2005 Toyota Ractis 1.5

Summary:

Great for a 'girl racer' *smile*. Love the Run, Activity & Space!

Faults:

Insensitive indicator that doesn't auto shut off at round-abouts.

General Comments:

I bought this car a year ago. I wanted a bit more space as I travel quite a bit. I wanted a car where the back seats folds down (not up and against the driver's seat) and sit flat down completely, and this one does it perfectly.

I also needed a car that is economical to run with a 1.5 engine, and it feels solid. This does it for me too. Great for housing dogs at the back, even if I don't fold down the back seats (2 small breeds). I had one large Lab and 2 small breeds once all in the back with no problems. Lots of room. I could even turn the back into a 'room for the night' if the need arises (of course haven't got that desperate yet, but I've tested it out and it work well. Comfortable, I'm 5'3.)

The only issue I have at the moment, and I'm still hoping to find a way to deal with, is with the 'insensitive' indicator that doesn't auto shut off after round-abouts. I only realised that after about a month when I was in a town that uses only round-abouts with no traffic lights!

I am wonder if there are any other Ractis owners have the same problem? Please post here if you have any comments re indicator. Thanks.

On the whole, this is a great little beauty for me (considering it's only one year of experience with it).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 4th August, 2015

24th Aug 2016, 18:46

A quick question, how do you service a Toyota Ractis gear box and there is no dipstick?

18th Sep 2016, 21:56

The turn signal lever that is not returning to neutral position is a typical defect of Toyota; my Prius is having the same bug.

Solution for Toyota only: Find the engineer responsible and fire him.

16th Dec 2017, 10:31

An American YouTube video on "CVT transmission oil level check" explains this very well from a university in America. The instructor is in a wheelchair; that is how you will know if it's the video I refer to. It's a main dealer issue and it appears it is meant to be a lifetime unit.

23rd Feb 2018, 14:27

I have had the Ractis for 2 months, and so far so good except for the indicator issue. I always have to remind myself to switch it off. Otherwise if one forgets it can be dangerous to other road users.

28th May 2020, 10:02

Haha LOL.

2007 Toyota Ractis 1.5

Summary:

Underrated. If you can live with the looks, then it's the closest thing to a modern Mini

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I hate wheezy automatics, but the CVT is the best of both worlds. If you're prepared to rev it (and boy does the VVT allow it to rev), then it goes better than a 1.5 should due, mainly due to the CVT. The paddle/sequential stick shifter is good on the twisties. 16" wheels, wide low profile tyres, great brakes, light weight and good balance mean this car handles a lot better than its looks would have you believe. Cruise control and fantastic fuel economy make it great on the open road. It's tall and roomy, even for a 6ft 4" guy. The clever cabin makes use of every bit of space.

Reliability: c'mon, it's a Toyota with a camchain. I've thrashed it for over 50,000Km with just an annual oil change at the local dealer. It goes and sounds just like when I first got it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 19th March, 2015

4th Aug 2015, 02:15

Hiya,

How do you rate the indicator performance? Does it auto shut off at round-abouts? Thanks.

22nd Jan 2017, 22:10

I currently own one. My only problem is that sometimes it just shuts down by itself, and the power steering sometimes just shuts down while driving... Is anyone having the same problems? Please mail me at bertob5@hotmail.com

1st Nov 2018, 21:43

Yes I am having the same problem with my 2005 Toyota Ractis.

10th Oct 2019, 11:37

I have the same problem with my 2005 Ractis...

10th Mar 2021, 12:14

I have had the same problem with my 05 Ractis completely shutting down while driving. It is so terrifying! If you have a diagnosis for this, please get back to me, I'd very much appreciate it, as I have explained to a mechanic but even he has no clue or can tell me what the cause could be.

Thanks.

lilacresswell28@gmail.com

10th Sep 2022, 16:44

The problem must be with the battery.