IllustrationI HAVE EXPERIENCED MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF LOSS OF BRAKING CONTROL IN MY 2010 PRIUS. TODAY I WENT TO PUT ON MY BRAKES AND THE SYSTEM LOCKED UP ON ME AND THEN, LUCKILY, RELEASED AND I REGAINED CONTROL OF MY BRAKES BEFORE HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. *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
Traction Control System complaints
40 reports2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. CAR SEEMS TO SURGE FORWARD WHEN BRAKING ON ROUGH PAVEMENT SUCH AS POTHOLES. ALSO HAPPENED ONCE ON A WET DAY WHEN A FRONT WHEEL SLIPPED ON THE PAINTED STOP LINE BEFORE AN INTERSECTION. WE TOOK DELIVERY OF THE CAR IN JUNE 2009 AND THE FIRST INCIDENT WAS IN JULY 2009. *TR
01/13/2010 - I WENT TO THE SERVICE DEPT AT TOYOTA OF WALLINGFORD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE LOSS OF BRAKES IN A NEW 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WHILE DRIVING OVER UNEVEN GROUND. I HAD OWNED THE CAR ONE MONTH WITH 1500 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE CAR IS TERRIFYING BECAUSE THE CAR SEEMS TO ACCELERATE FORWARD. THE SERVICE AT…
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01/13/2010 - I WENT TO THE SERVICE DEPT AT TOYOTA OF WALLINGFORD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE LOSS OF BRAKES IN A NEW 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WHILE DRIVING OVER UNEVEN GROUND. I HAD OWNED THE CAR ONE MONTH WITH 1500 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE CAR IS TERRIFYING BECAUSE THE CAR SEEMS TO ACCELERATE FORWARD. THE SERVICE ATTENDANT WAS AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND DESCRIBED THE SITUATION. HE TOOK THE CAR ON A TEST DRIVE. HE ASSURED ME IT WAS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
I PURCHASED A 2010 PRIUS IN AUGUST 2009. IT SHOWS NO EVIDENCE OF AN ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM. I REPORTED THIS TO THE TAYLOR TOYOTA OF ALEXANDRIA IN OCTOBER WHO TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF THE PROBLEM AND THEY DID NOTHING. ADDITIONALLY, THE AVID FACTORY TIRES ON THE CAR ARE NOT EFFECTIVE ON WET PAVEMENT; THEY SKID. AGAIN, …
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I PURCHASED A 2010 PRIUS IN AUGUST 2009. IT SHOWS NO EVIDENCE OF AN ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM. I REPORTED THIS TO THE TAYLOR TOYOTA OF ALEXANDRIA IN OCTOBER WHO TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF THE PROBLEM AND THEY DID NOTHING. ADDITIONALLY, THE AVID FACTORY TIRES ON THE CAR ARE NOT EFFECTIVE ON WET PAVEMENT; THEY SKID. AGAIN, I REPORTED THIS TO THE DEALER AND AGAIN THEY TOLD ME THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF A PROBLEM BUT REFERRED ME TO THEIR PARTS DEPARTMENT TO BUY NEW TIRES. FINALLY, WHEN I ENGAGE CRUISE CONTROL, THE CAR SURGES FORWARD IN SPEED UNTIL I DEPRESS THE BRAKE. I STOPPED USING THE CRUISE CONTROL. *TR
WE HAVE HAD SEVERAL INSTANCES OF BRAKE MALFUNCTION IN OUR 2010 PRIUS. WHEN BACKING OUT OF OUR GARAGE, ON 3 OCCASIONS, WHEN MY FOOT WAS JUST RESTING GENTLY OVER THE BRAKE, IT FELT AS THOUGH I WAS STOMPING ON THE BRAKE. IT DID THIS 4-5 TIMES WHERE IT LURCHED TO A STOP WHEN I WASN'T APPLYING IT BUT JUST RESTING MY FOOT ON IT AS I…
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WE HAVE HAD SEVERAL INSTANCES OF BRAKE MALFUNCTION IN OUR 2010 PRIUS. WHEN BACKING OUT OF OUR GARAGE, ON 3 OCCASIONS, WHEN MY FOOT WAS JUST RESTING GENTLY OVER THE BRAKE, IT FELT AS THOUGH I WAS STOMPING ON THE BRAKE. IT DID THIS 4-5 TIMES WHERE IT LURCHED TO A STOP WHEN I WASN'T APPLYING IT BUT JUST RESTING MY FOOT ON IT AS I BACKED UP. I HAD AN INCIDENT WHERE I WAS ENTERING A CAR WASH AND WHEN I WENT OVER A BUMP INTO THE CAR WASH STALL, THE CAR LURCHED UNCONTROLLABLY FORWARD. I TRIED TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND IT WOULDN'T STAY IN NEUTRAL BUT KEPT POPPING BACK INTO DRIVE AN LURCHING FORWARD.. ALSO, WE HAVE 3 INCIDENTS IN INCLEMENT WEATHER WHERE THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES DID NOT WORK AT ALL OR DID NOT WORK CORRECTLY. ON A SNOWY DAY, I SLID RIGHT THROUGH AN INTERSECTION AND THE ANTI LOCK BRAKES DID NOT KICK IN NOR DID THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE INDICATOR LIGHT COME ON. MY HUSBAND HAD AN INCIDENT WHERE IF FELT AS THOUGH THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES FUNCTIONED ONLY ON ONE SIDE OF THE CAR, PROPELLING HIM STRAIGHT SIDEWAYS UPON BRAKING. WE FEEL VERY STRONGLY THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL OF PRIUS THAT POSES A SIGNIFICANT RISK TO OUR SAFETY. *TR
I OWN A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. SINCE PURCHASING IT IN AUGUST, I HAVE BEEN AWARE OF ODD, COMPLETELY REPRODUCIBLE BRAKING BEHAVIOR. I HAVE NOT REPORTED THE COMPLAINT UNTIL NOW BECAUSE I ASSUMED IT WAS SOMETHING NORMAL WITHIN THE OPERATION OF THE PRIUS, BUT WITH THE REPORT IN THE NEW YORK TIMES THAT JAPAN IS INVESTIGATING THE PRIUS BRA…
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I OWN A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. SINCE PURCHASING IT IN AUGUST, I HAVE BEEN AWARE OF ODD, COMPLETELY REPRODUCIBLE BRAKING BEHAVIOR. I HAVE NOT REPORTED THE COMPLAINT UNTIL NOW BECAUSE I ASSUMED IT WAS SOMETHING NORMAL WITHIN THE OPERATION OF THE PRIUS, BUT WITH THE REPORT IN THE NEW YORK TIMES THAT JAPAN IS INVESTIGATING THE PRIUS BRAKING SYSTEM, I THOUGHT I SHOULD FILE A REPORT. I LIVE NEAR TRAIN TRACKS THAT HAVE A GRADE CROSSING IN THE MIDDLE OF A BLOCK. THE CROSSING ITSELF IS IN ANN ARBOR, MI, ON W. WILLIAM ST. BETWEEN S. ASHLEY ST AND S. 1ST ST. WHEN DRIVING WESTBOUND ON WILLIAM ST, ONE TRAVELS DOWNHILL AND ENCOUNTERS THE GRADE CROSSING NEAR THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL, ABOUT 20-30 FEET BEFORE AN INTERSECTION. EVERY TIME I CROSS THE TRAIN TRACKS AT THIS GRADE CROSSING--REGARDLESS OF WEATHER CONDITIONS--I NOTICE AN ALARMING LOSS OF BRAKING POWER THAT OCCURS EXCLUSIVELY WHEN CROSSING THE TRAIN TRACKS. AT FIRST I THOUGHT THIS WAS NORMAL, THAT PERHAPS THE CAR WAS JUST SLIPPING, BUT NOW IT SEEMS AS IF THIS REPRESENTS THE CONDITIONS THAT ARE UNDER INVESTIGATION IN JAPAN. THE PROBLEM IS 100% REPRODUCIBLE. TYPICAL TRAVEL SPEEDS ARE 15-30 MILES PER HOUR. THE BRAKING ACTION IS ONLY INTERRUPTED WHILE TRAVELING OVER THE BUMPY SURFACE OF THE RAIL TRACKS, AND THEN BRAKING ACTION IS RESTORED. HOWEVER, IF THERE ARE CARS QUEUED UP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL AT THE INTERSECTION, IT OFTEN LEADS TO SHORT BRAKING TIMES AND HAS CAUSED CONCERN REGARDING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE BRAKES. I HAVE NOT SPOKEN TO MY DEALERSHIP REGARDING THE PROBLEM, NOR HAD ANY SERVICE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE REGARDING THE PROBLEM. AGAIN, I BELIEVED THIS TO BE MORE OF A DESIGN ISSUE THAN A PERFORMANCE PROBLEM, BUT IT IS ALARMING, NONETHELESS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HARD WORK KEEPING AMERICA'S CARS SAFE. *TR
2010 PRIUS. CAR LURCHES EVERYDAY WHEN BRAKING AT STOP SIGNS. CAR DRIFTS FORWARD AND DOES NOT IMMEDIATELY RESPOND TO BRAKE PEDAL BEING PUSHED DOWN. OFTEN HAPPENS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STOP. BRAKES WILL START WORKING BUT THEN "SLIP" IN THE MIDDLE AT VERY LOW SPEEDS. DOUBT THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM COULD BE THE PROBLEM AS SPEE…
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2010 PRIUS. CAR LURCHES EVERYDAY WHEN BRAKING AT STOP SIGNS. CAR DRIFTS FORWARD AND DOES NOT IMMEDIATELY RESPOND TO BRAKE PEDAL BEING PUSHED DOWN. OFTEN HAPPENS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STOP. BRAKES WILL START WORKING BUT THEN "SLIP" IN THE MIDDLE AT VERY LOW SPEEDS. DOUBT THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM COULD BE THE PROBLEM AS SPEED ARE VERY LOW. HAS BEEN OCCURRING SINCE THE CAR WAS PURCHASE IN THE SUMMER OF 2009. *TR
2010 TOYOTA PRIUS BRAKE FAILURE. EVERYTIME WHILE BRAKING IF THERE IS A BUMP OR ON EVEN A SLIGHT BIT OF ICE ON 1 WHEEL ONLY, THE BRAKES WILL RELEASE COMPLETELY AND GO BACK TO ACCELERATING RATHER THAN BRAKING. IT HAPPENS WHEN I EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND THERE IS A CHANGE IN SURFACES FROM TAR TO CONCRETE. IT HAPPENS VERY OFTEN AND CAN H…
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2010 TOYOTA PRIUS BRAKE FAILURE. EVERYTIME WHILE BRAKING IF THERE IS A BUMP OR ON EVEN A SLIGHT BIT OF ICE ON 1 WHEEL ONLY, THE BRAKES WILL RELEASE COMPLETELY AND GO BACK TO ACCELERATING RATHER THAN BRAKING. IT HAPPENS WHEN I EXIT THE HIGHWAY AND THERE IS A CHANGE IN SURFACES FROM TAR TO CONCRETE. IT HAPPENS VERY OFTEN AND CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME. THIS OCCURS AT ANY SPEED FROM 10MPH UP AND I HAVE EXPERIENCED IT FROM 10MPH AND AS HIGH AS 55MPH. THE PROBLEM FIRST OCCURRED AROUND 500 MILES ON THE CAR AND I NOW HAVE OVER 8500 MILES. THIS STARTED IN AUGUST AROUND THE 15TH. I HAVE A 2007 HUMMER H3 AND I HAVE COMPARED THE BRAKING WITH THE SAME CONDITIONS AND SPEEDS AND THE PRIUS IS NOT RESPONDING CORRECTLY. THE HUMMER BRAKES EVEN WITH THE CHANGES. I HAVE ALSO COMPARED ON A 2006 VOLVO S60. THESE BRAKES ARE FAILING AND IT WILL EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A CRASH OR A PEDESTRIAN BEING STRUCK. THERE IS NO PULSING OF THE BREAKS THERE IS ONLY RELEASING FOR ICE OR FOR ANY SURFACE OTHER THAN PERFECT. THERE SHOULD BE SOME TYPE OF REPAIR OR RECALL IMMEDIATELY. I HAVE NOTICED THIS BUT THOUGHT IT WAS ONLY ME UNTIL I SAW THE MSNBC ARTICLE. I WILL NOT LET MY WIFE DRIVE THIS CAR SINCE SHE IS PREGNANT. IT IS NOT SAFE. WHILE SITTING AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT KEEPS TURNING ON AND BLINKING AND WILL LOCK THE BRAKES UNTIL THE GAS PEDAL IS PRESSED. I HAVE NEVER HAD AN ANTI-LOCK OR ANY TYPE OF BREAKING ISSUE IN 15 YEARS OF DRIVING VARIOUS VEHICLES. *TR
UNEXPECTED TOTAL LOSS OF PROPULSION AFTER DRIVING ON WET ROAD CONDITIONS AT APPROX 35 MPH. . 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WITH ENHANCED STABILITY CONTROL. NO RESPONSE FROM GAS PEDAL. NEEDED TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND RESTART VEHICLE TO OBTAIN POWER. LIGHTS AND DASH DISPLAY REMAINED ON BUT VEHICLE HAD NO POWER TO MOVE. HAD TO COAS…
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UNEXPECTED TOTAL LOSS OF PROPULSION AFTER DRIVING ON WET ROAD CONDITIONS AT APPROX 35 MPH. . 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WITH ENHANCED STABILITY CONTROL. NO RESPONSE FROM GAS PEDAL. NEEDED TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND RESTART VEHICLE TO OBTAIN POWER. LIGHTS AND DASH DISPLAY REMAINED ON BUT VEHICLE HAD NO POWER TO MOVE. HAD TO COAST SEVERAL HUNDRED FEET AVOIDING TRAFFIC TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND "RESTARTING" VEHICLE. ESC/TRAC SQUIGGLY SYMBOL APPEARED ON DASH MOMENTARILY. ON OTHER OCCASIONS I HAVE NOTICED WHEN STOPPING ON LOOSE SURFACE MATERIALS OR STOPPING WHEN DRIVING OVER UNEVEN PAVEMENT THAT THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY LURCHES FORWARD IN A MOST UNPREDICTABLE AND UNNATURAL WAY ALMOST AS IF THERE WERE NO BRAKES AND THE VEHICLE MOMENTARILY ATTEMPTS TO ACCELERATE. THE FIRST CONDITION COULD EASILY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT IN HEAVY TRAFFIC OR ON A BUSY FREEWAY SINCE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT RETURNED TO THE OPERATOR UNTIL THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY STOPPED AND THEN SHUT DOWN AND RESTARTED. MY SENSE IS THAT THE ENHANCED STABILITY CONTROL AND TRAC SYSTEM IS OVERLY RESPONSIVE TO ROAD CONDITIONS AND IS SLOW OR INHIBITS THE RETURN OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE TO THE OPERATOR. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A TOYOTA SERVICE CENTER. THEY REPORT NO ERROR CODES OR TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS ON THE ISSUE. NO CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN. MY CONFIDENCE IN THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN SEVERELY DAMAGED. I CAN'T IMAGINE THE DANGER OF LOSS OF PROPULSION WHEN DRIVING AT A HIGH SPEED ON A HIGH TRAFFIC/SPEED HIGHWAY. *TR
ON MY 2010 PRIUS IV WHICH I TOOK DELIVERY OF IN AUGUST, 2009, EVERY TIME I BRAKE, GOING OVER A POTHOLE OR LARGE BUMP, THE CAR LURCHES FORWARD EVEN THOUGH I AM STEPPING ON THE BRAKE. A FEW TIMES I ALMOST HIT THE CAR AHEAD OF ME. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION, AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH OR POSSIBLY HITTING A PEDESTR…
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ON MY 2010 PRIUS IV WHICH I TOOK DELIVERY OF IN AUGUST, 2009, EVERY TIME I BRAKE, GOING OVER A POTHOLE OR LARGE BUMP, THE CAR LURCHES FORWARD EVEN THOUGH I AM STEPPING ON THE BRAKE. A FEW TIMES I ALMOST HIT THE CAR AHEAD OF ME. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION, AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH OR POSSIBLY HITTING A PEDESTRIAN. I HOPE THIS SITUATION CAN BE RESOLVED IMMEDIATELY, BEFORE FATALITIES RESULT. I K NOW OTHER PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
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.