NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic complaints
849 reportsClear category filter4,000 miles · Feb 8, 2011
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT WAS BRAKING FROM APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH AND APPROACHING A TRAFFIC STOP WHEN THE BRAKES FAILED. THE CONTACT VEERED OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A SNOW BANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO TURN THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE MANU…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT WAS BRAKING FROM APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH AND APPROACHING A TRAFFIC STOP WHEN THE BRAKES FAILED. THE CONTACT VEERED OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A SNOW BANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO TURN THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE MANUFACTURER AND WAIT FOR A DIAGNOSTIC ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 4,000.
NHTSA ODI #10381103
100 miles · Jan 27, 2011
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
I PURCHASED A NEW 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS (MODEL 3) IN LATE JULY 2010. IN ALMOST EVERY RESPECT, THIS CAR IS WONDERFUL. HOWEVER, THE CAR HAS CONSISTENTLY DIMINISHED (APPARENT) BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED AND THE CAR GOES OVER A PATCH OF ROUGH ROAD, POTHOLE, ETC. WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED WITH A CONSISTENT PRE…
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I PURCHASED A NEW 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS (MODEL 3) IN LATE JULY 2010. IN ALMOST EVERY RESPECT, THIS CAR IS WONDERFUL. HOWEVER, THE CAR HAS CONSISTENTLY DIMINISHED (APPARENT) BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED AND THE CAR GOES OVER A PATCH OF ROUGH ROAD, POTHOLE, ETC. WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED WITH A CONSISTENT PRESSURE, THE CAR "FEELS" AS IF THE BRAKES DISENGAGE UPON ENTERING A ROUGH PATCH OF ROAD. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME. (FOR EXAMPLE, I NOTICE IT EVERY TIME I SLOW DOWN AT MY STREET CORNER WHERE THERE IS A LONG-STANDING PATCH OF ROUGH PAVEMENT.) SINCE 1994 I HAVE OWNED 7 CARS WITH ABS (HONDAS, NISSANS, AND TOYOTA CAMRYS), I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED A SIMILAR SENSATION IN ANY OF THESE OTHER CARS. I HAVE ADAPTED MY DRIVING STYLE TO THIS ANOMALY, BUT I WORRY ABOUT MY KIDS AND FRIENDS WHO MAY OCCASIONALLY DRIVE MY PRIUS. IT IS UNNERVING TO APPLY THE BRAKES AND HAVE THEM FEEL LIKE THEY ARE DISENGAGING WHEN YOU ENTER A ROUGH PATCH OF ROAD. SINCE THIS PROBLEM OCCURS CONSISTENTLY, I THINK IT SHOULD BE POSSIBLE TO TEST TO SEE IF THIS APPARENT BRAKING ANOMALY IS ACTUALLY INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES. (FOR EXAMPLE, TEST PRIUS VS. MODEL WITHOUT APPARENT BRAKING ANOMALY ON SMOOTH AND ROUGH ROADS TO SEE IF RELATIVE BRAKING DISTANCES OF PRIUS ARE MORE HEAVILY AFFECTED BY ROUGH ROADS THAT COMPARISON MODEL.) P.S. AFTER PURCHASING MY NEW PRIUS, I NOTED THAT MY DEALER'S SERVICE BLOG, HAD SEVERAL REPORTS OF SIMILAR PROBLEMS THAT WERE NOT CORRECTED AFTER SERVICING BY THE DEALER. SOME POSTS NOTED THAT THE DEALER HAD APPLIED A SOFTWARE FIX THAT TOYOTA DISTRIBUTED IN EARLY 2010. MY CAR WAS MANUFACTURED AFTER THAT FIX. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10379251
22,000 miles · Jan 21, 2011
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER RAILROAD TRACKS SHE TRIED TO APPLY THE BRAKES AND THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SHE WAITED A COUPLE OF SECONDS BEFORE SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES AGAIN AND THEY FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. THE DEALER SAID THAT IT WA…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER RAILROAD TRACKS SHE TRIED TO APPLY THE BRAKES AND THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SHE WAITED A COUPLE OF SECONDS BEFORE SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES AGAIN AND THEY FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. THE DEALER SAID THAT IT WAS NORMAL FOR THE VEHICLE TO FUNCTION THAT WAY ON UNEVEN SURFACES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WERE 22,000.
NHTSA ODI #10378168
8,227 miles · Jan 20, 2011
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
INCIDENT #1 ON JANUARY 5, 2011 - SUDDEN CHANGE IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE CAUSED CRASH. ACCIDENT OCCURRED IN COMPANY PARKING LOT. THERE WAS SNOW ON THE GROUND. I ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN. THE CAR INITIALLY STARTED TO SLOW DOWN. BUT AS I ATTEMPTED TO TURN TO THE RIGHT THE CAR STARTED TO SLIDE. I TRIED TO CONTROL TH…
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INCIDENT #1 ON JANUARY 5, 2011 - SUDDEN CHANGE IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE CAUSED CRASH. ACCIDENT OCCURRED IN COMPANY PARKING LOT. THERE WAS SNOW ON THE GROUND. I ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN. THE CAR INITIALLY STARTED TO SLOW DOWN. BUT AS I ATTEMPTED TO TURN TO THE RIGHT THE CAR STARTED TO SLIDE. I TRIED TO CONTROL THE SLIDE WITH THE BRAKES BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN AND IT SLID INTO A STONE CURB CAUSING OVER $1,700 IN DAMAGE TO THE CAR. THERE WAS NO FEELING OF ANY BRAKING OCCURRING. THERE WAS NO FEELING OF THE ABS BRAKES PULSING TO CONTROL THE SLIDE. INCIDENT # 2 ON JANUARY 19, 2011 - SUDDEN CHANGE IN BRAKING PERFORMANCE CREATED DANGEROUS STOPPING CONDITION. I WAS APPROACHING A RED LIGHT AT AN INTERSECTION GOING ABOUT 30 MPH. THERE WAS NO SNOW ON THE GROUND. THE ROAD WAS WET. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE CAR INITIALLY STARTED TO SLOW DOWN. SUDDENLY THE BRAKES WERE NO LONGER SLOWING THE CAR DOWN. I THOUGHT THE CAR WAS GOING TO FAIL TO STOP AT THE INTERSECTION. I INCREASINGLY APPLIED MORE AND MORE PRESSURE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN. THE CAR DID FINALLY STOP AND DID NOT CROSS THE INTERSECTION. THE BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE THAT I HAD TO APPLY WAS EXTREME - IT FELT LIKE A CAR WITH POWER ASSISTED BRAKES BUT THAT THE POWER ASSIST HAD FAILED. THERE WAS NO FEELING OF THE ABS BRAKES PULSING TO CONTROL THE BRAKING OF THE CAR.
NHTSA ODI #10378958
1,000 miles · Dec 21, 2010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH AND APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THE TECHNICIANS WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT ASSIST WITH REPAIRS IF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLI…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH AND APPLYING PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THE TECHNICIANS WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT ASSIST WITH REPAIRS IF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE IS 6,000.
NHTSA ODI #10371901
28,000 miles · Dec 18, 2010
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
I HAD TAKEN AN EXIT AFTER HAVING DRIVEN ABOUT 15 MILES ON HWY 85 & HAD MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR AS THERE WAS RED SIGNAL AHEAD. BEFORE COMING TO A FULL STOP THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN SO PUT MY FOOT ON THE ACCELERATOR BUT THAN HAD TO BRAKE ALMOST WITHIN SECONDS AS I SAW A CAR AHEAD AT THE NEXT GREEN LIGHT NOT MOVING. THE CAR FELT…
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I HAD TAKEN AN EXIT AFTER HAVING DRIVEN ABOUT 15 MILES ON HWY 85 & HAD MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR AS THERE WAS RED SIGNAL AHEAD. BEFORE COMING TO A FULL STOP THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN SO PUT MY FOOT ON THE ACCELERATOR BUT THAN HAD TO BRAKE ALMOST WITHIN SECONDS AS I SAW A CAR AHEAD AT THE NEXT GREEN LIGHT NOT MOVING. THE CAR FELT LIKE IT SURGED & DROVE WHAT I BELIEVE WAS ABNORMAL DISTANCE WITH MY FRONT CRASHING UNDER THE BACK OF AN OLD BUICK. I HAD 3 OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS IN THE CAR WHO FELT THE SAME JERK. THE ROAD WAS WET FROM PRIOR RAIN. THERE WAS NOT MUCH DAMAGE TO THE CAR I CRASHED INTO BUT MY CAR WAS CONSIDERED TOTAL LOSS, 15 MONTHS OLD WITH 28K MILES. NO AIR BAGS WERE DEPLOYED. IRONICALLY I HAD PICKED UP THE CAR FROM THE DEALERSHIP JUST THAT MORNING BECAUSE MY DAUGHTER HAD COMPLAINED ABOUT THE JERKING WHEN APPLYING BRAKES WHEN SHE DRIVES 20 MILES TO WORK IN A STOP & GO TRAFFIC ON HWY 280. THIS WAS NOT THE FIRST TIME SHE HAD COMPLAINED TO DEALERSHIP ABOUT THIS EITHER. THE DEALERSHIP LIKE BEFORE REPORTED NOTHING WRONG. THE CAR HAD THE SW UPGRADE DONE WHEN IT WAS RECALLED IN FEB/MAR. POST THE CRASH INCIDENT TOYOTA HAD THEIR EXPERT EXAMINE THE BRAKES WHO REPORTED, BRAKE RESERVOIR FLUID LEVEL 5MM ABOVE THE MAX LEVEL & SOME WHITE SUBSTANCE SUSPENDED IN IT NEAR THE SURFACE, BUT STILL BRAKE SYSTEM TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION.
NHTSA ODI #10371652
Mileage unknown · Dec 9, 2010
Exterior LightingInterior LightingService Brakes, HydraulicCrashInjury
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE VEHICLE WAS HIT FROM THE REAR BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS HIT, IT ACCELERATED TO A HIGH SPEED. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE; THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION BUT THAT DID NOT STOP T…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE VEHICLE WAS HIT FROM THE REAR BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS HIT, IT ACCELERATED TO A HIGH SPEED. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE BRAKES BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE; THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION BUT THAT DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CHANGED DIRECTIONS AND CROSSED OVER A GRASSY AREA AND CROSSED OVER THREE LANES OF TRAFFIC AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE MEDIAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL THE LIGHTS FAILED. THE TWO PASSENGERS WERE INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
NHTSA ODI #10369783
18,654 miles · Dec 9, 2010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REPAIR FOR RECALL 10V039000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) WAS PERFORMED FEBRUARY 2010. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND WHEN THEY HIT ROUGH PAVEMENT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP PROPERLY AND WENT THROUGH AN INTERSECTION. THE DEALER INSPECTED AN…
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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REPAIR FOR RECALL 10V039000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) WAS PERFORMED FEBRUARY 2010. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND WHEN THEY HIT ROUGH PAVEMENT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP PROPERLY AND WENT THROUGH AN INTERSECTION. THE DEALER INSPECTED AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG, THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,654 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 19,000. UPDATED 02/09/11*LJ UPDATED 03/03/11
NHTSA ODI #10369770
Mileage unknown · Oct 29, 2010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. S10 APPROPRIATE HANDLING- LETTER FROM REGARDING TOYOTA PROBLEMS *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HE WENT TO START HIS VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT STRAIGHT DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START UNTIL PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE. AFTER TRYING SEVERAL THINGS, THE BRAKE FINALLY CAME ON. THE CONSU…
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2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. S10 APPROPRIATE HANDLING- LETTER FROM REGARDING TOYOTA PROBLEMS *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HE WENT TO START HIS VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT STRAIGHT DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START UNTIL PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE. AFTER TRYING SEVERAL THINGS, THE BRAKE FINALLY CAME ON. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. ON APRIL 27, 2010, THE INCIDENT HAPPENED AGAIN WITH THE BRAKES. A NOTICE APPEARED ON THE DASH TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK. WHEN HE DID, THE BRAKE CAME ON. *JB UPDATED 12/22/10.*JB
NHTSA ODI #10363310
17,000 miles · Oct 17, 2010
Engine And Engine CoolingService Brakes, Hydraulic
LOSS OF BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS. HAPPENS WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES. YOU DON'T LOSE BRAKING POWER COMPLETELY, BUT IT WOULD BE LIKE YOU HAD LIFTED YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKES PARTIALLY. IT HAS HAPPENED ABOUT A DOZEN TIMES SINCE I HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE (A LITTLE OVER A YEAR). I AM UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHAT FACT…
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LOSS OF BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS. HAPPENS WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES. YOU DON'T LOSE BRAKING POWER COMPLETELY, BUT IT WOULD BE LIKE YOU HAD LIFTED YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKES PARTIALLY. IT HAS HAPPENED ABOUT A DOZEN TIMES SINCE I HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE (A LITTLE OVER A YEAR). I AM UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHAT FACTORS MAKE IT HAPPEN. I DON'T KNOW IF IT IS SPEED, SEVERITY OF THE BUMPS, OR BRAKING PRESSURE, OR COMBINATION. I KNOW THAT TEMPERATURE MAKES NO DIFFERENCE, AS IT HAS HAPPENED IN WINTER AND SUMMER. THE LAST INCIDENT HAPPENED WHEN A BICYCLIST MOVED IN FRONT OF MY CAR TO AVOID BUMPS. I APPLIED THE BRAKES (IT WAS NOT SEVERE), AND AS I WENT OVER THE BUMPS, I LOST BRAKING POWER. MY SPEED WAS APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH. TOYOTA HAS DONE A RECALL ON THE BRAKES, BUT I CONTINUE TO HAVE THE PROBLEM. I HAVE TALKED TO OTHER OWNERS, AND THEY ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, EVEN AFTER THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HE DROVE OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE BRAKING DECREASED SIGNIFICANTLY FOR APPROXIMATELY 3 SECONDS. HE ALSO STATED THE ENGINE RACED BRIEFLY, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT IN GEAR AT THE TIME. UPDATED IVOQ 03/01/11 *TR
NHTSA ODI #10360953
Official recalls
10Oct 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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