Manual Transmission...Safety Issue!!!

[twocvforme]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:

[Kitt]

Nope, never had an issue with that...

[foober]

My yaris works great. From what i hear its the hottest new car on the market.

[Kitt]

I second that!!!

[twocvforme]

We do own 5 manual transmissions in the family,love them all and have no problems shifting. Funny but the service manager at the Toyota dealer, stalled ours numerous times and has involved the regional rep from Toyota.

[twocvforme]

EXAMPLE OF TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS FROM OTHER FORUMS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




#1 1 Week Ago
Rat
Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2006
Posts: 2

Yaris Transmission friction point

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I bought a 2007 manual Yaris about 3 weeks ago. I drove about 15 brand new cars in my life time. Most of them Japanese, and manual.

My first impresson of the Yaris manual transmission was that the friction point when you're starting from a dead stop is not so good. The car starts shaking when your reach the friction point, if the RPM is too low and if its the RPM is fine, it's not easy to get a smooth start. Often the motor will choke if the RPM is too low. I never had that much trouble starting with any other manual transmission.

Usually for most cars, the friction point is smooth and long, but with the Yaris it's short and quick.

So, when I start in a hill, I either choke or make the wheels spin because I gave too much gas.
I can't seem to adjust to it. So what I do is I don't make a dead stop, so it stats much easier on 1st, and very smoothly.

In the other gears it's fine.

Another thing that I noticed, is that with my 2006 automatic Corolla, when I go at 100km/h, the RPM is 2200, while with the Yaris, it's 2800 RPM. With the Yaris, the motor revs at 3000 RPM at 108 km/h, which i find fast.

So, the Corolla is more economical at highway speeds, while the Yaris is a little cheaper to run in the city.

I'm slightly deceived with the fast RPM of the yaris. Also when I shift from 4th to 5th gear, I don't see much of a difference. They could have made the 5th gear better for higher speeds, so that the motor wouldn't rev as fast.

I go down only 400 RPM at highway speeds when I shift from 4th to 5th gear. It should have bee more like 700 or 800 RPM...

Another thing that I noticed that is annoying, not only on this Yaris, but the Yaris I tried at the garage before buying this one, is that when you change gear, lets say from 1st to 2nd, although you let go the gas pedal to shift gears, the RPM goes UP for a second AFTER you let go the gas pedal, instead of dying down immediately. It does this also when you change gears from 2nd to 3rd, and from 3rd to 4th. Maybe it's to burn the remaining gas better, but It's really annoying.

If it wasn't for these flaws, it would be a great car.

Bottom line, it's worth the 1,300$ more to get a Corolla.

[dngz]

that's weird, i have never had any problems. before I did but that was because the all season matt they gave me was waaay too thick and groved in making my foot stuck sumtimes when i press in the clutch... but once i took it out, installed sports pedals, it drives ever so easily... even on a really steep hill, its pretty easy to start the car without rolling back much.

[TrancosRt]

rrr.. No, no probs here, sorry. I love the car, and while it takes a lil time to get used to the clutch, I didn't have much problems driving it, even after not having driven a manual car for almost a year and a half. Bottom line is, I'm sorry for the drivers who are trading in their cars, but it sounds like they shouldn't have bought the car in the first place.

[AlexK]

I agree that some cars are easier to start out in 1st than the Yaris... but the Nissan Versa is not one of them. These issues were 10x worse on the Versa I test drove. Also, in your other post where you're quoting someone who is complaining about the yaris low gearing... the Versa is a 6 speed and still is low geared.
I agree that the revs climbing between shifts is annoying. My last tank averaged 46.2 mpg in town. Love my Yaris!

[ChinoCharles]

If the friction point is bothering you that much just use the e-brake... 5 speed training wheels... :rolleyes:

[eTiMaGo]

Well to be honest I did stall quite a few times at first from a stop. Problem is, the other manual car I usually drive is a diesel pickup, and that engine barely needs to be revved, it has loads of low-end torque. Our little 1NZ-FE's don't, so I find it helps to rev up the engine a little higher than you would normally want to, when engaging the clutch.

[Katana]

No problem with mine!

[boxerboy]

Its not the car its the driver. You have to get use to the drive by wire slower throddle response. Frist few times it was a little odd, now no problem.

[featherz]

I had the same problem for a while (took me a bit longer than others because I was used to my Jeep Wrangler which was WAY different) but I seem to be doing much better now. Still have a little apprehension on a steep grade, but that's what the emergency brake is for. :)

[boxerboy]

Just use the hand brake its that easy.

[Yaris Dick]

Buyer's remorse is a horrible thing. This guy is obviously here to start shit cuz he regrets not buying something else. Take notice of his "example". Only a few posts on that one too. Wanna bet who posted that "example" on the "other forum"???? :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[foober]

Buyer's remorse is a horrible thing. This guy is obviously here to start shit cuz he regrets not buying something else. Take notice of his "example". Only a few posts on that one too. Wanna bet who posted that "example" on the "other forum"???? :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

true, I sure don't have the problem with my car that he seems to with his car. I'm guessing he's just not used to the yaris's clutch yet. Every cars clutch feels a little different I've noticed.

[Toymaniac]

actualy i have the same problem ...


and know alot of people with that problem and yes the yaris is reving to low on idle...


my idle is 400rpm that is way to low...

even my sales director as a yaris and also finds it hard to start from first gear without slipping the clutch...

[tekmoe]

actualy i have the same problem ...


and know alot of people with that problem and yes the yaris is reving to low on idle...


my idle is 400rpm that is way to low...

even my sales director as a yaris and also finds it hard to start from first gear without slipping the clutch...

400rpm IS too low. take it the shop NOW. it needs to be fixed!

[roadrunner]

I have no issue with the 5 speed transmission! I love it!

[whoguy]

Hi all,

Just want to add my 2 cents.

When I first drove my manual Yaris, it was difficult to adjust to it due to the Throttle by Wire setup. Because the response is slightly delay, perhaps 100ms or so, releasing the clutch either has to be delayed to allow the revs to build, or the throttle must be applied before actual take off.
I have no problems with the clutch friction point, actually, the friction point is actually very good!!! The only difference with this car to other cars I have driven is that the clutch travel is quite short. However, if you have ever driven a sports car with a heavy duty clutch, they are much much more difficult than the Yaris. So, in actual fact, the Yaris clutch is actually very SPORTY in comparison to other cars for better or worse.
Also, you should never rely on the idle speed to get you off the line. This is bad technique. Depending on the car(V8's can get away with no throttle) you should always apply some throttle when releasing the clutch.
I'm very happy to trade this small quirk with the control and fuel efficiency that comes with a manual.

Thanks all.

[twocvforme]

Well, it's nice to have so many replys to such a mundane topic as starting off in first gear!!! Thanks!!!

It's still a shame that a vehicle as simple as a Yaris and fairly well put together can take the fun out of standard shift. Especially when I switch over to my Mini Cooper standard shift.

The SHIFTING and the 160 TIRE WEAR RATING....Yaris needs some serious improvement to run with IT'S basic Honda, Nissan .....competition!!

[foober]

actualy i have the same problem ...


and know alot of people with that problem and yes the yaris is reving to low on idle...


my idle is 400rpm that is way to low...

even my sales director as a yaris and also finds it hard to start from first gear without slipping the clutch...

My idle speed is around 600 or 800 I believe. I'll have to check that out again with my scangaugeII. So you may want to take it in to the shop with a 400 idle.

[poshi]

well i dunno if you guys have this problem... sometimes when i try to change gear from 4th to 5th, it seems like it get clogs in between.... as a result if i release the clutch too fast and the gear actually got caught...OUCH!!! gosh.. don't know if you guys have this problem before..

[twocvforme]

I certainly do have a Yaris...that's what I am referring to.....here and my other posts....that I started with the manual transmission!!

[H8SGAS]

In the past with the exception of a lone auto S10 I've owned all manuals, primarily sports cars (V8/Turbo6 most with modded hi-pro trans/clutch etc) and one Wrangler. This clutch has taken me by far the longest to make silky smooth but, it's the driver not the car. If fact stalling/shaking has almost vanished once I did the "Big Foot Mod" and racked up some miles so it's all good. :biggrin:

Case in point, my buddy has never had the urge to own fast cars, drove the Yaris like a champ right off the bat, right away I knew it was me that needed to improve not the car.

[junior]

it took me about two minutes to adjust to the clutch.
every manual i have ever owned had a distinct feel.
VW Bug.
280 Z
1985 Ranger.
renualt coupe.

i enjoy the yaris clutch

[foober]

I certainly do have a Yaris...that's what I am referring to.....here and my other posts....that I started with the manual transmission!!

I have no idea why you can't drive it properly.

[twocvforme]

I have no idea why you can't drive it properly.

Once the Toyota rep gets back to me as to the corrections to my vehicle - and or service bulletin we'll all be good drivers....considering he and the service manager had the same problem "driving it properly"...that is.. It might even help some other owners...who knows..

[Black Yaris]

I would like to agree with most other in this post... I think it is just the driver... I am 25 years old and have driven manual trans since my first car.... 15 cars later I have my Yaris.... yes, at first it was different, and I stalled out a few times, but as some one else stated it takes some getting used to with a drive by wire and a hydrolic clutch. I like most others was used to a cable clutch with a standard accelerator.... It just takes a bit of time to adjust to technology... and for the person who started this thread, just because the service manager stalled your car out the first time he/she drove it does not signify a problem... you may want to infest in some race driving classes :)

[foober]

Once the Toyota rep gets back to me as to the corrections to my vehicle - and or service bulletin we'll all be good drivers....considering he and the service manager had the same problem "driving it properly"...that is.. It might even help some other owners...who knows..

Hopefully you'll figure out how to drive a yaris. Its pretty nice once you do. Maybe there's something wrong with your car. Most everyones works great.

[as400g33k]

We've had our manual Yaris since launch Nov 05 and we've had no problems with ours. Some adjustment to that throttle-by-wire thingy but after a while we got used to it.

[SmellyTofu]

I think this topic name is VERY misleading. Why is this a safety issue when it's clearly something the source of the problem lies between the steering wheel and the seat? Or maybe the safety issue is the organic bit inside the car.

[Yaris Dick]

In reality, this guy probably deserves the benefit of the doubt. He may have gotten a bad car from Toyota. Maybe his car *is* one of a very few that has issues... but the fact that he comes in here on his very first post and attempts to use this forum (and others) as his sounding board for his personal vendetta against Toyota should be a clue for those of us with common sense.

[TRD_Yaris]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:

You are probably having the same problem I did when I bought my Yaris. You need to ask that the clutch pedal be adjusted out (approx. 1/16" in my case). It's basically caused by the same thing as the "uncentered steering wheel" problem...in which the delivery trucks tie down the vehicle too hard in the front (usually more on one side) and this will throw off MANY things , especially if you're car was in gear while being trasported. Don't ask me why, but the first serviceperson that mentioned this was able to fix all my Yaris problems..

Don't expect many here to actually know about these factory/dealership problems, but the first time you mention "seat covers", get ready for an 8 page thread. :laugh:

[foober]

You are probably having the same problem I did when I bought my Yaris. You need to ask that the clutch pedal be adjusted out (approx. 1/16" in my case). It's basically caused by the same thing as the "uncentered steering wheel" problem...in which the delivery trucks tie down the vehicle too hard in the front (usually more on one side) and this will throw off MANY things , especially if you're car was in gear while being trasported. Don't ask me why, but the first serviceperson that mentioned this was able to fix all my Yaris problems..

Don't expect many here to actually know about these factory/dealership problems, but the first time you mention "seat covers", get ready for an 8 page thread. :laugh:

Thanks for that info.. YOu ought to send that information onto toyota so the delivery people will wise up and not hurt the cars.

[Slummy]

Well I have had my 5-speed hatch for a week now, and I know what this guy is talking about. I'm getting used to it, I should also mention I've never driven stick before.:rolleyes:

[twocvforme]

I would like to agree with most other in this post... I think it is just the driver... I am 25 years old and have driven manual trans since my first car.... 15 cars later I have my Yaris.... yes, at first it was different, and I stalled out a few times, but as some one else stated it takes some getting used to with a drive by wire and a hydrolic clutch. I like most others was used to a cable clutch with a standard accelerator.... It just takes a bit of time to adjust to technology... and for the person who started this thread, just because the service manager stalled your car out the first time he/she drove it does not signify a problem... you may want to infest in some race driving classes :)


You have made a wonderful point..."you stalled a few times and takes some getting used to..." Considering you have just begun driving, a typical standard transmission is and should be fun and easy ....as most standards are. and you know from you past experience. We should not have such a long learning curve for any vehicle.

[twocvforme]

In reality, this guy probably deserves the benefit of the doubt. He may have gotten a bad car from Toyota. Maybe his car *is* one of a very few that has issues... but the fact that he comes in here on his very first post and attempts to use this forum (and others) as his sounding board for his personal vendetta against Toyota should be a clue for those of us with common sense.


How many post do we need to make before we make an honest sincere one>???? Maybe we need a definition of FORUM...
Contructive Criticism and Vendetta...who knows..

[twocvforme]

I think this topic name is VERY misleading. Why is this a safety issue when it's clearly something the source of the problem lies between the steering wheel and the seat? Or maybe the safety issue is the organic bit inside the car.

Misleading>??? Never..........If a vehicle stalls upon entering a busy intersection ...we all better call it a safety issue and let's not start talking side airbags..

[SmellyTofu]

Tell me about side airbags? Now that you've raised it, we're all curious. I'm all ears.

Btw, ever heard of the old saying, "a good tradesman never blames his tools"?

Also maybe book yourself into some driving lessons. Clearly you have not learnt to not enter a busy intersection when you clearly know you cannot meet the traffic flow based on your acceleration of the car. The car didn't force you to enter the busy intersection? Come on, you're a big boy now. Stop pretending to be 5 y.o. Take responsibility of your action. A Yaris does not (nor claims to be) a car that is fast. Learn, adapt or change it (be it sell it for a thirstier car or supercharging it).

[twocvforme]

Tell me about side airbags? Now that you've raised it, we're all curious. I'm all ears.

Btw, ever heard of the old saying, "a good tradesman never blames his tools"?

Also maybe book yourself into some driving lessons. Clearly you have not learnt to not enter a busy intersection when you clearly know you cannot meet the traffic flow based on your acceleration of the car. The car didn't force you to enter the busy intersection? Come on, you're a big boy now. Stop pretending to be 5 y.o. Take responsibility of your action. A Yaris does not (nor claims to be) a car that is fast. Learn, adapt or change it (be it sell it for a thirstier car or supercharging it).
Let's not waste any more words...you missed the point...

[SmellyTofu]

No really.. tell me... you seem to be an expert in this field and we clearly need to learn from you. It is after all, a SAFETY issue.

[SmellyTofu]

Or maybe you meant ... "(I haven't learnt how to drive a) Manual Transmission (properly).... Safety Issue!!! (so therefore I will blame my car)"

I'm sorry, was that rude or was the truth?

:burnrubber: :bellyroll: :clap: :mad: :biggrin: :tongue: :iono: :cry: :rolleyes: :laugh: :smoking: :drinking: :thumbup: :thumbdown: :drinking: :drinking: :drinking:

[foober]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:

what I don't understand about this guys complaints is why didn't he buy a honda or nissan instead of the yaris. Sounds like he test drove those. He probably should just trade in the manual for an automatic if he can't figure out how to work the manual.

I personally haven't had any problems at all with my manual yaris. So I'm not sure what he's having trouble with.

[03Z33]

learn how to drive.

[rocketxr7]

I would have to agree . That the clutch in the yaris takes some getting use to. I have stalled my Yaris more than any other Standard Shift car I have owned in the last 25 yrs.
Seems when I am not really paying close attention to what I am doing I stall it. I dont have this much problem in my 2001 Echo or any of the other Standard Shift cars I have in my house.

Some days I seem to stall it all the time other days I dont stall it at all.

[Yaris Dick]

Oh Jeez, what is this? The "Festival of First-Post Whiners?" Who wants to bet our friend is sending disgruntled buds from other forums here to whine? That... or he's registering multiple accounts. Oldest trick in the book.

[Kitt]

Bottom line is: Im not having the issue, Im happy with my car and there is no reason for me to return it...

[TrancosRt]

I think that posting things like this in an enthusiasts forum is not the best thing to do, isn't it? I mean, saying that the car we love is not safe, specially when most of the problem seems to be the driver not being able to adapt to the car...

[rocketxr7]

Oh Jeez, what is this? The "Festival of First-Post Whiners?" Who wants to bet our friend is sending disgruntled buds from other forums here to whine? That... or he's registering multiple accounts. Oldest trick in the book.


Apparantley you did not read the the first 2 sentences of my post Just saw I was complaining. OH What a wonderful Forum this is :-(

First 2 sentences of my post where
I would have to agree . That the clutch in the yaris takes some getting use to.

Than went on to state what my own problems have been not that I am bitching about my Yaris just stating what I personally have noticed . and that I said it takes some getting use to.

[cdydjded]

This problem is a non issue. I am happy with my Yaris. The issue here is the electronic accelerator pedal & no tach. Cable pedals have a different feel & tach in you face give a visual of what is happening with the RPM's.

[Yaris Dick]

Apparantley you did not read the the first 2 sentences of my post Just saw I was complaining. OH What a wonderful Forum this is :-(

First 2 sentences of my post where
I would have to agree . That the clutch in the yaris takes some getting use to.

Than went on to state what my own problems have been not that I am bitching about my Yaris just stating what I personally have noticed . and that I said it takes some getting use to. Strange you'd pick THIS topic to make your debut in this forum. So strange, in fact, that I think you're really twocvforme, or perhaps one of his buds from another forum???

Just sayin'

[twocvforme]

I would have to agree . That the clutch in the yaris takes some getting use to. I have stalled my Yaris more than any other Standard Shift car I have owned in the last 25 yrs.
Seems when I am not really paying close attention to what I am doing I stall it. I dont have this much problem in my 2001 Echo or any of the other Standard Shift cars I have in my house.

Some days I seem to stall it all the time other days I dont stall it at all.

Thank You for your experience with STANDARD TRANSMISSIONS!! Yes, I know too that we are experts in the shifting of any vehicle, no less a Yaris... Maybe we know what a real standard should be like and the true enjoyment they can be....... Since Toyota is now working on Service Bulletin for the Standard..They did call today after numerous drives in my vehcile and many stalls and many other complaints from Yaris owners .....I will let you know what the fix will be, since no one else is interested and I would not want to upset the group with the blinders on .............anymore.

[Yaris Dick]

Thank You for your experience with STANDARD TRANSMISSIONS!! Yes, I know too that we are experts in the shifting of any vehicle, no less a Yaris... Maybe we know what a real standard should be like and the true enjoyment they can be....... Since Toyota is now working on Service Bulletin for the Standard..They did call today after numerous drives in my vehcile and many stalls and many other complaints from Yaris owners .....I will let you know what the fix will be, since no one else is interested and I would not want to upset the group with the blinders on .............anymore.

Dude, please... you come in here (an enthusiast's forum) with guns a-blazin' and exclamation points flying like bullets at a Baghdad police recruitment seminar (SAFETY ISSUE!!! SAFETY ISSUE!!! SAFETY ISSUE!!!... woop woooop woooooooop!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Then you proceed (in your VERY FIRST post) to inform the masses of an issue that will surely lead to the deaths of MILLIONS of Manual Transmission Yaris owners who will most certainly be crushed to death due to the car's inherently designed inability to launch from standstill due to a defective clutch/throttle design that, based on your experiences, must certainly afflict the entire fleet of Yaris' populating the western hemisphere......

Yadda yadda.

Then most of us debunk you by providing testimony that is in direct conflict with your doomsday scenario....

Then, suddenly, a flock of "one post wonders" show up and provide us MORE evidence that the world is coming to an end because of your problem....

I'd offer this:

1. Perhaps you have a defect in your Yaris.

2. Perhaps your's isn't the only Yaris afflicted.

3. Perhaps Toyota is working on it.

4. Perhaps trying to convince the vast majority of people WITHOUT your problem that they have a problem... is... well.... stupid. Especially in an enthusiast's forum.

I hope you get your issue resolved.

[Kitt]

agree with that, in fact, you've washed my brain... that's it, i'm returning my car lol...

[Reddington]

I've known many people who "can drive a manual" only to stall left and right and claim its the car's fault.

[twocvforme]

Dude, please... you come in here (an enthusiast's forum) with guns a-blazin' and exclamation points flying like bullets at a Baghdad police recruitment seminar (SAFETY ISSUE!!! SAFETY ISSUE!!! SAFETY ISSUE!!!... woop woooop woooooooop!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Then you proceed (in your VERY FIRST post) to inform the masses of an issue that will surely lead to the deaths of MILLIONS of Manual Transmission Yaris owners who will most certainly be crushed to death due to the car's inherently designed inability to launch from standstill due to a defective clutch/throttle design that, based on your experiences, must certainly afflict the entire fleet of Yaris' populating the western hemisphere......

Yadda yadda.

Then most of us debunk you by providing testimony that is in direct conflict with your doomsday scenario....

Then, suddenly, a flock of "one post wonders" show up and provide us MORE evidence that the world is coming to an end because of your problem....

I'd offer this:

1. Perhaps you have a defect in your Yaris.

2. Perhaps your's isn't the only Yaris afflicted.

3. Perhaps Toyota is working on it.

4. Perhaps trying to convince the vast majority of people WITHOUT your problem that they have a problem... is... well.... stupid. Especially in an enthusiast's forum.

I hope you get your issue resolved.





You did notice I directed my comments only to those that respond with a similar problem...I'm delighted to think you are so pleased with your vehicle and let's leave the discussion at that...

Just remember some of us our Enthusiast that lean toward perfection and quality of our drive...

[featherz]

I don't think it's the cars fault - I went from a Jeep Wrangler to the Yaris and had a tough time for a while until I got used to it (stalls, etc) - my husband jumped in my car and has never had a problem at all (He has a manual subaru which is also very different from my Jeep). He thinks it drives fine. I am sure some cars may have problems but in my case I am almost positive it's the driver. :P

[ChinoCharles]

Are people really coming on a car forum and blaming the fact that they stall all the time on the clutch? Its TOYOTA people, they've been working on the Yaris for years. It isn't going to roll off the line in its second iteration with a faulty tranny. You people just can't handle the fact that there is no tach and the car is light and likes to roll.

:evil:

[nsmitchell]

I know, I know, I drive an AUTO, but, I think the stalling problem is due to trying to get the maximum mileage out of the Yaris. If you are feather light on the gas, guess what... stall. Put your foot on that bad boy when starting out and problem solved. It's all in the wrist.... er... ankles. :wink:Rev that engine...Burn a little gas. It might cost you an extra $0.30 at the pump, but well worth it.

[rocketxr7]

I've known many people who "can drive a manual" only to stall left and right and claim its the car's fault.


I personally did not state it was the cars fault .Just that it is taking some getting use to this clutch and for now I seem to be stalling it way more than normal.

I have been driving standard shift cars for over 25 yrs This one seems a bit touchy to me. Currently I own 8 cars 5 of which are standard shift.the 5 are
'78 K-10 Blazer
'84 Nissan Sentra Wagon
'88 Mazada 626
'01 Echo
'07 Yaris HB

I will state again the Yaris is taking a bit for me to get use to.

Btw other 3 cars are
1980 Mercury Cougar
'90 Plymoth Sundance
2000 Dodge Caravan

[rocketxr7]

Are people really coming on a car forum and blaming the fact that they stall all the time on the clutch? Its TOYOTA people, they've been working on the Yaris for years. It isn't going to roll off the line in its second iteration with a faulty tranny. You people just can't handle the fact that there is no tach and the car is light and likes to roll.

:evil:
Well there is no Tach in my Echo,Nissan or Blazer either . Besides Yaris is not much differant from my Echo

[Darla]

No probs w/ my clutch. I had to search high and low to find my Yaris w/ manual transmission.

If you're worried about rolling back on steep inclines, use the emergency break and ride first gear.

Don't give up on the MT--You ain't drivin' unless you're drivin' a stick!

[hackjob]

They are right about the friction being non-existent though.

[SmellyTofu]

agree with that, in fact, you've washed my brain... that's it, i'm returning my car lol...

I'll go one further.. I'll tell the guy who created the car that his car is McFcuked because it's a major safety issue with a manual gearbox. :rolleyes:

Anyone read the fable "The boy who cried wolf"?

[Don Mason]

I love my Yaris Hatch, but the clutch did indeed take a little getting used to.

The Yaris has a very light flywheel, and the engine is so quiet that it can be easy to stall the engine when the car is new. Here's what works for me.

I simply give the throttle pedal a quick small tap before I begin to release the clutch from a dead stop. The throttle by wire tends to hold RPM briefly, so take off from a dead stop becomes much easier, like driving a manual with a larger engine and heavier flywheel.

I've found also that the clutch action improves a great deal as the car breaks in, probably because the pressure plate and flywheel surfaces take on a smooth polish as time goes by.

[Basscat]

I'll agree the electronic throttle and touchy clutch took a bit of getting used to, coming from a well broken in "old fashioned" manual in my case, but to call it a safety hazard, unless the OP has a defective Yaris, was a bit much. Part of the problem for me is the engine is so quiet, if there is a noisy vehicle nearby, I can't tell where the engine rpm's are when starting without looking at the tach, which I am still not used to. Blip the throttle and start the clutch, then slowly and steadily throttle up works for me. And I love my Yaris S :smile:

[twocvforme]

I'll agree the electronic throttle and touchy clutch took a bit of getting used to, coming from a well broken in "old fashioned" manual in my case, but to call it a safety hazard, unless the OP has a defective Yaris, was a bit much. Part of the problem for me is the engine is so quiet, if there is a noisy vehicle nearby, I can't tell where the engine rpm's are when starting without looking at the tach, which I am still not used to. Blip the throttle and start the clutch, then slowly and steadily throttle up works for me. And I love my Yaris S :smile:

The safety issue to us is real simple....my wife has stalled the Yaris in two busy intersections and nearly got creamed in the side...she will not touch the car any longer...she has driven standards for 15 yrs. and loves them. No problem in any gear but first.. We do use your technique,she also turns the radio off and tells people to stop talking...for proper take off. Life is just to short for all this nonsense..

[mrrock]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:


First, anyone should test drive a car before they get...so your not disappointed
I admit it's a bit touchy taking off but my problem that it doesn't have a tach and the engine is so quite at idle that I have to rev it up before I can engage the clutch. as someone else pointed out the other issue is that the engine revs don't drop which throws your clutch engagment off.
if you think this clutch is touchy you should try driving a Ducati.

[twocvforme]

First, anyone should test drive a car before they get...so your not disappointed
I admit it's a bit touchy taking off but my problem that it doesn't have a tach and the engine is so quite at idle that I have to rev it up before I can engage the clutch. as someone else pointed out the other issue is that the engine revs don't drop which throws your clutch engagment off.
if you think this clutch is touchy you should try driving a Ducati.

We actually drove all 3 - Fit and Versa...our reaction which I think was so typical, must be us and we'll get used to it...Fit clutch and transmission did win, but loved the look of the Hatch...Funny you mention Ducati, we both drive our Aprilla bike..... but have no problems....

[Toymaniac]

yep my problem is solved ...revs on idle were to low....

when ac /defrost was on and radion it was just 350rpm :eek:


so now its about 600rpm on idle:thumbup:

[twocvforme]

yep my problem is solved ...revs on idle were to low....

when ac /defrost was on and radion it was just 350rpm :eek:


so now its about 600rpm on idle:thumbup:

Sounds great, but Toyota said they cannot touch the idle...how did you get yours up? Thanks in Advance, Peter

[tekmoe]

i don't understand what the problem is...

i test drove a 5spd hatch yesterday and i couldn't tell any difference between it and my 02 corolla 5spd. felt exactly the same.

:iono:

[Toymaniac]

they pluged a laptop to the car for about 30min than

took out the air filter and changed the MAF


and said the the Maf wasent giving the right signal to the cpu


anyway its all good now:smile:

[SmellyTofu]

The safety issue to us is real simple....my wife has stalled the Yaris in two busy intersections and nearly got creamed in the side...she will not touch the car any longer...she has driven standards for 15 yrs. and loves them. No problem in any gear but first.. We do use your technique,she also turns the radio off and tells people to stop talking...for proper take off. Life is just to short for all this nonsense..

I'm sorry your wife almost got into an accident but still in no way was the car at fault. Someone chose to pull out into a busy intersection. This you can control. It has to do with the driver technique. Keep driving it, get a feel for it, or.. you can sell it and get something where you can drive a car using your technique.

If however you said you were travelling at a speed and the engine stalled, then I would agree it is a safety issue. This will be something that you could not have controlled.

[twocvforme]

I'm sorry your wife almost got into an accident but still in no way was the car at fault. Someone chose to pull out into a busy intersection. This you can control. It has to do with the driver technique. Keep driving it, get a feel for it, or.. you can sell it and get something where you can drive a car using your technique.

If however you said you were travelling at a speed and the engine stalled, then I would agree it is a safety issue. This will be something that you could not have controlled.

That's correct...she is not driving it any longer.. we're just fortunate to have other stardard vehicles here to drive.. She pities the poor soul who has just one manual Yaris to drive...
Since it appears by the many posts here, it's not the normal.. Plus, we take driving very seriously; cannot afford one possible stall - due to low RPM's etc...
Toyota will have a Technical Bulletin (Recall) soon that many of us will gladly welcome; especially after they have a few liability suits.

[foober]

That's correct...she is not driving it any longer.. we're just fortunate to have other stardard vehicles here to drive.. She pities the poor soul who has just one manual Yaris to drive...
Since it appears by the many posts here, it's not the normal.. Plus, we take driving very seriously; cannot afford one possible stall - due to low RPM's etc...
Toyota will have a Technical Bulletin (Recall) soon that many of us will gladly welcome; especially after they have a few liability suits.

EIther theres something wrong with your car or you and your wife just have trouble with driving a manual transmission. I'd really recommend you stick to automatic transmissions.

My manual yaris works perfect. I'm even thinking of buying another one just like it.

[twocvforme]

EIther theres something wrong with your car or you and your wife just have trouble with driving a manual transmission. I'd really recommend you stick to automatic transmissions.

My manual yaris works perfect. I'm even thinking of buying another one just like it.

Sorry but we have no automatics in the garage to drive ..just 5 manuals and 2 motorcycles and love them all as all in the past. We and the Service Advisor at Toyota decided there is something wrong with the car.. It's also quite obvious that many other Yaris owners find the same problem, we are the 5th at our dealer alone.
We are more than pleased that you are happy and have a drivable vehicle. Many of us are less fortunate and are attempting to rectify Toyota's problem.

[foober]

Sorry but we have no automatics in the garage to drive ..just 5 manuals and 2 motorcycles and love them all as all in the past. We and the Service Advisor at Toyota decided there is something wrong with the car.. It's also quite obvious that many other Yaris owners find the same problem, we are the 5th at our dealer alone.
We are more than pleased that you are happy and have a drivable vehicle. Many of us are less fortunate and are attempting to rectify Toyota's problem.

And what are you doing to rectify your problem. Sounds like a simple adjustment to the idle. Or your dealership is giving you the run around on such a simple problem. If I were you I'd just get an automatic. THey're simpler to use.

[03Z33]

A few suggestions:

1. Get a louder exhaust (it really helps when you can "hear" the engine)

2. Get a tach (even a dash mounted Scanguage will help see the RPM's you're launching at)

3. Double check the clutch fluid level and bleed if necessary

Idle can easily be changed by any Toyota dealer using the scan tool. I did notice the idle on the Yaris is not so stable (jumps around from 550-660RPM at idle with out A/C)... but this doesn't cause the stalling you describe.

If all else fails, I'll buy it off you for cheap :biggrin:

[tekmoe]

A few suggestions:

1. Get a louder exhaust (it really helps when you can "hear" the engine)

2. Get a tach (even a dash mounted Scanguage will help see the RPM's you're launching at)

++++1

probably one of the first upgrades to my yaris will be an exhaust so i can hear the engine for rev matching. when i test drove the yaris yesterday i had no problems with shifting. the only problem was i could not hear the engine! no biggie though, it still shifted and ran perfectly. whoever has problems with shifting the gears on this car obviously needs to learn how to drive a stick.

[foober]

++++1

probably one of the first upgrades to my yaris will be an exhaust so i can hear the engine for rev matching. when i test drove the yaris yesterday i had no problems with shifting. the only problem was i could not hear the engine! no biggie though, it still shifted and ran perfectly. whoever has problems with shifting the gears on this car obviously needs to learn how to drive a stick.

Thats a good point I hadn't thought of. I have excellent hearing. Maybe I'm not having any trouble because I can hear the rev of the engine.

[tekmoe]

Thats a good point I hadn't thought of. I have excellent hearing. Maybe I'm not having any trouble because I can hear the rev of the engine.

when i bought my corolla i installed the trd exhaust shortly afterwards. it has a good sound to it. not like a loud farting buzzing bee like some of those other exhausts, just a nice deep tone. it helps tremendously with shifting regards to hearing the engine. i'll probably be installing the trd exhaust for my yaris when i save up enough cash.

[SmellyTofu]

That's correct...she is not driving it any longer.. we're just fortunate to have other stardard vehicles here to drive.. She pities the poor soul who has just one manual Yaris to drive...
Since it appears by the many posts here, it's not the normal.. Plus, we take driving very seriously; cannot afford one possible stall - due to low RPM's etc...
Toyota will have a Technical Bulletin (Recall) soon that many of us will gladly welcome; especially after they have a few liability suits.

What's your definition of low rpm?

FYI, it is barely possible for the engine to move by just lifting the clutch. You do have to rev it a bit ... then again, what's to stop you giving it a clutch dump and leave a long black line on the road??

:burnrubber:

Again, it is the driver and I have not heard of any issue even with the 2NZFE motor except that it lacks a bit of torque and a bit of brain adjustment is required (driver came out of a 2AZFE powered RAV4).

I think you are so quick to point the finger and spit out the word recall, and lawsuits in America. No one else here seem to have your problem. Why is it a lawsuit? Why is it a recall? Why is it never the organic bit that is the fault? Plenty obvious on this forum and from what I hear from the national service guys here.

If only some poor soul could give perhaps you and your wife a recall for a brain reprogram. If you hadn't noticed, press the accelerator FIRST, then lift up the clutch, then you will be able to move. Not the other way around.

I suggest you sell the car before you hurt yourself. Most likely don't deserve to drive a Toyota. Go bother some other company. Maybe some silly large FWD V8 (do they even make that in America??!!??) is what you need. Fuel is cheap again.

[ChinoCharles]

SmellyTofu, easily the worst post ever. Go find the nearest ceiling fan and bring some rope, then call me for further instructions.

[twocvforme]

SmellyTofu, easily the worst post ever. Go find the nearest ceiling fan and bring some rope, then call me for further instructions.

I totally agree, I think he ate to much Tofu and is smelling.........

[SmellyTofu]

SmellyTofu, easily the worst post ever. Go find the nearest ceiling fan and bring some rope, then call me for further instructions.

It's one thing to assume one thing but it's another to get it wrong. Why go to a dealer when you can go straight to the source inside to the man that created the car. Bah, what do I know... I'm just a keyboard warrior.

Smelly Tofu is not smelly btw. Know your foods.

[twocvforme]

It's one thing to assume one thing but it's another to get it wrong. Why go to a dealer when you can go straight to the source inside to the man that created the car. Bah, what do I know... I'm just a keyboard warrior.

Smelly Tofu is not smelly btw. Know your foods.

We all know Tofu doesn't smell...I wasn't referring to Tofu...

[foober]

What's your definition of low rpm?

FYI, it is barely possible for the engine to move by just lifting the clutch. You do have to rev it a bit ... then again, what's to stop you giving it a clutch dump and leave a long black line on the road??

:burnrubber:

Again, it is the driver and I have not heard of any issue even with the 2NZFE motor except that it lacks a bit of torque and a bit of brain adjustment is required (driver came out of a 2AZFE powered RAV4).

I think you are so quick to point the finger and spit out the word recall, and lawsuits in America. No one else here seem to have your problem. Why is it a lawsuit? Why is it a recall? Why is it never the organic bit that is the fault? Plenty obvious on this forum and from what I hear from the national service guys here.

If only some poor soul could give perhaps you and your wife a recall for a brain reprogram. If you hadn't noticed, press the accelerator FIRST, then lift up the clutch, then you will be able to move. Not the other way around.

I suggest you sell the car before you hurt yourself. Most likely don't deserve to drive a Toyota. Go bother some other company. Maybe some silly large FWD V8 (do they even make that in America??!!??) is what you need. Fuel is cheap again.

That is a good point. Its so obvious for him to give the car some gas when he starts out. I bet he still won't give it any gas starting out so he can keep whineing about it. As they say. Some people. I really recommend this guy and his whole family giving up on driving a manual and go to the automatic transmission.

[twocvforme]

That is a good point. Its so obvious for him to give the car some gas when he starts out. Probably his first car ever and a 16 year old kid. I really recommend this guy and his whole family giving up on driving a manual and go to the automatic transmission.

With 5 manuals and 2 motorcycles in the family...it's possible we might give up one ...the weakest link (as mentioned in numerous post)
...that would have to be the Yaris - a shame...we love the looks.

[KSIbucky]

if you know how to drive a manual you should be able to take care of it

[foober]

With 5 manuals and 2 motorcycles in the family...it's possible we might give up one ...the weakest link (as mentioned in numerous post)
...that would have to be the Yaris - a shame...we love the looks.

I guess thats why they're all parked and your driving the yaris. Your posts don't make sense. Just give it some gas when you start out and you'll be fine. If you stalled all the time like you keep saying how'd you get out of your driveway or off the dealership lot. Did you even test drive it.

[twocvforme]

I guess thats why they're all parked and your driving the yaris. Your posts don't make sense. Just give it some gas when you start out and you'll be fine. If you stalled all the time like you keep saying how'd you get out of your driveway or off the dealership lot. Did you even test drive it.
I guess it's the simple comparison with other driveable standards, like our Mini convertible ...and yes the Yaris is 6 months newer than the Mini and we are driving it, maybe more to see if it's a keeper.
It also appears there are many others with the same problem- which was my original reason for posting..
In conclusion, were so pleased we posted and proved our point. Thanks for all your helpful hints.

[foober]

I guess it's the simple comparison with other driveable standards, like our Mini convertible ...and yes the Yaris is 6 months newer than the Mini and we are driving it, maybe more to see if it's a keeper.
It also appears there are many others with the same problem- which was my original reason for posting..
In conclusion, were so pleased we posted and proved our point. Thanks for all your helpful hints.

one other person possibly is having trouble figuring out the clutch. And thats it.

Good luck on trying to convince yourself that its the cars fault that you have a problem with your clutch. Another idea is wear better shoes or move the seat so your feet can touch the pedals. LIke many have tried to tell you. Give it a little gas when you clutch. Other than that you really need professional lessons.

So what are you going to do trade it in. My advice. Get an automatic..

[tekmoe]

honestly after reading the 7 pages in this thread i really have to say that i am getting the nice warm fuzzy feeling that this guy is a troll. can't prove it of course but jeez, if you are having a problem with your car, is it really such a smart thing to do by coming onto a forum with dedicated enthusiasts and yelling "SAFTEY ISSUE! SAFETY ISSUE! MY WIFE ALMOST GOT KILLED BECAUSE MY CAR IS FAULTY!!"??? I really don't think any of that is necessary IMO. the car either works or it doesn't. looking thru the 7 pages it appears that 98% of the rest of the world is not having any problems AT ALL with their manual transmission yaris'. i test drove a manual transmission yaris just the other day and it felt PERFECT. i had NO PROBLEMS whatsoever.

so, to you sir, what i would suggest is you get your car into the shop IMMEDIATELY. it is obviously upsetting you. i know i would be VERY upset if my wife were to almost get killed in a brand new car. i would have taken it into the shop ASAP and would not accept it back until the problem has been fixed. nationwide problem? nah, i highly doubt it. it's either the car or the driver.

nothing more to see here. move along folks. otherwise, you will continue to feed the fire. :rolleyes:

p.s. - twocvforme, why don't you post a picture of you standing in front of your yaris holding a piece of paper that has your screen name written on it? you know, just so we know your not trolling and all...

[eTiMaGo]

Well, the more I drive the car, the more comfortable I get with the clutch, I can now go from a standstill without over-revving or choking the engine, it seems you just gotta hold the clutch half-way down for a second or two once you start moving, and it's all good :)

I did change shoes too, I used to wear big Oakley special-ops style shoes with wide and thick soles, comfortable shoes, but easy to get mixed up with the pedals :biggrin:

Now I got some classic Converse All-Stars for my birthday, and they make a very big difference!!

Just my $0.02 :wink:

[Yaris]

Last winter my boots tripped on the pedals several times. Why do they put the pedals so close together??
Just my 2¢

[kepper]

Regarding touchy 1st-2nd shifting: My 2007 Yaris has the same problem, and it's not the driver, it's the car, unless DBW is a radically different shifting experience. Also, I've noticing during engine braking that the speed will drop a few hundred rpm when it gets to a certain speed--most noticeably in 2nd. So I'm wondering--Is the ECU "adjusting" throttle speed at all during up/down shifts?

Thanks.

[uncleyaris]

i've never had a problem. When I got the car I practiced not giving gas while releasing clutch to find the sweet spot. After that have never stalled, but I've only ever drove stick in my 20 plus years of driving.

[stuffy]

it is the driver, the yaris is a bigger adjustment for some because of the electronic throttle which does not have the same characteristics as a regular throttle.

just take some time and you will adjust to driving it.

[grampi]

I can only offer this; I have driven many, many different manual tranny equipped vehicles and every one of them felt vastly different in terms of clutch feel, even when driving two identical vehicles. Also, the person who said their's was idling at 400 RPM, that's too low and I'd take it in to have Toyota service fix it. It should be idling somewhere around 800-1000 RPM.

[sf180th]

Hmm my car idles at around 680? Sometimes less?

[Calabrese9876]

never had a problem since i bought my yaris lifeback 5spd...

[Jem_hadar]

Bottom line, it's worth the 1,300$ more to get a Corolla.

LOL! Depends on what you want. You'd have to value Corolla's bland looks over this issue (the Yaris's clutch 'uniqueness') to feel that way.

Part of the reason I chose the Yaris is bc I f*cking love the styling. I wanted a hot, fresh, 'different' euro looking hatch!

Was NEVER gonna get that outta a Corolla.

[blacksan]

No problems here. I often just release the clutch with out any application of throttle until I am rolling unless I am on a grade. I grew up driving farm equipment and tractor trailers making clutch work second nature. As a matter of fact up shifts are done without the use of clutch most of the time.

[blacksan]

Sounds like it might be a nut loose on the steering wheel :biggrin:

Dam, them hillbillies that drive homo cars in TN are nasty.:bellyroll:

[marcus]

just put more gas on it if ur on a hill...one of the reason the idle is that low is coz of better gas mileage..i never had problems with hills..

[drifto]

just feather the gas a little, whats so difficult? :iono:
ive driven cars with much more annoying clutches i.e. any civic with a cable clutch, 1988 vw jetta. even though annoying, never felt the need to complain about it :rolleyes:

[woof]

I wish I had seen this thread in '06 instead of 12/09! I have been going through an ordeal with my dealer and regional rep who first told me nothing was wrong and now the "clunking" in the drivetrain is "acceptable".

What has happened is that the first year I owned my 5-speed hatch I stalled about 200 times coming off the line. It was because the dead pedal area keeps the clutch from going to the bottom of the floor board.

I may have to go to our state's AG office because the service manager is a real, lying prick. I think Toyota is aware of this and is doing everything to dodge the bullet by what the regional rep said.

I never thought Toy would go this low.

[tomato]

I don't know what your particular case is, but we all go through a ... ahem.... let's call it "break-in" period :rolleyes: with the Yaris clutch.

I've said it many times on this board, to the point of having people wondering if I was a troll in disguise, but I do maintain that the Yaris clutch is weird, and takes a good deal of getting used to. First gear especially.

Something similar to the OP's wife happened to me when I drove the car home from the dealership (they forgot to hook up the mat after they detailed it and believe it or not, that alone can prevent you from shifting gears properly, AND will also prevent you from starting the car in the morning).

I hated the clutch so much in the beginning, even seriously considered taking the car back to the dealership during the first week, but eventually you DO adapt.

Yes, Toyota could have made an effort (my Honda Civic 1st Gen manual transmission was so easy to drive in comparison) but it is an entry level car, after all, I DNK :iono:

[tomato]

BTW, about this thread: I understand the OP is upset, believe me I do understand but the title? that was really poor wording.

The Yaris clutch is weird, but I would definitely not call it a "safety issue"

Part of the problem may have been in the driver seat :wink:

[Lewis]

I'm 62 and have driven only manual transmission cars my whole lifetime.

My take on this is that the Yaris is indeed a bit unique in how the throttle/clutch interact but it does not seem defective in any way- just a bit different. The only car I had to adjust so much to was my old 1973 Porsche 914 (wish I kept that puppy) and that was because of the unique racing 5 speed shift pattern with 1st all the way to the left and down (with the other gears in the conventional "H" pattern having 2nd where 1st usually resides).

With the Yaris it feels to me like the touchiness comes from the combination of the slightly lower than normal idol speed and the slightly jerky engagement of the electronic throttle that seems to make it a bit touchy starting out in 1st.

My own theory with the trouble the thread starter has had is that---- if you have several stick cars it COULD be tricky going back and forth to the Yaris because of it's uniqueness.

Since it's the only stick car in our family I've adapted easily.

You want difficult?- try a classic British car with the Moss box- now THAT"S difficult!!- used to have a share of a 1962 Morgan with the Moss box- that stick was more like an exercise machine attached to a manual coffee grinder. Luckily the Lucas electrics made up for it. Want to experience a REALLY jerky throttle- - install an old Lucas diaphram fuel (sometimes) pump feeding dual SU belching (really that wasn't ME!) carburetors into a modified tractor engine (Triumph TR-4) with a hot cam exiting to a free flowing exhaust. That my friend will teach you the meaning of the term jerky throttle.

Praise to TOYOTA - when everything actually works on a car the press calls it boring- well as a former Morgan owner I KNOW the value of boring!

When Toyota builds a car with a little shall we say personality- they get criticized (and threatened with lawsuits) like this- folks- you can't have it both ways.

[YarisSedan]

I havent read all the posts. But I think the yaris has a hydralic clutch. Typically whenever i get into a new car that is stick shift. I sit in the parking lot for about 30 seconds. Rock the car with only my foot on the clutch pedal not the gas. To get a feel for the car and the point where the clutch grabs. I guess you could call it the sweet spot. Once you know where that is. Then driving the car is easy. I hopped into a friends yaris never driving a manual yaris before and never had any issues once i found that spot. Even was able to chirp the tires on the 2-3 shift

[supmet]

What has happened is that the first year I owned my 5-speed hatch I stalled about 200 times coming off the line. It was because the dead pedal area keeps the clutch from going to the bottom of the floor board.

This is a true testament to the greatness of toyota. Operator error that would kill most modern cars, but your yaris keeps ticking. I think you should write to your regional toyota rep, and tell them how amazed you are, that no matter how hard you tried to kill the clutch and the tranny, it still runs.

Honestly, 1000s of half-clutched shifting, and 100s of stalls would kill any non toyota or honda.. Go get a kia and shift for 2 years without the clutch and tell me if you miss your "clunk"

[Zaphod]

This is a true testament to the greatness of toyota. Operator error that would kill most modern cars, but your yaris keeps ticking. I think you should write to your regional toyota rep, and tell them how amazed you are, that no matter how hard you tried to kill the clutch and the tranny, it still runs.

Honestly, 1000s of half-clutched shifting, and 100s of stalls would kill any non toyota or honda.. Go get a kia and shift for 2 years without the clutch and tell me if you miss your "clunk"

I was so sloppy with the clutch on the Jeep that I often had the clutch engaged before even having it in the next gear. Seriously, once that little beast reached 8 years old and it was apparent that rust was going to take that 4 cylinder DOG down before I could, I started treating it like a rented mule. I mean I ABUSED that vehicle ... and it still went to 180,000 before the throwout bearing went out.

I can understand buyers remorse on such an expensive purchase, and I'll definitely agree that the clutch, idle and throttle response makes for a quirky 1st and reverse. But seriously, is doesn't take long to get used to it.

[wooverstone8]

I hated the clutch so much in the beginning, even seriously considered taking the car back to the dealership during the first week, but eventually you DO adapt.

:

I had problems at first too, but after a month I finally adapted.

[advocate]

There's a real simple fix to this:

GIVE IT MORE GAS.

Really. Your safety, your time, and your grey hairs are not worth the .5 MPG lost attempting to launch the car at the absolute lowest RPMs possible. I can't believe this thread even exists.

Sure the Yaris clutch isn't the greatest and the throttle is drive by wire but still... The Yaris was my second manual car ever and I got it after only 15,000 miles on an old Jetta. I stalled it twice at the dealership and then never again.

You shouldn't be getting into a manual car expecting it to launch exactly how you want. You have to launch it exactly how it wants to be. So adjust and learn how to drive the car, for the engine's sake and yours.

[markitect]

I test drove a manual before going with the 5 door (before it was available with one), and I didn't stall it once on the test drive. And I haven't owned a manual in several years.

[yannis-b]

No probs at all. (09 model)

[cdavidhess]

I am 60 years old and have driven manual transmission cars my whole life.

There is always an adjustment period whenever you switch to a different car with a different manual transmission. I found the adjustment period with the Yaris to be no longer or more difficult than with any other car I have ever driven.

I regard the manual transmission in the Yaris to be very smooth.

[bronsin]

Having noticed the throttle lag with my auto transmission Yaris I shudder to think what it would be like driving a Yaris with a manual. You definately want to test drive that manual transmission Yaris before plunking down your hard earned cash. I was so shocked by the deal I got on my Yaris that I turned down the salemans offer to go for a test ride. After all I owned an ECHO for eight years previously. Had I done so I probably would have insisted they fix it before I took delivery. (Ha that would have been a mess!)
My wifes 2005 Camry (drive by wire) does the same thing. Unbelievable they allow their cars to be sold like that. (that ECHO was one sweet driving car)

[talnlnky]

There's a real simple fix to this:

GIVE IT MORE GAS.

Really. Your safety, your time, and your grey hairs are not worth the .5 MPG lost attempting to launch the car at the absolute lowest RPMs possible. I can't believe this thread even exists.


you don't have snow and ice down there.... normally i'd agree with you... winter time is a different story... sometimes giving a little gas means you can't start cause you spin the tires.

My question is.... does adding the NST crank pulley decrease this problem at all?

[advocate]

spin the wheels, melt the ice, get traction, boom you're off!

[Gideon]

My question is.... does adding the NST crank pulley decrease this problem at all?

Yeah, it does a bit. I have the underdrive installed and it made going from a stop a LOT easier.

[serious]

Bottom line is: Im not having the issue, Im happy with my car and there is no reason for me to return it...

+1:thumbup:

[scape]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:

it's a bit quirky, but hardly unsafe. just gas it and drive the car like you mean it, not some dainty way...the only time i dislike the clutch for real is coming down from 2nd with momentum and going back up, there is sometimes a dead spot between 1st and 2nd in that instance and i end up riding the clutch to get it up to speed; getting it into reverse can be finicky but luckily i reverse only so often compared to driving around town...i'd say sometimes the clutch feels like it's not 'warmed up' and exhibits what your talking about, but I find gassing it and commanding the vehicle with confidence helps big time, and riding the clutch for a moment or two is fine-- this car can take it! :D

[YaRS]

The Yaris MT took me about a week to get used to before I could drive the car without any concerns. I remember the first time I drove it I thought, "Holy crap this thing is touchy!" However, the touchy clutch was no problem after I got used to it.

Also, I have noticed that idle rpm's drop to the point of noticeable engine vibration at times. However, I have never stalled the car when this has happened.

I also drive the car up hills with inconveniently placed stop signs all the time without any problems. I might suggest your problems are due to driver experience, but who knows... maybe some Yarii really do come from the factory messed up.

Mine came full of awesomeness.

[YaRS]

you guys realize the OP is long gone most likely , the thread dates back from 2006

Meh, once a dead thread is resurrected I consider it open season for posting. lol That and other people might stumble on this and mistakenly think the Yaris has some sort of terrible flaw...

[scape]

Mine came full of awesomeness.

:D

i agree, once resurrected, people will look at it, so it's good to throw in some positive

[yaris2010RS]

okay....i'm sorry, i know i'm new but still, i have no idea what u guys are describing... as far as i can tell, the ones who are complaining cand adjust? it doesn't sound liek the car at all. dont get my wrong, out off 10000 cars, one will be actually bad, and 6 other people will think theirs is bad. the 2010 yaris atleast i find will take off from dead stop without any gas, jsut at idle, dont get me wrong it doesn't like it and it wound go up hill like that but it goes.....

and personally anyone who says they liked their honda or jeep better, then y dont u have it now? really...u complain but for what? i personally test drive an assortment of cars from versa's and cubes, to civics and kia souls. even the mazda 3 and 6. did a few jeeps and dodges. even a crystler.... did 3 different benz's(after 3 the sales rep said no more till i show some money....or class, lol) out of all of them, price ranges from $20,000 to 80,000 CD. the top 2 cars, the Yaris and the soul. (got the yaris cuz it s a toyota and my neighbour jsut got the soul, lol. glad i didn't get the soul when it first came out, they have the soul s now) the new civic, anyone who likes the standard tranny on that needs a shake if they are going to complain about the yaris. that car has all the problems you are describing. dont get me wrong, the jeep in first could climb a mountain without u even in the car but still. if you want to climb a mountain ure not going to do it in a 1.5l yaris.... you can, dont get me wrong. i've done things where jeeps kinda look at me saying wtf but thats not what the car is ment for. everyone who has posted here has put in their 2 cents. including me. and really this is all personal opinion. but if your gonna complain about the car u got, sell it, call your mom. dont tell yaris lovers its stupid or needs to be fixed. if by chance you do actually have a problem, think about what ure gonna say reasonably and consider the option is it me?

All cars grab at different points and not gonna lie, the electronic throtle was a bit different to begine with but i'm sorry, its a new car for a reason, if u wanted it to drive like your 81 jetta (the car i learned to drive stick on) then u should have kept that car.

yes i found the car very quiet but this is good. and the low idle i LOVE! my mom drives a camry V6 and i have been trying its entire life to bring the idle down below 750rpm.

if u think the idle is too low, before u take off, hold down the gas and call it ure new idle :)

i'm not gonna lie i am kinda flustered seeing as i clicked this post after seeing safety in title and reading all posts and realizing this is bs. but really, the car is great. loads of fun to drive and i liek to wave as i pass gas stations. 50mpg is the greatest thing to happen to a student!! (i have never gotten 50mpg in my life! but its kool to try. highest was 43.8...almost there)

[#87]

A clutch is like a ladies tender spot, each one is different requiring delicate handling and a little dexterity to find that sweet spot.

If you would tell your new lady friend to get lost because you can't find her magic button then you are a man with more options than I.

But I digress. My salient point being sell your Yaris or get used to it. :wub:

[bronsin]

The bottom line is: Toyota is making a making a defective product. People who say "get used to it" are enabling Toyota to get away with it. If we all said "Fix your little problem or we arent buying a Toyota anymore" then they would have to do something about it. All you have to do is look at BMW motorcycles. They are becoming as trouble prone as Harleys because so many people tolerate their (increasing) QC problems.

[derickveliz2]

I love the way my Yaris drives. At 18K miles it just gets better and better.

[gamot_vendor]

Just got a new Vios (Yaris Sedan) 1.3 liter, I have no problems with the clutch and find the gearbox a pleasure to use.

[127.0.0.1]

The bottom line is: Toyota is making a making a defective product. People who say "get used to it" are enabling Toyota to get away with it. If we all said "Fix your little problem or we arent buying a Toyota anymore" then they would have to do something about it. All you have to do is look at BMW motorcycles. They are becoming as trouble prone as Harleys because so many people tolerate their (increasing) QC problems.

incorrect

[TEHxFALLEN V1.2]

i have have a pneumatic shifter.

[yaris2010RS]

am i the only one not seeing this problem? you are describing it as dangerous as a wheel randomly falling off while doing 55..... if i understand correctly it is simply you cannot take off from stop because u dont know how to drive standard properly.....

[tomato]

The bottom line is: Toyota is making a making a defective product. People who say "get used to it" are enabling Toyota to get away with it. If we all said "Fix your little problem or we arent buying a Toyota anymore" then they would have to do something about it. All you have to do is look at BMW motorcycles. They are becoming as trouble prone as Harleys because so many people tolerate their (increasing) QC problems.

It's not defective, it's just not as smooth as others. Big difference.

Defective implies that it doesn't work. It works just fine, just takes a little getting used to. :iono:

am i the only one not seeing this problem? you are describing it as dangerous as a wheel randomly falling off while doing 55..... if i understand correctly it is simply you cannot take off from stop because u dont know how to drive standard properly.....

That's not it either. Again, Yaris MT does take a little getting used to it.

We're saying that in good faith. We're not dissing the car, we're just saying that it could use a little improvement, that's all :biggrin:

(I've driven MT's all my life, so although I'm not an expert driver, I'm no novice either, had many cars w/ manual trannies in my hands :smile:)

Don't forget, we are a consumer board as well. Our feedback is invaluable. We should most definitely voice our opinion about our car. Yes, we love the car, we bought it, but there is room for improvement in this model. I think that's all we're saying. Plus we're telling others what to expect if they get a 2007-2009 MT Yaris. :iono:

[ozmdd]

There is no problem with the Yaris M/T. It appears that quite a few Yaris owners simply need to become more skilled at driving a manual transmission. Lots of people getting too soft in this technology-driven world.

[bronsin]

It's not defective, it's just not as smooth as others. Big difference.



Classic enabler! :mad:

[Betrivent]

After reading this, it makes me feel better after I learned how to drive standard on my yaris. I thought I was doing it wrong, guess it's because it's harder to learn on this car :)

[tomato]

Classic enabler! :mad:

err.. sorry? :iono::confused:

[YaRS]

I think the simple solution is for all potential buyers to go out and test drive the car they want. I'm sure that there is at least one dealership nearby with a MT Yaris (although, they are on the rarer side where I'm from).

I figure that if you have driven MT cars before, then you should be able to at least go from a stop without stalling by the end of the test drive. If not, perhaps another car is the answer.

That said, I sat in an Aveo before and was startled to find that there was the same amount of play in the shifter regardless of whether you were in neutral or in first... so we can't have it that bad.

Also, it is possible to drive the Yaris without using the clutch (other than to launch from a stop). So all the uber haters need to take a breath and maybe some driving classes.

[woof]

My problematic Yaris is my third Toyota. I never had a problem with the first two. I traded a five-speed '05 xB1 with 50K miles for my Yaris 5-speed. The Yaris was a nightmare to drive the first year.

I noted this with the dealer three times over 2.5 years. When I went back in for some serious attention (55K miles) the service manager lied to me. The whole service department had been lying to me for 2.5 years. The state Toyota rep had me take it to another dealer and they lied saying the metal on metal clunking was "allowable". So, the Gulf States rep is a liar.

TOYOTA DOES NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCTS OR WARRANTIES!

I am now going to have to go to the state AG office and every other place in creation to get some attention on this defective design and the subsequent damage.

Note: The Big Foot Mod didn't come out of no where, it was a necessary fix to a problem that many people experienced. My original service manager admitted, by accident, he was aware of the dead pedal height difference in our near screaming match.

I have driven clutch only cars for 40 years. This is not something I have a problem with and my Scion (same drivetrain) was flawless. The Scion xB1 doesn't have a "dead pedal" extending to the clutch.

I had an independent mechanic diagnose my problem before I wrote my dealer's owner and I have slack in the inside CV joints and possible slack inside the transmo (splines).

I traded my xB1 at 50K miles because of its high mileage in just two years. I should have kept it.

Lesson: Honda, Toyota, Nissan, anybody, will be happy to take your maintenance money with a smile. Take them an expensive warranty repair and expect to be beaten like a redheaded step child. Toyota's don't normally have problems before 60K miles but if they do....see CAPS above.

[AlexNet0]

just because you are used to a cable accelerator, and a longer friction point in the clutch, doesn't make the car bad, it makes you not willing to learn to drive it, you expect it to be exactly like everything you have ever owned. Well its not.

^if you had an independent mechanic take apart your motor, why didn't you have him fix it?^

I have ALL the symptoms people here are bitching about, but you know what? Its just you (whoever is bitching). I have no issues with shifting/starting on hills/slipping clutch. Learn to drive your NEW car, with its NEW quirks, don't expect it to act like your OLD car did. Its not the same vehicle.

[blacksan]

I have ALL the symptoms people here are bitching about, but you know what? Its just you (whoever is bitching). I have no issues with shifting/starting on hills/slipping clutch. Learn to drive your NEW car, with its NEW quirks, don't expect it to act like your OLD car did. Its not the same vehicle.

Ouch but true!!! I grew up on a farm and drove crapy-ol-stuff with burnt out clutches and severely worn drivetrains. We only used clutches for starting and stopping and nothing else once we learned technique. It still bothers the hell out of passengers when I shift without a clutch............

[scape]

spin the wheels, melt the ice, get traction, boom you're off!

lol!

seriously, I ride the clutch often for first gear, once i'm moving it's fully engaged, but djgese do i ride it under 5 mph, and to be honest I could care less; you should too, and here's why: by the time this will ever matter in any way, shape, or form the car will be 8-10 years old, and have it's 3rd owner by then (well like 90% of us atleast). And if you keep this car for 10 years and it still is putting along (as I suspect it will) then you my friend have had a great investment on your hands.

can we rename this thread to something more realistic? perhaps, 1st gear sucks goat..., but let's stop the 'whining'?

[auxmike]

Wow, sorry to hear this all.
Makes me feel better about the A/T I got "stuck" with since I could'nt snag a five speed with the coveted power pkg. that I so enjoy.....:tongue:

[blacksan]

Shift, Grind, Shift, Grind, Cuss, Lear, Cuss, Learn, Repeat..........

[supmet]

TOYOTA DOES NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCTS OR WARRANTIES!

I could name 3 people off hand who have had their yaris transmission replaced under warranty, but you aren't listening anyway.

Toyota doesn't cover operator error, the yaris would start at 20k if they did.

[woof]

just because you are used to a cable accelerator, and a longer friction point in the clutch, doesn't make the car bad, it makes you not willing to learn to drive it, you expect it to be exactly like everything you have ever owned. Well its not.

^if you had an independent mechanic take apart your motor, why didn't you have him fix it?^

I have ALL the symptoms people here are bitching about, but you know what? Its just you (whoever is bitching). I have no issues with shifting/starting on hills/slipping clutch. Learn to drive your NEW car, with its NEW quirks, don't expect it to act like your OLD car did. Its not the same vehicle.
12-22-2009 06:07 PM

My xB1 had fly-by-wire and was flawless at 50K miles. My mechanic and assistant diagnosed slack in cv joints and possibly inside transmission. I've driven nothing but clutches my entire life. Improve you reading comprehension.

seriously, I ride the clutch often for first gear, once i'm moving it's fully engaged, but djgese do i ride it under 5 mph, and to be honest I could care less; you should too, and here's why: by the time this will ever matter in any way, shape, or form the car will be 8-10 years old, and have it's 3rd owner by then (well like 90% of us atleast). And if you keep this car for 10 years and it still is putting along (as I suspect it will) then you my friend have had a great investment on your hands.

can we rename this thread to something more realistic? perhaps, 1st gear sucks goat..., but let's stop the 'whining'?

Unfortunately, it started mattering after six months of ownership. This is not my thread...someone else started it and named it.

Wow, sorry to hear this all.
Makes me feel better about the A/T I got "stuck" with since I could'nt snag a five speed with the coveted power pkg. that I so enjoy.....

The Gulf States guy said Toyota is making it harder for people to get a manual transmission. I guess it's less chance of warranty problems with the a/t.

I could name 3 people off hand who have had their yaris transmission replaced under warranty, but you aren't listening anyway.

Toyota doesn't cover operator error, the Yaris would start at 20k if they did.

First, tell me what they did to have that done? Second, operator error, in the case of an experienced driver, can only come from a defective design especially since I drove the identical drivetrain for 50K miles before the Yaris. Toyota quality has fallen quite a bit. The massive recalls they have going right now are costing about $800M. That's just shy of a billion. On another forum (non-car) someone had started a thread on Toy and two other people have had the same problem with warranty work being denied for lesser problems.

I would like to know what the 20K comment means?

[supmet]

First, tell me what they did to have that done? Second, operator error, in the case of an experienced driver, can only come from a defective design especially since I drove the identical drivetrain for 50K miles before the Yaris. Toyota quality has fallen quite a bit. The massive recalls they have going right now are costing about $800M. That's just shy of a billion. On another forum (non-car) someone had started a thread on Toy and two other people have had the same problem with warranty work being denied for lesser problems.

I would like to know what the 20K comment means?

First -

My third gear syncho when out at around 27,000 miles. I went to the dealership and demanded a new transmission. Being persistent and firm, I got a new transmission.

Second - I'm not arguing the defective design/operator error thing anymore.

Third - toyota had a bad year for VOLUNTARY recalls, but they really didn't have that many more than GM. Toyota recalls just get a lot more press coverage to brainwash america into buying american. Its the american thing to do, especially with the economy the way it is. :rolleyes:

The 20k comment - means if toyota covered every last thing people came in and complained about under warranty, it would cause astronomical inflation to the base price of the yaris, to pay for the extra warranty work.

[woof]

The 20k comment - means if toyota covered every last thing people came in and complained about under warranty, it would cause astronomical inflation to the base price of the yaris, to pay for the extra warranty work.

Well, that's what a warranty is for....fixing every last thing. My xB1 was the most flawless car I've owned except for the dash buzz which is operator fixed. I never had to reason to ask for warranty help on anyting, including my 1980 Corrola which was about bullet proof.

When I was getting a 'rigged' second opinion, the service manager was saying "since we don't have a complaint until 20K miles..." I cut him off by holding up a note I wrote dated over two years prior they didn't key in the system apparently. I wished I had let him finish to know what he was going to say.

My major beef is that they are ducking work, folks on other forums are having the same experiences, BUT my mechanic says they are ALL like that: Honda, Nissan, Ford, GM. He also said even with the clunking it is conceivable the car would last indefinitely without a repair. I was interested in keeping this car beyond payoff on a permanent basis because of the incredible gas mileage. Now, that may not be feasible and a trade-in could be seriously damaged if they want to make an issue out of the mechanical noises.

[woof]

Well, I'm happy that the sorry service manager at Gray Daniels will end up blowing his bottom line this year with the zillion of accelerators to repair.

I'm surprised the Yaris hasn't floated to the top with all the stuff reported here.

[gonzo452001]

I have 73,000miles on my manual yaris and I am still not very happy with the clutch just can't get used to it but I plan to drive it at least 200,000 miles before I buy my next car

[Ramblin yari]

I'll go for months without incident and then kill it twice in one day. Not the end of the world. I do wish I had an automatic though.

[tomato]

the Yaris's clutch is a PITA and could use some improvement IMO
I'm used to it now, but it took long enough. Not so with other brands.

Food for thoughts, Mr. Toyota :bow::bow: :smile:

[Hershey]

wonder if the 2010 clutch engagement is any better . Any input from 2010 manual owners , renters or test drives ? We too had a bit of trouble with the clutch engagement in 1st gear of the 2008 3 door that was traded in for an automatic '09 5 door . Otherwise liked the quicker starts and the fun of driving a 5 speed manual :burnrubber: . Especially after changing out the GL-5 factory gear oil to REDLINE MT-90 synthetic gear oil that's 75w-90 and GL-4 :thumbsup: . Maybe someday we'll trade in for another manual if clutch engagement is better and then refill with REDLINE once again :smile: .

[yaris2010RS]

my 2010 is great. the DBW is the only realy problem with taking off (and the fact the clutch grabbs at a different point each time.....

[Crashmaster]

The problem that I had was getting used to the friction point on the cluch and the touchyness of the throttle. To me I feel this is all due to the fact that the throttle and cluch have no linkages, they are all operated by electronics. It just took me the better part of a year to get used to this thats all.

[bitz767]

My 2010 yaris is just as bad as you all say, I killed it twice yesterday and once this morning. Its a PITA, but i still love it. I've only had it 2 weeks, so i think that I might be able to get used to it, hopefully

[mrb3990]

I own a 2010 manual yaris. It took me about a month to become comfortable with the clutch, but I have no problems driving it now. What does PITA stand for?

[bitz767]

I own a 2010 manual yaris. It took me about a month to become comfortable with the clutch, but I have no problems driving it now. What does PITA stand for?

pain in the ass

[Tamago]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:

sounds like 100% driver error

[mrb3990]

Thanks for the explanation, bitz. Tamago, neither I nor most other posters had the OP's difficulties with our stick shifts. After reading the whole thread, I think the OP's problems were that he owned to many cars with manual transmissions and just couldn't get used to the Yaris, or possibly something was wrong with his car.

[tomato]

Thanks for the explanation, bitz. Tamago, neither I nor most other posters had the OP's difficulties with our stick shifts. After reading the whole thread, I think the OP's problems were that he owned to many cars with manual transmissions and just couldn't get used to the Yaris, or possibly something was wrong with his car.

I read the whole thread, too, because I had similar problems in the beginning. The Yaris MT *does* take a while to get used to. It's not a deal breaker by any means, just something to be aware of.:iono:

sounds like 100% driver error

yeah, partly. They just needed a little more time to adapt to the car.

[why?]

heh, when the car originally came out people just didn't like it. This was quite a huge debate back then, it is funny that this thread hasn't died.

Even after almost 4 years of driving my Yaris i still stall it once in a while.

There were a few people that did the 1 month and traded it in because they just couldn't stand the clutch and dbw. The must have had money to burn.

[talnlnky]

I read the whole thread, too, because I had similar problems in the beginning. The Yaris MT *does* take a while to get used to. It's not a deal breaker by any means, just something to be aware of.:iono:



yeah, partly. They just needed a little more time to adapt to the car.

I wonder how many people in the world refuse to drive a manaul because the first few times they tried to learn how to drive it they just had too much difficulty? Society looks at those people as being lame, lazy, and quiters.... how is it any different for somebody who sells a yaris after 1 month of ownership?

[why?]

lots of people nowadays refuse to drive a manual, that is why it is very hard to find a lot of models of cars with anything but a slush box.

I remember trying to teach my best friend, she took five minutes and then decided she didn't need to learn...

[tomato]

hmmm... I never had a choice. I learned how to drive on an old MT. It was either that or nothing, so I learned on the old MT and continued driving MT's for pretty much the rest of my life (except for a couple of old V8's along the way ;).

I like MT. I think switching gears manually is part of the fun. But then again, I enjoy driving.

[ddongbap]

lots of people nowadays refuse to drive a manual, that is why it is very hard to find a lot of models of cars with anything but a slush box.

I remember trying to teach my best friend, she took five minutes and then decided she didn't need to learn...

IDK about that one, BMW made a e60m5 with a crappy 6speed just to satisfy the 'Purist' driver. Most people couldn't stand it wasn't a manual, even tho the SMG was SUPER FAST.

[Yaris#2]

Ok, I just read through this entire thread. I've had my 5dr manual just under 2 wks now and since I normally drive a 5 speed Nissan pick-up, I know that its going to take a while to get used to the difference in the clutchs and I end up slipping the Yaris in first and doing the same to the truck when I get back in it. I wish it didn't rev when I shift, but I got 32mpg on the first tank of gas driving all but a few miles in town in the winter! I can't get that in my 4 cylinder 5sp truck even if I shut it off and coast down hill on the highway! I love the car. The reving between shifts makes me think people are laughing that I don't know how to drive a stick, but then I realize, the ones that are really laughing are laughing that I'm driving a Yaris, because they have never driven a Yaris! The car is a blast to drive and with the manual, I can still leave most of the drivers on the road in my dust anytime I choose to. Oh, and I'll use less gas doing it than they are putzing along.

He who laughs last, laughs best :)

[tomato]

^ nobody is laughing, and just wait and see, once you're no longer having to think about the clutch, the car becomes *really* fun to drive.

And by the way, welcome to the forum :smile:

[pawsplus]

I just got my 2010 3dr 5-speed and have only had it a week. I did have a bit of trouble getting used to going from zero to first gear, but it's getting better and I'm getting used to it. It's just a matter of adjusting to the individual car. They're all different. I stalled out a few times the first few days and found I just need to give it a little more gas than I would have thought. We're all good now!

[MUSKOKA800]

Who has problems with clutch, gas and start off in first gear... ???

Yes, we can do it - but in comparison to the FIT and the Versa....The Yaris idle is so low and the clutch is so touchy.. and with a slight incline one stalls at times ..It's such a simple vehicle..........What a dissappointment.

Please test drive before buying..............

A real discussion topic in many other Yaris forums and many are trading already.........mostly for safety issues with stalling in intersections and or being rear ended..:thumbdown:


They must be either untrained, uncoordinated, spastic, handicapped or texting.
In all cases, best take the bus and spare the rest of the collateral damage they're likely to leave in their wake for the balance of their driving lives.

[koolerking]

I'll also say i agree with the thread starter. I've been driving for 20 years, 95% of that with a manual. After owning my manual 2007 1.3 yaris I still have the same issues. At first i just thought it was me getting used to manual after driving my old auto subaru, but after 18 months the clutch pick up and throttle lag coming off the gas it is still annoying the hell out me. I have stalled it due to the clutch "bogging down" when it hasn't enough gas from off the line, to the opposite of spinning the wheels all the way through to second (on a hill start) when you give it enough throttle to not bog down!

I hate it! Are any of these after market ECU's any good at the throttle lag? Is the clutch hydraulic or cable? If it hydraulic is it controlled by the ECU and therefore able to be adjusted with a uprated brain?

Id also like to add the spinning of wheels isn't helped by the fact the yaris is VERY light on its front end, even with new Dunlops on!

[woof]

I'll also say i agree with the thread starter. I've been driving for 20 years, 95% of that with a manual. After owning my manual 2007 1.3 yaris I still have the same issues. At first i just thought it was me getting used to manual after driving my old auto subaru, but after 18 months the clutch pick up and throttle lag coming off the gas it is still annoying the hell out me. I have stalled it due to the clutch "bogging down" when it hasn't enough gas from off the line, to the opposite of spinning the wheels all the way through to second (on a hill start) when you give it enough throttle to not bog down!

I hate it! Are any of these after market ECU's any good at the throttle lag? Is the clutch hydraulic or cable? If it hydraulic is it controlled by the ECU and therefore able to be adjusted with a uprated brain?

Id also like to add the spinning of wheels isn't helped by the fact the yaris is VERY light on its front end, even with new Dunlops on!

Well, I still have my hatch and I still manage to kill it once in a while. I have figured out that the first year I had mine that I didn't realize 'dead pedal' was keeping me from getting my foot all the way down to the floorboard. This means that initial clutch take up was nearly zero. It took a long while to actually look and see the geography of the dead pedal and clutch pedal. Once I saw the clutch pedal was nearly dead center of the steering column I adjusted my foot and started getting the pedal all the way down. My xB1 didn't have this dead pedal AND it had a higher numerical overall final drive number--it was geared lower to keep that brick moving through air on the highway. I think this higher overall ratio made it easier to launch the xB1. The Yaris is definitely designed for high mileage unlike my xB1.

Toyota is definitely at fault for the pedal location. What puzzles me is that it was designed in Europe (as I recall) and they don't have dainty feet either!

My greatest disappointment has been the failure of my dealer or Gulf States to do the right thing on this. They know there are problems.

:evil:

[chrisj]

I always pushed clutches in vehicles all the way to the floor. Habit I guess. Is this the issue with the Yaris? Not doing it far enough? I was thinking about the next one I get (one for me this time) may be a stick, but now I don't know.

[Hershey]

The 2008 L.B. with 5 speed maual we had was a bit finicky when started out in 1st . Even worse in reverse . But once you got going it was a fun , especially after putting REDLINE MT-90 in the tranny , much smoother shifting and no clunking into reverse . Liked the low gear ratio , could easily creep up to stop sign in 1st , then remain almost still few seconds w/o stalling and away you go . Miss that car :frown: .

[tomato]

I always pushed clutches in vehicles all the way to the floor. Habit I guess. Is this the issue with the Yaris? Not doing it far enough? I was thinking about the next one I get (one for me this time) may be a stick, but now I don't know.

Yah, that clutch wants to be pushed *all the way* and won't accept it if you're 2mm off. :rolleyes:

I remember the night I drove that car from the dealership, I got into some serious trouble on the freeway when I had almost reached San Francisco. At some point, I downshifted to 2d to make the turn, and the gears were completely stuck... :eek::eek: couldn't get out of the way, couldn't move the car ... ugh.... don't know how I did it but I managed to shift anyway and get going. But the next day, the car did not want to start at all. After trying a number of things, we discovered that the car wouldn't start because the mat was stuck under the pedal, and that was the problem. Turned out when they detailed the car at the dealership before giving it to me, they forgot to hook up the mats (they have holes and you're supposed to hook them into place under the seat).


I stalled the Yaris in city driving for a good couple of weeks after that incident anyway because the clutch's friction points are so different from any other car I've ever driven. Reverse was OK for me but boy, I really hated that 1st gear for **a while** :thumbdown: and almost had to re-learn how to paralel park (even though I've done it every day for *years*) because of the pillar causing a huge blind spot

The Yaris and I are BFF's now, finally, but oh boy we had a rough start, I remember that.

[road_hog]

My 09 Yaris has an electronic throttle and isn't as quick to respond as other cars I've had with direct linkages. I know exactly what you're talking about. The clutch will catch before the engine has a chance to rev. You just have to give the accelerator a little lead time.

[DebbyM46227]

I've been driving MT's for over 30 years - for the first month with my Yaris, taking off from a dead stop I either killed the engine or revved it way too high and burned rubber. Now I have no trouble taking off in 1st gear, it's just the engine revving up between gears when I know I've taken my foot off the accelerator that sounds strange.
:burnrubber:

[Al_]

Never had an issue here, I was always taught to get the clutch to the friction point and then to lift my toes inside my shoes to get a clean transfer and it hasn't failed me yet.

There is some lag in the throttle between gears, before I would release the gas and push in the clutch at the same time for changes, with the yaris I wait until my foot is off the throttle before pushing in the clutch which makes the shifts perfect

[wooverstone8]

I don't think there is a safety issue with the Yaris manual transmission. I honestly had problems the first month or two stalling or over revving the engine, but I got over it. After that it became a fun to drive car and I rarely stall it these days. Some people just give up too soon.

[tomato]

I've been driving MT's for over 30 years - for the first month with my Yaris, taking off from a dead stop I either killed the engine or revved it way too high and burned rubber. Now I have no trouble taking off in 1st gear, it's just the engine revving up between gears when I know I've taken my foot off the accelerator that sounds strange.
:burnrubber:

I was wondering how you transitioned from Honda to Yaris.
Completely different experience IMO.



I agree, I wouldn't call it a "safety issue" but people should probably be aware that there is a bit of a curve in the beginning. 2c

[marcus]

ive only driven slow cars..so clutch on these car from dead stop are no issues at all. i find it all the same.. oh by the way most toyota workers dont know how to adjust from car after cars dont know why but they do istall my car as well whenever i bring it there..

[why?]

I hate this clutch. I think I am going to get a throttle controller as soon as I can afford it.

[chrisj]

After trying a number of things, we discovered that the car wouldn't start because the mat was stuck under the pedal, and that was the problem.

Yeah, when I had my Tacoma, my wife would come in the house telling me the truck wouldn't start. It was the same thing...the mat...every time.

[kingbobby83]

I have a 2009 sedan 5 speed and yes when I first got it , I stalled a few times. Even though I drive Toyotas all day everyday.. I work in the service dept. as a shop lead over the lube techs. I have been known to stall other models too. The reason is that each clutch is diffrent. But once you drive YOURS and get used to it's "points", it is soooo much fun to drive. I rev the rpms up a little before taking off and then just ease on down the road.I have never heard of a "Saftey Issue" or another complaint of this in my three years with Toyota...