Generations
Gen1 — First Generation
2013–2017
1.6 HDi, 2.0 HDi
Gen2 — Second Generation
2018–2023
1.5 BlueHDi, 2.0 BlueHDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Toyota Proace problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Brake pedal anti-slip provision failure
The brake pedal rubber pad degrades, becomes loose, or wears smooth at extraordinarily high rates on the ProAce, failing MOT tests at 36 times the national fleet average. This creates a serious safety hazard as the driver's foot can slip off the brake pedal during emergency braking, particularly in wet conditions or when wearing smooth-soled footwear. The issue affects all engine variants and appears to be related to the pedal pad material specification.
What happens if ignoredA worn or loose brake pedal pad can cause the driver's foot to slip during braking, potentially leading to loss of braking control and collision. This is particularly dangerous in emergency situations or adverse weather conditions. The vehicle will fail its MOT test and must not be driven until repaired.
Independent garage
£15–£30
Specialist
£20–£35
Main dealer
£25–£45
Parts only
£8–£15
Major
CV joint boot failure - premature deterioration
The constant velocity joint protective boots on the ProAce fail at significantly higher rates than the national average, with severely deteriorated boots appearing as early as 20,000 miles. The boots protect the CV joints from dirt and moisture ingress, and early failure leads to premature joint wear and expensive driveshaft replacement. This issue affects both inner and outer CV joints across all engine variants and appears to be related to boot material quality rather than design.
What happens if ignoredFailed boots allow dirt and water to contaminate the CV joints, leading to joint failure within 5,000-10,000 miles. A failed CV joint causes loss of drive to that wheel and can lock the wheel during driving, creating a serious safety hazard. Complete driveshaft replacement typically costs £200-400 per side.
Independent garage
£80–£120
Specialist
£100–£150
Main dealer
£150–£220
Parts only
£25–£45
Major
Power steering fluid loss and system malfunction
The hydraulic power steering system on first-generation ProAce models suffers from fluid leaks and pump failures at rates significantly above the fleet average. The most common failure points are the power steering pump seals and high-pressure hoses. Low fluid levels lead to pump damage and eventual steering failure, which poses a serious safety risk in a commercial vehicle carrying loads.
What happens if ignoredComplete power steering failure makes the vehicle extremely difficult to steer, particularly when loaded or at low speeds. This creates a serious safety hazard in emergency manoeuvres. Power steering pump replacement typically costs £300-500, while high-pressure hose replacement adds £100-200.
Independent garage
£250–£400
Specialist
£300–£500
Main dealer
£400–£650
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Engine management light - diesel emissions system faults
The ProAce suffers from engine management warning lights at nearly 5 times the national average, primarily related to diesel emissions system faults including DPF blockage, EGR valve problems, and NOx sensor failures. These issues are exacerbated by urban driving patterns common in commercial use, where the DPF cannot complete regeneration cycles. The problem affects both generations but is particularly prevalent on the 1.6-litre engines.
What happens if ignoredEmissions system faults can lead to DPF blockage requiring expensive cleaning or replacement. EGR valve failures cause poor running and increased fuel consumption. NOx sensor faults can trigger engine derating or prevent starting. DPF replacement costs £1,000-2,000, while EGR valve replacement typically costs £300-600.
Independent garage
£80–£150
Specialist
£100–£200
Main dealer
£150–£300
Parts only
£50–£120
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Toyota Proace fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a m...
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 97x the fleet average
Sample: 1,204 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 2,622 tests
Brake pedal anti-slip provision missing, loose ...
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 26x the fleet average
Sample: 5,474 tests
Rear registration plate lamp does not illuminat...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 18x the fleet average
Sample: 2,313 tests
Power steering fault
Steering · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 7,394 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 1,302 tests
Looking at a specific Toyota Proace?
Check its dealer service history to see if the maintenance that prevents these problems was actually done.
£6.99 · Full refund if no records found
Related
- Toyota Proace buyer's guide
- Toyota Proace service history check
- Toyota Proace service schedule & costs
- Toyota Proace MOT failure rates
- Toyota Proace price guide
- How to check Toyota service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Toyota Proace car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Toyota Proace reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Toyota Proace?
The Toyota Proace has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Brake pedal anti-slip provision failure.
Is the Toyota Proace reliable?
The Toyota Proace has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Toyota Proace problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Brake pedal anti-slip provision failure) costs £15–£30 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.
Which Toyota Proace generation is most reliable?
The Gen1 (2013–2017) has the fewest dangerous issues (1). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.