IllustrationWHEN SLOWING DOWN, SUCH AS TO MAKE A TURN OR TO CHANGE TO REVERSE, WHEN THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED, THERE WAS SOME ACCELERATION ALSO OCCURRING. THIS HAS HAPPENED 4-5 TIMES IN PAST FEW MONTHS, THE LAST TIME WAS ABOUT 7 OR TEN DAYS AGO. THE CAR DID BRAKE WITH NO FURTHER PROBLEM AND NO HARM OCCURRED AND THERE WAS NO DAMAGE. *TR
2010 Toyota Prius
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Prius years
Owner complaints for the 2010 Toyota Prius are substantially higher than the model-year median of 164.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Prius years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
1,4880–25K
14825–50K
12650–75K
13675–100K
221100–150K
145150K+
2,264 reports with mileage · 558 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic. Review the 849 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Service Brakes. Review the 593 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Service Brakes, Electric. Review the 502 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
183 crash reports13 fire reports48 injury reports
Service Brakes, Hydraulic complaints
849 reportsI HAVE EXPERIENCED TWO PROBLEMS WITH MY 2010 PRIUS V THAT I PURCHASED LAST SUMMER. FIRST, ON APPROXIMATELY 6-8 OCCASIONS, MY CAR HAS NOT STOPPED IMMEDIATELY WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES. THIS OCCURRED 3-4 TIMES WHEN I APPROACHED A STOP SIGN ON A ROAD BETWEEN MY HOME AND CHURCH. THE SURFACE OF THE ROAD APPROACHING THE STOP SIGN HAD…
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I HAVE EXPERIENCED TWO PROBLEMS WITH MY 2010 PRIUS V THAT I PURCHASED LAST SUMMER. FIRST, ON APPROXIMATELY 6-8 OCCASIONS, MY CAR HAS NOT STOPPED IMMEDIATELY WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES. THIS OCCURRED 3-4 TIMES WHEN I APPROACHED A STOP SIGN ON A ROAD BETWEEN MY HOME AND CHURCH. THE SURFACE OF THE ROAD APPROACHING THE STOP SIGN HAD BEEN SCRAPED AND ROUGHENED TO GET READY FOR RE-PAVING. AS I APPROACHED AND APPLIED THE BRAKES, MY CAR SURGED FORWARD FOR ABOUT A SECOND, BUT I WAS ABLE TO STOP. THIS HAPPENED 3-4 TIMES IN OTHER LOCATIONS, AS WELL. IT IS AN INCREDIBLY STRANGE AND HELPLESS SENSATION. THIS PROBLEM WAS PROBABLY NOTED BETWEEN LATE AUGUST 2009 AND LAST OCCURRED ABOUT THREE WEEKS AGO. EVEN THOUGH I WAS FORCED TO PUT AN EXACT DATE IN THE FIELD BELOW, I HAVE NO IDEA NOW WHEN THE EXACT DATES WERE IN WHICH THIS BRAKING ISSUE OCCURRED. WHEN I BROUGHT MY CAR TO THE DEALER FOR ITS FIRST OIL CHANGE, I DESCRIBED WHAT HAD HAPPENED BUT WAS TOLD THIS HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE OTHER PROBLEMS THAT HAD BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THE MEDIA AS TO OTHER CARS. THE PERSON AT THE SERVICE DESK JUST KIND OF IGNORED MY COMMENTS AND WAS NOT INTERESTED IN HEARING ABOUT THE BRAKING ISSUE FURTHER. THE SECOND PROBLEM I HAVE EXPERIENCED IS THAT WHEN USING THE CRUISE CONTROL ACCELERATE FUNCTION THE CAR JUST CONTINUED ACCELERATING EVEN THOUGH I WAS NO LONGER TURNING THE CRUISE FUNCTION LEVER. THIS STOPPED WHEN I APPLIED MY BRAKES. IT DID CAUSE ME TO STOP USING THE CRUISE CONTROL DURING THAT TRIP THOUGH. THE CRUISE CONTROL ISSUE PROBABLY OCCURRED LAST AUGUST IN I-5. *TR
I BOUGHT A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS IN AUGUST 2009. IN ADDITION TO THE BRAKING PROBLEM I DESCRIBE BELOW, I ALSO HAVE AN ACCELERATION PROBLEM. I QUESTIONED MY TOYOTA DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE FACT THAT WHEN I AM BRAKING OVER METAL (MANHOLE COVER, REPAIR LIDS, ETC.) THE CAR IS QUICKLY PUSHED FORWARD ABOUT 3 TO 4 FEET. SEVERAL OTHER NEW OWNER…
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I BOUGHT A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS IN AUGUST 2009. IN ADDITION TO THE BRAKING PROBLEM I DESCRIBE BELOW, I ALSO HAVE AN ACCELERATION PROBLEM. I QUESTIONED MY TOYOTA DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE FACT THAT WHEN I AM BRAKING OVER METAL (MANHOLE COVER, REPAIR LIDS, ETC.) THE CAR IS QUICKLY PUSHED FORWARD ABOUT 3 TO 4 FEET. SEVERAL OTHER NEW OWNERS SAID THEY HAD THE SAME EXPERIENCE. THE DEALER SAID THAT WHEN THEY CHECKED WITH TOYOTA, THEY WERE TOLD THAT THE HYBRID BATTERY MOTOR USED A MAGNET AND THE BRAKING SYSTEM TO RECHARGE IT. AND THAT THE PUSH FORWARD WAS FROM THE REPELLING ACTION OF THE MAGNET. MY SISTERS OWN A 2008 CAMRY HYBRID AND 2008 PRIUS, AND THEY BOTH HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS PROPELLING MOTION WHEN ON METAL SURFACES ALSO. THE PROBLEM WITH THE DEALERS ADVICE TO "NOT BRAKE ON METAL SURFACES" DOESN'T HELP IN SNOW OR WATER SITUATIONS. WILL THIS PROBLEM BE FIXED BY THE ABS BRAKES SOFTWARE CHANGE?? I ALSO HAD SEVERAL INSTANCES WHERE THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD SUDDENLY GO TO THE FLOOR AND PRODUCE VERY LITTLE BRAKING POWER. THE PROBLEM WAS INTERMITTENT AND THE DEALER SAID THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG. SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD SEVERAL OTHER INSTANCES WHERE THE BRAKES DIDN'T WORK WELL AND I ALMOST HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. SO I NOW DRIVE WITH A LOT OF DISTANCE BETWEEN ME AND OTHER CARS BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN. I SHOULD SAY THAT I'VE HAD OTHER CARS WITH ABS BRAKES AND THIS CAR DOES NOT FEEL LIKE I HAVE THEM. ON SLIPPERY SURFACES (SNOW, WATER) THE BRAKES DO NOT PUMP THEMSELVES LIKE OTHER ABS CARS THAT I HAVE DRIVEN. I HAVE DROPPED IT INTO LOW GEAR TO HELP BRAKE. THESE THINGS HAVE HAPPENED MANY TIMES SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR. I HAVE BEEN VERY CAREFUL AND NOT HAD AN ACCIDENT YET. *TR
(OWNER OF PRIUS), I BOUGHT PRIUS 2010 MODEL IN AUG'2009 FROM KOONS ARLINGTON TOYOTA IN ARLINGTON, VA, US. SINCE THEN I DO NOT HAVE ANY ISSUES UP UNTIL TODAY. WHEN I CAM OUT TODAY TO DRIVE ON 66 HIGHWAY AND ALSO TO GET ON TO WEST OX ROAD, I HAD RECALL COMPLAINTS WHAT WAS LISTED OCCURRED TO ME. 1) ABOVE 60 MILES SPEED WHEN I WAS …
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(OWNER OF PRIUS), I BOUGHT PRIUS 2010 MODEL IN AUG'2009 FROM KOONS ARLINGTON TOYOTA IN ARLINGTON, VA, US. SINCE THEN I DO NOT HAVE ANY ISSUES UP UNTIL TODAY. WHEN I CAM OUT TODAY TO DRIVE ON 66 HIGHWAY AND ALSO TO GET ON TO WEST OX ROAD, I HAD RECALL COMPLAINTS WHAT WAS LISTED OCCURRED TO ME. 1) ABOVE 60 MILES SPEED WHEN I WAS TRAVELING AND TIME TO APPLY THE BRAKES, I COULDN'T STOP THE CAR IMMEDIATELY, IT TOOK 2-3 MIN. TO GET TO STOP AFTER TRAVELING SOME DISTANCE THOUGH I DIDN'T SEE HOW FAR I HAD TO TRAVEL TOO. 2) OTHER INCIDENT HAPPEN ON SAME TRAVEL TIME ON WEST OX ROAD,I WAS APPROACHING A TRAFFIC LIGHT NEAR FOX MILL AT SPEED AROUND 12 - 15 MILES / HOUR - I COULDN'T STOP THE CAR, IT WAS ACCELERATING ONLY INSPITE ME APPLYING THE BRAKES. *TR
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL ENGAGED IT FAILED TO RESPOND WHICH FORCED HER TO APPLY PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE ALSO LUNGED FORWARD WHEN THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A POTHOLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS BRAND NEW IT WAS…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL ENGAGED IT FAILED TO RESPOND WHICH FORCED HER TO APPLY PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE ALSO LUNGED FORWARD WHEN THE CONTACT DROVE OVER A POTHOLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS BRAND NEW IT WAS ADJUSTING TO HER DRIVING PATTERN. THE FAILURE HAS OCCURRED APPROXIMATELY 6 TIMES. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 6292.
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH INTO A PARKING SPACE WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN AND CRASHED INTO A SIDEWALK. THE FRONT FENDER WAS DAMAGED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT ALSO COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER RE…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH INTO A PARKING SPACE WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SLOW DOWN AND CRASHED INTO A SIDEWALK. THE FRONT FENDER WAS DAMAGED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT ALSO COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER REGARDING THE BRAKE FAILURE AND WAS TOLD THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE BRAKES. THE INSURANCE COMPANY ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE TOYOTA MANUFACTURER AND FILE A CLAIM FOR WHICH SHE IS CURRENTLY WAITING FOR A RESPONSE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.
MY 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WAS DELIVERED ON DECEMBER 15. I HAVE OBSERVED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL DROPS ABRUPTLY AT TIMES WHILE SLOWING. I AM NOT SURE YET IF IT IS AFTER HITTING A BUMP OR JUST THE TRANSITION OF SPEEDS. IT IS VERY SUDDEN. IT MIGHT RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL IF ONE IS NOT AWARE OF THIS. *CN
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY ROADS, BUT NOT UNPASSABLE, MY 2010 PRIUS BRAKING SYSTEM FAILED TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE IN PREVENTION OF SLIPPING INTO A PARKED VEHICLE IN MY LANE, RESULTING IN 2900+ DOLLARS OF DAMAGE, PLUS, SINCE THE BODY SHOP WAS UNABLE TO PROPERLY INSPECT THE DAMAGE WITHOUT TAKING THE CAR APART. I WAS FOUND AT FAULT FOR…
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DRIVING ON SLIPPERY ROADS, BUT NOT UNPASSABLE, MY 2010 PRIUS BRAKING SYSTEM FAILED TO PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE IN PREVENTION OF SLIPPING INTO A PARKED VEHICLE IN MY LANE, RESULTING IN 2900+ DOLLARS OF DAMAGE, PLUS, SINCE THE BODY SHOP WAS UNABLE TO PROPERLY INSPECT THE DAMAGE WITHOUT TAKING THE CAR APART. I WAS FOUND AT FAULT FOR THIS ACCIDENT, FOR WHICH I FEAR MY INSURANCE RATES WILL RISE. I AM A SAFE DRIVER. NEVER HAVING HAD AN ACCIDENT BEFORE. I NEW THE CAR WAS NOT RESPONDING TO THE BRAKE PEDAL AS IT SHOULD, AND THAT WAS BEFORE THIS RECALL EVER CAME TO LIGHT. THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED ON JAN. 22, 2010. *CN
THE BRAKES ON OUR 2010 PRIUS HAVE REPEATEDLY HAD PROBLEMS. MOST HAVE OCCURED WITH MY WIFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. SHE HAD TOLD ME SEVERAL MONTHS AGO ABOUT THE CAR FEELING LIKE IT WAS "SLIDING" OR THE BRAKES NOT BEING VERY EFFECTIVE FOR A SHORT TIME. I PASSED THIS OFF AS THE THE CAR BEING DIFFERENT THAN OTHER CARS SINCE IT WAS A…
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THE BRAKES ON OUR 2010 PRIUS HAVE REPEATEDLY HAD PROBLEMS. MOST HAVE OCCURED WITH MY WIFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. SHE HAD TOLD ME SEVERAL MONTHS AGO ABOUT THE CAR FEELING LIKE IT WAS "SLIDING" OR THE BRAKES NOT BEING VERY EFFECTIVE FOR A SHORT TIME. I PASSED THIS OFF AS THE THE CAR BEING DIFFERENT THAN OTHER CARS SINCE IT WAS A HYBRID. THEN ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO I HAD IT HAPPEN TO ME. WHILE TURNING AND GOING OVER A SMALL HUMP IN A DRIVEWAY ABOUT 15 MPH, THE BRAKES JUST SEEMED TO RELEASE FOR ABOUT A HALF SECOND AND I ALMOST RAN INTO AN IRON GATE. I CANNOT DESCRIBE THE OTHER EVENTS THAT MY WIFE HAS HAD IN DETAIL BECAUSE OCCURRED OVER THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS AND SHE DOES NOT REMEMBER THE SPECIFIC DETAILS BESIDES THAT THEY HAPPENED OVER UNEVEN PAVEMENT WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES. *CN
SHORTLY AFTER DATE OF PURCHASE OF MY PRIUS I HAVE REPORTED TO TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS THAT THE BRAKE SYSTEM FEELS FAULTY: THE BRAKES OFTEN LOCK OR DO NOT FUNCTION AT ALL WHEN THE CAR IS AT A SLIGHT INCLINE EITHER GOING UP OR DOWN A ROAD. THERE IS ALSO A CONSTANT HIGH PITCHED NOISE EMANATING FROM THE WHEE…
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SHORTLY AFTER DATE OF PURCHASE OF MY PRIUS I HAVE REPORTED TO TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS THAT THE BRAKE SYSTEM FEELS FAULTY: THE BRAKES OFTEN LOCK OR DO NOT FUNCTION AT ALL WHEN THE CAR IS AT A SLIGHT INCLINE EITHER GOING UP OR DOWN A ROAD. THERE IS ALSO A CONSTANT HIGH PITCHED NOISE EMANATING FROM THE WHEELS. TOYOTA HAS CLAIMED THAT IT IS A "CHARACTERISTIC FEATURE" OF THE CAR AND HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO LOCATE THE ISSUE. TOYOTA HAS REVIEWED THIS ISSUE AT A MINIMUM OR 5 OR 6 TIMES AND HAVE NOT DONE ANY REPAIRS TO MY CAR AT ALL. THE CAR WAS PURCHASED AND IS ALWAYS TAKEN TO KEYES TOYOTA IN VAN NUYS, CA. I AM SUBMITTING A DATE BELOW WITH THIS FORM AS REQUESTED, BUT THE ISSUE HAS BEEN ONGOING FOR MANY MONTHS SINCE JUNE 2009. I SPECIFICALLY EXPRESSED MY CONCERN TO TOYOTA BECAUSE I OFTEN HAVE MY INFANT AND TODDLER NIECE AND NEPHEW IN THE CAR WITH ME. TOYOTA CLAIMED THERE IS NO REASON FOR CONCERN AND THAT THEY "COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR". *CN
Official recalls
1018V684000 · Hybrid Propulsion System
Oct 4, 2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V vehicles. Excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter may cause the hybrid system to shut down, causing the vehicle to stall while being driven.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the hybrid system shuts down unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0V. Note: The software updates in this recall are needed even if the vehicle had the software previously updated under recalls 14V-053 or 15V-449.
16V487000 · Air Bags:side/window
Jun 30, 2016
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus CT200h vehicles. A weld in the curtain shield air bag inflator may crack causing one or both portions of the inflator to eject into the passenger cabin.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If either portion of the curtain shield air bag inflator ejects into the passenger cabin, there is an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install retention brackets to the curtain shield air bags, free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota Customer Service Department at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is Toyota G0U, and Lexus GLJ.
16V396000 · Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/cooler
Jun 2, 2016
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
14V743000 · Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/cooler
Nov 19, 2014
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
14V053000 · Electrical System:software; Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Feb 12, 2014
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will repair or replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall began on March 21, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.
Consequence: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will repair or replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall began on March 21, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Electrical System:software
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.
Consequence: The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will repair or replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall began on March 21, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
13V235000 · Service Brakes
Jun 5, 2013
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 Prius vehicles manufactured March 31, 2009, through October 9, 2009; and model year 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured June 19, 2009, through October 9, 2009. Nitrogen gas from a component of the brake booster pump assembly could leak into the brake fluid.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: As nitrogen is released into the brake fluid, the brake pedal may have reduced hydraulic pressure. Under certain circumstances, this condition could affect stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected brake booster pump assemblies. The recall began on August 7, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
13V014000 · Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE ; Seats
Jan 16, 2013
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
10V039000 · Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/module
Feb 9, 2010
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS AND LEXUS HS250H PASSENGER VEHICLES. CUSTOMERS HAVE EXPERIENCED INCONSISTENT BRAKE FEEL AFTER ABS ACTUATION DURING SLOW AND STEADY APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES ON ROUGH OR SLICK ROAD SURFACES. STOPPING DISTANCES MAY BE INCREASED COMPARED WITH A CUSTOMER'S EXPECTATION FOR A GIVEN PEDAL FORCE.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCES MAY INCREASE RELATIVE TO A CUSTOMER'S EXPECTATION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REWRITE THE PROGRAMMING OF THE ABS CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 3, 2010, AND IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN LATE MARCH 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
10V035000 · Equipment:other:labels
Feb 3, 2010
GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
10V036000 · Equipment:other:labels
Feb 3, 2010
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4DP23005 · Brake Actuator Valve Wear
Opened Nov 22, 2023 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a petition dated September 19, 2023 from the owner of a 2012 Toyota Prius V requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP19-004. In the letter, the petitioner reported experiencing an unexpected and complete loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights. This petition is based on the petitioner's direct experience and assessment that ODI closed DP19-004 because its prompting petition was withdrawn by that petitioner. ODI will review the work conducted during DP19-004 and a review of any additional related complaints and crashes via a new defect petition The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number:11553736.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a petition dated September 19, 2023 from the owner of a 2012 Toyota Prius V requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP19-004. In the letter, the petitioner reported experiencing an unexpected and complete loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights. This petition is based on the petitioner's direct experience and assessment that ODI closed DP19-004 because its prompting petition was withdrawn by that petitioner. ODI will review the work conducted during DP19-004 and a review of any additional related complaints and crashes via a new defect petition The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number:11553736.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a petition dated September 19, 2023 from the owner of a 2012 Toyota Prius V requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP19-004. In the letter, the petitioner reported experiencing an unexpected and complete loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights. This petition is based on the petitioner's direct experience and assessment that ODI closed DP19-004 because its prompting petition was withdrawn by that petitioner. ODI will review the work conducted during DP19-004 and a review of any additional related complaints and crashes via a new defect petition The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number:11553736.
DP22005 · Pedestrian Alert Sounds
Opened Jan 27, 2023 · Closed Aug 7, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:propulsion System
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.
DP19004 · Brake Actuator Valve Wear
Opened Sep 30, 2019 · Closed Jan 21, 2021
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
On September 19, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a defect petition from Mr. Roger Hogan requesting that the Agency investigate and recall certain Toyota Prius, Prius PHV, Camry Hybrid and Avalon Hybrid vehicles for a brake actuator valve wear condition covered under Toyota Customer Support Programs ZJB and ZKK (subject CSP?s). In support of his request, the petitioner identified 117 NHTSA complaints allegedly related to the subject CSP condition, including 60 reporting crashes. On September 30, 2019, ODI opened Defect Petition DP19-004 to evaluate the petitioner?s request for an investigation. In August 2020, the petitioner notified the Agency that he was withdrawing his petition. Because the petitioner has withdrawn the petition, we are denying the petition as moot and no further analysis of this petition is necessary.NHTSA is authorized to issue an order requiring notification and remedy of a defect if the Agency?s investigation shows a defect in the design, construction, or performance of a motor vehicle that presents an unreasonable risk to safety. 49 U.S.C. ?? 30102(a)(9), 30118. Because the petitioner has with withdrawn the petition, the petition is denied as moot. This action does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency notes that it is not required to receive a defect petition prior to opening a defect investigation and will take further action if warranted by future circumstances.
PE10006 · Braking Performance, Hybrid Vehicle
Opened Feb 3, 2010 · Closed Jul 12, 2010
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module ; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist; Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Additional source detail variants (7)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
The subject vehicles are the first model year of a new design generation of the Prius model line.The vehicles are powered by a hybrid drive system that uses both a regenerative braking system, which converts vehicle momentum into electrical energy to be stored in onboard batteries, and a hydraulic brake system more typical of the brake system used on non-hybrid vehicles.As is the case for other similarly designed hybrid vehicles the interaction and management of the two braking systems during ABS braking is complex and requires a sophisticated control system.In a February 9, 2010 Defect Information Report, Toyota advised the agency of its plans to conduct a safety recall to address inconsistent brake feel and increased stopping distances that may occur during braking events requiring ABS operation, such as would occur when braking on rough or low friction road surfaces.Toyota will reprogram the ABS control unit with improved software that addresses this condition.Based on Toyota's action the investigation is closed. ODI will continue to monitor the subject vehicles' performance and will take further action as future circumstances dictate.