Toyota Prius Recalls

The Toyota Prius has 45 recalls spanning 2001 through 2026, with the most serious recent issue being a software defect on 2022 models where the engine control unit can falsely detect an error and shut down the hybrid system, cutting drive power while the vehicle is moving.

The current generation also has a rear door switch on 2023-2026 models that can let water in, short circuit, and allow an unlocked rear door to swing open while driving. The rearview camera on 2023-2025 models equipped with the Panoramic View Monitor system can freeze or go blank when the vehicle is in reverse. A separate powertrain software issue on 2022 models can shut down the hybrid system if the shifter is moved while driving, also cutting power to the wheels.

Going back to the 2019 model year, the brake booster pump can fail, deactivating stability control and reducing braking assist. A short circuit in the instrument cluster can also cause the speedometer, odometer, and fuel gauge to go blank while driving.

The 2016-2018 generation has a concentration of electrical and safety issues. On 2016-2018 vehicles, the engine wire harness can wear against the hybrid power control unit cover and short circuit, raising the risk of a fire. On 2016 models specifically, a loose capacitor inside the inverter can be damaged by road vibration and shut down the hybrid system. The front passenger airbag on some 2016 vehicles can partially inflate without warning, startling the driver or striking a passenger. Airbag pressure and acceleration sensors on 2016 models can also fail, preventing side and curtain airbags from deploying in a crash. The parking brake cable on 2016-2017 vehicles can disengage from its mechanism, leaving the vehicle free to roll if left out of Park.

The 2010-2015 era has several inverter-related issues. On 2010-2014 models, excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module can shut down the hybrid system and stall the vehicle. On 2013-2015 models, the same inverter voltage problem applies to vehicles not covered by the earlier campaign. The 2010 model year has additional concerns: a brake booster pump that can leak nitrogen into the brake fluid and reduce pedal pressure, an anti-lock brake system that can produce inconsistent pedal feel and longer stopping distances on rough or slick surfaces, and a curtain airbag inflator weld that can crack and send inflator fragments into the cabin. Aftermarket seat heaters on 2010-2012 vehicles can short circuit and start a fire.

The 2004-2009 generation had significant steering concerns. On 2004-2009 models, the steering intermediate shaft splines can wear over time and eventually cause a loss of steering. On 2004 models specifically, the intermediate shaft connection can separate or the sleeve can fracture, also resulting in loss of steering control. The 2004 model year also had an accelerator pedal that could stick wide open due to an unsecured floor mat, and a water pump that could fail and stall the hybrid system.

The earliest 2001-2003 models had multiple electric power steering issues: a torque sensor that can send incorrect signals and make steering noticeably heavier, a steering linkage that can loosen and reduce power assist during left turns, and a pinion shaft that can become unstable if the steering wheel is repeatedly turned to full lock.