicle health check. This meticulous inspection covers all critical mechanical and electrical components, ensuring everything is functioning optimally. From the engine, gearbox, and suspension to the intricate electronic systems and vital safety features, both active and passive, every aspect is scrutinised.

Hybrid Auris Servicing

For owners of the Auris Hybrid, there's an added layer of specialised care. An additional hybrid health check is performed, focusing specifically on the complex electrical running gear unique to the hybrid powertrain. This ensures the seamless integration and efficient operation of the electric motor, battery, and associated systems.

Toyota Auris Service Plans: Budgeting for Maintenance

Although the Toyota Auris is no longer in production, Toyota continues to offer convenient service plans designed to help you manage your vehicle's maintenance costs. By visiting the Toyota Service Plan portal and entering your Auris's registration details and current mileage, you can receive a personalised quote. These plans allow you to spread the cost of servicing over manageable monthly payments, alleviating the burden of a large, unexpected annual bill. Furthermore, you can often include your car's MOT test and even Toyota Breakdown Cover within your monthly service plan payments, offering a comprehensive and cost-effective solution for your vehicle's upkeep.

Toyota Warranty and Your Auris

If your Toyota Auris is less than 10 years old and has accumulated fewer than 100,000 miles, it may be eligible for extended warranty coverage through the Toyota Warranty scheme. To maintain and extend this cover, simply get your Auris serviced at an authorised Toyota centre. Each qualifying service at a Toyota centre grants you an additional 12 months or 10,000 miles of warranty cover, whichever milestone is reached first. This process can be repeated annually, extending your warranty protection up to the car's 10th birthday or until it reaches 100,000 miles, providing invaluable peace of mind.

Genuine Toyota Parts, Repairs, and Accessories

Not all Auris models will qualify for the extended warranty programme. However, if you prefer a hands-on approach to maintenance or need specific parts, Toyota offers a wide selection of officially approved products. You can find these genuine Toyota parts and accessories conveniently stocked on platforms like Amazon and eBay. Purchasing genuine parts ensures compatibility and optimal performance for your Auris, and they typically come with a 12-month warranty for added assurance (terms and conditions apply). For more complex repairs, Toyota service centres utilise only approved parts and employ highly skilled technicians. They aim to complete repairs efficiently, often within the same day, while keeping you fully informed of the work being carried out. Competitive pricing for repairs and parts further enhances the affordability of maintaining your Auris.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I get my Toyota Auris serviced?
Most Toyota Auris models require servicing every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. Always check your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Q2: Is there a difference in servicing for hybrid Auris models?
Yes, hybrid Auris models undergo an additional hybrid health check focusing on the electrical components of the powertrain.

Q3: Can I get a service plan for my Toyota Auris?
Yes, Toyota offers service plans that allow you to budget for maintenance with monthly payments, often including MOT and breakdown cover.

Q4: Does my Auris qualify for an extended warranty?
If your Auris is under 10 years old and has covered less than 100,000 miles, it may qualify for extended warranty cover through the Toyota Warranty scheme, renewable with regular servicing at a Toyota centre.

Q5: Where can I buy genuine Toyota parts for my Auris?
Genuine Toyota parts and accessories can be found on platforms like Amazon and eBay, as well as at authorised Toyota dealerships.