403 consumer complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2013 Toyota Prius C. Click any complaint to view the full owner description.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMFebruary 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to cold-start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that on several occasions the vehicle was started; however, the instrument cluster and other electrical devices failed to operate as needed. The contact replaced the auxiliary battery. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred, and the vehicle needed to be jump-started. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 23, 2026
Brake master cylinder failure.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 2, 2026
Car suddenly needed a jump start and again after a day or two of non-use. On the third day Brakes, ABS and traction control warnings were lighted up and remains. Brakes are mostly ineffective. My own scan returns the code C1252 and C1256 that says brake booster system failing. Took it to the dealer who charged $290 again to scan and came up with failed brake booster and pump assembly. The dealers is quoting total $4000 to fix. Toyota Customer Support Program Bulletin dated 8/2018 and revised on 8/2019 extends the warranty on for this issue (for Toyota Prius C 2013) for 10 years or 150000 miles. I was never informed by Toyota or the seller (Stevens Creek Toyota, San Jose CA) about this defect under warranty that I could have gotten repaired well before the dead line of 10 years. Now Both Toyota or the dealer's service department refuse to bear the repair cost.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 20, 2025
Warning lamps for ABS and others and the chiming dings came on while pulling away from the bank drive through and parking for a second. I shut the engine off and turned back on with no success. I was barely able to park in a spot because of difficulties braking. My car had been making an electric noise every 15 seconds or so previously, at different times when parked, but I thought it was the hybrid engine. Now I think it was the brake pump trying to build up pressure due to a faulty, leaking brake actuator.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 5, 2025
My 2013 Prius Plug-In Hybrid with 131k miles on it showed the ABS, Brake, and Traction Control lights while driving last week. Diagnostics from auto shop showed DTC code C1391. System is available for inspection upon request. Safety is definitely at risk, since I am needing to drive it around to assess the issue, and brakes could fail at any time. Vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. After speaking to Toyota, I was informed that--although under 150k miles--my car is not covered by the extended warranty because it is 2 years past the 10 year requirement. I drove my car very little between 2020-2022 because of the global pandemic. This is a very common issue with 2012-2015 models caused by a defective part, and it's likely that the problem does not commonly present itself until after the warranty expires.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 5, 2025
Brake actuator went out on 2013 Toyota Prius Gen 5. The part is very expensive and in my opinion is a part that should not have to be replaced. The care has 120,000 miles. It is driven very softly, meaning not fast and hard but commuting to work and grocery store as needed. A nice commuter. It is not fast but gets you there. The actuator put me at risk as stepping on the brake was hard and the car did not want to stop and I was close to hitting the car in front of me. All the lights came on at the dashboard and I was very scared to continue to drive and had to get a tow truck.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 3, 2025
I had my car serviced Oct 21 and when I picked it up the vehicle brakes made a whooshing noise and felt spongy. I thought it must be ok as they had just serviced it but when it became apparent this could be a problem I took it back Nov 1 and was told the hydraulic brake booster pump needing replacing at the cost of $3400. I was shocked as they told me it could break completely AT ANY TIME but the brakes would still work. I decided to drive it home as that is an enormous car repair bill and I would have to get financing or get a different car. I didn't want to make rash decisions. I investigated the issue and found out this was a recall for these vehicles for 2010 through 2019 models. This same dealer did not mention this to me at the time of sale, that they had been subject to a recall, and since I did not have them inspect the car immediately after service (I had to miss work and my son drove me after he was off work and I feared they would close before I arrived so I had them park the car outside and the sales desk had the key). I thought I would drive it but after reflection I do not want to endanger other people if my brakes fail. This is a clear violation of the public trust that these cars are yet on the road.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHEROctober 1, 2025
My 2013 Toyota Prius has a failed inverter/converter assembly, including the Intelligent Power Module (IPM). This component is critical for vehicle operation and designed to last the life of the car. Premature IPM shorting and inverter failure is a known defect acknowledged by Toyota through multiple recalls and service campaigns for other VINs with the same part number. My vehicle is giving codes P0A94 and P0A1A which are also listed in the recalls for other Prius models of similar age. My vehicle experiences the same failure, yet Toyota has denied goodwill coverage, claiming “insufficient service history.” Routine maintenance like oil changes and brake inspections does not affect this component, making the denial unreasonable. There is nothing to service on the inverter. This defect poses a serious safety risk, sudden inverter failure caused total loss of power while driving and loss of power steering, it was difficult to pull my car off the road. This poses a danger to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. Toyota’s exclusion of my VIN from coverage leaves me financially responsible for a known safety defect. I request NHTSA to investigate Toyota’s handling of inverter/IPM failures, the denial of goodwill assistance for affected VINs, and ensure that Toyota addresses this life-threatening defect consistently across all affected vehicles instead of narrowing the scope on who gets coverage when this is a dangerous electrical malfunction.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMSeptember 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The contact stated that he and his wife were in the vehicle during the failure, and the vehicle was almost crashed into. The contact stated that he and his wife were left stranded in oncoming traffic. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a computer failure and that the inverter converter assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,421.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 7, 2025
I am experiencing the issue described in the BRAKE BOOSTER AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLIES recall issued by Toyota for the Prius, which for me ended in 2023. The vehicle is unsafe to drive without performing this $4000 repair (dealer cost), which is almost more than my car is worth. Toyota should issue another extension for the repair coverage since they are known to be faulty. The previous recall and extension of the recall can be found here: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEJuly 29, 2025
failure of the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter assembly
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICJuly 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated there was a constant beeping sound while attempting to depress the brake pedal while slowing down. Additionally, the brake pedal was very firm, requiring added for to be depressed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the brake booster assembly, brake master cylinder, and the brake booster pump were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 119,000.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 23, 2025
A very common issue with 2012-2015 models caused by a defective part that causes the brake fluid to leak into the brake actuator causing an eventual DTC C1391 error code that Toyota previously had a recall and warranty on the parts. ABS has failed, traction control is non-responsive and the brake light is on. This is an issue that Toyota was previously aware of and only recently discontinued their “extended” warranty for the failed parts - despite this occurring in the upper mileage life of the car. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 21, 2025
There has always been this ringing sound when releasing the brakes. I had it looked at and was told there was no issue. Then while driving it felt like the brakes locked and all of the sensors came on the dashboard. I had those scanned and was told they were sensor issues but car started driving/braking ok. Few days later everything locked up. I can’t push the brake at all. I was told the Brake Booster Pump Assembly with Accumulator was shot. So i began research and saw hundreds of complaints for the exact thing in my make and model and year. This could have killed someone had it happened on a highway. This should be a recall, major issue that numerous are experiencing.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESJuly 18, 2025
While driving on Highway 316E on March 31, 2022, at approximately 10am, at some point, as traffic started to slow down and I applied my brakes I was dumbfounded when my car would not stop! It was frightening, as I watched my car get closer and closer to the large truck in front of it. I kept applying the brake and then pumping the brake. The brakes kept failing and had no pressure or tension in them to stop the car. The brake pedal was flat on the floor. But, thanks to a sufficient distance between my car and the truck in front of it, it rolled to a stop just short of crashing into the back of said truck by an inch or two. Sometime in October of 2024 , I spoke with a Service Rep at Marietta Toyota about a whizzing sound that appeared to be coming from under the hood on the driver’s side. This sound would occur while I was driving and even when I turned the car off. It would continue making this whizzing sound sometimes for as long as 45 minutes after the ignition was turned off. I took the car back to Marietta Toyota and the service rep said the problem was related to the weather. On December 24, 2024, at around 11:00am EST, I parked my car in the parking lot in front of a print shop. The weather was clear, and the pavement was dry as I pulled my car into a clean, unfettered spot. Upon returning to my car, I could see a fresh puddle under the front passenger side. I ran my finger across the liquid that presented itself as a clean, thin oil that was as smooth as silk. It was odorless and sat in a pristine area looking freshly run out from the underside of my car. On February 27, 2025, when driving in the middle lane on Highway I-20 West, the ABS warning lights came on my dashboard screen along with the image of a skidding car. I was frozen with fear and did not know what would happen next. I would have to cross over multiple lanes to exit off Highway 1-20. I put on hazard lights and drove at 25-35 mph. Took car in for diagnostic and repair.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 6, 2025
For last 4 years i have been noticing a hissing sound when brake pedal is pressed. At first it was unclear to me where it could be coming from, and no indicator light has triggered. I have brought this to the attention of toyota dealership when i first noticed it and the individual couldn't really make out what it was. The sound has now gotten worse, and upon further studies i am learning that there was indeed a recall pertaining to the brake booster and actuator, but my car for some reason is not included. This is a major safety issue and i expect toyota to help resolve. Please help.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 1, 2025
Recently the dash board lights started intermittently coming on. When they are on, the brakes do not work until pressed all the way to the floor and even then the car takes a long time to stop. The lights will randomly turn off and suddenly the car brakes work normally again. It is happening intermittently with no rhyme or reason as to when it will happen. It's scary to drive because I dont know if the brakes will work or not and I almost ran into another car when trying to stop at a stop light. I took the car to be inspected at the Toyota service center for $190 and after inspection they said the brake booster and master cylinder assembly need to be replaced and it will cost $2300.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINEJune 28, 2025
Pulled out of the driveway drove about a 100 ft heard large clunking sound front end dropped down as if there was a flat tire pulled off the highway drove through the grass 100 ft back to my home the car started smoking from the engine compartment and burst into flames. Tried to extinguish with fire extinguishers and water hose while calling 911. Fire Department extinguished the fire. Car is a complete loss. There was an oil leak trail from where the car first drop down through the grass. The car did not have a previous oil leak. The car had 300,000 miles on it. No one was injured.
Fire reported
NHTSA #11669902SERVICE BRAKESJune 26, 2025
Break booster issue. Car only has 63,465 miles. Toyota has received reports about certain internal malfunctions of the brake booster. Problem is, not many have had luck getting the part covered because it's likely that the problem does not commonly present itself until after the warranty expires.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 24, 2025
The ABS system has failed, and I have to pony up $3000 + for repair, since the warranty extension from Toyota has expired - 10 years since first use (even though I have only had it for 5 years). I have less than 150,000 miles on this car, which is the the other parameter for service coverage for this problem. Toyota knows these parts fail, and they extended the warranty, BUT there is no recourse if your car is over the 10 year limit, even if under the mileage limit. it is a safety issue and should be addressed no matter the age of the car. I can't afford the cost of repair and so will gamble on not needing to use the antilock brakes.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 19, 2025
Require replacement of brake booster pump, decreased braking ability
SERVICE BRAKESJune 18, 2025
My prius have a scan code: C1391 and my brakes don’t work good i almost crash. And I traying to see what happen online but i see hundreds and hundreds, of prius with this problems, you need to do something and do a Recall. This is a recurring problem with Prius models, and they never do anything about it. It seems like Toyota is paying someone not to do the recall.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 16, 2025
6/12/25 I'm driving my 2013 Prius w 123K m through a construction zone. The road became bumpy and when I depressed the brake nothing happened. Thinking I must have hit air or be imagining things I tried the other pedal. The acceleration re-oriented me to the fact that my brakes were non-existent. Many lights I've never seen illuminated on the dash as I looked into my mothers eyes to say we had no brakes. I was somehow able to pull safely. After the initial loss of braking I discovered I had a small amount of stop if I put the pedal on the floor. The closest local shop thought most of the internal braking system related to the pump and actuator would need to be replaced but requested I get an opinion from Toyota. At drop off I had requested they top off the brake fluid, despite their informing me that was never necessary. Perhaps this repressurized the system because upon visiting the car all dash lights were off and the brakes felt normalish. The shop did not know why. This is my only transportation.At 9:30 in the AM 6/14/25 I proceeded to the closest Toyota dealership w the safest direct route slowly with hazard lights and lots of space from other cars. While waiting for diagnosis I discovered this exact issue was a known defect and had been the subject of a class action lawsuit and customer service bulletin of which i had no notice. Since 2022/2023 the car had been briefly and consistently losing traction over minor bumpy conditions. Without notice of the issue I had no way to know this was a precursor to Total brake failure. This car was serviced at 3 Toyota dealerships during the extended warranty authorized by the CSB. I was never apprised of the potential issue, and expressly requested a list of recalls related to my vehicle at Lumberton Toyota in 2022 which they refused to provide. I therefore googled recalls, but this issue was not a recall. I have never heard of a CSB. Two Toyota dealers quoted me the full price to replace the braking system, $3,273.94.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERJune 13, 2025
my 2013, Toyota Prius recently suffered a sudden hybrid system failure with DTC space P0A0F and a check hybrid system warning. This matches the symptoms described in NHTS a safety recall 20V369000. Your recall look up tool shows my Vin is not included. However, I have never received this recall repair, and my failure is identical to the documented safety issue. I am requesting help in getting Toyota to complete a goodwill repair or warranty extension review as this is clearly a safety related inverter failure for which Toyota has acknowledged responsibility and similar vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 2, 2025
Brakes failed to provide sufficient power to stop car. Towed to garage where FIXD was plugged in OPBD port and received code "C1391." Cost to replace parts and labor is $3,002.42.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 1, 2025
I wash my car at the car wash and when I got back in a bunch of the dash lights were on including the ABS light traction control and I had no brake pressure. I took it to the shop and they said my brake booster had failed and it was going to be $3,000 to fix it went out do I have any idea now okay
SERVICE BRAKESMay 31, 2025
My vehicle displays the anti-skid light when brakes are applied. I also hear a chirping noise and brake pump activation noise when the vehicle's brakes are utilized and as the vehicle is stopped. Information on the internet indicates this is a serious issue with the Prius Gen III brake system, requiring replacement of the hydraulic brake booster and pump. This brake failure should not be happening, and Toyota has already identified this problem. This Prius has been trouble free up to this point and has ~185,000 miles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERMay 29, 2025
Hybrid System fail safe. I was driving on the highway and the car started to slow down on its own. There were no warning signs. I was able to pull over in time. I turn my car off and when I try to start it, it stalled. I couldn't drive off. Three hours later Hybrid System Fail error appeared, stating for me to pull over. I could have gotten in an accident.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERMay 29, 2025
My electronic brake booster failed at just under 215000 miles, causing a brake line to snap. I now have to get the car towed 40 miles at my expense for a costly replacement of this major component, which Toyota already conceded was faulty by virtue of extending the warranty to 2023.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 29, 2025
Toyota defective ABS system- revised master cylinder&brake booster pump never changed by dealership except misleading inspection and breach of recall in 2020. The incident happened last year in Sep 2024 dangerous on hwy or freeway. Thank got I was on the side street with beeping vehicle and codes on the dashboard, barely with serious risk went back home! As a defective parts they should be replaced for free or customer should received reimbursement! A professional dealer who performs ONLY AN INSPECTION for a “recall” in 2020 should replace the factory-damaged part and not brazenly wait for the codes to appear on the dashboard, depriving the customer of free replacement of the factory-defective ABS system. "the complaint was originally filed over the Toyota hybrid system problems in Feb. 2020, presenting claims on behalf of owners of certain 2010 through 2015 Toyota Prius and Prius PHV, 2012 through 2015 Toyota Prius V, 2012 -2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid and Toyota Avalon Hybrid vehicles that contain the defective braking system" ... This complaint accuses Toyota of placing PROFITS before the lives and safety of hundreds of thousands of drivers and passengers whose brakes are defective, but must wait for the potentially life-threatening brake booster defect to occur before the manufacturer will address it. The lawsuit ; ;"presents claims of breach of warranties, false advertisement, illegal sales practices, fraudulent concealment, unfair and deceptive trade practices, unjust enrichment and various other allegations on behalf of hundreds of thousands of impacted vehicle owners across the nation". Similar problem with defective piston rings in my engine which was burning oil under 85-87k based on NEW WORLD ORDER which cost catastrophic engine failure in so many brands and models -2010-2025 Toyota is playing idiotic game about defective products/parts from Toyota Motor Corporation #8rebuild engine [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESMay 22, 2025
CODE C1391 - Brake booster assembly failure
SERVICE BRAKESMay 16, 2025
Last year, the brake light failure came on the dashboard. I brought the car to a repair shop they diagnosed the problem as a rusted brake line on the passenger side. Bill approximately $700 for the repair. Over the last weekend, I was driving near my home, and the same indicator lights came on. I drove home and when I got home, noticed that there was brake fluid on my garage floor. I checked the brake fluid level there was none detected. I filled it up with brake fluid and waited until the next day, and the level seemed stable. I started the car to bring it to a local repair shop. No more indicator lights were showing. The repair shop said it was the driver's side brake line that had rusted out. $400 for it to be replaced. I reported this to Toyota today. Reference Number #250516001403
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEMay 14, 2025
Vehicle warning lights for brakes, ABS and traction control all on while driving. Per mechanic, known problem on Prius and repair cost is $3-$5K. Covered by a prior customer support program but has expired. I have two Prius’s with the identical problem - bill will be up to $10K Error codes C1391, C1214
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEMay 14, 2025
Vehicle warning lights for brakes, ABS and traction control all on while driving. Per mechanic, known problem on Prius and repair cost is $3-$5K. Covered by a prior customer support program but has expired. I have two Prius’s with the identical problem - bill will be up to $10K. Error code C1391
SERVICE BRAKESMay 14, 2025
Brake accumulator suddenly failed in vehicle. Known issue from manufacturer
SERVICE BRAKESMay 10, 2025
the abs booster/master cylinder has failed due to an internal leak causing the accumulator pump to constantly run and sets a c1391 dtc. the brakes work poorly and has a stiff pedal feel. braking is definitely reduced. this issues has not been seen by any dealer, shop, or agency yet. I was a toyota certified Master Diagnostic Technician for years before i quit to be a stay-at-home dad and am more than qualified and capable to accurately diagnose this. in addition, toyota has a CSP out (ZGB) that covers this, but the coverage needs to be extended. this is a known very dangerous failure that should be covered for much longer. i did notice, what i thought was an over-frequent cycling of the accumulator pump, but since i had just purchased the vehicle, it was hard to tell how out of the norm it was.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 6, 2025
CODE C1391 for leak in brake accumulator pressure. All brake system lights flashed (e-brake, traction control, ABS).
SERVICE BRAKESMay 5, 2025
The brake booster pump assembly has been failed.everytime I tried to stop the. vehicle the brake pedal will go to the floor and it will take longer to stop the car. IT has been inspected by my mechanic and conformed the problem
SERVICE BRAKESApril 30, 2025
failure of the brake booster system resulting in no ABS function, appears to be a common problem with this vehicle.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICApril 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH and depressing the brake pedal to slow for a traffic sign, the vehicle was not slowing down. The contact pumped the brake pedal several times before the vehicle slowed down. The contact stated that an unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the brake booster and brake actuator had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEApril 9, 2025
The brake booster assembly (part number 47070-47060) on my 2013 Toyota Prius has failed. This component is critical to the proper functioning of the braking system. It is currently still installed in the vehicle and available for inspection upon request. As a result of the failure, the ABS warning light, traction control light, and brake warning light are all illuminated on the dashboard. The braking performance has noticeably declined — the pedal feels inconsistent and at times unresponsive. This has created a significant safety risk while driving, especially during sudden stops or in wet conditions, as it compromises the vehicle's ability to brake efficiently and predictably. The issue has been confirmed by a Toyota dealer (or independent mechanic if that’s the case — feel free to change this line accordingly). The dealer diagnosed the issue as a failure of the brake booster assembly, which aligns with known failures reported by many other 3rd-generation Prius owners. The vehicle has not been involved in an accident, and has not been inspected by the police or insurance representatives. Toyota previously issued a Customer Support Program (CSP ZJB or ZG1) covering this part, but it has since expired. I only recently began experiencing symptoms and was unaware of the CSP until after contacting Toyota. Prior to the warning lights, I experienced intermittent symptoms such as a soft or delayed brake pedal, and an unusual sound from the brake system when the vehicle was turned off. The warning lights first appeared around [insert approximate mileage or date here], and have remained illuminated since then. Given the safety-critical nature of this component and the known defect history, I am requesting assistance from Toyota in the form of goodwill coverage or reimbursement, and would like this issue escalated for further review.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESApril 9, 2025
The abs system and brake lights started showing on my dash and when I put my foot on the brake it makes a noise and the car shakes hard to brake when to the mechanic they said is the abnormal leak acc pressure code c1319
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEApril 3, 2025
There was a driver side collision and the airbags did not deploy. Brakes do not slowly apply they slam down causing vehicle to slide/skid in emergency braking, ABS does not function properly. The dealership recently did an appraisal (4/2/25) on the vehicle that states “Lost communication with side airbag sensor LH, Side airbag sensor LH initialization incomplete, front speed sensor RH & LH circuit, and D- Door Motor ECU communication stop”. Insurance company inspected vehicle after crash, and there was a police report filed. There were no warning indicators prior to incident or after.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11652650SERVICE BRAKESMarch 31, 2025
ABS, Brake, and Traction Control light came up had dealer review these and got error code C1391 and P0441. Initially they said its covered by Toyota customer service program which covered upto 150k miles as my vehicle only has 98k miles. Later they said only 10 years from the vehicle service which ended in 2023 and quoted $4500 to fix. Previously i asked them to check before expiration since it was not showing consistent light on they could not fix it. Reading through several forums it seems like consistent issue should have been included in recall not customer support program.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 27, 2025
While driving on the highway at ~70 mph, the brakes just gave out and I narrowly escaped crashing into someone as I drove into the median having been unable to stop in the expected distance. The ABS light just came on and apparently it’s a very known issue that Toyota is refusing to fix or intimate owners. I have been going to the same dealership for 12+ years and never had this brought up by them.
AIR BAGSMarch 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's vehicle was involved in a head-on collision. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle had not been inspected for damages. The contact was transported to the local medical center. The contact sustained injuries such as a fractured sternum and a fractured left foot. The contact received treatment and the local medical ctr for a total of four days and then transferred to a primary care facility. In addition, the contact was receiving continued treatment. A Police report was filed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 73,761.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11649711SERVICE BRAKESMarch 20, 2025
Was driving on the freeway and 3 dash lights lit up. found out the brake accuator is failing. apparently this is a known issue for toyota priuses.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 12, 2025
It was raining when I drove my 2013 Prius to pick up my daughter from school on March 11, 2025. I suddenly felt the brake of the car was very weird, it was hard to stop at the stop sign, and when I stepped the brake paddle I had to make more effort to control the car to stop. The brake light and ABS light were both on. I drove the car to the local dealer next morning they said the brake booster with master cylinder & pump assembly need be replaced, and it was cost over $4000. I did research and found it was a common problem for Prius but Toyota did not do a recall, instead the customer repaired program has expired on 2023. It is very dangerous for this situation.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 9, 2025
The brake actuator has stopped functioning properly in my 2013 Toyota Prius that has 124,000 miles. NHTSA is welcome to inspect my car. I took my car to a Toyota Service Center because of a noise that cycles every 15 seconds. The mechanic said the noise "is in fact coming from the accumulator of the brake boosters." He said it's kind of like a battery--it may go out tomorrow or next year and it would be $3,957 for the job, but recommended to wait until it completely goes out. I was shocked he said this when I later read online this is a very dangerous problem that should not be ignored and should be fixed right away. I learned that Toyota issued an extended warranty for this known problem yet my car is not eligible because it's been more than 10 years. No warning lamps or messages have appeared. I'm afraid to drive my car and would never have bought it if I'd known how frequently this happens in this generation of Prius. I can't even sell it in its current state because no one will want to pay a $4,000 repair cost.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 8, 2025
Failure of ABS module and actuator..Known problem with Prius
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 2, 2025
Toyota did a voluntary recall on the brake booster pump on this particular model when I inquire at the dealership about it they said that it has expired and refuse to fix the recall issue I did not know a recall can't have an expiration date especially when it can cause an accident
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 28, 2025
The brake booster and ABS system failed requiring replacement of the entire system. A Toyota dealer service center examined the vehicle and deemed it unsafe to drive until the repairs were made. It was held for months due to part availability.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 27, 2025
A well documented issue on the brake booster and master cylinder developing leaks and requiring replacement effecting Gen 3 Prius models well before the parts should show such issues. known to toyota under customer support program ZJB but arbitrarily limited by VIN batches and time span leading to me and it seems many others being hung out to dry
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 24, 2025
Brake booster and pump failing. Traction light, brake light, and ABS light all came on at once on February 23. 2025. I brought my car to a Toyota dealership the next day and paid for a diagnostic. I was told the brakes could give out at any time if I do not get the parts listed above replaced. This is a danger to me and to others on the road. I was told the parts would take a few days to get ordered and I was quoted $3490.60. I was informed that Toyota was repairing these for free if the problem occurred within 10 years of manufacturing (2023) or under 150,000 miles. Unfortunately it has been 12 years but my car is under 100,000 miles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 24, 2025
The hydraulic break pump system failed, causing my brakes to go out for a minimum of 10 seconds while I was driving. It put me and my passenger at risk for collision until they abruptly came back on but weren’t working well. The vehicle has been inspected by toyota itself, and there were no warning lights until the system itself failed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERFebruary 21, 2025
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WHEELSFebruary 14, 2025
purchased tires at walmart auto care center in 2019 at 2770 E. Carson St. Lakewood, 90712, +15624298137. the warranty shows they should last at least 40000 miles. the tires worned out (by walmart auto care center staff on 11/2024) at 27000 miles. Walmart has not worked with me to replace these defective low quality tires (viva3 brand) and i am in a dilemma as i am unable to replace them now. I am [XXX] and [XXX] and i use my vehicle for doctors, pharmacy and errands for my daily survival. thanks INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 14, 2025
On 2/14/2025 I brought my 2013 prius into a third party mechanic because all the brake warning lights came on while driving. After inspection the mechanic informed me that there was a vehicle service bulletin about the brake booster and brake booster system that Toyota sent out in September 2020. It states that models made between 2012-2014 may exhibit a condition where the brake ABS and/or on track lights are on and it is caused by a small internal brake fluid leak inside the brake booster assembly with master cylinder. Toyota placed an extended warranty on the part. They state that if the vehicle had the abs light come on for this reason they would fix it if and only if it fell within 150,000 miles or ten years from the first driven part. I have been told if the issue is not addressed it could caused brake failure, the repair is upwards of $3000. I have contacted Toyota to open a case and will be taking the car to a Toyota dealership but Toyota is not taking any responsibility for the faulty part even when they know it is an issue because they say it fell outside of the extended warranty. I need Toyota to be held accountable and for not addressing a known issue with the their product. This is not an issue with wear and tear, it caused by a faulty part on their part and just because the issue became apparent after their cut off does not mean they are not liable. The car has 125,000 miles on it, I was never made aware that there was an issue with the part, received no communication until I brought it into a mechanic who researched it.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 5, 2025
Inverter and brake booster
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 3, 2025
In less than 30 days after having bought the car, the brake booster system went out and the dealer is requesting I pay despite this being apart of the massive Prius recall
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEJanuary 22, 2025
My car is at 89K total miles and last week I had three warning lights pop up on my dash (Traction control, brake, ABS) which indicates something wrong with the automatic break system. My car is under 100K miles and I purchased it used in 2016, under ten years ago, and this problem is way too early to happen in my make an model. I got a code read on the issue (C1391) which indicates that my ABS Actuator is leaking/broken, a major safety issue as it happened as I was driving. Again, this should not be typical as I only drive a few miles per day on average.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 11, 2025
BRAKE BOOSTER REPLACEMENT ZJB CODE HUST STARTED TO LIGHT UP. COME TO FIND OUT THHERE WAS A PROBLEM THAT BEING REFERED TO AS A CUSTOMER SERVICE NOTICE OR SOMETHING AND I'M BEING TOLD TOYOTA WILL NOT COVER THE REPLACEMENT BECAUSE THE TIMEFRAME HAS EXPIRED. IF THE LIGHT HAD COME ON TWO YEARS AGO THEY WOULD HAVE. I'M READING FROM OTHERS THAT THEY HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND HAVE HEARD OF REPAIRS COSTING UPWARDS TO $5000.00, THAT IS CRAZY. IS THIS LEGAL FOR THEM TO DO AS IT IS A MAJOR MANUFACTOR PROBLEM EFFECTING THE BRAKING OF THE CAR?
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 23, 2024
the vehicle exhibits several warning lights on the dash including ABS, VSC brake and handbrake. Diagnosed code as C1391 which toyota had released a bulletin to admit this issue, but they don’t make a recall instead of only repair it when occurred within their limited time line. now my vehicle falls in their bulletin scope but out of their “warranty “ scope. and quoted for thousands of repair. as a matter of fact, this put me at a great risk in driving it. and toyota didn’t make a public recall to solve this problem.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 10, 2024
Brake booster and actuator failure.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 19, 2024
Parking brake and ABS lights are on. According to internet research it is a common problem amongst Toyota Prius Brake Actuators
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 14, 2024
Hello, This is not only ridiculous but not unacceptable alert what Toyota did to customers under certain age of Prius 2010-15, Camry hybrid 2012-2014 and Avalon hybrid 2013-2015 They “inspected” my vehicle at the dealership in 2020 during the recall but they did not replaced defective parts (master cylinder & brake booster pump) from Japan. In September I could easily crash my vehicle. This is dangerous for customers and drivers especially in Uber & Lyft. Headquarters should be easily informed by you about it I fixed and send receipts to lovely Toyota- Idiota but they reacted with no responsibility of reimbursement. [XXX] Thanks for your attention! [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 10, 2024
I was driving on the highway. All of a sudden abs light, brake light and traction control light came up on my screen. Car lost braking efficiency and I almost crashed into the vehicle in front of me. It was within inches from crash. Found out it was the brake booster and the brake booster pump. Both these parts had been under extended warranty by Toyota unbeknownst to me. Never received any warranty letter or anything from Toyota. I contacted them but since our car has more tha 150,000 miles and over 10 years old they will not cover
2 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11624400SERVICE BRAKESNovember 7, 2024
I need a replacement of my Full booster brake pack and there have class action lawsuits associated with this exact problem.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 6, 2024
When the brake pedal is depressed, it occasionally emits a loud squeaking sound. I recently took the car to a nearby dealership (Ourisman Toyota in Chantilly, VA) for inspection, where the service advisor informed me that both the Brake Master Cylinder and the Hydraulic Brake Booster Pump require replacement. Here’s the detailed diagnosis: 1) Hydraulic Brake Booster Pump: The master cylinder/brake booster assembly is leaking pressure internally and requires replacement. 2) Updated Booster Pump: The updated part for the booster pump requires it to be replaced in tandem with the new master cylinder. The repair cost was estimated about $3,700.00 The advisor warned that if this brake component fails while driving, it could cause the brakes to lock up, posing a significant safety risk. Despite this being a well-known issue among 2010-2015 Prius owners, Toyota has yet to initiate an official recall for this part.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 4, 2024
Brake booster and actuator failing. Internal leaks.
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 28, 2024
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Hydraulic Brake Booster Pump Failure with code C1391: Abnormal internal leak in the accumulator. Inspection was performed by Certified Toyota Dealer : Anaheim Toyota, 1331 N Euclid St, Anaheim, CA 92801 on 10/28/2024. This is a known issue to Toyota, with Toyota Customer Support Program ZJB. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Per Toyota Certified Inspection, the Hydraulic Brake Booster Pump is an electric pump used to assist in applying the brakes. Without the brakes, the vehicle cannot be stopped. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Issue was verified by a certified Toyota Dealer : Anaheim Toyota, 1331 N Euclid St, Anaheim, CA 92801 on 10/28/2024. Additionally, this is a known issue to Toyota, with Toyota Customer Support Program ZJB. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, Toyota Customer Advocates notated to get the vehicle inspected by a certified toyota center, which was done. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? When driving on the freeway, suddenly, the braking jolted and felt off and the ABS light, traction control, brake light, brake system warning light, master warning light appeared. Additional Information: Per Toyota on 10/28/2024, 3:00pm PDT Representative: Stephanie, that Toyota is unwilling to do anything as it is not a safety recall.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEOctober 22, 2024
Took car in for repair because all the warning lights are on. The repair shop quoted $1200 for Anti lock braking actuator system which is defective. This is a huge safety issue and a costly repair from Toyota.
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 11, 2024
The car has been making an intermittent buzzing sound that I now have had diagnosed as a failing Brake Booster Actuator. This part is integral to safely stopping the car. Though the actuator has apparently been failing for months, there have not been any DTCs associated with it. I now find that there was a Customer Support Program regarding this issue which has since expired. It is referred to as "Customer Support Program ZJB" and it refers to T-SB-0024-19. Had I been notified of this, I would have had the brake issue corrected before the program expired.
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 6, 2024
Brake Booster failed last February 2024 while driving. The mileage at that time was around 89,270. Found out there was customer service support program for this issue that run through 2023. Since I bought the car used from Honda of Capitola (2018), I didn’t get any notification or unaware of this CSP. And the issue came out only this year. Had I know about this letter, I could have this inspected by Toyota. This is very unusual to have a brake booster failed with less than 100K. Called Toyota for assistance but they said I’m passed the CSP service date. Paid $3343.22 to have the car fix last 3/27/24. There should be a recall of this problem as more and more Toyota owner are still having this same issue. Thank you.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 14, 2024
Driving on the highway at 70mph my warning lights for my ABS, traction control, and other brake related warning lights came on. My brakes became soft and hard to stop the car. Immediately brought to dealer who said that my booster accumulator was leaking and needed to replace both the accumulator and pump for over $3,500. This is a know. Issue with Toyota because they have a service bulletin that they wouldn’t honor because my car is more than 10 years old. This is a serious issue and someone is going to get badly hurt.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 14, 2024
Immobilized failure due to combination of brake hose failure preventing hybrid control/shift actuator. Hybrid steering lock became disengaged and could not communicate with the certification ecu due constant power being disabled due to complete main body failure. Hybrid system cannot go back into park however ecm side did. Ecm was not receiving power as dealer coded main body as a plug in hybrid effectively disabling fuel systems (including emissions/fuel safety) causing full misclassification in the smart key certification process. Car starts, goes into ready and disables LIN comms alongside cutting main relay due to tailgate and fuel constant powers being cut while driving.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11614548SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 8, 2024
While driving my brake light, ABS light, and traction(?) light all came on at once. The brake felt like it had resistance and I have to push it a lot harder than normal to stop. I took it to get a diagnostic ran and received the code C1391. After looking more up for this, this is a very known issue for Priuses and I was never made aware of it. This is a safety concern for all Prius drivers and nobody is made aware until it becomes an issue.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 7, 2024
Getting a C1391 brake module /ABS failure
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 3, 2024
On the way home from a family vacation, the brake warning light, ABS warning, and swerve warning lit up on our 2013 Toyota Prius's dashboard. It was evening already, and with only a few miles to go we continued toward our home. While driving at approximately 50 mph, a red light appeared around a bend. I hit the brakes, a little hard, but certainly with enough time to safely stop. The brakes completely locked and the tired screeched and let off smoke, while the back of the car fishtailed around until we were sideways. It was terrifying. I believe the anti-lock brakes failed, and when they seized up it caused loss of control of the vehicle. Fortunately, no other vehicle was in the left turning lane, where we ended up, and we did not pass into the intersection. No one was hurt, but we could easily have been if not for good luck. I have noticed that the Toyota Prius has had a number of warning and warranty extensions due to brake actuator [XXX] ) and that several class-action lawsuits are underway. We would like to report our problem for the safety of others. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 2, 2024
C1391 code at 148000 miles - just as others have reported. Quoted 3,500+ for the fix, Dealership said it was out of warranty and thus no help could be provided. The Code reads for a bad Brake Booster Assembly.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 17, 2024
Brake actuator needs replaced. Yes please inspect. You have my permission for further review. My safety was put at risk since I was traveling 70-75 mph when my dashboard lit up with warnings. I tried braking and the brake was extremely hard to the touch and required a lot of force to even slow down and stop the car. Just making it home was dangerous. I almost ran into the garage wall since braking is extremely difficult and unresponsive. It hasn't been reproduced or confirmed yet with dealer or mechanic but everything suggests it's this from other accounts online. Toyota refuses to honor faulty part that is rampant in this generation model. The warning lights appeared as soon as it happened out of nowhere. All of these lit up on the dash all at once: brake, ABS, Skid, and the tire pressure icon. My car was making strange wheezing noises in the week or two prior to this happening. I think that is a symptom it will soon fail.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEMAugust 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH and pulling out of the driveway, while attempting to depress the brake pedal, excessive amount of force was needed to depress the brake pedal. The contact stated that the braking distance was extended, and the vehicle was jerking while stopping. The contact stated that the ABS, Brakes, and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the hydraulic brake booster pump actuator and accumulator had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer confirmed related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program under NHTSA ID Number: 10181735 (Equipment Adaptive/Mobility, Equipment, Service Brakes) however the vehicle was no longer covered for the repair. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in the Customer Service Program. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report. The failure mileage was 133,000.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 12, 2024
malfunctions of the brake booster and brake booster pump assemblies
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 9, 2024
Dashboard lights came on today, 8-9-24, indicating Brake Accuator Failure in my 2013 Prius. When I took my 2013 Prius to a dealership for service in April 2024 with mileage of 118,000, I informed them of the noise symptoms I experienced which apparently are a precursor to Brake Accuator failure. I even played them a video in which you can clearly hear these noise symptoms. I was not aware of this issue as I have never received correspondence from Toyota regarding this problem, although I now know a Warranty Enhancement Notification ZG-1 was supposedly sent out. I have not moved in 20 years and should have received this notice. Because the dashboard lights were not on at the time of the April 2024 service visit, and having no idea that the extended warranty window of under 150,000 miles or 10 years had closed on 12-31-23, the dealership would not even consider repairing the Brake Accuator issue. Even though this was a known issue by Toyota, and a dangerous safety issue, they will not provide unlimited free warranty repair. Add to that the prohibitive and unreasonable cost to repair this issue (anywhere from $2000 to $4000) for a car which is 10 years old, and for many is completely out of their monetary reach, is absurd. Even more importantly are the lives put in danger if the brakes go out while at high speed. Toyota should be forced to address this problem and resolve it immediately!
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 5, 2024
On August 3rd, 2024 my 2013 Toyota Prius lost power brakes at INTERSTATE SPEEDS. This put a number of lives, including my own, at risk. The computer program on the car appears to have been programmed to give operators a "death threat" by initiating a PROGRAMMED LOSS of power braking on the vehicle. There were a number of brake warning lights and an Audible Continuous beeping. When I moved over into the exit ramp from the interstate and applied my brakes this is when it was evident that power brakes were no longer available. I drove the car to a parking lot very close by and let it sit and checked my brake fluid but the brake fluid level was good. After this occurrence the power brakes returned to sufficient operation and have been in operation for approximately 2 days now with many display lights about brakes on the dash and the same audible beep is present. The brakes lights on the dash have been on since approximately November 2021 (2013 model car not even 10 years old of usage at that point). This is a safety risk that Toyota appears to have attempted to mitigate financial losses by having the customers that were not covered by their "customer care" program be the ones to pay exorbitantly high prices for the repair of this item in order to better balance and reduce their own financial loss for this mechanical problem. Toyota appears to have conscientiously reduced the number of cars that they offered to help repair financially under their customer care program. Their repair program went to 10 years since the date of first use or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. It is unreasonable to expect that these cars will end their usage life at 150,000 miles and can be reasonably expected to be non-usable at that point. There are many vehicles that go past 150,000 miles of use and also past 10 years of use.
AIR BAGSJuly 17, 2024
Traveling approximately 15mph I collided with a full size truck the front end of my car totaled. I was wearing my seat belt and air bags did not deploy causing me to hit the steering wheel with enough force to fracture my sternum. This is the 2nd time a frontal impact occurred causing damage to the front bumper and air bags did not deploy.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11602955SERVICE BRAKESJuly 17, 2024
2013 with 128000 miles, brake pump and accumulator for ABS failed, all sensors are on. Pedal is shaking when pressed, called Toyota South Coast in California, have told the extended warranty expired on 28 December 2022, what a joke, right on 10 years it means. But car has been driven less than 12k miles until today. This brake issue is a safety problem, cant use a used part which more likely will have the same issue. Not speaking of the labor of Dealership service, but having the original updated parts for over $1000 is a lame and Toyota USA should be shamed for this. Code C1391, T-SB 0024-19
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 9, 2024
The brake booster and actuator assembly has failed at 130000 miles, within mileage and outside of time frame of limited recall bulletin. No help from dealership with repair costs exceeding value of the vehicle and vehicle is unsafe to drive.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 8, 2024
As I was driving my vehicle, all lights related to ABS system came on and stayed on. This included the traction light, the ABS light, and the brake light. My brake pedal became much less responsive and took more pressure to activate the brakes in the car. If I had needed to brake suddenly, I don't know that my car would have stopped. I took it to the dealer and they said there is an abnormal leak inside the ABS accumulator.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESJune 30, 2024
While driving on the highway, ABS, "Brake"/E-Brake, Traction Control Lights lit up all at the same time out of the blue. No prior engine lights/codes before this incident. During that trip, brakes felt more difficult to press, loss all brake regeneration for the hybrid battery but was still about to brake for that entire 100 miles trip. As of now, the car is still able to brake but it looks like it's just primarily using the mechanical brakes all the time now. It still has that different brake feel compared to when before all those engine lights went on. Regenerative braking is no longer working. Brought the car to the shop at was given the error codes C1391 and C2315.
STRUCTUREJune 27, 2024
The clear coat failed despite regular wax and optimal storage. I have seen a few Toyota vehicles of this same color with clear coat failures.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJune 26, 2024
Head low beam lights no work
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESJune 22, 2024
I was driving and suddenly the car started beeping and the brake, e-brake, abs, and traction control lights came on. As soon as I found an opportunity I tried to brake but the car would not stop and the brake pedal became really hard. I had swerve to avoid hitting cars in front of me. It was the scariest moment of my life. I shifted the car from D to B to use the engine braking. I finally was able to slow down enough to turn right on a side Street and pushed on the brake pedal with all my strength and it finally came to a stop. I was lucky I didn't have a collision or strike a pedestrian, that I also drive defensively and leave enough space in front of me, and that I was on a surface street and not on a freeway which I frequently use because if I was I would have surely crashed. This is NOT right. Brakes should NOT suddenly fail! Under any circumstances. It was confirmed by a mechanic that it's the BRAKE BOOSTER AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLIES had failed and had the following codes C1252, C1253, and C1256 were found. The same issue and codes reported in tsb pol18-03.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 20, 2024
ABS brake failure (code c1391) occurred at less than 98,000 miles. Toyota will not cover cost despite being a commonly known failure.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEJune 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 to 10 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle, but the failure persisted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who replaced the battery on two occasions, but the failure reoccurred. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 173,699.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 29, 2024
2013 Prius lit up like a Christmas tree last night. Traction control, brake, and abs warning lights all came on at once. The brake feel really weird and luckily I was like 3 miles away from home
SERVICE BRAKESMay 10, 2024
Lost brakes on the freeway. Managed to pull over and get the car to a mechanic. He diagnose d the problem as the brake actuator pump.We then took the car to a Toyota dealership that confirmed the Diagnosis. I understand that the NHTSA is revisiting a complaint about the failure of this part. It cost me $3600 to have it repaired. I personally believe that Toyota should cover this as they have known the part was a problem.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 6, 2024
Brake booster failure; actuator and pump replacement needed.
SEAT BELTSApril 24, 2024
**What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? **How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? **Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? **Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? **Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT The passenger side seat belt became folded and stuck. It would not enable the person to pull it and attach it to the clasp. When my little boy did pull it in the clasp it was an extremely snug fit. I had 3 people try to unfold it. Finally someone had to slice it so that we could at least get part of it to work and go into the clasp. The shoulder strap did attach properly it is just the stomach strap that is not working properly. I brought it to the Toyota dealership to see: 1. If there were any recalls on it. 2. To see about getting it repaired. The dealer said that there were no recalls on that item and that it was indeed broken and it would cost over $500 to repair. I have not brought it the manufacturer. I don’t know where the manufacturer is located. Are they in Japan? The only warning signs were when the seatbelt was not properly attached because it did not properly fit on my passenger.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESApril 16, 2024
Took vehicle for state inspection on 2/13/2024, failed inspection because of brake warning lights. Slip indicator, Electronically controlled brake warning light, Brake warning light, Anti-lock brake system, and Low tire pressure lights are all on. I have looked into it, and it seems the brake actuator/booster used to be under warranty, however since this is a 2013 in 2024 with almost 210k miles on it, it no longer qualifies for the original recall.
SERVICE BRAKESApril 9, 2024
I was driving my 2013 Toyota Prius last week when my my dashboard lit up with the Brake, ABS, and Traction Control lights all going on simultaneously. Shortly thereafter, I attempted to brake, as a car stopped in my lane to make a left hand turn, and the brakes did not engage as they should. I had to press twice as hard for very limited braking; my braking distance increased substantially and I narrowly avoided hitting the turning car in front of me. I drove it directly to the dealership and they diagnosed it as a failure of the Brake Master Cylinder Assembly and Brake Booster Pump Assembly (code C1391). Upon further research, I found that Toyota had previously acknowledged the problem and issued a warranty extension (Customer Support Program ZJB) that covered up to 150,000 miles or 10 years. While my Prius is well below the mileage requirement, I am beyond the 10 year limitation by less than 6 months. By Toyota's own admission, the Customer Support Program covered approximately 946,100 vehicles. This part failure put the safety of those on the road in front of me—and me—at risk.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEApril 8, 2024
The 2013 pruis has developed the notorious brake booster fault triggering the brake light abs light and traction control light to stay illuminated. Toyota has many complaints about this brake booster issue and needs to recall and fix this issue as they have done on other Toyotas. This is leaving owners with a $2500 repair or having to take a big risk driving these cars with a big prevalent brake issue that Toyota needs to be held accountable for.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEMApril 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that after several days of torrential rainfall, the contact noticed there was water in the tire and 12-volt battery compartment. After having a routine oil change at an independent mechanic, while the contact was driving, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light illuminated after the failure. The driver was able to restart the vehicle and pull over to the side of the road. The contact called Roadside Assistance and was informed that there was a code for the hybrid battery system that needed to be checked. The contact noticed that water might have entered through the rear passenger’s side brake light. The contact removed the water with a sump pump. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who was unable to assist. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 21, 2024
While driving on a highway overpass, the brake booster system suddenly failed in my 2013 Prius on March 12, 2024. The vehicle displayed Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 1391, which is a known issue with Toyota Prius vehicles. Toyota offered an extended warranty for this repair that expired in August of 2023, admitting that their vehicles contained faulty parts. There have been several complaints about this known issue and an investigation needs to be reopened regarding this ongoing issue. Will someone from the NHTSA please start an investigation or facilitate in any way to get an investigation into to this reoccurring issue. Brakes matter and society is depending on government and corporations to be transparent and ethical. The FTC, BBB and Attorney General’s need to act on behalf of everyone in keeping our roads safe and holding Toyota accountable again. This is absolutely a major safety issue that should be covered by Toyota regardless of when it manifests.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 15, 2024
- The Hydraulic Brakes, or brake actuator, failed. I have taken it to my local mechanic and they confirmed. - My brakes are operating at a substantially reduced capacity - an emergency mode that only allows for the front brakes to work - Yes, my local mechanic confirmed the problem - It has only been inspected by my local mechanic - yes, several warning lights came on while I was driving.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 13, 2024
The brake pump which pressurizes the nitrogen accumulator kept cycling on more and more frequently until it was cycling on every 8 seconds after stopping while trying to maintain pressure in the automated brake system. Brake pressure began pulsating when applying brakes and was slowly becoming noticeably more unstable as time progressed. I could also hear a steady flow of fluid through the booster/master cylinder unit. This seems to be a common issue often being discussed online in forums like “Prius Chat”, an online car community describing the characteristics of the power brake system in this vehicle before it fails as well as with a number of online youtube mechanics replacing these units. It seems as though the solution is for dealerships to charge in many cases more than 4000 dollars to replace both the entire “Brake Booster Assy, w/Master Cylinder” and the “ Pump Assy, Brake Booster” as standard procedure. I believe it’s the ‘Brake Booster Assy, w/Master Cylinder’ unit causing the issue, I do all my own repair work on my vehicles and I partially disassembled the booster/master cylinder unit, upon removing the cover for the circuit board control unit integrated into the assembly I discovered evidence of an overheated or corroded circuit board. The soldered pins for the main bus connecting the wiring harness to the circuit board showed possible charing and discoloration as well as very dull colored soldered joints. This was also observed at the bottom of the circuit board as well. After replacing both assembly units in the vehicle the brakes work flawlessly again. I was told by the parts salesman at the local Toyota dealership that he had been selling a lot of these replacement units lately.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIRMarch 12, 2024
See attached document for complaint
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 11, 2024
Power brake, electronic systems around braking, brake actuator and assembly. Gradual degradation of brake power and resistance resulting in complete loss of power brakes system. Vehicle's brake system no longer works as designed. Vehicle has been inspected by technician. No warning lights or lamps in advance of total brake system shut down.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 7, 2024
Loss of brake function coming to a red light. 5 warning lights illuminated. Also noticed a noise that appears to be coming from the brake pump that is cycling every 3-4 seconds. 1) Masterv Warning Light. 2) Brake System Warning Light 3) Brake System Warning Light 4) ABS Warning Light 5) SLIP Indicator I have called the Toyota service advisor and will be getting a quote for repair. Apparently, I have found out that there is a class action inquiry that I would like to be included in.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 6, 2024
Several dashboard lights came on suddenly when braking. Upon speaking with the dealership it was determined that I experienced sudden brake actuator failure resulting in loss of braking power. Fortunately, it was not complete loss of braking or it could have been dangerous to myself and others on the road. Upon researching this issue, I have discovered that brake actuator failures are not uncommon in Toyota Prius models, and there have been numerous reports and complaints from other owners facing similar problems. This raises serious questions about the integrity of the brake system in these vehicles and the potential for widespread safety hazards.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 28, 2024
The brake booster system suddenly failed in my 2013 Prius. I was driving when the ABS warning light, the brake warning light, and slip indicator light came on. The brakes became soft and it was difficult to stop the vehicle. I had it towed to a local, independent mechanic and the entire brake assembly had to be replaced. Toyota offered an extended warranty for this repair that expired in August of 2023, admitting that their vehicles contained faulty parts. This is absolutely a major safety issue that should be covered by Toyota regardless of when it manifests.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 26, 2024
As I was driving, the ABS, Brake, and Traction Control lights all illuminated on my dashboard and have remained on since. I took the car into the dealership to get a diagnosis, and they told me that I had a accumulator leak and needed to repair my brake master cylinder and replace the brake booster pump assembly. This is apparently a known issue with Toyota Prius, as hundreds of others have discussed this in various forums.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 17, 2024
I am the joint title owner of a 2013 Prius. This complaint is Case # [XXX] at Toyota. Our [XXX] daughter has full-time use & possession of this vehicle. In her own words, this is what happened: “I was driving on the [XXX], about to merge onto the [XXX] in Los Angeles. This is an extremely traffic-heavy interchange. Approaching the stopped car in front of me, I applied my brakes. The brakes did not work properly. I had to press the brake pedal much harder than I normally do, & my car kept going for another two seconds or so before stopping. Three dash lights came on – ABS light, brake light, & light with the swerving car symbol. There was a ‘puffing’ type of sound from the brake pedal that lasted about a second, then stopped for about two seconds, then started again, & so on. That sound would come out of the pedal area regardless of whether I applied the brakes. Frightened by the brake failure, I pulled off the freeway in downtown L.A. I turned the car off & let it sit for a few minutes. When I turned it back on, the same three dash lights came back on, & the car was still not braking properly – still the delay, the need to press harder than usual, & the sound. I drove directly to my Toyota dealer. It was a 35-minute, nerve-wracking trip.” The dealer found "CODE C1391 ABNORMAL LEAK IN ACCUMULATOR." Cost of repair was $3,163.12. Note also that in 7/23, she had taken the car to the dealer with the "SAME sound" (her words) when braking. The dealer could not duplicate the problem. They did not conduct a brake test at that time. Online, I discovered that this serious safety issue had been raised in a previous petition, investigation, & customer support program that expired. This problem is the subject of a CURRENT, OPEN, NHTSA Action, # DP23005. Toyota knew of this problem, instituted a program due to safety risks from C1391, allowed the program to expire, & has left us at risk without warning. Our other daughter owns a 2014 Prius. This needs recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 15, 2024
I purchased this car July 14th 2023 from a dealership that wasn't Toyota for my daughter to go back and forth to school and as soon as we drove off the lot all kinds of lights came on I called the dealership asked what they were he acted like he didn't know what I was talking about so I've had it at a couple different shops finally Toyota looked at it the service manager let me know that there used to be a recall on the brake booster with master cylinder assembly and that that recall the extended warranty on it had expired I'm not sure how anything thats to do with safety expires when it's regarding your braking
ENGINEFebruary 13, 2024
I pushed on the gas, the car started mildly shaking under the hood( the engine) then I released my foot off the gas and the shaking ceased. I the. Attempted to accelerate again and the car started violently shaking so I released my foot from the accelerator and turned the car while coasting onto a side road where I traveled back home. Had the car towed to mechanic. He said the engine needs to be replaced as the pistons are damaged. My car has 196,000. I will have the engine replaced as my other 2012 engine just did the same similar thing and I am out two Priuses with blown engines. There were no warning lights and no previous issues or signs prior to the catastrophic events.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 2, 2024
ABS Brake Warning Light On-stays on-this just happened within last 2 weeks. Not sure on safety measures but unsure if I keep driving it the brakes will just give out. The problem has been confirmed and seen by Tire Max but no diagnostic tests were ran. The just saw the light was on. No one has inspected the vehicle component by the manufacturer, police, or insurance company. No warning lamps prior to the problem but the ABC Warning light stays on while cranked and it first appeared about 2 weeks ago. I do want to add that a similiar recall or warranty had been put out by Toyota on Sept 4th 2020-(T-SB-0089-20) for 2012-2014 Prius V & C stating: "Some 2012-2014 model year Prius V hybrid vehicles may exhibit a condition where the brake, ABS, and/or TRAC warning lights are on and/or a Check VSC message displays. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCS) C1391, C1252, C1256, C1253 may be stored. This condition may be caused by a small internal brake fluid leak inside the brake booster assembly with master cylinder. The warranty was for Prius V or C but my Prius(no V or C) has been affected with the same issue but Toyota will not honor this warranty or recall due to the problem not showing as specific to my vin#. So I am reporting this problem so it can be submitted that there is a similar problem with my Prius as well as the Prius V or C so others could submit their problem as well. I cannot afford to fix this myself. I need Toyota to back up their cars.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 26, 2024
ABS , brake. Anti lock lights
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 22, 2024
I was driving home on a busy street in Houston, TX on a clear day. I tried to slow down due to traffic & the following warning lights appeared on the dash: red brake system warning and yellow brake light, ABS, brake system warning light & the slip indicator light. Right after, I came to a red light & started to brake, the car felt like it was on ice and couldn't stop properly. Fortunately I didn't have to come to a complete stop because there were many cars in front of me and the light turned green. when I stopped applying pressure to the brakes the car sort of shook side to side. Each time I had to brake, the car felt like it was on ice, I had to put the hazards on & give myself a very large amount of room to stop the car. While at a red light I turned the car off/on; no change in the dashboard lights. I turned onto a street w/ less traffic; pulled over, turned the car on/off again and no change. I was less than a mile from home so I drove the rest of the way w/ my hazards on & never went faster than about 15 mph; even at that speed the car took too long to come to a complete stop, it felt like I almost had no brakes at all. Thank God I wasn't on the highway w/ no brakes!! This is a HUGE safety issue, someone could die or be seriously injured. Had the car towed to a Toyota dealership on Mon 1/15/24; they said there was a brake fluid leak in the master cylinder & malfunction of brake booster pumps, the code was C1391; both parts needed to be replaced. Total cost for repairs $3800. Had the car towed to a mechanic, paid $2600 for the same service. Per my research this is a known problem with this generation of Prius', Toyota offered an "enhanced warranty" to replace the parts if they were broken, but the dealer said my warranty expired in 2022. Why weren't owners made aware of this issue and warranty? I would have brought the car in for repair in the past if I knew there was a defect with the car. The car should be recalled.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 19, 2024
ABS, Brake, Trac warning, and brake lights turned on. When I used a diagnostic device, I read the code C1391 code. The brakes of the vehicle are not working properly. Upon my research, I found that several factors can trigger the C1391 code, including a faulty brake accumulator pressure sensor, low brake fluid level, brake system leaks, issues with the ABS pump/motor, or electrical problems within the brake system. This problem has many safety implications. The brake system is fundamental for vehicle control and stopping power. Any compromise in its performance poses a risk to the driver, passengers, and others on the road. Prompt action is necessary to investigate and rectify the root cause of the C1391 code to ensure the continued safety of affected vehicles. I think Toyota company should issue a recall for this faulty system.
STRUCTURE,WHEELSJanuary 15, 2024
The rear right wheel broke off when going in reverse, leaving driveway (low speed). Towed to a garage. Was told that the rear frame member had rusted through. Had no warning of this -- car is used regularly and had been inspected several months ago. EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED TO ANOTHER COUPLE WE KNOW WHO ALSO OWN A 2013 PRIUS -- rear wheel came off because the frame member rusted through. Happened about a month before ours. They too were going in reverse, slowly, coming out of a parking spot, after driving 40+ miles to Boston. Car needed to be towed and rear frame member replaced. Repair for us cost $1300
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,BACK OVER PREVENTIONJanuary 15, 2024
THIS VEHICLE NEEDS TO TAKE OFF FROM THE CONSUMERS DUE DOESN'T DRIVES PROPERLY HAS REAR MAJOR DAMAGE ALSO LEFT SIDE REAR DOOR THEY DIDN'T DID GOOD JOB ALSO THE HYBRID BATTERY SHOWS AT THE DASHBOARD IN N OUT ENGINE CHECK LIGHT. THE REAR FRAME BOUNCE BY THE SIDE IT'S UNSAFE. CAR TIME DEALERSHIP AT ONTARIO, CA DON'T CARE BE CAREFUL ALSO SOLD ME WITH STOLEN CA LICENSE PLATES THIS DEALERSHIP, IT'S SCAM. I DIDN'T KNOW LIKE TO SCAM CONSUMERS SINCE [XXX] GOT IT AND RETURN IT DUE REFUSE TO FIX IT RIGHT AND; THE BANK CANCEL THE TRANSACTION GLOBAL LENDING SERVICES BY ROSE BROWN GENERAL MANAGER EXT 51033 AT THE TELEPHONE THE BANK 877-538-2071 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash reported
NHTSA #11565590UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 11, 2024
While driving on the freeway, all of a sudden the ABS, Slip Indicator, Brake, and Brake System lights lit up on the dashboard. I immediately switched lanes to one that had no cars in front/back of me since I was going about 55mph. I tested the brakes since I saw the brake lights appear. It felt as though when the brake pedal was pushed, they didn't activate until you reached a certain point, almost to the point where the pedal needed to be fully pressed to stop. It didn't feel like the brakes were fully functional and behaving in the way they were prior to the lights appearing. I was afraid the brakes would give out. Then I noticed a whirling/hissing sound that was consistent. The sound was easier to hear when the car was at a complete stop but it could still be heard while driving. We took the car to a local Toyota dealership/service dept to get it evaluated. They diagnosed the car saying it needs immediate attention and is not safe for driving since it involves the brakes. The repair invoice stated VARIOUS BRAKE WARNING LIGHTS ON C1391.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 9, 2024
ABS, Brake, and Traction control lights are on alongside a constant beeping. I have lost regenerative braking and it now takes more effort upon the brake pedal to come to a complete stop. I am in fear that the brake system will go out completely, causing damage to myself or my children.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 21, 2023
Brake pump failed while on the highway. Brake functionality and braking distance changed drastically while driving high speeds. Dealer confirmed that the breaker pump and master cylinder must be replaced with a new assemblies. There was no recall for this failure, but a Toyota Customer Support Program for replacement of this brake assembly was active for reports of this failure only before April 2023. Toyota dealerships are not obligated to cover this replacement or make customer aware on any suspected vehicle unless the failure was present before April 2023. Warning lamps only appeared at brake pump failure - not before failure.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 14, 2023
BRAKE BOOSTER AND BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLIES. making a buzzing noise. cost to repair is estimated to be 2500 or more. Toyota even has a bulletin for it, but they did not inform the public, because the part is very expensive and difficult to fix on a prius. since it has expired, we are out of luck.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 5, 2023
The brake accumulator and brake actuator failed while driving and lost brakes. I had to step on the pedal very hard to avoid a collision. Check engine light C1391 came on
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESNovember 28, 2023
Brake system failure. Traction control light, brake light, abs light, and brake system warning light all lit up on dash. The regenerative braking is no longer working or charging battery. Obvious loss of stopping power. Does not feel safe to drive at all. Toyota wants $3,000-$4,000 for the repair. Toyota should be held liable for these failures causing crashes and potential fatalities. This should already be a recall.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNovember 17, 2023
Check hybrid system. Stop the vehicle in a safe place. About 90,000 miles 2013 Prius bought brand new and regular all dealer maintenance completed. Lost power on the road and very slow pickup. Not drivable and very unsafe car. Thanks.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 5, 2023
Factual Background: I purchased the vehicle on May 2, 2023, with approximately 61,000 miles on the odometer. On October 22, 2023, the vehicle displayed Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 1391, which is a known issue with Toyota Prius vehicles. Currently my vehicle currently has approximately 86,000 miles on the odometer. I first contacted Toyota on October 27, 2023, and spoke to Tier 1, Tier 2, and ultimately to a Tier 3 support representative. I was told that I could not escalate further, but that a supervisor would do a one business day call back. On October 30, 2023, I received a call back from a supervisor who escalated my case to the Executive Office. On October 31, 2023, I received a call from the Executive Office and asked for their address in order to file a formal complaint. On that very same day, I went to Peterson Toyota to have them confirm DTC 1391, which they did and my visit and paperwork is recorded within your internal system via Toyota Information System (1TIS) per the dealership. I am requesting that Toyota fix the known and now verified defective brake booster and brake booster pump in my vehicle at no cost to me, the consumer, pursuant to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and implied warranty of Toyota’s products. Again all of the details regarding my vehicle and its history are found on Toyota Information System (TIS). There have been several complaints about this known issue and an investigation needs to be reopened regarding this ongoing issue. Several class action lawsuits are getting settled before consumers have a chance to hold Toyota liable. Will someone from the NHTSA please start an investigation or facilitate in any way to get an investigation into to this reoccurring issue. Brakes matter and society is depending on government and corporations to be transparent and ethical. The FTC, BBB and Attorney General’s need to act on behalf of everyone in keeping our roads safe and holding Toyota accountable again. Too many people’s lives matter.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 3, 2023
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Brake Booster and Brake Booster Pump Assembly have failed. Part are available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Had trouble stopping on the highway and at intersections. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No. Problem happened before warning lights appeared. Later, problem was verified with error codes, dash lights, and sensation of brake action.
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 12, 2023
Brake booster defect caused ABS and brake light went on, thus we lost ABS while driving. Initially we heard noises while breaking in April 2023, told to change break pads. We went in to Toyota dealer again in Oct 2023, and diagnosed with brake booster problem, leaking gas inside. Toyota knew that its brake booster has a defect in design and has customer support program as a post failure solution vs recalls as a preventative measure. We were never informed about this customer support program regarding defect in brake booster. Toyota declined to repair saying my car already missed the time window (10 years since first use). Toyota should recall brake booster assemblies for Prius 2010-2015. In my case, due to delay in diagnosing this serious problem, I was put on a serious financial burden to pay for this repair ($2800 quoted by Toyota dealer). I was also put on a life threatening risk of driving a malfunctioning car for a long time without being informed. Since the beginning of this incidence, I’ve called Toyota four times and Toyota acknowledged that they did not inform me and Toyota dealer failed to make a proper diagnosis on time to repair.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 29, 2023
To whom may be concerned, The car I own is Toyota Prius 2013, it has the brake issue nearly a year: I can hear the brake booster pump works every 8 seconds, and the worse thing is the car is jump and has a longer brake distance when I step on the brake paddle. I even nearly had a incident at the intersection because the brake lag. I know Toyota has customer support program ZJB, and I also brought my car to Toyota Dealer. But they say they can replicate the issue. But according to the program, it must be some light on to be qualified. So now I have to take care of over $3000 bill by myself, otherwise I have to take a risk to drive my car with the brake issue. I searched online, there are a lot of customers have the similar issues like me. So Toyota has already known this issue, but why they just still wanna those cars running on the road, brake system is the most important part, it's Disregarding human life. Thanks for your time. Best Regards [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMSeptember 26, 2023
The brake actuator keeps buzzing every 3 seconds or so the entire time the car is on and even after I turn the car off and get out. The brakes make a wierd burping noise and the pedal depresses with each noise if I am stopped at a red light or stop sign with my foot on the brakes. All of the brake, abs, and traction control lights lit up. The regenerative braking is no longer working.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 23, 2023
I was driving around 65 miles per hour on the highway, when I suddenly feel my brake were not working properly. Brake light, abs and traction light were shown at the same time. I almost felt like it was kind of break failure. Break would only work if i push all the way to the floor.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 5, 2023
When the car was being driven on a surface road, the ABS, Brake and Traction lights came on. The brakes became stiff and hard to press. Braking was also slow. Car was traveling at less than 30 mph at that time When taken to the mechanic shop, and running diagnosis, the code came back to be C1391. The car has 113000 miles and purchased in July 2013.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICAugust 30, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he depressed the brake and heard an unusual sound, and the brakes was inoperable. The contact stated he was able to slow the vehicle down and stop by continuing to depress the brake. The contact stated that when the failure occurred, the ABS system, brake system, traction control, and an unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring for a year. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with brake booster failure, and the dealer provided the contact with the phone number for the Manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the manufacturer informed the contact that the Extended Warranty had expired on the ABS/Brake Booster. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at 35 MPH, when the contact's wife depressed the brake pedal, the brakes were inoperable and inadvertently all the warning lights illuminated on the control; however, the wife then let off the brake pedal and then depressed the brake pedal again and was able to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the wife was able to safely drive the vehicle to their residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed as having an ABS control module failure and needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; a case was filed, but the manufacturer provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHERAugust 22, 2023
"Cooling Performance of the Hybrid Battery is Low" warning light turns on every 4-5 months on my 2013 Toyota Prius. Apparently, Toyota issued a bulletin to Toyota Service Departments re: Engine/Hybrid System Section Hybrid/Battery Control System Market USA. This info was never disclosed and is costly to repair every 4-5 months due to excessive buildup of dust, lint, or debris in the HV battery intake filter or cooling fan. When it first went off in June 2022 my vehicle was still under warranty up to the two additional repairs in December 2022 and May 2023 (for which the Toyota Dealership repair department didn't provide me a ticket either time but made the repair), and again now (August 2023). This is an issue that could cause the battery to fail while driving. Additionally, this issue is highly inconvenient, expensive and highly concerning. This ongoing issue affects the safety and value of my car if this issue must be repaired every 4-5 months or "every 5,000 miles). This information was never made public to Prius owners I don't believe as I never received notice. I would've sold my car sooner had i known. Here is the Toyota DOcument I received on 8.21.23 from Marina Del Rey Toyota T-SB-0062-20 dated June 18, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMAugust 16, 2023
I was going on my way to work on the freeway at approximately 65 miles per hour, suddenly I felt as if my car shut off will driving and I lost power. I pressed on the gas Pedal as I was pulled into the emergency lane to the right of the freeway, the gas pedal did not work. I pulled to the side and I shut the car off. I waited about 20 minutes and I turned the car back on.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 14, 2023
Back in May 2022, my Toyota Prius experienced issues with the braking system. I lost braking power while driving, the brake experienced a loss of power and felt very squishy to press. I had my car towed to a nearby auto shop who examined the vehicle but could not resolve the issue and recommended I take the car to Toyota. This third party auto shop reset the computer diagnostic system and cleared the error codes. When I towed the car to Toyota, the braking issue had miraculously resolved - but without the active error codes - Toyota refused to make the extended warranty repairs to the braking system that are a widespread and known issue. I continued driving the car without issue until 8/13/23 where the brake lights went on while driving and the same squishy brake issue occurred again. Toyota looked into it and determined it was related to the extended warranty braking issue, but my cars extended warranty ended on 6/29/23 - just over 6 weeks ago. Toyota refused to honor the extended warranty even though the issue first occurred in May 2022. They estimated the repair would cost $3000. I would like to have Toyota honor their agreement to extend the warranties of this braking issue.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 8, 2023
Brake Booster Pump failed on August 5, 2023 in parking lot, as found by dealership in Marion, IL. ABS, Brake, and Traction lights were on. Vehicle has been properly maintained at dealership. Before that, the brake was making weird noises when depressed. When braking, it tends to lunge forward before slowing down. Dealer deemed vehicle not safe to drive. They showed me the primary and secondary warranty internal documents, up to 150K. My vehicle is at 150400. How could that 400 miles make any difference? But Toyota refused to cover the cost of repair at over $3000. It is clear Toyota and dealership know all along that there is an ongoing problem with their braking system. I am glad this did not happen on a highway. But other owners must be made aware of this ongoing safety issue. Something must be done to have this recalled. Many thanks for your inquiry and oversight of the issue.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 30, 2023
Have an issue with the Prius having the error code C1391. The dealership refuses to fix the issue since it's unsafe to drive with the brake failing. Need to replace the Brake Power booster and ABS Pump/ Motor; the total cost to get all this is quoted by the dealer as $3300
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 28, 2023
Brakes are failing intermittently . There was a recall but they say we missed the deadline.Brake booster is obviously defective makes noises constantly.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 28, 2023
The brakes on my 2013 Toyota Prius suddenly quit working normally, requiring significantly more force to stop. The car has been inspected by the dealer, who pointed it to what is apparently a common problem with the car -- failure of the brake booster/master cylinder assembly and the brake booster pump assembly. Half of the dashboard lit up when the problem occurred. No warning before.
POWER TRAINJune 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while attempting to shift to drive(D), the transmission failed to shift as needed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who informed the contact that a hose had detached from the valve. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 167,000.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMMay 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check Hybrid Propulsion System warning light illuminated, and the vehicle the stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the inverter module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and 18V684000 (Hybrid Propulsion System). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 104,000.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 21, 2023
I drove myself and two neighbors to a restaurant for dinner when my traction light came on momentarily but did not stay on. We had dinner and when I went to back out of the parking stall, I felt like I did not have brakes. Since it was approximately 9 pm and I was no where near a service station, I drove very slowly because I was unsure I could get the car to stop. The traction light, the brake and ABS lights were on, as well as a loud beeping alarm. I drove in the right hand lane so I could pull off the road if I could not get the car to stop. I managed to get us home and Toyota Dealer was called the next morning. They towed the car to Dealer who sold the car to us in 2015, and where it was serviced on a rigid schedule. We had an extended warranty even after it passed the 100,00 mile mark. We bought an extended warranty beyond the original warranty but were upset to find that it did not cover the brakes! It cost $2654.00 to replace the ABS booster and brake cylinder. When I asked the Dealer to adjust our costs as brake failure was the most reported complaint on the 2013 Prius, I was told there was a 10 year /or 150,00 mile rebate program that had expired that started in 2010, but since we had not had any reported problems during the time, there was nothing they could do to help. I asked why they had never sent us a letter knowing there was a possible brake program, and was told ALL 2013 Prius owners were felt to be affected. Our Prius now has 154,000 miles on it. I explained how I, and my neighbors, could have easily been rammed from behind, or not stop at stoplights causing ourselves and others to be harmed but they insisted there was nothing they could do.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMMay 20, 2023
Hybrid battery overheats after an hour of driving at high speeds. Car battery shuts down and becomes immobile.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEMay 5, 2023
My vehicle has under 150,000 miles. I was driving on the highway and my Prius lost power and left me on the side of the road. I took it to Toyota to run a diagnostic in Elk Grove Ca. I was told the ipm inverter, control computer had to be replaced and it would cost me $5,200.00. This is a real disappointment because I don’t have this money to fix the vehicle.
SERVICE BRAKESApril 23, 2023
Approaching a red light brake failed to stop the car. I lost pressure on the brake pedal. No body was hurt. Suddenly all brake, abs and traction control lights came on at once. Toyota dealer told me i needed to replace the brake booster pump and that it was common on those cars
SERVICE BRAKESApril 12, 2023
While driving suddenly the traction control light, the ABS light, the Brake light, and the Master warning light went on. I was able to pull off the road and stop by exerting an abnormal amount of pressure on my brakes. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it showed code C1391. Toyota service bulletin T-SB-0024-19 addresses this saying it is caused by an internal brake fluid leak inside the brake booster assembly with master cylinder. Toyota is aware of the problem and has redesigned the parts. This is a dangerous problem with 2011-2015 Prius vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKESApril 3, 2023
Previous models (2010) had a recall on the breaks system not this VIN number. ABS Actuator is malfunctioning, is the same system as 2010 that had a recall on it. I have two kids in the car when it stopped working without warning. A safety recall must take effect, my car only has 82000 miles on it.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 30, 2023
The car entered into safe mode suddenly while driving on the freeway and caused me to lose the brake booster with no audible alert. The brake light, ABS light and Traction Control light showed up on the dashboard. The regenerative brake got deactivated too. I was able to stop the car to a safe place by pressing hard on the brakes. This is very concerning as no warning was issued and didn’t expect to lose the break booster while driving at high speed on freeway. Toyota had issued a recall on this but only covering cars under 150,000 miles and mine has 189,000 miles. It is a 2013 Prius 3 model.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 26, 2023
Symptom: Brake pedal felt spongy with multiple dash warning lights ON and booster pump cycling on/off. Safety Risk: yes, my Prius felt like it wasn’t stopping properly. My family and vehicles around were put at risk. Problem Confirmation: the problem has reproduced and has been confirmed by a local Toyota dealer. DTC: C1391 Warning lamps: there is multiple lamps On: Brake, ABS, trac/vsc, “!” There is a Toyota Customer Support Program(CSP) : Prius Brake Booster Pump and Brake Master Actuator CSP ZJB. I also reached out to Toyota and I was told the repair would not be covered due to mileage but was within the 10 year “use of date”. (10 year or 150,000 miles) My Toyota case number is: 230324001393
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICMarch 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the brakes, ABS, and an unknown warning light were illuminated. The brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact depressed the brake pedal to the floorboard and the brake pedal responded. The contact stated that there was a 30-foot stopping distance delay. The contact veered to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under a warranty that was expired. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 141,000.
STRUCTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTIONFebruary 25, 2023
A tree fell on my car during a storm. The tree remains on top of my car. Waiting for your party to remove it off of my car.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 12, 2023
Brake accumulator may have a leak. Three brake warning lights came on while driving; the parking brake, traction control, and ABS. After the lights came on I noticed the brake accumulator coming on more often and needing to apply more pressure on brake pedal when stopping. I did some research and found that there was a recall for that same part on the 2010 Prius. I haven’t had the car looked at by a mechanic but I was able to see and confirm that it was the brake accumulator/ actuator. Vehicle only has 87k miles and has had regular maintainance.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 6, 2023
On appx. 11/18/21 I was driving my vehicle on the commute home from work, appx. 15 miles, when 4 Brake Indication Lights displayed themselves showing that there was some level of issue, whether major or minor, with the braking system. 2 "Brake" warning lights were illuminated along with the ABS Light and the SLIP Indicator(traction control) Lights also. Not knowing the level of severity of the issue and the car "seeming" to sufficiently stop the motion of the car I proceeded to use the vehicle supposing it were a miniscule issue such as brake fluid level, brake pads, wheel sensor or etc. With the Toyota vehicle still having a lengthy life expectancy at that time I proceeded forward until more work was needed on the engine itself around late 2022. This also posed a situation for myself to look through papers and documents accumulated on the vehicle of which a paper was observed possibly linking to my current braking issues. On 2/4/23 I took the 2013 Prius by an authorized Toyota Dealer for diagnosis on this "Brake Light" matter as the lights were still turning on and off at random abnormal times. The brake booster component was confirmed failed in regards to the expired recall ZJB that Toyota initiated on certain Prius year models. At this point in 2023 no assistance was offered by Toyota to make this repair of my failing brake booster even though the car mileage currently sits around 218,000 miles. 10 years of use for this car have not even passed for this vehicle at the time of this writing and Toyota vehicles are regularly known for a life span beyond 150,000 miles that the secondary coverage window of the Brake recall offered. It seems that calculation method determined for the active recall concerning the braking system on this model/s Toyota Prius has been miscalculated and should be observed again to broaden the scope of assistance provided by Toyota given that most of the affected cars can be expected to have a life beyond the current recall window.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 20, 2023
In April 2022, the brake booster pump activates every 20 seconds without applying brake. Brought the car to the dealer but service representative said since there is no trouble codes, Toyota will not cover brake booster pump replacement under Customer Support Program ZJB, and I'll have to pay for diagnostic fees. I took the car back without going through diagnostic test. Lately (Jan 2023, only 71800 miles driven), the booster pump would activate every 13 seconds, still not showing any trouble codes. Hissing sound can be heard inside the car and outside, especially on the driver side when parked, between each pumping cycle. Braking feel soft and insufficient towards the end of the 13-second cycle. It is a serious safety issue should the brake booster pump fail while driving. A recall should be issued instead of a customer support program, with limitations, which only address the issue only after trouble codes appear.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJanuary 9, 2023
According to Toyota Dealership, "WILL NEED TO REPLACE (MG1) HV TRANSAXLE UNIT AS 1ST STEP IN ORDER TO TO BE ABLE TO PROCEED WITH DIAGNOSE AND CHECKED FOR ANY OTHER SHORTED COMPONENTS". Vehicle is available for inspection. Vehicle was being driven on a city street towards a red light when the vehicle experienced a jolt and lost complete acceleration power and a "Check Hybrid System" was displayed on the dashboard. Luckily all vehicles behind were already coming to a stop for the red light, otherwise, the safety of my family and myself may have been put in more serious harm. Vehicle able to crawl to a nearby gas station. Attempted to use remaining battery power to drive back to residence nearby, but lost all battery power/function and puled into a bus lane where vehicle was towed from. There were no warning lights or messages displayed prior to the incident. Toyota Dealership performed DTC verification 3 times and found to verify P0A94 detail code 172 is the persistent DTC when memory is cleared. They also inspected the vehicle for concern and were able to verify Check Engine Light is ON, vehicle is on "Limp Mode" and does not "Ready ON". The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone else other than the Toyota Dealership.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESNovember 23, 2022
Traction Control Warning Light and ABS!! Warning Light and Brake Warning Light are remaining on in my dashboard when I am driving, then my Brake changes to hard to press that is abnormal. Mechanic told me my car’s error code relate with this issue is “C1391-Leakage in accumulator abnormal”, so it is related with “ABS Module” and “ABS Accumulator Pump”
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 23, 2022
The break master cylinder is lighted up on the dashboard and the ABS system is not working which makes me sliding when I'm trying to use brakes. Too much noise coming when starting the engine for like a minute then it cool down The front chairs are not good for diver and passenger nick as it is one piece chairs with build in head stand and now I'm reviewing chiropractor for my nick frequently since I used this car
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGOctober 4, 2022
Replaced low beam on Right Lamp Headlight. Then replace high beam on Right Lamp Headlight. Then realized it is actually appears to be the power going to the Headlight does not appear to be strong enough? Looked to see if there was a recall and noticed several others have reported this same problem. It is so dim that it required high beam to see. When we purchased this car one thing was brightness of the headlights was very nice since we live in a rural area without street lights. The brightness does not meet the headlight safety standard. Currently try to only drive during daylight hours.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 20, 2022
I was parking my car inside the garage, when suddenly feel like it was skidding, and I thought it was going to hit the wall. Then I saw the ABS, brake skid control, and brakes lights. After that incident the car feels like loosing half of its breaking power, the regenerative breaking was not longer working. I could hear a noise related to the break pressure pump every 4 seconds when normally it was longer. I connected the computer to look for codes and found the C1391 "Break Accumulator leak". Having this abnormal frequent pump running will wear it more up to the point that it would not pump any more leading to a catastrophic failure with lack of braking. Investigating about this issue it looks not isolated with several people reporting the same issue, even there was a recall but just up to 2010 models, but the problem is more spread since I am also experiencing exactly the same issue.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 18, 2022
I had taken the Prius in to my local Toyota dealer to get the brakes flushed and bled due to thinking there was air in the brake system. I thought this because I had noticed over the past few months that the brake actuator was pressurizing at a slowly increasing rate, which I had assumed meant there was air present. I had taken the Prius in to Toyota for multiple oil changes and was never informed of any stored ABS codes or even of the Technical Service Bulletin for the actuator and master cylinder malfunctioning in Prius’ of the same years. Had I had known about the TSB, or informed of the abnormal behavior of the brakes being more than just air in the system, the repairs would have been performed free of charge under the TSB guidelines. The Prius is now out of the mileage requirements of the TSB as I use my care for work but have been experiencing this since before the mileage was over the TSB limit. After the brake flush and bleed was performed, the ABS light, BRAKE light and traction control light all illuminated and I had lost power brakes while driving. I managed to park safely due to the roads not being busy and checked the brake fluid reservoir. It was grossly overfilled. I took the car back to Toyota thinking this was the issue. When the technician received the vehicle, the lights had gone but the code for the master cylinder malfunctioning was stored. The Service Assistant informed me there was a TSB for this exact issue and was the actual cause for the actuator behavior I had been experiencing. They completed another flush and bleed and sent me on my way. He told me if the lights come back on, to bring it back to carry out the $3300 repair. The problem is, I heavily rely on my vehicle for work and if the lights come on, I experience complete loss of power brakes and might not be lucky enough to be on an empty road. This is a massive safety concern for my family and me. I am appalled that this was the conclusion I was left with.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIRAugust 16, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at 20 MPH, the anti-lock brake turned on with no warning causing the contact to crash into a construction barrel causing minor damage to her vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and they aligned the vehicle, but the failure continued. The vehicle was taken to the dealer once again and they stated that the actuator and the brake booster needed to be replaced and stated that the VIN was under recall and then called the contact and informed her it was not under recall, and she needed to pay out of pocket. The manufacturer was contacted, and a complaint was filed but they had not contacted the contact back. The failure was mileage was 121,000.
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 15, 2022
My traction control, ABS, and emergency brake lights have been on for two weeks. I took my car to a mechanic and learned the power brake booster and master power assembly are defective. It is available for inspection upon request. Due to this part malfunction, I am unsure whether I am able to drive my car safely due to multiple brake concerns. This problem has been reproduced/confirmed as there is a national backorder on this kind of part. Due to the national backorder, I must drive my car in an unsafe manner. I have only had my car inspected by an independent mechanic called Certified Automotive, who have impressive reviews and credentials when it comes to inspecting car braking systems. To my knowledge, this is not a part of normal wear and tear on a Prius vehicle. This will now put the onus on me to purchase an expensive new part due to the defectiveness on Toyota's part.
ENGINEAugust 9, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, she heard a rattling and knocking noise then smoke started to spread throughout the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the dealer stated that the piston disintegrated and caused damage to the engine. The vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the head gasket and engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. No warning lights were illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed to replace the engine. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERJuly 19, 2022
2013 PRIUS Inverter assy and coolant pump are out. The car is in Greece with military. Toyota has refused all assistance to my daughter.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMJune 30, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the vehicle stalled as a system failure warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle inadvertently turned. The vehicle was restarted but shifted into limp mode with the message displayed. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and then drove the vehicle to the residence. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and 14V053000 (Hybrid Propulsion System, Electrical System) which she linked to the failure. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
SERVICE BRAKESJune 17, 2022
To whom may be concerned, My car started to have the issue from the beginning of this year, the braking booster keeps restarting every 8 to 10 sec, and I need step on the brake paddle harder than before to stop the car. I brought my car to local dealer last month, they admit they can hear and see the issue, but TOYOTA gave them the guideline is the code must be on. So that means no matter how bad the braking system, as long as the code not show, they won't take any action. So far TOYOTA only recall some specific model, but more cars with the bad braking system are outside, it's dangerous for everyone, I have to drive slowly and carefully to make sure I can stop the car when I need, even like that I still feel unsafe for me, since I feel harder and harder to stop it. So can anyone help to push TOYOTA to face their issue and take action ASAP before more and more accident happens. Thanks a lot Your Sincerely ZHENCHI Li
SERVICE BRAKESMay 10, 2022
The brake booster on my car has stopped working causing my car to be unsafe and expensive to repair. This seems to be a common issue with prius’s which is not fair to the owners.
SERVICE BRAKESMay 2, 2022
I bought my car as used, 3 months after that i hear a weird noise when i use the break, then I replace the break pads but it doesn’t solve the problem after that I got alert C1391, I went to mechanic shop he told me it needs to replace the break booster pump part number 4707052020, I did that but doesn’t solve the problem and still the alert come and go. I want to know if this is general safety issue for this model and should be fixed by the dealer or i should fix it on my own
SERVICE BRAKESApril 19, 2022
Brake Master Cylinder assembly failure. Brakes starting to fail. Not covered under warranty past 150k miles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERApril 6, 2022
Problem one: water in the passenger taillight. I got on YouTube to find a video to repair it, and guess what? The person in the video was replacing HIS taillight for the exact same problem! PS. I uploaded a picture, and it's sideways! But if you look closely, you can see the water line! Can I get a refund if I get the dealer to replace this?
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMApril 6, 2022
So, long story short: for months now, the engine light goes on and off. Whenever it goes on, I go to Autozone or O'Reilly's to get the codes read. It's always the same code: P261B. So I got the coolant pump replaced. The same thing happens! I'd bet there is nothing wrong with the pump, so why am I getting that same code? I'll be happy to send it to you if you want to test it....
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 14, 2022
brake booster and brake actuator internal leaks the brake pedal goes to the floor with firm press when trying to stop the car yes, the problem has been reported to two toyota dealership and report to toyota brand engagement multiple times yes, vehicle was inspect by toyota dealship and independent service center yes, the following (traction control lamp, brake lamp and ABS lamp) warn lamp was and still is ON
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESMarch 10, 2022
Driving down the road and the brake light, ABS light, VSC light and a ! with a circle around turned on in the dash. My breaks almost stopped working I almost hit the car in front of me. I've been try to figure out what's wrong and keep hearing this is a brake booster/ actuator problem. I have parked the car due to the brakes barley working.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGFebruary 21, 2022
Hi, my dim lights don't light the road in front of me, I have a 2013 Prius and to drive it at night is taken my life and any on coming motorists at risk...I put expensive bulbs in and that doesn't help the problem, can you help?
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 29, 2022
break booster systems fails in the ABS system, causing warning lights to come on intermittently and the breaks to not work properly. this is a known issue by Toyota that affects numerous priuses was well a large group of camry's. The company issued a Customer Service Program to address the issue but did not make extensive efforts to warn vehicle owners that this is a known problem. The fact that this issue of leaking oil in the break booster assembly is considered serious by the company and the urge you to get it repaired immediately if you become aware of it. this seems like something that should rise to the level of a product recall, not a voluntary program by Toyota. I have the documentation of from Toyota on this issue if you need it.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJanuary 25, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that the hazard lights would activate inadvertently and were not able to be turned off as designed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer but was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEJanuary 24, 2022
vehicle brakes fails to stop and needs to push hard on brake paddle to stop the vehicle. traction control light, ABS, and Brake lights come on. took to autonation Toyota irvine in dec. 2020 reporting the issue but the tech clear the codes and told me that nothing is wrong. the same light came back on and took to 3rd party shop and was informed code C1391,C1345 & C1368 reporting issue of a failed booster and booster pump. customer support program ZJD. I've been in contact with toyota brand engagement to report the issue and regarding automation Toyota Irvine clearing the codes after I took my vehicle to the shop for repairs. but dealer is not repairing the vehicle and the vehicle has been in the dealer shop since jan 10, 2021. REPORTING A ISSUE WITH BRAKE FAILURE ON MY 2013 TOYTOA PRIUS.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 19, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond and went all the way to the floorboard. The traction control warning light, ABS warning light, the brake warning light, and an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact stated that she continued to depress the brake pedal until it responded. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the brake actuator needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as her vehicle was 5,000 miles over the mileage for the extended warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMDecember 17, 2021
Without warning my 2013 prius C stalled on the freeway with a hybrid battery warning. When the car was shut off it had intermittent problems with starting. After jumping the car battery , it ran normally again for some time before the stalling problem persisted. The hybrid battery stopped running and I received a warning light. Diagnostics at my repair shop said it was an inverter issue.I see that toyota has recalled several models for similar issues with the inverter. When the car is jumped it seems to work for a short time before stalling out again. Has created a real safety issue for me and there is a real lack of information on behalf of toyota on whether or not it will be covered under existing models. It seems like every model toyota from this year was recalled for an inverter issue. The car does run normally on occasion, charges the battery, and will run on EV, but mostly remains in a stalled out low power mode after it has these stalling episodes.e Diagnostics have stated to me that the car batteries are healthy and I relplaced the 12V and several fuses etc throughout this process with similar results.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINEDecember 9, 2021
MY 2013 Prius' hybrid system failed as I was entering a very busy state highway (where several fatalities have been recorded) exit when a tractor trailer truck unexpectedly bore down on me. My engine reduced to half speed and there was no breakdown lane to pull over to. The dashboard lights lit up and indicated a hybrid system failure, but I could not get to safety for another 2-3 miles. This is an NHTSA recall (20V-369) that was eligible for repair under an expanded warranty, but ONLY AFTER the vehicle has experienced the shutdown. The IPM (Intelligent Power Module/hybrid) system breakdown was confirmed by Toyota dealership's diagnostics, but the warranty period was not told to me and the charges amounted to almost $3000. My research and doggedness discovered that the costs would be covered in toto. But more importantly, I am among numerous Prius owners who experienced this problem and more could occur, risking injury if not death.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 26, 2021
Hi, I have been having trouble with my car for the past few days. It is getting C1391 Diagnostic trouble Code. I have been busy with work and had to take the car to work. It has around 151,000 Milage now. I called Toyota regarding this problem and was told that my car don't qualify for Customers Support Program as it has more than 150,000 miles. I checked this website, and came know about extension till 31 August 2021 and unlimited mileage. My car starting showing up the code few days back, although I could notice chirping sound while applying brakes for past 2 years. I didn't know it was an issue. Fred Haas Toyota Country, 22435 TX-249, Houston, TX 77070 quoted around $2600 to replace the brake booster and pump. Can you please look in the matter?
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 3, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that when he started the vehicle and depressed the brake pedal, the vehicle made abnormal whirring sounds. There were no warning lights illuminated. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that they would not cover the repair of the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 116,000.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 2, 2021
Failure of the ABS accumulator caused an accident that could have easily killed my family. The issue makes all ABS and stability control inoperable. While applying the brakes to avoid a deer at highway speeds, the wheels locked up while sending the car in an uncontrollable sideways slide across the highway and into a culvert. My wife was driving at the time and she had our 2 small children with her. I learned about the problem from the Toyota dealer and the service advisor told me that Toyota knows about this problem. The advisor informed me that it’s simply just a TSB. This is highly dangerous and Toyota should be responsible for this faulty system.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11439073SERVICE BRAKESOctober 29, 2021
Brakes were applied in order to avoid a collision with a deer, but the brakes locked up, sending my family out of control across the oncoming lane and into an embankment. They were lucky they weren’t killed. Toyota knows this is an issue and have failed to address it. The ABS accumulator no longer works, causing a dangerous situation. A local Toyota dealer alerted me to this issue.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11438708ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMOctober 8, 2021
We have been experiencing on multiple occasions car while driving will slow down, hybrid safety warning light on dashboard will turn on and tell us we have to go to a safe area and turn off car. The car will automatically shut down like a golf cart feeling. We have had near incidents were we have almost crashed. The car now will not go past 35 miles. We brought the car to a Toyota Dealership because we noticed their was a software update recall. When we left the car repeated the warning again about 5 minutes leaving the dealership. The dealership has not helped us and refuses to fix car. We mentioned to them that there have been many complaints regarding the same issue.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 29, 2021
While driving vehicle the parking brake light, abs light and traction control lights all suddenly came on. I was driving on smooth roadway with no bumps. I pulled to side to investigate to found that I had to press really hard to get brakes to function and stop the vehicle. Luckíly there were no other vehicles around.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINESeptember 25, 2021
The car has been stopping on me anytime I go 35 mph or more. The check hybrid system warning light appears then the far shuts down.I have been having this problem for over a year now after Toyota techs have performed all other software updates.I have replaced hybrid battery 12 v battery both water pumps sensors along with a low mile engine.my year car is on all recall list except the inverter replacement which is the problem.I have spent several thousand dollars on a no end issue .
UNKNOWN OR OTHERSeptember 11, 2021
Another vehicle jumped the light, cutting me off, and I hit him. My car sustained massive front end damage, and the radiator was leaking. I sustained a broken rib. The airbag failed to deploy. I was taken by ambulance to a hospital. My car was not inspected or impounded - the police had it towed to a body shop. My insurance company will inspect it.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11432558ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINESeptember 8, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle shut-off without warning. The contact pulled over and was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic but was diagnosed nor repaired. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
AIR BAGSSeptember 3, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that the passenger’s side airbag indicated that the airbag was turned off even though there was a passenger weighing approximately 80 pounds seated in the passenger’s side front seat. The contact had not taken the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was unknown.
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 1, 2021
For about a week, I heard intermittent strange noises when I would be stopped in traffic with the brake pedal depressed. On 08/31/21, lights on the dashboard came on - the "brake" light, "Brake system warning light", ABS light, and the "Slip indicator" light. All of these remain on. Braking was feeling sluggish and the brake pedal would decompress to the floor when starting the car. When starting the car on 09/01/21, the car lurched forward although in "park" mode. I drove the car to the lube specialist to have them check the fluid levels, and they said that everything was o.k, nothing to make all the warning lights light up. Then I was referred to a mechanic who works on Pruis cars. His diagnostic tool was indicating that my brake accumulator was bad. This has led me to check for recalls on this model and year and it seems there have been problems submitted on this very issue.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 16, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would shake and vibrate while depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle would not immediately stop, causing the braking distance to become extended. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the brake pads, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 108,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJune 30, 2021
I was loving my Prius until yesterday June 9, 2021 when I took it to Toyota of Riverhead, NY to have my Hazard lights checked because they would not shut off. I was told that the technician found ABS actuator shorting out causing the hazards to not go off. The replacement would be $2664. I had the fuse removed because it was causing my battery to die with the hazard lights being on. I was also advised by Tonianne Rempel (service advisor) that Toyota was familiar with this problem with 2013 Prius. I have a problem with Toyota knowing that there is a problem with the hazards for this is potentially dangerous for it makes your battery die and leaving the owner stranded. This should have been a recall. I had removed the fuse so now I have no hazards or directionals leaving me to use hand signals. Which is extremely dangerous for other drivers do not look for driver using hand signals. This embarrassing for Toyota drivers seeing that somebody driving a Toyota is using hand signals because the directionals don’t function. Toyota should have done a recall knowing that this hazardous situation exists. I am asking Toyota to pay for this repair. I do not have $2664 to repair this hazardous situation that should have been addressed by Toyota and leaving me in a very dangerous situation without hazards or directionals.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHERMay 18, 2021
While in line at a church food bank, with cars in front and in back of me, the Prius C suddenly lunged forward. While my foot was on the brake, I hit the car in front of me. The impact was strong enough to cause almost $1400 worth of damage to the car in front of me and more than that for my car. My car's fender is damaged as well as the lights and hood of the car. My sister was in the passenger seat and nephew in the back seat. My sister told me that all she could see when the sudden movement started was my foot on the brake. She said that from where she was sitting, she could not see if my foot was on the gas pedal but could clearly see when my foot was on the brake. So lucky that there were no injuries either to the husband and wife in the car in front of me nor to my passengers. There is no reason for me to have accelerated that fast when the car in front moved a fraction of feet at a time. I would release the brake and the car would move slowly until I applied the brake again. The Prius was inspected by Toyota at a dealer and we were told they could find no sign of anything wrong with the car. There were no warning lights or messages before the sudden acceleration happened. Due to the possibility of it happening again, we decided to park the car in case any litigation could be processed. We have been denied by many law firms due to the fact that there were no serious injuries and the age of the car. About a month after the incident, we bought a new Prius and if unable to litigate, will sell the car for parts. My fear is that it may happen again and could seriously injure or kill someone or the driver and/or passengers in our 2013 Prius. We will not allow it to be driven again and will either junk or sell for parts. Is there any recourse for us to pursue to be refunded for the damage that we paid to the couple whose car we hit, a rental until we bought the new car and refund for the 2013 Prius. Thank you very much for your attention.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11417643ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMApril 28, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND OPERATED AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HAMER TOYOTA (11041 SEPULVEDA BLVD, MISSION HILLS, CA 91345) HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE LISTED IN THE RECALL, AFTER THE REMEDY WAS COMPLETED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.
SERVICE BRAKESApril 26, 2021
I CANNOT STOP MY CAR IN TIME, IT FEELS LIKE I AM FRED FLINSTONE TRYING TO USE MY FEET TO STOP. I HAVE REAR-ENDED ANOTHER CAR. I HAVE NO CAR TO DRIVE AS IT IS NOT SAFE. KENDALL WEST TOYOTA GAVE ME CAR BACK AND SAID PART OF RECALLS COMPLETED BUT UNABLE TO COMPLETE OTHER RECALLS. THEY SAID ABS FIXED BUT IT IS NOT AS STILL MAKES THE SAME WHINING SOUND AND I CANNOT BRAKE. I HAVE TO USE ALL MY STRENGTH TO PUSH AS HARD AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE. I HAVE TO PAY FOR RENTAL CAR. KENDALL TOYOTA COULD NOT PROVIDE A TIME FRAME OF WHEN MY CAR WOULD BE FIXED.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11413928AIR BAGSApril 22, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HAVING AN INSPECTION PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE AT MAPLEWOOD TOYOTA (2873 MAPLEWOOD DR, MAPLEWOOD, MN 55109, (651) 419-5144) THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE SPIRAL CABLE FOR THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 160,650.
AIR BAGSApril 14, 2021
APRIL 01,2021, OUR 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD ON COLLISION AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT, WHEN STRUCK HEAD ON. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES.
Crash reported2 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11408024ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGSJanuary 25, 2021
HYBRID WARNING LIGHT COMES ON OUT OF NOWHERE. CODE 3107: LOST COMMUNICATION BETWEEN SRS ECU AND POWER MANAGEMENT ECU. ALL WIRES ARE OTHERWISE GOOD AND NO CORROSION IS APPARENT. THIS MISCOMMUNICATION MEANS THAT THE AIRBAGS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY. BATTERY IS HEALTHY ACCORDING TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. HYBRID WARNING LIGHT COMES ON INTERMITENTLY TO SHOW WHEN MISCOMMUNICATION IS HAPPENING.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCEJanuary 14, 2021
MY 2013 PRIUS IS HAVING ISSUES WITH THE INTERFACE AND IT HAS BEEN RECALLED AND I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO FROM HERE.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEDecember 28, 2020
TOYOTA IS TRYING TO COVER UP THE TRUE NUMBER OF VEHICLES SUBJECT TO THE HYBRID SYSTEM RECALL.. TOYOTA CLAIMS THIS VEHICLE IS NOT THE SUBJECT OF RECALL, YET THE VEHICLE DISPLAYS ALL THE SYMPTOMS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL.. 1.) THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT FREEWAY SPEED ON WESTBOUND HWY 92 ON 12/27/2020 AT APPROXIMATELY 6:30PM 2.) THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER.. DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON.. ERROR MESSAGE SAID "HYBRID SYSTEM FAILURE" 3.) POWER TO BRAKING AND STEERING REMAINED 4.) VEHICLE WENT OFF THE FREEWAY, WITH NO POWER, DOWN AN EXIT RAMP, AND CAME TO A STOP, LUCKILY, IN A LEGAL PARKING PLACE, AT THE CURB ON DE ANZA BLVD.. THIS IS WHAT TOYOTA SAID PUBLICLY: 'THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE DESIGNED TO ENTER A FAILSAFE DRIVING MODE IN RESPONSE TO CERTAIN HYBRID SYSTEM FAULTS', THE AUTOMAKER EXPLAINED. 'TOYOTA HAS FOUND THAT IN RARE SITUATIONS, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT ENTER A FAILSAFE DRIVING MODE AS INTENDED. IF THIS OCCURS, THE VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER AND STALL. WHILE POWER STEERING AND BRAKING WOULD REMAIN OPERATIONAL, A VEHICLE STALL WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHER SPEEDS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.'
Crash reported
NHTSA #11385233ELECTRICAL SYSTEMDecember 4, 2020
I KEEP GETTING A P0136 BANK 1 SENSOR 2 ERROR CODE. TOOK IT TO SEVERAL MECHANICS AND THEY SWITCHED THE 02 CENSOR (DOWNSTREAM). ALSO SHOWS THAT BANK 1 SENSOR 2 HAS 0% VOLTAGE. UNPLUGGED THE DOWNSTREAM 02 SENSOR AND GOT A READING BUT NO READING WHEN PLUGGED IN. CHECKED WIRING HARNESS TO ECM AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. BOTH MECHANICS HAVE DETERMINED THAT THE ISSUE IS WITH THE ECM. MY VEHICLE HAS ROUGHLY ABOUT 70K MILES ON IT. MY CAR WILL NOT PASS SMOG UNTIL THIS IS FIXED. MECHANIC IS RECOMMENDING REFLASHING ECM OR REPLACING IT. P0136 COMES UP AS PENDING AND WILL STAY PERMANENT ON THE SECOND DRIVE CYCLE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 27, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS AN CLICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CLICKING SOUND WAS MORE EVIDENT WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. ADDITIONALLY, WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP SLOW OR STOP AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO COBB COUNTY TOYOTA (2111 BARRETT LAKES BLVD, KENNESAW, GA 30144) WHERE THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THE VEHICLE WITH A DEFECTIVE RELAY INSIDE OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT BE SERVICED UNDER WARRANTY UNTIL A CHECK ENGINE OR SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 117,000.
STEERINGNovember 13, 2020
STEERING VIBRATES WHEN DRIVING ON SMOOTH ROAD BUT RATTLES LOUDLY ON SMALL BUMPS. TOYOTA INITIALLY SAID THERE WAS NO PROBLEM AND THAT IT WAS NORMAL. I THOUGHT IT WAS SUSPENSION BUT THE SUSPENSION IS STILL GOOD. ALL THE TIRES ARE GOOD. CONTROL ARMS AND ANYTHING VISIBLE IS GOOD. WHEN ELEVATED THE STEERING MAKES A BUT BUT NOISE WHEN TURNED.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURENovember 11, 2020
MY TOYOTA PRIUS WAS INVOLVED IN A HIT RUN ACCIDENT. YARK COLLISION COMPLETED WORK ON VEHICLE. WHEN PICKING UP CAR FROM YARK MY CAR WOULD NOT START SPOKE WITH ONE OF THE MECHANIC HE SAID MY BATTERY DIED AND I EXPLAINED TO THEM I HAD NO ISSUES ,PRIOR TO BRINGING MY CAR TO YARK I HAD JUST HAD DIAGNOSTIC TEST DONE AT TOYOTA. VEHICLE SAT AT MY RESIDENCE OVER NIGHT AND VEHICLE HAD DIED AGAIN. I CONTACTED YARK TOLD THEM I WAS BRINGING BATTERY IN FOR THEM TO CHARGE BECAUSE I WAS NOT SURE AS TO WHAT WAS GOING ON SINCE WE HAD ALREADY REPLACED BATTERY. VEHICLE ALSO HAD MY SKID PLATE IN TRUNK PRIOR TO DROP OFF AND NOW I AM HAVING ELECTRICAL ISSUES MY HORN NOW DOES NOT WORK AND I HAVE CHILDREN .I DID NOT RECEIVE MY CAR UNTIL 1 MONTH AND HALF DUE TO INSURANCE NOT GETTING BACK TO US . VEHICLE HAS BEEN NON DRIVABLE SINCE PICK UP.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 5, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND AN ABNORMAL HISSING SOUND WAS HEARD. THE VEHICLE STOPPED HOWEVER, THE SECONDARY BRAKES FAILED. TRIANGLE TOYOTA DE SAN JUAN (223 MARGINAL, JOHN F. KENNEDY BECHARA, SAN JUAN, 00920, PUERTO RICO, +1 787-304-1633) WAS CONTACTED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ACCUMULATOR PRESSURE SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKESOctober 28, 2020
CAR DIED LAST NIGHT (10/27) AAA NOT ABLE TO JUMP BATTERY. BAD FUSE. TOWED TO SF TOYOTA ON GEARY BL. TAKEN CAR TO SHOP THREE TIMES SINCE PURCHASE 7/22/20 FOR PROBLEMS. ALSO TOLD NOTHING IS WRONG. THIS APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE. ALSO I WAS TOLD CAR WAS DAMAGED, NOT IN MAJOR ACCIDENT. HAS SIGNS OF HEAVY DAMAGE FROM 3 ACCIDENTS. IT ONLY HAS 54,XXX MILES ON A 2013 PRIUS C.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGOctober 4, 2020
OUR 2013 PRIUS BURNS OUT THE RIGHT HEADLIGHT EVERY THREE MONTHS. IT'S NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE TO DRIVE WITH ONLY ONE HEADLIGHT. IT BURNS OUT WHILE MOVING, STATIONARY, ANY TIME AND IT HAS DISCOLORATION LIKE EXCESSIVE HEAT WAS APPLIED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINESeptember 15, 2020
EXCESSIVE OIL BURNING.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLSeptember 2, 2020
THE CAR GAVE A TRIANGLE OF DEATH AND LOOKED IT UP IF ANY RECALLS HAD BEEN MADE THAT COULD POSSIBLE CAUSE THIS ISSUE AND THERE WAS 1 THAT CALLED FOR AN UPDATE TO THE SYSTEM WHICH I HAD DONE AND THEY HAD TOLD ME IF IT DIDN'T TAKE THEY WOULD HAVE TO DO THE INVERTOR WHICH WAS APART OF THE RECALL. A WEEK AFTER THE SYSTEM UPDATE THE SAME ISSUE AROSE AND THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE THE INVERTOR WHICH DRAINED THE HYBRID BATTERY AND RUINED IT ALSO . THIS EFFECTS THE DRIVING ABILITY AND CAUSES THE CAR TO SHUT DOWN THE LIGHTS TO NOT WORK . IT CAN STALE AT ANY GIVEN TIME AND WILL NOT HAVE POWER TO CONTINUE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHERAugust 31, 2020
I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH RODENTS GETTING INTO MY CAR. I FEAR THAT THEY ARE CHEWING ON ELECTRICAL WIRING AND THERE IS POSSIBLE DISTRACTION TO THE DRIVER. WHEN I WAS DRIVING (CAR WAS MOVING) A MOUSE CRAWLED UP ON MY SHOULDER. THESE PROBLEMS APPEAR TO BE A PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL TOYOTA AND COULD CAUSE A DISTRACTION TO THE DRIVER AND A DRIVING ISSUE WITH WIRING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,WHEELSJuly 8, 2020
WHILE IN MOTION, THE VEHICLE SWITCHED OUT OF READY MODE. THE VEHICLE DID NOT SWITCH BACK INTO READY MODE. BODY DAMAGE INCURRED DURING EMERGENCY STOP, DUE TO VEHICLE GOING AT ABOUT 35MPH WHEN THE MALFUNCTION OCCURRED ON A SURFACE STREET.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11338161ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINEJuly 2, 2020
DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY ON MY WAY TO WORK SUDDENLY THE MY 2013 PRIUS C ENGINE COMPLETELY STOPS. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUTS DOWN AND NOW I'M A SITTING DUCK GOOD THING PEOPLE SLEW DOWN FOR ME AND EVEN HELP ME PUSH MY CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD SAFELY. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AND NEEDS ATTENTION. IVED TAKEN MY CAR TO ANTIOCH TOYOTA AND EMPHASIZE THAT I SAW 2 RECALLS ON THIS WEBSITE BUT THE DID NOT BELIEVE ME AND THEY ARE CHARGING ME OVER $4000 TO FIX IT. IT'S NOT RIGHT FOR THEM TO JUST CHECK THEIR SYSTEM AND NOT CHECK A NHTSA WEBSITE FOR RECALLS AND COMPLAINTS. IT'S VERY IRRESPONSIBLE FOR THEM NOT TO CHECK FOR RECALLS
SERVICE BRAKESJune 20, 2020
MY BRAKES DON'T WORK LIKE THEY NORMALLY DO. THEY ARE HARD AND THE BRAKE PEDAL IS SPONGY. THE TRACTION CONTROL, ABS, BRAKE AND A ROUND WITH AN EXCLAMATION PINT LIGHT IS ON. IT GOES AWAY AND IT COMES BACK AND ITS VERY DANGEROUS BECAUSE IT HAPPENS WHEN I'M DRIVING AND ONCE I TRY TO STOP THE BRAKE PEDAL IS HARD. FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED I ALMOST HIT A CAR INFANT OF ME AT A STOP LIGHT. *TR
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 13, 2020
VEHICLE BRAKE ACTUATOR CONTINUOUSLY PUMPING AND RUNNING EVEN WHEN VEHICLE IS OFF OR STOPPED, ABS LIGHTS CAN LIGHT UP UNDER MODERATE BRAKING ON DRY ROADS. EARLIER GENERATIONS OF THE PRIUS HAD SIMILAR ISSUES AND TOYOTA ADDED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY TO COVER A RATHER EXPENSIVE REPAIR THAT COULD COMPROMISE THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A WELL KNOWN ISSUE WITH THIS BRAKING SYSTEM WHEN READING FURTHER ON TOYOTA PRIUS FORUMS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTINGMarch 12, 2020
WE HAVE HAD MULTIPLE LOW BEAM BULB FAILURES. USUALLY IT STARTS WITH 1 THE BURNS OUT THE OTHER WITHIN A WEEK OR TWO. IN THE LAST YEAR WE HAVE REPLACED BOTH BULBS 3 TIMES. THE LAST TIME WAS FEBRUARY 24TH LAST NIGHT ON MARCH 11TH WE RECEIVED A WARNING TICKET FOR A HEADLIGHT OUT. I WENT TO REPLACE THE BULB AGAIN AND IT WAS GOOD, AFTER REMOVING IT I REINSTALLED AND IT WORKED. SHUT THE CAR OFF AND CAME BACK OUT AND IT WOULDN'T COME ON AGAIN WITHOUT DISCONNECTING THE HARNESS AND PLUGGING IT BACK IN. THERE IS NOTICEABLE DISCOLORATION ON BOTH HEADLIGHT PLUGS.
ENGINEMarch 5, 2020
WE HARE RECENTLY STARTED EXPERIENCING EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION WITHOUT DASH WARNING. OUR CAR BURNED 2 QUARTS OF OIL IN 150 MILES WITH NO WARNING. TOYOTA HAS ISSUED AN INTERNAL SERVICE BULLETIN (T-SB-0169-16) THAT COVERS OUR VIN NUMBER, BUT SINCE WE ARE BEYOND WARRANTY THEY MADE NO OFFER TO HELP (WE WERE NOT NOTIFIED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER WARRANTY). ESSENTIALLY OUR CAR WAS IN MOTION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS WITH LITTLE OR NO OIL, BUT NO WARNING THAT THERE WAS NO OIL. I THINK WE GOT VERY LUCKY THAT OUR DRIVE ENDED BEFORE THE ENGINE FAILED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMMarch 1, 2020
I HAD THE PROPER RECALL FIXES DONE ON MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS 3 MONTHS AGO FOR THE STALLING ISSUES. LAST NIGHT WHILE ACCELERATING TO GET ON THE FREEWAY MY PRIUS SHUT DOWN AND ENTERED LIMP HOME MODE. THE 'CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM. STOP VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE' LIGHT CAME ON. EVENTUALLY THE CAR WOULDN'T TURN ON AT ALL. I DIDN'T FEEL SAFE ONE BIT. I'M A FEMALE, ALONE AT NIGHT, IN A BAD PART OF TOWN, IT WAS 25 OUTSIDE, ON THE SIDE OF A FREEWAY! I DON'T BELIEVE THE RECALL FIXED THE PROBLEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERFebruary 21, 2020
RECURRING "CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM" ISSUE = JOV SOFTWARE UPDATE FAILEDTHIS IS MY 2ND COMPLAINT (11298645)RE. THE NON-SAFETY OF MY PRIUS. DEC 2019, THE JOV SOFTWARE UPDATE FAILED. I WAS LUCKY TO BE DRIVING IN A PARKING LOT AS OTHERWISE I WOULDN'T BE HERE WRITING TO YOU. MY CAR STOPPED WORKING ENTIRELY & ABRUPTLY. I DROVE IT ONLY FOR 1.2 MILES THAT DAY. IT DIDN'T GO INTO A FAIL-SAFE DRIVING MODE & DIDN'T GO INTO NEUTRAL EITHER. THEY'RE 3 WITNESSES. IT GOT TOWED TO TOYOTA HOLLYWOOD WHO ACCUSED THE CAR'S POWER LOSS ON THE REGULAR BATTERY. THE BAD OVERHEATED INVERTER CAUSED IT & DRAINED THE BATTERY SURELY. TOYOTA'S EXECUTIVE OFFICE SEND OUT A FTS INSPECTION WHO DROVE THE CAR ALSO TO RECREATE THE DTC CODE W/ TESTS & THEREAFTER SAID IT'S SAFE TO DRIVE. FALSE ASSESSMENT. THE HYBRID WARNING MSG APPEARS AGAIN ON JANUARY 16. I DROVE IT ONLY FOR 1.6 MI THAT DAY. I STARTED MY CAR, THE WARNING MSG REMAINED ON DISPLAY UNTIL I DROVE IT HOME FOR 1.6MI GOING 15MI/HR. THE PUBLIC KNOWS: "THE INVERTERS HAVE BEEN OVERHEATING, CAUSING THE SOFTWARE THAT CONTROLS THE VEHICLES TO SHUT DOWN THE POWER OR PUT THE VEHICLE INTO WHAT IS KNOWN AS A LIMP-HOME MODE THAT IS SUPPOSED TO ALLOW DRIVERS TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD SAFELY." NOW, TOYOTA CULVER CITY HAS MY CAR SINCE JAN 18; THEY COULD ONLY SEE A "LOW VOLTAGE BATTERY" ISSUE & AREN'T SURE. ?TOYOTA HAS FOUND THAT IN RARE SITUATIONS, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT ENTER A FAIL-SAFE DRIVING MODE AS INTENDED,? THE STATEMENT SAID. ?IF THIS OCCURS, THE VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER AND STALL. WHILE POWER STEERING AND BRAKING WOULD REMAIN OPERATIONAL, A VEHICLE STALL WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHER SPEEDS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH." WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR THE LARGEST AUTO MANUFACTURES IN THE WORLD TO REPLACE MY INVERTER? A CRASH. I HOPE NOT. THANK YOU FOR ASSURING SAFENESS ON THE ROAD. SINCERELY, [XXX] REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CC *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)February 20, 2020
MY CAR HAS STOPPED RUNNING WITH ALL WARNING LIGHTS AND HYBRID SYSTEM FAILURE WARNING THREE TIMES NOW. FIRST TIME I WAS DRIVING WHEN LIGHTS CAME ON BUT GOT TO PARKING LOT WHERE IT DIED. I WAS ABLE TO RESTART CAR AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS, STILL ALL WARNING LIGHTS AND HYBRID WARNING SHOWING BUT WAS ABLE TO GET IT TO DEALERSHIP. SECOND TIME I WAS DRIVING ON SMALL ROAD AND WAS ABLE TO GET CAR TO SIDE OF ROAD. AGAIN IT STARTED AFTER A COUPLE HOURS WITH ALL WARNINGS LIT AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO DEALERSHIP WERE IT ALSO DIED AGAIN BUT THEY STARTED IT LATER BY RESETTING CODES. THIRD TIME IT STOPPED IN DRIVEWAY AND I WAS UNABLE TO START IT. HAD IT TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. FIRST TIME. 12V BATTERY WAS REPLACED AND SOFTWARE UPDATE PERFORMED. SECOND TWO TIMES IRA TOYOTA DEALERSHIP HAS SENT ME BACK OUT ON THE ROAD TO WAIT AND SEE IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMFebruary 14, 2020
MY PRIUS C HAS 110,000 MILES AND ALREADY EXPERIENCE THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT TWICE, THE FIRST TIME I JUST DISCONNECT ALL THE WIRING TO THE HYBRID BATTERY AND IT SAT FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS, THAN RECONNECTED THE WIRES AND OPERATED NORMAL 2 MONTHS WENT BY AFTER A NORMAL DRIVE, PARKED THE CAR BUT WHEN I WENT AND STARTED THE CAR THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT COMES BACK ON AGAIN.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFebruary 12, 2020
WHILE DRIVING OUR 2013 PRIUS ON A 5 FIVE-LANE HIGHWAY 2-10-20, OUR PRIUS GOES INTO LIMP HOME MODE ALL THE SUDDEN AND SLOWS THE CAR DOWN SIGNIFICANTLY WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED. THIS OCCURRED AT THE SAME TIME AS I WAS PASSING A CAR TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY, ALSO WITH ANOTHER CAR CLOSE AT THE REAR CLEARLY INTENDING TO GET AHEAD OF ME AFTER I HAD PASSED THE OTHER CAR. I UNEXPECTEDLY REALIZED THAT I HAD NO ACCELERATION AND THAT THE ALL THE DASH LIGHTS HAD COME ON. I WAS VERY FORTUNATELY TO BE ABLE TO MANEUVER ACROSS THE DRIVING LANES TO THE HIGHWAY EXIT WITHOUT BEING HIT AS MY SPEED GO DOWN. THE SITUATION WAS EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS. TOOK THE CAR TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP THE NEXT DAY ON 2-11-20 AND THE TECH DISCOVERED THE CAR WENT INTO THE LIMP HOME MODE BECAUSE OF A CATASTROPHE INVERTER FAILURE. WE DID RECEIVE THE UPDATED SOFTWARE FROM THE RECALL IN 2014, YET THE INVERTER STILL FAILED. THE INVERTER WAS REPAIRED BY THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP 100% UNDER WARRANTY.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 3, 2020
CAR FAILS TO STOP AND/OR LOSES TRACTION WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES AT LOW SPEEDS. MY TIRE SHOP HAS INSPECTED BOTH WINTER AND SUMMER TIRES FOR TREAD AND INFLATION, SO THOSE FACTORS WEREN'T AN ISSUE DURING THE TIMES I LOST TRACTION CONTROL. EXAMPLES INCLUDE: 1) SKIDDING AND FAILING TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT THE EXIT TO A DRY, PAVED PARKING LOT (FORTUNATELY MY CAR STOPPED BEFORE ENTERING TRAFFIC, BUT I SLID PAST THE ACTUAL STOP SIGN IN LINE WITH THE SIDEWALK - IT FELT LIKE I WAS ROLLING ON LOOSE GRAVEL BUT WHEN I GOT OUT AND CHECKED THE PAVEMENT WAS CLEAN); 2) FAILING TO STOP WHEN APPLYING BRAKES ON A STRAIGHT ROAD IN SNOW AS I APPROACHED A LIGHT THAT WAS CHANGING WHILE GOING ABOUT 30-35 MPH (I HAD ENOUGH STOPPING DISTANCE TO TEST EVERY BRAKING TECHNIQUE, FROM NORMAL BRAKING TO PUMPING THE BRAKES TO PUSHING THE BRAKE PEDAL ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR; I ENDED UP MAKING AN EMERGENCY RIGHT TURN INTO THE SHOULDER OTHERWISE I WOULD HAVE GONE THROUGH THE LIGHT INTO THE PATH OF OTHER CARS); 3) SLIDING AND FAILING TO STOP ON WINTER SIDE STREETS DESPITE ONLY TRAVELING 5 MPH BECAUSE I DON'T TRUST MY BRAKES. I'VE ALSO HAD THE TRACTION LIGHT COME ON AND FELT MY CAR SLIPPING WHEN DRIVING NORMALLY (20-25 MPH) THROUGH DRY RESIDENTIAL INTERSECTIONS WITH ENGINEERED DRAINAGE GUTTERS RUNNING PERPENDICULAR TO THE STREET, OR WHILE MAKING SLOW TURNS THROUGH INTERSECTIONS WITH UNAVOIDABLE SHALLOW POTHOLES. I TOOK THE CAR TO A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN OCTOBER 2019 IN RESPONSE TO A CUSTOMER SUPPORT PROGRAM NOTIFICATION THAT INDICATED MY MAKE AND MODEL MIGHT BE AFFECTED BY A BRAKE BOOSTER PUMP ASSEMBLY ISSUE, BUT THE DEALERSHIP FOUND "NOTHING WRONG" (NO WARRANTY RELATED DIAGNOSTIC CODE PER TOYOTA'S GUIDELINES) AND SUBSEQUENTLY DID NOT PERFORM ANY REPAIRS. I'VE EXPERIENCED THIS ISSUE SPORADICALLY FOR OVER A YEAR, MOST RECENT INCIDENT ON 2/3/2020.
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 31, 2020
ON MONDAY JAN, 27, 2020, I WAS INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT WITH MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS I WAS DRIVING ON A FREEWAY WITH REGULAR TRAFFIC. THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME SUDDENLY CAME TO A STOP. I IMMEDIATELY SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES VERY HARD. I HAD PLENTY OF SAFE DISTANCE BETWEEN TWO CARS. I ENDED UP RUNNING INTO THE REAR END OF FRONT CAR WITHOUT ANY NOTICEABLE SLOWDOWN. THE BRAKES DID NOT COME ON. THERE WAS NOT ANY FEELING OF GRABBING OR TIRE MAKING ANY SCREECHING NOISE. ALSO I DID NOT SEE ANY TIRE MARKS ON ROAD. ALL OF THE AIR BAGS WERE DEPLOYED AND THERE WAS A FRONTAL IMPACT. I ALSO DID NOT FEEL MY SEAT BELT TIGHTENING UP.THE BRAKES WERE NEVER FELT LIKE BEING EXERTING AT ALL. THE CAR WAS BADLY DAMAGED IN FRONT.
Crash reported2 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11306219UNKNOWN OR OTHERJanuary 12, 2020
I WAS DRIVING MY PRIUS 2013 MODEL IN A PARKING LOT ON 12/24/2019 WHEN ITABRUPTLY (WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING MESSAGES) SHUT DOWN WITH THIS MESSAGE: "CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE." MY CAR WOULD NOT MOVE AN INCH, DIDN'T GO INTO LIMP MODE AND DIDN'T GO INTO NEUTRAL EITHER.MY PRIUS HAD A 2ND RECALL SOFTWARE UPDATE IN 2019 AND ITWAS SUPPOSE TO PREVENT MY CAR FROM SHUTTING DOWNCOMPLETELYAND SHOULD HAVE GONE INTO FAIL-SAFE DRIVING MODE BUT THAT DID NOT HAPPEN AND THE SOFTWARE UPDATE SEEMS TO BE JUST A BANDAID. IT WAS TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP WHO DIDN'T LOOK AT IT FOR 2 DAYS DUE TO THE HOLIDAYS AND THE BAD INVERTER DRAINED THE NORMAL BATTERY AND THE HYBRID WARNING CODE WITH IT. THE DEALERSHIP DID NOT REPLACE THE INVERTER AS THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T RECREATE THE DTC CODE WHICH I BELIEVE DOESN'T QUALIFY FOR NOT WANTING TO ENSURE SAFETY AFTER I HAD 3 WITNESSES INCLUDING MYSELF,SEEING THE HYBRID SYSTEM INVERTER FAILURE AS WELL. WHERE IS THE ORIGINAL DTC CODE? IT SHOULD NOT EVAPORATE AFTER A BAD INVERTER DRAINS THE BATTERY AND I HAVE THE HYBRID WARNING MESSAGE ON VIDEO BUT WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP ANDMANUFACTURER THAT IT'S NOT SUFFICIENT.AND THEY DID NOT OFFER TO CHECK THEINVERTER ORTHE IGBT TO ENSURE ITSSAFENESS. INSTEAD, I WAS ASKED TO PICK UP MY CAR AFTER THEY FIXED A 'BATTERY CELL' ISSUE THAT WAS NEVER THE PROBLEM UNTIL IT WAS AT THE DEALERSHIP. I PICKED UP MY CAR TODAY STILL WITH A BAD INVERTER,AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN AND I HOPE IT WON'T BE ON A FREEWAY.*DT*JB
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINEJanuary 2, 2020
ATTEMPTING TO TRAVEL IN MY 2013 PRIUS FIVE DURING XMAS WAS DRIVING AND APPROACHING A RED AND WHILE TRYING TO STOP PEDAL WENT DIRECTLY TO FLOOR AND SKID LIGHT WENT ON AND BARELY AVOIDED WHAT SHOULD BE AN EASY STOP!! WEATHER CLEAR FELT A DRAG AND NO COASTING ABILITY... CAR HAS 21,000 MILES AND IS IN PERFECT APPEARANCE BUT FAR FROM IN PEAK CONDITION AS THIS CAR FROM BRAND NEW HAD ISSUES I GOT TIRED WAITING FOR TOYOTA TO FIX. CRUISE CONTROL, BRAKES, BLUETOOTH, ENGINE WRAPPING SOUNDS ON STARTUP, I AM TOLD THE BRAKE ISSUE SINCE NEW IS NOW A 3,000+ REPAIR AND SINCE IT SHOWED NO CODE AT DEALER I WOULD HAVE TO PAY! MERRY XMAS TOYOTA! WHAT IS NHTSA WAITING FOR??? I AM SHOCKED AT BOTH FOR INACTION SO I WILL MAKE SOME CALL TO MY ELECTED OFFICIALS THIS HAS TO BE FIXED. TOYOTA IS BECOMING GM WHO WOULD HAVE FIGURED?? MY OTHER PRIUS ISSUES MATTER LESS WHEN BRAKES DON'T STOP YOU REASONABLY AND THE REPAIR IS OVER 3,000 ON A CAR WITH 21,000 WELL CARED FOR MILES...
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINEDecember 24, 2019
FROM DAY #1 THESE ISSUES WERE PRESENT ON 2013 PRIUS FIVE: LKA SUDDENLY STOPS CAR OVER MINOR CAR MOVEMENTS AHEAD,MAJOR KNOCKING SOUNDS FROM ENGINE ON COLD STARTS, BRAKE PEDAL HITS FLOOR AND SUDDENLY LOCKS UP! I NOW HAVE 20K AND HARDLY DRIVE IT NOW TRIPS SKID ICON?, BLUETOOTH IS ERRATIC, CRUISE CONTROL SHUTS OFF OR WON'T TURN ON WHEN ITS WET OUT, DRIZZLES OR RAINS! IS MY TOYOTA MY MOTHER WARNING ME NOT TO DRIVE IN BUMPER TO BUMPER TRAFFIC, AVOID RAIN OR SNOW, NOT TO USE ELECTRONICS OR LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE DRIVING AND IF I USE THE TECH IN THIS 36K PRIUS FIVE ITS CAUSING ME TO DRIVE LIKE A 90 YR OLD WITH BAD EYES AND EVEN POORER JUDGEMENT! IT'S A WONDER WHY SOME PEOPLE HATE PRIUS DRIVERS..! THE 12V BATTERY DIES EVERY FEW DAYS SO I MUST KEEP IT PLUGGED IN. I EVEN WRAP MY FOB IN FOIL AT HOME AND KEEP IT AS FAR FROM CAR AS POSSIBLE TO NOT WAKE UP THE CAR IF I WALK BY A WINDOW CLOSE TO ITS PARKED TO AVOID POWER DRAIN. TOYOTA TELLS DEALER EVERYTHING IS OKAY? ....IN WHAT WORLD WOULD ANYONE PAY TO HAVE A CAR LIKE THIS AND TELL CUSTOMERS ITS OKAY?? I HAVE TO DRIVE AND OTHER PEOPLE'S LIVES ARE IN DANGER! MY SON IS NOW GETTING READY TO DRIVE AND I CAN'T IMAGINE HIM FIGHTING THE CONTROLS THAT TOYOTA BUILT IN TO KEEP HIM SAFE! I USED TO MANAGE A PORSCHE DEALERSHIP AND RACED ON MANY TRACKS AND CAN DRIVE FAIRLY WELL AND DON'T LIKE TO COMPLAIN BUT AFTER MY RECENT ISSUE AND RESEARCH FOUND A LOT OF COMMON PROBLEMS WITH OTHERS SO I CHIMED IN..
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMDecember 3, 2019
WHILE DRIVING ON RTE. 24 SOUTH IN MASSACHUSETTS (AROUND BROCKTON/BRIDGEWATER/ TAUNTON, MA) THE CAUTION LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING (TRIANGLE WITH EXCLAMATION). I PULLED OVER AT THE NEAREST REST STOP TO SEE IF THERE WAS ANY OBSERVABLE PROBLEM, BUT I COULD NOT DETECT ANYTHING SPECIFIC. I GOT BACK ON THE HIGHWAY; AND THE LIGHT CONTINUED BEEPING INTERMITTENTLY AND THEN ABOUT A MILE LATER I FELT A SHIFT IN THE TRANSMISSION AND SUDDENLY I WAS IN NEUTRAL, QUICKLY DECELERATING FROM 65 MPH. THANKFULLY I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER SAFELY, AT WHICH POINT A NEW MESSAGE WAS ON MY DASH TELLING ME TO PULL OVER, THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY HYBRID SYSTEM! WE (THE TOW TRUCK GUY AND I) NOTICED OIL UNDER THE CAR AND CONFIRMED IT WAS CLEAN OIL, AND I SAW ANOTHER SPOT IN MY DRIVEWAY WHEN I GOT HOME. I HAVE SURMISED THAT WHEN I GOT MY OIL CHANGED LAST WEEK, SOMETHING MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED TO CAUSE THE LEAK, WHICH IS IN FACT THE CASE AND NOW MY ENGINE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED (THE REPAIR SHOP HAS OWNED THE ERROR AND IS PAYING FOR THIS). HOWEVER MY CONCERN THAT I WISH TO REGISTER IS THAT THE CAR SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO TELL ME NOT TO DRIVE IT, NOT JUST A CAUTION LIGHT THAT COULD HAVE MEANT ANYTHING. I COULD HAVE HAD A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. AND WHEN I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP FROM WHICH I BOUGHT THE CAR, NO ONE CALLED ME BACK (I TRIED THREE TIMES AND WAS DISCONNECTED ONCE) BRAINTREE TOYOTA. (781) 848-9300 THIS SEEMS LIKE A DEFECT THAT NEEDS LOOKING AT. BEING THROWN INTO NEUTRAL GOING 65 MILES PER HOUR AS A RESPONSE TO AN ENGINE LEAKING OIL IS NOT OK. THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN A WARNING NOT TO DRIVE.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMNovember 25, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE AND TWO UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM AND "STOP THE VEHICLE AT A SAFE PLACE' MESSAGES APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. FURTHERMORE, WHILE DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PARK ON THE SHOULDER OF A ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PENSKE TOYOTA OF DOWNEY (LOCATED AT 9136 EAST FIRESTONE BLVD, DOWNEY, CA 90241, (562) 904-5600) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT A SOFTWARE UPDATE WAS NEEDED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT RELATED TO THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000.
ENGINENovember 22, 2019
IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING MY CAR ON NOV 18 & NOV 21ST, THE ENGINE REVS EXTREMELY LOUD FOLLOWED BY THE INABILITY TO ACTUALLY DRIVE MY CAR, LIKE ITS SHUTTING DOWN ON ME. IN A MATTER OF ABOUT 5 SECONDS AND IT NOT ALLOWING ME TO DRIVE OR ACCELERATE IT RETURNS TO NORMAL. IT HAS HAPPENED TWICE THIS WEEK AND THOUGHT FOR SURE I WOULD FIND A RECALL ON THIS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS ISSUE BUT TO NO AVAIL. IT HAPPENED BOTH TIMES ON A WELL TRAVELED TWO-LANE HIGHWAY. I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 35-40MPH. I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH NO ONE WAS DIRECTLY BEHIND ME BOTH TIMES. INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS! TOYOTA PLEASE DO A RECALL ASAP!
STEERING,ENGINEOctober 28, 2019
TOYOTA DEALERSHIP REFUSED ON RECALL BASED ON DEFECTED STEERING SHAFT WHICH WAS BOUGHT BY ME AND FIXED BY MECHANIC. IT WAS CRITICAL ISSUE AND RECALL IN OTHER MODELS AS WELL. ALSO, TOYOTA DOES NOT FIX DEFECTIVE PISTON RINGS BASED ON EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION -HTTPS://ATTACHMENTS.PRIUSCHAT.COM/ATTACHMENT-FILES/2019/04/165269_T-SB-0169-16.PDF. PLEASE HELP ME AT LEAST RECOVER SOME MONEY FOR THE PART AND FINALLY LET THEM BE RESPONSIBLE FOR BURNED OIL IN ENGINE!
AIR BAGSOctober 16, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, A TACOMA TRUCK CRASHED INTO THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TOWED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEIR INVESTIGATOR DID NOT HAVE A READING OF ANY FAILURES FOR THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,800.*MP THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE FRONT AND SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY BECAUSE THERE WAS INSUFFICIENT DECELERATION IN THE CRASH. *DL
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11268836SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINEOctober 8, 2019
UNKNOWN SQUEAKING AT THE BACK, NONE OF THE MECHANICS WAS ABLE IDENTIFY THE SOUND ON THE BACK SEAT ... OIL BURNING, BULBS BURNING SO OFTEN.
ENGINESeptember 30, 2019
BASED ON THE DESCRIPTION FROM THE DEALER, THE PISTON ROD BROKE AND HIT THE CASING AND BROKE THE CASING CAUSING CATASTROPHIC FAILURE, THIS HAPPENED WHEN I WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND WAS AT 40 MPH. AS I WAS DRIVING, I HEARD A LOUD BANG AND SUDDENLY MY CAR STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY AND THEN SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM THE ENGINE AREA. I IMMEDIATELY STOPPED THE CAR AND GOT IT TOWED TO THE NEAREST SHOP FOR INSPECTION WHEN THEY FOUND THIS ISSUE WHICH IF I WAS ON A HIGHWAY COULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS. AND COULD HAVE GOT INTO AN UNFORTUNATE ACCIDENT. WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL..
UNKNOWN OR OTHERSeptember 24, 2019
WHILE I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT IN THE MORNING ON THE HIGHWAY I HEARD A HUGE POP THINKING MAYBE MY TIRE BLEW OUT WHEN I WENT TO LOOK MY SUNROOF HAD A HUGE CRACK AND MY TIRES WERE ALL FINE. IT WASN'T A WINDY DAY BUT I DROVE A LITTLE SLOWER TO WORK NOT KNOWING WHAT TO DO. 20 MINUTES LATER ARRIVING LATER THE GLASS SHATTERED LEAVING A WHOLE IN MY SUNROOF. LUCKILY THE INSIDE SLIDING CAP TO THE SUNROOF WAS CLOSED. I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID SOMETHING MUST HAVE HIT IT BUT WHEN I BROUGHT IT TO GET FIXED AT AN AUTO COLLISION THEY SAID IT EXPLODED. FROM THE LOOKS OF IT, IT LOOKS LIKE IT EXPLODED TO ME WITH THE GLASS POINTING UP.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERSeptember 22, 2019
HARD TO READ THE PANEL WHEN LIGHT STAYS ON. AFTER CAR IS SHUT DOWN THE LIGHT STAYS ON .CAR IS STATIONARY.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESAugust 12, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE DRIVER PRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE VEHICLE BUT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD AND CRASHED INTO A SECOND VEHICLE. DURING THE CRASH THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MULTIPLE CONTUSIONS TO THE BODY INCLUDING THE CHEST AREA WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED AWAY. A POLICE REPORT #159681-2019 WAS TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE LOCAL DEALER TOYOTA OF RICHARDSON (1221 N. CENTRAL EXPY. RICHARDSON TX.) THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11243249SERVICE BRAKESJuly 29, 2019
BRAKE ACCUMULATOR FAILURE RESULTING IN NOT BEING ABLE TO STOP PROPERLY. BRAKES BEGAN PULSATING AND MAKING SOUNDS UNDER PASSENGER SEAT. ELECTRIC PUMPING SOUND BECAME MORE AND MORE PROMINENT OVER TIME. BRAKES FAILED AND WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON, RESULTING IN INABILITY TO STOP PROPERLY, AND HITTING THE CURB IN A PARKING LOT. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A MAJOR ISSUE WITH THE PRIUS. SERVICE MANAGER ADMITTED THEY SEE IT ALL THE TIME. WHEN I ASKED WHY WE WERE NOT NOTIFIED IN ADVANCE, THEY SAID A 'HIDDEN WARRANTY' EXISTED, BUT YOU HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE PROBLEM TO HAPPEN. THIS PROBLEM HAPPENED TWICE IN OUR 2005 PRIUS. THANK GOODNESS WE DID NOT HAVE ANY ACCIDENTS AS A RESULT OF THE BRAKE FAILURE. BRAKES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT SYSTEM IN A CAR, AND WITHOUT THEM, WELL, YOU CAN'T STOP. PLEASE WORK WITH TOYOTA TO NOTIFY OWNERS OF THIS DANGEROUS DEFECT IN THEIR PRIUSES FROM THE YEAR 2004 ON.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKESJuly 19, 2019
I WAS IN LOS ANGELES PICKING UP MY TWO FRIENDS ON WHITLEY AVENUE, THIS STREET IS ON A BIT OF AN INCLINE. I WAS DRIVING MY TOYOTA PRIUS AND PRESSED THE "PARK" BUTTON. INSTEAD OF PARKING, THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS AND WENT INTO NEUTRAL. THE GEAR SHIRT IS SEPARATE FROM THE PARK BUTTON SO I KNOW FOR A FACT THAT I DID NOT PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL. I ATTEMPTED TO PRESS THE POWER BUTTON ON "PARK" BUTTON ON THE CAR. I EVEN TRIED TO CHAGE THE GEAR SHIFT TO "D" (FOR DRIVE) REPEATEDLY. NOTHING I TRIED AT THE TIME WAS WORKING AND WHITLEY AVENUE INTERSECTS A VERY HEAVY TRAFFIC STREET, FRANKLIN AVENUE SO I NEEDED TO STOP THE CAR BEFORE IT WENT INTO THIS STREET. I TURNED MY WHEEL TO HIT MY CARE AGAINST CURB SO THAT IT WOULD STOP ROLLING. THIS RESULTED IN MY CAR CAUSING A DOMINO EFFECT AND HITTING A SECOND CAR, WHICH HIT ANOTHER CAR, WHICH HIT ANOTHER CAR. IN TOTAL MY CAR AND THREE OTHER CARS WERE AFFECTED BY THIS IMPACT. MY TRUNK COMPLETELY SHATTERED AND THE STUFF FROM IT FLEW INTO THE CAR THAT I HIT DIRECTLY HIT (THIS TRUNK ALSO COMPLETELY SHATTERED). THE TRUNK OF THE THIRD CAR ALSO COMPLETELY SHATTERED. MY CAR IS NOW TOTALED AND I WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENED. AFTER THE ACCIDENT I WAS SPEAKING WITH PEOPLE IN THE AREA AND ANOTHER LADY INFORMED ME THAT SHE HAD SEEN ANOTHER PRIUS ROLL UNCONTROLLABLY DOWN THAT HILL AS WELL.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11233513VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMJuly 13, 2019
I RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE AND TO PREVENT AN ACCIDENT, I HAVE NOT BEEN DRIVING MY CAR. MY NEAREST DEALSHIP, WHOM I HAVE UTILIZED OFTEN, NOW ARE DISCRIMINATING BY STATING FALSE PERSONAL STATEMENTS AGAINST ME. THIS MAY BE GENDER, AGE OR RACIST BASED. SO I NEED SUPPORT TO HAVE MY CAR TOWED & HAVE HAMER TOYOTA FAIRLY & PROFESSIONALLY COMPLETE THE SAFETY RECALL REPAIRS. I HAVE BEEN AT THE DEALSHIP AND ON THE PHONE WITH ALL LEVELS OF EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE BELITTLED, MADE FALSE STATEMENTS AND/ OR JUST PLAIN INHUMANE WITH NO REMEDY FOR MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJuly 9, 2019
WHEN STATIONARY OR IN MOTION REAR TAIL LIGHT LENSES LEAK AROUND THE PERIMETER CAUSING TAIL LIGHTS TO FILL WITH WATER. THE WATER INSIDE THEM INCREASES UNTIL LIGHTS SHORT OUT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEJuly 2, 2019
HYBRID SYSTEM SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING WITHOUT WARNING AND HAPPENS EVERY DAY
AIR BAGSJune 10, 2019
I WAS INVOLVED IN A LEFT-HAND TURN, T-BONE STYLE/SIDE IMPACT CAR ACCIDENT ON JUNE 5TH, 2019. THE OTHER DRIVER WAS GOING 50+ MPH AND I WAS GOING 20 MPH. MY AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE AT LEAST DEPLOYED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WHERE THERE IS IMPACT.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #11219077FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMApril 29, 2019
PLEASE REFERENCE THE LOS ANGELES TIMES ARTICLE OF APRIL 14, 2019: "AFTER SECOND RECALL, TOYOTA PRIUS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IS STILL OVERHEATING". MY CAR HAS HAD THE SOFTWARE UPDATES, BUT IS APPARENTLY STILL UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I AM TERRIFIED THAT I COULD EXPERIENCE A "LIMP-HOME" SITUATION WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGH SPEED ON THE LOCAL FREEWAYS. I AM REQUESTING THAT THE NHTSA AGGRESSIVELY PURSUE TOYOTA TO RECALL THE AFFECTED CARS AND COMPLETELY FIX THE PROBLEM BY REPLACING THE INVERTERS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERApril 23, 2019
I HAVE BEEN CALLING SEVERAL TOYOTA DEALERS REGARDING THIS RECALL AND NONE OF THEM HAVE GOT TO ME WITH AN APPOINTMENT YET. I AM TIRED OF WASTING TIME WAITING FOR THEIR RESPONSES FOR A COUPLE OF MONTHS.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKESApril 17, 2019
2013 PRIUS, MILEAGE 29,409. CAR IN MOTION DRIVING ON CITY STREETS. WHILE BREAKING ON UNEVEN ROADS/POTHOLES, THE CAR SKIDS AND FRONT WHEELS LOCK UP AND TRACTION CONTROL/BREAK ASSIST LIGHT APPEARS ON THE DASHBOARD. WHEN THIS OCCURS THE CAR IS DANGEROUSLY SLOW TO BREAK AND TAKES FAR TOO LONG TO STOP. THIS HAPPENS ALMOST DAILY ON MY COMMUTE TO WORK IN BOTH DRY AND WET CONDITIONS. THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THE BREAKING/STABILITY SYSTEM.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERApril 13, 2019
4 OR 5 TIMES SINCE I HAD THE RECENT HYBRID SOFTWARE UPDATE, I'VE HAD TROUBLE STARTING THE CAR, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE SET TO AUTO OR ON, WHEN FIRST STARTING IN THE MORNING. SOMETIMES TURNING THE LIGHTS OFF ENABLES STARTING, BUT NOT ALWAYS. MY TOYOTA DEALER CHECKED THE BATTERY AND ELECTRICAL AND SAID ALL IS NORMAL - BUT IT'S CLEARLY NOT.
SERVICE BRAKESApril 4, 2019
EXPERIENCED WHAT APPEARS TO BE A COMMON MALFUNCTION OF THE ABS SYSTEM. WENT OVER A REGULAR ROAD BUMP ON A CITY STREET, NOTHING DRASTIC, WHILE BRAKING. IMMEDIATELY AFTER, THE TRACTION CONTROL, BRAKE, AND ABS LIGHTS CAME ON SOLID. THERE WAS STILL SOME BRAKING AVAILABLE, BUT IT REQUIRED MUCH MORE FORCE AND PEDAL TRAVEL TO ACHIEVE THE SAME LEVEL OF BRAKING AS BEFORE. THIS COULD BE VERY DANGEROUS IF SOMEONE THEN NEEDED TO STOP SUDDENLY. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME. FOUND SOME FORUMS ON LINE ABOUT THIS PROBLEM, WHICH APPEARS TO BE WIDESPREAD. USING A PAPERCLIP, I WAS ABLE TO 'RESET' THE SYSTEM, CLEARING THE WARNING LIGHTS AND REESTABLISHING ABS AND REGENERATIVE BRAKING...BUT ONLY FOR A SHORT WHILE. LATER IN THE DAY, THE SAME MALFUNCTION OCCURRED, WITH THE SAME WARNING LIGHTS APPEARING, LOSS OF ABS AND REGEN BRAKING.
SERVICE BRAKESMarch 14, 2019
SOMETHING STARTED BUZZING EVERY FEW SECONDS IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT TOWARD DRIVERS SIDE FIREWALL. AT SLOW SPEEDS, BRAKES PULSATED WITH UNEVEN BRAKING. AS TIME WENT ON, BUZZING WAS MORE FREQUENT. WARNING LIGHTS FLASHED ONCE BUT WENT OUT. AFTER THAT, WHEN PARKING CAR, THE BRAKES WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND I HIT ANOTHER CAR AT PARKING SPEEDS. DEALER SAYS 'BRAKE ACTUATOR PUMP' AND WILL COST NEARLY $3000 TO FIX. THIS PUMP ALSO WENT OUT ON MY 2005 PRIUS! BUT THAT WAS COVERED BY A 'HIDDEN' WARRANTY THAT I FOUND WHILE GOOGLING THE ISSUE. WOULD HAVE PAID FULL PRICE FOR THAT REPAIR IF I HAD NOT RUN ACROSS THAT TSB. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A BIG MONEY MAKER FOR TOYOTA FIXING THESE BUT IS A HUGE DANGER TO THE MANY DRIVERS THIS HAS HAPPENED TO OVER THE YEARS. PLEASE DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT. IT IS A RECURRING AND SUBSTANTIAL THREAT TO DRIVER SAFETY THAT MANY DRIVERS WILL OVERLOOK BECAUSE OF THE INFLATED COST OF THE PARTS. THANK YOU.
Crash reported
NHTSA #11186947STEERINGMarch 1, 2019
I AM REQUESTING $2,919.03 IN REPAIR REIMBURSEMENT FOR MY 2013 PRIUS C, VIN # [XXX] ON 2-11-19 I ATTEMPTED A RIGHT TURN ON A CITY STREET IN SAN MARCOS, CA. I ROTATED THE STEERING WHEEL AND HEARD AND FELT A 'CLUNK.' THE STEERING WHEEL LOST ALL TORQUE AND SPUN FREELY WITHOUT ENGAGING THE WHEELS. I DRIFTED INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION WITH COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING (SEE SAN DIEGO SHERIFF REPORT #[XXX]. BIG RED'S AUTOMOTIVE (SEE ATTACHED INVOICE) TOOK ATTACHED PICTURES OF STEERING COLUMN AND INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. PICTURES REVEAL INTERNAL DAMAGE TO COGS. CARFAX REPORT INDICATES EXTENSIVE DEALER SERVICE HISTORY WITH NO REPORTED ACCIDENTS. DEALER TOYOTA OF ESCONDIDO DID NOT DISCLOSE DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO VEHICLE. WITH NO EVIDENCE OF AN ACCIDENT CAUSING CONDITION AND EXTENSIVE DEALER SERVICE TO THIS VEHICLE I CONCLUDE CONDITION CAUSING COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING IS FACTORY DEFECT. I REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT OF REPAIR COST. THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CW *TT *TR
UNKNOWN OR OTHERFebruary 27, 2019
THE CAR BURNS OIL FOR NOT REASON. BETWEEN OIL CHANGES I WILL GO THROUGH 2 QUARTS OF OIL THAT I HAVE TO ADD. OTHER PRIUS OWNERS HAVE THE SAME ISSUES. I ONLY HAVE 120,000 MILES ON IT.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 27, 2019
A LOT OF LIGHTS LIT UP ON THE DASH. THE REGENERATIVE BRAKING QUIT WORKING AND THE BRAKE PADS WORE OUT REALLY QUICK.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMFebruary 13, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS UNABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INVERTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,000.
ENGINEFebruary 6, 2019
ENGINE RATTLE/KNOCKING NOISE ON FIRST MORNING START UP ON OCCASION. CAR IS PARKED OUTSIDE IN A DRIVEWAY IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. PREVIOUS DATES UNKNOWN (MAYBE HAPPENED 4 OTHER TIMES). LOG STARTED 11/26/18 SINCE THE NOISE WAS REALLY BAD THAT DAY. 11/26/18 AT 6 A.M. CAR SAT IN DRIVEWAY FOR 2 DAYS. THE NOISE WAS REALLY BAD, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE NEXT DAY THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AUTOMATICALLY CAME OFF. 1/22/19 AT 6 A.M. CAR SAT IN DRIVEWAY FOR 2 DAYS. THE NOISE WAS BAD BUT NOT AS BAD AS 11/26/18. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DID NOT COME ON. 2/1/19 AT 6 A.M. CAR SAT IN DRIVEWAY OVERNIGHT. SLIGHT NOISE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DID NOT COME ON. I HAVE SEEN SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS ONLINE. SOME HAVE SAID ITS THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE DEALER HAS REQUESTED I TAKE MY CAR IN FOR THE RECALL (RECALL NO. 18V684) TO SEE IF IT FIXES THE PROBLEM BUT I'M GOING TO REQUEST THEY DIG INTO THIS FURTHER. I HAVE APPROXIMATELY 92,000 MILES.
SEAT BELTSFebruary 5, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT WAS LOOSE AND DID NOT HAVE ANY TENSION. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GERMAIN TOYOTA OF NAPLES (13315 TAMIAMI TRAIL N, NAPLES, FL 34110, (239) 301-3156) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE SEAT BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 129,000.
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 2, 2019
BRAKE ACTUATOR WENT BAD AFTER RECENT (SERVICE APPT 1/26/19) INSTALL OF NEW 12 VOLT BATTERY AND SOFTWARE UPDATE DUE TO NHTSA RECALL #18V-684. WHILE TRAVELING DOWN THE HIGHWAY ON 1/30/19 LIGHTS CAME ON FOR BRAKE, ABS AND SKID CONTROL. VEHICLE WAS NOT BRAKING AT THE TIME. CONDITION CAUSED REDUCTION OF BRAKE CONTROL. THE NEXT DAY WHILE AGAIN TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY AT HIGHWAY SPEED TO TOYOTA DEALER FOR SERVICE, THE LIGHTS WENT OFF AND BRAKES WORKED PROPERLY. SERVICE WAS NOT ABLE TO RESET CODE AND I WAS TOLD THAT MEANS THE BRAKE ACTUATOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I WAS QUOTED $3,400 FOR REPAIR
ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMJanuary 9, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM). THE CONTACT CALLED FREDERICK CHEVROLET AT 717-406-1727 (LOCATED AT 1505 QUENTIN RD, LEBANON, PA 17042) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. *TT*JB
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMJanuary 7, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
STRUCTUREDecember 15, 2018
SUN ROOF EXPLODED / SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING ON THE FWY. AT 70 MPH. NO TRAFFIC AROUND, CLEAR DAY ABOUT 70 DEG F. AFTER HEARING THE EXPLOSION, I PULLED OVER AND FOUND THE GLASS HAD SHATTERED AND IT APPEARED THAT IT WAS CAUSED BY PRESSURE FROM INSIDE AS THE SHAPE OF THE SHATTERED GLASS WAS BOWED OUTWARDLY. NO APPARENT IMPACT FROM ANY FOREIGN OBJECT.
SERVICE BRAKESDecember 14, 2018
UNUSUAL LOUD CLICKING AND SCREECHING SOUND AS WELL AS VIBRATION FEELING UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL AND BRAKES DON'T FEEL POWERFUL ENOUGH DESPITE JUST GETTING NEW BRAKE PADS AT THE DEALERSHIP AND THERE IS MUCH LONGER DISTANCE NEEDED FOR BRAKING AND BRINGING TO A FULL STOP. THIS HAS PROGRESSIVELY INCREASED SINCE LAST NOTICED ABOUT 11-12 MONTHS AGO WHEN THE ODOMETER WAS AROUNT 95000 MILES. IT STARTED SPONTANEAOUSLY ON ITS OWN. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT OR IMPACT OF ANY KIND.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERDecember 10, 2018
TOYOTA HAS ISSUED A RECALL WITH NO REMEDY. THEY SAY THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THE CAR COULD STALL AT HIGH SPEEDS AND INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF A CRASH. I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN AND PLAN TO TRAVEL OVER THE HOLIDAYS. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR. WE HAVE FOLLOWED THE PREVIOUS RECALL NOTICES.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMDecember 10, 2018
CAR STALLS OUT AND WON'T ACCELERATE
ENGINEDecember 7, 2018
THE ENGINE TERRIBLY SHAKES AND GOT A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE DURING AN INITIAL STATIONARY COLD START IN THE MORNING DURING WINTER. IT HAPPENED 3 TIMES THIS DECEMBER 2017.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKESDecember 5, 2018
I NOTICED WHEN I WAS DRIVING ON A DRY CLEAR DAY TRACTION CONTROL/BRAKE LIGHT/ABS ILLUMINATED MY BRAKES BECAME EXTREMELY HARD TO PRESS AND COME TO A STOP ALSO MY CRUISE CONTROL WILL NOT ENGAGE. THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH WOULD GO OFF AND THE CAR WOULD DRIVE NORMAL FOR A FEW DAYS. IT REPEATED THIS SCENARIO A FEW TIMES BEFORE THE TRACTION CONTROL/BRAKE LIGHT/ABS LIGHTS STAYED ON PERMANENTLY AS WELL AS THE CRUISE CONTROL WILL NOT ENGAGE.
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMDecember 4, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM). THE DEALER (TOYOTA CARLSBAD, 5424 PASEO DEL NORTE, CARLSBAD, CA 92008, 760-537-6700) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A TECHNICIAN AT THE DEALER DID NOT KNOW ABOUT THE RECALL AND STATED THAT IT WAS A SOFTWARE UPDATE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)November 13, 2018
A RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR THE YEARS 2010 THROUGH 2014, PENDING THE DEVELOPMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF A REMEDY. IT HAS BEEN FOUR YEARS AND I FEEL THAT HAS ALLOWED TOYOTA SUFFICIENT TIME TO ISSUE A REMEDY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINENovember 11, 2018
I WAS DRIVING DOWN A CITY ROAD AT 25-30 MPH AT DUSK (5:15PM), AND WITH MY HEADLIGHTS ON. THE FIRST INDICATION OF A PROBLEM WAS THE SMELL OF BURNING RUBBER WHEN I TURNED ON THE HEATER. ASSUMING THE PROBLEM WAS WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AHEAD OF ME, I TURNED OFF THE HEATER AND KEPT DRIVING. A MILE LATER, AS I WAS NEARING MY DESTINATION, I NOTICED SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS TURN ON (SKID LIGHT AND EXCLAMATION MARK LIGHT) AND THE STEERING BECAME LESS RESPONSIVE. I THEN SAW SMOKE EMITTING FROM UNDER MY HOOD. A FEW SECONDS LATER, THE FRONT PASSENGER-SIDE CORNER OF THE CAR BURST INTO FLAMES. I MANAGED TO PULL OVER, WOKE UP MY TWO YOUNG CHILDREN FROM THEIR CAR SEATS, AND GOT EVERYONE OUT. WITHIN A MINUTE, THE ENTIRE HOOD WAS ABLAZE. GIVEN WHERE THE FIRE STARTED, I SUSPECT THE HEADLIGHT. I REPLACED IT THE DAY BEFORE. THE LIGHT SEEMED TO WORK FINE FOR 1 DAY, BUT IT IS SUSPICIOUS THAT IS ALSO THE AREA WHERE THE FIRE STARTED.
Fire reported
NHTSA #11150819SERVICE BRAKESNovember 6, 2018
SUDDENLY THE ABS, BRAKE AND THE TRACTION LIGHT CAME ON AND WILL GO WAY AFTER 20MIN. WHEN THE LIGHTS CAME ON THERE'S NO WARNING SO YOU MIGHT GET AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT BEING PREPARED FOR WORDS AS IS SO DANGEROUS TO HAVE SUCH A SAFETY ISSUE WITH THE CAR LIKE THIS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERNovember 2, 2018
MY VEHICLE MAY NOT ENTER A FAILSAFE DRIVING MODE AS INTENDED. VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER AND STALL ON A FREEWAY WHERE HIGHER SPEED WILL TAKE PLACE. THIS IS DANGEROUS AND MAY CAUSE A FATALITY. I AM CONCERN ABOUT THERE NOT BEING A REMEDY AS OF OCTOBER OF THIS YEAR.
ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMOctober 19, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT PROVIDED THE REMEDY FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V684000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM) WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME FRAME. THE DEALER (DCH WAPPINGERS FALLS TOYOTA, 1349 U.S. 9, WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY 12590, (845) 206-0521) STATED THAT THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE AND DID NOT KNOW WHEN IT WOULD ARRIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE RODE ROUGHLY, THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINEOctober 7, 2018
WHILE DRIVING ON A SIDE ROAD ON 9/26/2018 I RECEIVED AN ALERT MESSAGE THAT SAID "CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM. STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE." I PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER AND SHUT IT DOWN. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START FOR A MINUTE BUT THEN STARTED AGAIN. I CALLED THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP WHERE I GET MY CAR SERVICED AND I ASKED THEM IF IT IS OKAY FOR ME TO DRIVE IT HOME SINCE I WAS 110 MILES AWAY. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS OKAY TO DRIVE AND I TOOK THE CAR TO THEM TO GET IT CHECKED OUT UPON GETTING BACK IN TOWN. THEY CONFIRMED THAT THE WARNING HAD COME ON, HOWEVER COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING TO FIX IT. SO THEY RESET THE ERROR MESSAGE AND RETURNED THE CAR TO ME. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR ON THE ROAD WITHOUT A FIX SINCE IT COULD STOP AT A HIGH SPEED AND CAUSE ME TO BE IN A CRASH. I AM SURPRISED HOW DOES TOYOTA HAVE A PROTOCOL TO LET USERS DRIVE A FAULTY CAR ON THE ROAD?
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINESeptember 23, 2018
CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN ABOUT 15-20 MPH WHEN IT JUST STOPPED WITH A JOLT AS IF IT HAD BEEN HIT FROM BEHIND. CAR WOULD NOT MOVE. TOWED TO SHOP WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS BAD INVERTER.
POWER TRAINSeptember 11, 2018
I WAS DRIVING THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP TO GET AN OIL CHANGE AND THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY.
STRUCTUREAugust 31, 2018
CAR WAS PARKED AND NOTICED THAT REAR BUMPER ON RIGHT CORNER WAS HANGING OFF SLIGHTLY, WITH CLIPS VISIBLE UNDERNEATH. WHEN PUSHING IT IN TO TRY AND REHINGE ONTO THE CLIPS, IT MOVED ANOTHER PART OF THE BUMPER. BUMPER VIEW FROM THE REAR IS NOT SHOWING ONE SIDE IS SAGGING.
POWER TRAINAugust 8, 2018
VEHICLE LOSS POWER WHILE DRIVING RESIDENTIAL ROADS
UNKNOWN OR OTHERJuly 27, 2018
I BOUGHT A USED 2013 TOYOTA CERTIFIED PRIUS IN 2016,AFTER USING FOR A FEW MONTHS THE CAR STALLED AT THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD.I HAVE IT TOWED AT BOB SMITH TOYOTA FOR REPAIRS.THE REPAIR INDICATED A REPLACEMENT OF INVERTER.THE COST OF REPAIR IS AROUND $2,000.THE CAR IS OK NOW AND RUNNING,BUT IT'S NO GUARANTEE THE THE SAME PROBLEM WILL HAPPEN AGAIN.I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR,AT PRESENT I BROUGHT MY CAR AT THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN FOR ANOTHER ISSUE,THE RADIO,NAVIGATION BACKUP CAMERA DOESN'T WORK,
POWER TRAINJuly 17, 2018
AFTER DRIVING FOR APPROXIMATE 40 MILES ON FREEAY I WAS AT A STOP LIGHT AND WHEN ACCELERATING I HEARD A POPPING SOUND AND VEHICLE LOST POWER. WOULD NOT ACCLELERATE AND THE HYBRID/ABS AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON,LUCKLY THIS HAPPEN ON A STRET AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY. I PULLED OVER AND HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO TOYOTA DEALER. THEY FOUND THAT THE IPM RESISTOR FOR THE INVERTER HAD FAILED. DEALER REPLACED IPM AND INVERTER.
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 17, 2018
2013 PRIUS 3 VEHICLE ALWAYS SERVICED AT TOYOTA DEALERSHIP, LAST SERVICE THEY RECOMMENDED FRONT BRAKE PADS REPLACEMENT, TIRES AND ALIGNMENT SO I DID . 7 MONTHS LATER DRIVING ALONG SMOOTH CITY ROAD ABS, TRACKING CONTROL, AND BRAKE LIGHTS COMES ON BRAKES FEEL HARDER TO DEPRESS AND NO GENERATIVE BRAKING. I HAD DIAGNOSTICS RUN FOR CODES AND CAME BACK (C1391 ABNORMAL LEAK IN ACCUMULATOR). RESEARCH FOUND THIS COMMON PROBLEM CRACK IN ACCUMULATOR DUE TO VIBRATION BUT FOUND NO RECALL ON IT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJune 25, 2018
LOW BEAM HEADLAMPS HAVE BEEN REPLACED BY ME 3 TIMES IN 80K MILES. I AM NOW AWARE THERE IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM AS THEY ARE AGAIN FAILING, AND I REPLACED THE BULBS OF BOTH JUST 2 WEEKS AGO. THERE IS NO WARNING, THEY JUST DON'T WORK. I NOTICE IT WHILE DRIVING AND CANNOT SEE WITHOUT BRIGHT HEADLIGHTS ON.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLJune 22, 2018
AROUND 2:00 AM ON FWY 101 NORTH/SOUTH DIVISION POINT, CAR SUDDENLY LOST ITS POWER AND ACCELERATOR STOPPED WORKING AND STOPPED IN THE CURVING AREA ON FASTEST LANES. I TURNED MY KEY ON/OFF FOR 5 TIMES LIGHTS ON THE PANEL WAS ON BUT ACCELERATOR WAS NOT WORKING AT ALL FOR 30 MIN SO I CALLED POLICE AND AAA TOWING. WHEN FINALLY AAA CAME AND TALKING ON THE PHONE, THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATED AGAIN. IT WAS VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS MY CAR WAS FORCED TO PARK ON THE FASTEST LANE ON THE CURVING AREA AT 2:00AM AND MANY TRUCKS AND CARS WERE DRIVING 90 MILES/HOUR. 4-5 CARS WERE YELLING AT ME "IT IS VERY DANGEROUS TO PARK YOUR CAR RIGHT HERE !" AND SOME MALE DRIVERS OFFERED ME FOR HELP BUT I TOLD THEM THAT I WAS WAITING FOR POLICE (AS I WAS MORE AFRAID TO GET A HELP FROM STRANGERS.) THIS INCIDENT COULD CAUSE A VERY SERIOUS INJURIES OR DEATH. NEXT DAY, I TOOK MY CAR TO TOYOTA NORTHLEDGE BUT THEY SAID THERE WAS NO PROBLEM OF THIS CAR. I READ THE "RECALL" OF TOYOTA PRIUS 2010-2014 ABOUT INVERTER PROBLEM WHICH CAUSE THE POWER FAILURE BUT TIM/SERVICE MANGER TOLD ME THAT "YOUR VIN # IS NOT COVERED WITH THIS ISSUE." THEREFORE, HE CAN NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT.
ENGINEJune 21, 2018
CURRENTLY USING APPROXIMATELY 1 QUART OF OIL PER 2,000 MILES. THAT COMES OUT TO 5 QUARTS PER 10,000 MILE OIL CHANGE--WHICH IS MORE THAN THE 4.4 QUARTS THAT THE CAR HOLDS. NO DRIPS UNDER THE CAR. NO CLOUDS OF SMOKE OUT OF THE EXHAUST. THE OIL USAGE SLOWED DOWN, WHEN I TRIED USING CASTRIL FULL SYNTHETIC OIL--AT THE SUGGESTION OF A NEIGHBOR OF MINE, INSTEAD OF THE TOYOTA DEALER OIL AND MOBIL 1. IT IS A CONCERN, THAT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM MIGHT BE PLUGGING UP--DUE TO THIS OIL USE ISSUE. I HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY TO 200,000. THE WARRANTY COMPANY TOLD ME TODAY, THAT, THEY WILL ONLY COVER INTERNAL ENGINE PART BREAKAGE, OR WHATEVER MY FACTORY WARRANTY WAS. THEY WILL NOT COVER THE CAUSE OF THE OIL USE, AND THEY WILL NOT COVER DAMAGE CAUSED BY LACK OF OIL. SO, I WAS TOLD, TO MAKE SURE I KEEP IT FULL OF OIL. TOYOTA SHOULD CONSIDER HOW THIS WILL AFFECT THEIR FUTURE BUSINESS. A BIG SALES POINT TO THE PRIUS IS, THAT, IT SHOULD LAST A REALLY LONG TIME. IT MAY LAST A LONG TIME, YET. I'LL KEEP ADDING OIL AND WE SHALL SEE. IN THE MEAN TIME, I PLAN TO GET A ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE PACKAGE THAT INCLUDES TOWING....
POWER TRAIN,ENGINEMay 26, 2018
EXCESSIVE MOTOR OIL BURNING AT A RATE OF 2 QUARTS EVERY 5000 MILES. DEALER CLAIMS IS NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. DEALER CONFIRMS THAT THERE IS NO LEAKAGE.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMMay 22, 2018
I PUT THIS CAR INTO SERVICE JANUARY 1, 2014. I DROVE 150,000 MILES CHANGING MY OIL RELIGIOUSLY AS RECOMMENDED. I HAD NEVER BURNED A DROP OF OIL PRIOR TO THIS. THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN I STARTED BURNING A QUART EVERY 2000 MILES. AFTER LOOKING AT TOYOTA FORUMS THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLApril 22, 2018
MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS OCCASIONALLY EXPERIENCES DELAYS IN ACCELERATION AND ABNORMAL HYBRID FUNCTION. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING BECAUSE THERE ARE NO LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD. CORPORATE TOYOTA DOESN'T SEEM TO CARE. I ASKED IF I HAD TO GET INTO AN ACCIDENT BEFORE THIS BECAME AN ISSUE. AN EXTRA SECOND OF UNEXPECTED INABILITY TO MOVE MY CAR CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS IN MY OPINION. SO WHEN I PULL OUT OF A PARKING LOT ONTO A STREET WITH MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL THERE WILL SOMETIMES AN ADDITIONAL SECOND OR SO BEFORE THE CAR STARTED TO MOVES AND AT A SLOWER THAN NORMAL PACE. I KNOW PRIUSES DON'T MOVE FAST BUT IT IS SILLY SLOW.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMApril 12, 2018
AS A SAFETY PROFESSIONAL, I HAVE A SAFETY CONCERN ON THE INVERTER NOT OPERATING CORRECTLY AND PUTTING ME, MY FAMILY, AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC IN HARMS WAY. I AM THEREFORE HOLDING NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION AND TOYOTA CORPORATION RESPONSIBLE HERE ON FORWARD. I AM DRIVING MY VEHICLE IN CALIFORNIA BUSY FREEWAYS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMMarch 29, 2018
ENGINE WARNING LIGHT AT START UP CAME ON WITH NO DEGRADATION OF OPERATION. CAR WAS TAKEN TO ORIGINATING MANUFACTURE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. WHEN CAR WAS PURCHASED AS CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED THE SALES REP UPSOLD EXTENDED 3RD PARTY WARRANTY COVERAGE THAT THEY SAID 'WOULD COVER EVERYTHING INCLUDING DIAGNOSIS LABOR FEES.' WHEN VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED FROM DEALER SERVICE DEPT THEY SAID IT WAS FAULTY O2 SENSOR, CAUSED 'BY RODENT DAMAGE TO CABLE'. NO VALIDATION OR EVIDENCE OF THIS WAS PROVIDED; CABLE/PARTS NOT PRESENTED FOR INSPECTION TO CUSTOMER. CUSTOMER WAS TOLD LACK OF SENSOR WOULD RESULT IN REDUCED GAS MILAGE. CUSTOMER ASKED ABOUT SAFETY OF VEHICLE AND WAS TOLD VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE WITHOUT PART REPAIR. CUSTOMER ASKED IF REPAIR WAS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS NOT. CUSTOMER DECLINED REPAIR AT THAT TIME; CUSTOMER WAS FORCED TO PAY ~$150 LABOR CHARGE FOR INSPECTION. CUSTOMER RETURNED AT A LATE TIME TO COMPLETE REPAIR. AGAIN NO EVIDENCE OF PART FAILURE WAS PRESENTED AND REPAIR COST ~$400 WAS FORCED TO BE PAID. CUSTOMER THEN FOUND EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERAGE DOCUMENTS AND CALLED THEM TO ASK WHY REPAIR WAS NOT COVERED AS PROGRAM DOCUMENTATION AND CONTRACT SEEMED TO INCLUDE COVERAGE OF THIS ISSUE; PROVIDER NOTED THAT DEALER DID NOT CALL TO AUTHORIZE REPAIR AT NO COST TO CUSTOMER AND CUSTOMER SHOULD SUBMIT PAPERWORK TO PROVIDER FOR REVIEW. CUSTOMER FURTHER RESEARCHED ON INTERNET THE ISSUE AND FOUND MULTIPLE REPORTS OF FAULTY WIRING AND IS CONCERNED FOR SAFETY OF OPERATION DUE TO MANUFACTURE MATERIAL FLAWS THAT ALLOW ANIMAL DAMAGE TO CRITICAL WIRING OF CAR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESMarch 22, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO STOP THE VEHICLE, THE DRIVER DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWERVE AND VIBRATE. THE ECU SENSOR INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE BRAKES FAILED. THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO IMMEDIATELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE EVENTUALLY STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY INTERSECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN DIRECTLY TO ALLEN JAY TOYOTA (40 US HWY 27 NORTH, SEABRING, FL) WHO INITIALLY WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. AFTER RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ECU WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. *TT *JS
SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 25, 2018
BRAKE LIGHTS STAY ON AFTER BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED WHEN CAR IS IN PARK AND WHEN IT IS IN MOTION. THE BRAKE LIGHTS STAY ON EVEN AFTER THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM IGNITION AND CAR LOCKED. TOYOTA HAS REPAIRED THIS PROBLEM TWICE AND NOW IT IS THE THIRD TIME I HAVE THE PROBLEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMOctober 19, 2017
THERE IS A DEFECT IN THE REAR LENS AND BODY ASSEMBLY, PART NUMBER 81551-52A94 (RIGHT SIDE) AND CORRESPONDING PART ON THE LEFT SIDE. A SEAM CRACKS AND ALLOWS WATER INTO THE LENS ASSEMBLY. EVENTUALLY, ENOUGH WATER ACCUMULATES TO COVER THE BRAKE LIGHT CAUSING IT TO SHORT. THE TOYOTA DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT I COULD DO BUT REPLACE BOTH ASSEMBLIES. I HAVE THE OLD PARTS AND HAVE TAKEN PICTURES. THE SEAM ON BOTH ASSEMBLIES FACING IS CRACKED AT EXACTLY THE SAME POINT ... ABOUT MID-WAY CLOSEST TO THE REAR HATCH. MY GUESS IS THAT ICE ACCUMULATED IN THE SPACE AND CAUSED THE ASSEMBLIES TO CRACK.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKESOctober 5, 2017
WHEN MOVING THEN BRAKING, JUST BEFORE THE CAR STOPS(IN THE LAST FEET OF DEAD STOP) THE BRAKE PEDAL SHAKES AND THE TIRES FEELS LIKE THEY ARE ENGAGING AND DISENGAGING IN BRAKES, ASSOCIATED WITH LOUD RUBBER NOISE RUBBING(LIKE UN-LUBRICATED ACTUATOR). THIS NOISE IS ALSO HEARD 2 MINUTES AFTER SWITCHING THE CAR OFF
UNKNOWN OR OTHERSeptember 16, 2017
CAR LITERALLY STOPPED ON THE ROAD. IT WAS TOWED TO TOYOTA OF RIVERSIDE, CA. SAW THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL THAT THE PROBLEM WAS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED TO ME. ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK THE SOFTWARE AS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. I WAS TOLD THAT APPLIED ONLY TO 2010-2012 VEHICLES, MINE IS A 2013. ASKED REPEATEDLY, REGARDLESS OF YEAR TO PLEASE CHECK THIS. I HAVE HUGE CONCERNS DRIVING THIS CAR AS IT LEFT ME COMPLETELY STOPPED AND STRANDED, HAD I BEEN ON THE FREEWAY, COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL. FIRST I WAS TOLD IT WAS THE HYBRID BATTERIES HAD GONE BAD. THEN THEY SAID IT WASN'T THE BATTERIES, IT WAS A FUSE FOR THE HYBRID BATTERY. EXPLAINED MY CONCERNS THAT THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN IF IT TRULY WAS THE FUSE?? THEY SAID IT BECAME DISCONNECTED DUE TO VIBRATION. HOW DO YOU DRIVE AND NOT HAVE SOME VIBRATION? ASKED IF IT COULD HAPPEN AGAIN, THEY DIDN'T KNOW. ASKED REPEATEDLY TO CHECK THE SOFTWARE AS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL. THEY SAID THEY HAD TOYOTA SAFETY INVOLVED AND THEY DID EVERYTHING THEY REQUESTED OF THEM. THIS DID NOT INCLUDE CHECKING THE SOFTWARE AS I REQUESTED, SO THEY WOULD NOT DO IT. I ENDED UP DEALING WITH THE MANAGER, DANNY BRIGGS, AND REQUESTED A COPY OF ALL THE ITEMS THAT HAD BEEN CHECKED AND DONE TO MY CAR. HE SAID HE WOULD HAVE THIS FOR ME. WHEN WE PICKED UP THE CAR, THIS WAS NOT GIVEN TO ME. MET WITH HIM, HE SAID THAT WAS ALL HE COULD DO. I TOLD HIM I WAS VERY UPSET, I FEEL LIKE I'M INVOLVED IN A TOTAL "COVER UP" SO THEY WOULDN'T HAVE TO RECALL THE 2013 PRIUS' ALSO. I WAS TOLD I COULD TRADE MY CAR IN THERE IF I DIDN'T FEEL IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. I HAD ASKED THEM TO CHANGE THE OIL AND CHECK MY BRAKES, THEY DIDN'T DO IT. IT WAS LIKE THEY JUST WANTED TO GET ME OUT OF THERE AND NOT DEAL WITH IT. I HAVE NEVER CONTACTED YOUR AGENCY BEFORE, BUT FEEL THAT THIS COULD END UP KILLING SOMEONE IF NOT CHECKED INTO. THANK YOU.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERJune 22, 2017
I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK. THE CAR WAS WORKING JUST FINE. ALL OF A SUDDEN I NOTICED SMOKE. I PUT MY EMERGENCY LIGHTS ON AND STARTED LOOKING FOR ANY SIGN OF TROUBLE. NO WARNING LIGHTS WHEN OFF ON THE DASH BOARD. ALL OF A SUDDEN A CAR PULLED UP NEXT TO ME AND TOLD ME GET OUT YOUR CAR IS ON FIRE! AT THAT POINT I STOPPED ON THE FREEWAY IN THE SECOND LANE AND RAN TO THE CENTER DIVIDER. THE CAR BURNED OUT.
Fire reported
NHTSA #11000622AIR BAGSJune 9, 2017
2013 PRIUS V HAD A COLLISION WITH A MUSTANG CONVERIBLE. BOTH VEHICLES ARE TOTALED. THE MUSTANG'S AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. THE PRIUS'S AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE DRIVER HAS A SEVERE CONCUSSION. EMS APPARENTLY TOLD THE HOSPITAL THIS WAS THE SENDING ONE THEY HAD SEEN WHERE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. THE HOSPITAL TOLD ME I NEEDED TO LOOK INTO AIRBAGS (3XS) BASED ON WHAT EMS SAID. WHEN I WENT TO TOYOTA THEY ASKED IF I WAS THE ONE THAT HAD CALLED A COUPLE OF DAYS PRIOR DUE TO AIRBAGS FAILING. (NO I HAD NOT CALLED.) SO, WAS EMS REFERRING TO A SECOND TOYOTA WHERE AIRBAGS HAD NOT DEPLOYED IN 2 DAYS? PLEASE LOOK AT PICTURES. THIS WAS A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. POLICE REPORT STATES BOTH VEHICLES DOING 35MPH. AGAIN, PRIUS AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10994100ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINEApril 5, 2017
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, WITH LESS THAN 45,000 MILES AND REGULAR MAINTENANCE METICULOUSLY PERFORMED ON THE CAR, THE BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING, ABS WARNING, AND SLIP INDICATOR WARNING LIGHTS ALL ILLUMINATED - INDICATING, "HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED BY YOUR TOYOTA DEALER IMMEDIATELY." TOOK CAR TO TOYOTA DEALER AND SERVICE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED ENGINE ELECTRICAL WIRE HARNESS WAS COMPLETELY CHEWED THROUGH BY RODENTS, WHICH HE SAID HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY COMMON NOW THAT TOYOTA IS USING SOY-BASED WIRE COVERINGS, AND THAT THE CAR WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE UNTIL THE WIRE HARNESS IS COMPLETELY REPLACED. THE ESTIMATED COST OF REPAIR IS $3,843.83. TOYOTA WILL NOT COVER THE COST OF THEIR DESIGN DEFECT, WHICH NOT ONLY CAUSES A MAJOR FINANCIAL SETBACK, BUT ALSO A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD FOR ANYONE DRIVING A TOYOTA.
ENGINEApril 4, 2017
MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING THE CAR THIS MORNING AND THE ENGINE CUTOFF AND LOST ALL POWER ALONG WITH A MAINTENANCE REQUIRED LIGHT CAME ON. SHE TRIED TO ACCELERATE BUT IT WOULD NOT. SHE PULLED OFF THE ROAD. MY WIFE WAS IN ANOTHER VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HER.MY WIFE TURNED OFF THE CAR AND TURNED IT BACK ON IT DRIVE FINE FOR 25 MILES. THIS IS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE AND SOUNDS LIKE ANOTHER RECALL LIKE THIS. HTTP://KFOR.COM/2014/02/12/DRIVE-A-TOYOTA-RECALLED-FOR-POWER-LOSS-ISSUE-COULD-BRING-CAR-TO-SUDDEN-STOP-ON-ROAD/
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGESMarch 28, 2017
CONSUMER SENT ADDITIONAL VEHICLE DOOR LOCKS MALFUNCTION CORRESPONDENCE. *SMD THE CONSUMER RENTED A TOYOTA PRIUS AND A FORD FOCUS ON SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE ELECTRONICALLY OPERATED LOCKS ON THE VEHICLES DOORS CAUSED THE INTERIOR DOOR-OPEN LEVERS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE. THE CONSUMER USED THE WIRELESS REMOTE TO UNLOCK THE DOORS AND SAT IN THE BACK SEAT OF THE PRIUS. THE DOORS LOCKED WITH NO EFFORT FROM THE CONSUMER. THE DOOR LEVERS ON THE BOTH REAR DOORS WERE INOPERABLE. THE CONSUMER CRAWLED TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT IN ORDER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER RENTED A 2013 FORD FOCUS ON DECEMBER 30, 2014. THE ELECTRIC WINDOW CONTROLS WERE INOPERABLE, AS WELL AS THE INTERIOR DOOR-OPEN LEVER. UPDATED 03/28/2017 *JS
WHEELSMarch 4, 2017
A WARNING LIGHT CAME ON INDICATING LOW TIRE PRESSURE. I STOPPED IMMEDIATLY IN THE CLOSEST PARKING LOT. THE SIDEWALL ON MY GOODYEAR WEATHERHANDLER FUEL MAXX TIRES HAD SPLIT APART, ABOUT 12 INCHES TOTAL IN 3 SPOTS. THE CORDS OF THE SIDEWALL WERE SHOWING. THESE WERE 65,000 MILE TIRES PURCHASED JANUARY 2016. THEY HAD ABOUT 28,000 MILES ON THEM AT THE TIME THEY FAILED. I JUST FINISHED A 2500 MILE TRIP USING THE INTERSTATES. IF THEY FAILED THERE, IT WOULD HAVE KILLED US. GOD WAS WATCHING OVER US. THE TIRE WAS TOTALLY FLAT IN 5 MINUTES. THESE WERE PURCHASED FROM TIRE KINGDOM. AFTER GETTING THE SPARE ON, I DROVE THE 2 MILES TO THE STORE I PURCHASED THEM FROM. THEY EXPLAINED THEY NO LONGER HAD ANY STOCK, AS IT WAS A PURCHASE THEIR CHAIN MADE FROM SEARS WHEN THEY WENT OUT OF BUSINESS. I WAS UPSET THEY SOLD ME LEFT OVER TIRES. THEY OFFERED TO REPLACE THE FAILED TIRE, BUT I NEED SOMEONE TO REPLACE ALL OF THEM. THEY ARE A HAZARD. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR. I WILL CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER AND SEE WHAT THEY WILL DO FOR ME.THE DATE CODE ON THE TIRES SHOW THEY WERE 2 1/2 YEARS OLD WHEN I PURCHASED THEM.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGMarch 4, 2017
BOTH LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS FAILED SIMULTANEOUSLY AND WITHOUT WARNING.
POWER TRAINFebruary 22, 2017
THE VEHICLE HAS SHIFTED INTO NUETRAL WHILE IN DRIVE AND WHILE IN PARK. ALSO ROLLS TO MUCH WHEN PARKED. THE VEHICLE RAN MY WIFE OVER IN OUR DRIVEWAY, TOYOTA REFUSES TO SERVICE THE VEHICLE...UPDATED 03/08/17 *BF
1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10956383UNKNOWN OR OTHERFebruary 16, 2017
TREAD SEPARATION, BRIDGESTONE P215/45R17 87 V. FIRST DETECTED AT 54,425 MILES.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERJanuary 16, 2017
RODENTS ARE ENTERING THE CABIN OF MY PRIUS VIA THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND CHEWING THROUGH THE FOAM FLAPPER VENT JUST ABOVE THE CABIN FILTER AND ENTERING THE MAIN CABIN AREA TO RAISE HAVOC. I DISCOVERED ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASION RODENT DROPPINGS IN MY GLOVE BOX AND FLOOR BOARD. THIS IS OCCURRING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY FOR SHORT PERIODS OF TIME SINCE I DRIVE THE VEHICLE DAILY. I DON'T LEAVE FOOD IN THE VEHICLE, SO THE RODENTS ARE ATTRACTED TO THE VEHICLE ITSELF. THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP CLAIMS TO BE UNAWARE OF THIS PROBLEM ALTHOUGH I CAN SEARCH ON THE INTERNET AND FIND MULTIPLE INSTANCES OF SIMILAR RODENT ACTIVITY IN TOYOTA VEHICLES.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJanuary 14, 2017
ON JAN 2, 2017, I ATTEMPTED TO START MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE VEHICLE DASH HAD THE FOLLOWING WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED, CHECK HYBRID, ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING WARNING, BRAKE WARNING LIGHT AND THE MASTER WARNING LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE AND WOULD ONLY DEFAULT TO THE NEUTRAL POSITION. UPON OPENING THE HOOD OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT I NOTICED THE WIRING TO THE HYBRID INVERTER HAD BEEN EXTENSIVELY DAMAGED (CHEWED, GNAWED) TO THE EXTENT THAT THE PHYSICAL WIRES WERE TOUCHING EACH OTHER AND POSSIBLY SHORTING OR GROUNDING TO EACH OTHER. MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO STEVENSON TOYOTA WEST LOCATED AT 780 INDIANA ST, LAKEWOOD, CO. ON JAN 3, 2017. ON JAN 4, 2017 I WAS CONTACTED BY SERVICE ADVISOR MIKE HASHMAN WHO TOLD ME THE DAMAGE WAS CAUSED BY A RODENT(S) CHEWING ON THE WIRING. THE DAMAGE WAS AS FOLLOWS: HV INVERTOR WIRES (2) WERE DAMAGED, A/C COMPRESSOR HV WIRE WAS DAMAGED, INVERTOR COOLANT TANK WERE ALL REPLACED BECAUSE OR EXTENSIVE DAMAGE. ALONG WITH INVERTOR COOLANT AND LABOR THE TOTAL COST OF THE REPAIR WAS $1,279.63. WE HAVE A $1,000.00 DEDUCTIBLE POLICY SO OUR TOTAL COST WAS THE DEDUCTIBLE. I HAVE SINCE DISCOVERED THAT TOYOTA HAS BEEN, SINCE APPROXIMATELY 2009 THROUGH 2016 AND POSSIBLY 2017, BEEN USING SOY BASED WIRING COVERING AND CABLE WRAP WHICH IS VERY ATTRACTIVE TO RODENTS. IN OUR CASE THE RODENT WOULD BE BROWN SQUIRRELS. I HAVE ALSO FOUND A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FILED ON JAN. 6, 2017, IN THE US DISTRICT COURT FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON, ALLEGING TOYOTA HAS KNOWN OF THE PROBLEM BUT HAS REFUSED STEADFASTLY REFUSED TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. MY CONCERN IS HAD THE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE ELECTRONICS OCCURRED WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE CONSEQUENCES COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL TO MYSELF, PASSENGERS AND OTHERS OCCUPYING VEHICLES NEXT TO OR NEAR ME BECAUSE OF THE POWER STEERING AND BRAKE ERRORS. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY.
POWER TRAINDecember 19, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE SHIFT LEVER IN THE PARK POSITION, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ROLLED BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 02/15/2017*CT *CN
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHERDecember 13, 2016
MY SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY EXPLODED OUTWARDS WHEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. NO OBJECTS HIT ME OR THE SUNROOF. THERE WERE NO OTHER CARS NEAR ME. I WAS NOT AROUND ANY OVERPASSES. THE SUNROOF JUST EXPLODED AND THE GLASS SHARDS ARE POINTING OUTWARDS TOWARDS THE SKY. *TR
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 17, 2016
WHEN I APPLY BREAK AT ANY SPEED (MAYBE ABOVE 20MPH) THE BREAK SYSTEM DOESN'T WORK PROPERLY. I HAVE TO PRESS THE BRAKE PADDLE REALLY HARD DOWN TO THE FLOOR. SOME TIME I EVEN HAVE TO RELEASE THE PADDLE AND THEN RE-BRAKE. THIS IS DANGEROUS, NOT SAFE AT ALL. BREAK ACTING LIKE THIS WAY SINCE I BROUGHT IT BRAND NEW. I NOTIFY DEALER TWICE TO CHECK (1ST YEAR OF SERVICE AND THEN SECOND YEAR OF SERVICE), THEY CAME BACK AND SAYS NOTHING WRONG (THIS WAS UNDER WARRANTY). NOW, WHEN I WENT TO DEALER TO REPORT THIS.. DEALER LIKE YOUR VEH IS 2013 AND HAS 10K MILES ON IT AT AUGUST, 2016, LET'S CHANGE THE ROTOR AND BREAK AND THEN WE CAN TEST IT (ARE THEY SERIOUS?). I AM SCARED TO DRIVE AND HAVE A FEELING, I WILL CRASH WITH A BRAKING SYSTEM LIKE THIS PRIUS. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH SOME/FEW PRIUS - PLEASE ADDRESS BEFORE SOMEONE DIES.
SERVICE BRAKESNovember 7, 2016
I WAS DRIVING ON A BUSY CITY STREET AND AS I WAS APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE, BUT THE BRAKE FAILED. AS I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. I KEPT ON HITTING THE BRAKE BUT IT WAS NOT WORKING. MY CAR WAS NOT STOPPING. THE ABS AND SLIP INDICATOR LIGHTS TURNED ON. I WAS ON A PANIC BECAUSE I WOULD BE HITTING OTHER CARS AND POSSIBLY PEOPLE BECAUSE I WAS APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION. LUCKILY THE TRAFFIC LIGHT TURNED GREEN AS I APPROACHED SO I MADE THE TURN AND STILL I WAS NOT STOPPING. THE CAR WAS CONTINUOUSLY MOVING. AS I WAS APPROACHING ANOTHER INTERSECTION, I TRIED STEPPING ON THE PARKING BRAKE, IT DECELERATED BUT NOT STOPPING. BEFORE IT ALMOST HIT ANOTHER CAR ON THE INTERSECTION, IT STOPPED WHILE I WAS STEPPING ON THE PARKING BRAKE REAL HARD WITH ABATED BREATH.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKESNovember 2, 2016
I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT ON A CITY ROAD WITH THE FLOW OF HEAVY TRAFFIC AT ABOUT 40 MILES PER HOUR WHEN THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME CAME TO A SUDDEN STOP. I IMMEDIATELY SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES VERY HARD. AT THE TIME I DID THIS I HAD PLENTY OF SAFE DISTANCE BETWEEN US. BUT, THE BRAKES NEVER CAME ON AND I ENDED UP RUNNING INTO THE REAR END OF AN SUV AT APPARENTLY FULL SPEED WITHOUT ANY NOTICEABLE SLOWDOWN. THE BRAKES DID NOT COME ON. THEY DIDN'T GRAB, AND THEY DIDN'T MAKE ANY SCREECHING NOISE AND THERE WERE NO TIRE MARKS ON THE ROAD. ALSO ALL OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AND THIS WAS A FRONTAL IMPACT, WHICH WAS VERY SURPRISING AND SUFFOCATING. A CLOUD OF DUST FILLED THE CABIN OF THE CAR AND I COULD NOT BREATHE. I WAS LITERALLY SUFFOCATING UNTIL I WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR AND GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE. I DIDN'T EVEN FEEL THE SEAT BELT TIGHTEN UP BEFORE THE CRASH. THE BRAKES NEVER FELT LIKE THEY CAME ON AT ALL. *TR *JS
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10923921EXTERIOR LIGHTINGOctober 31, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REVERSE LIGHTS WOULD NOT ILLUMINATE. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT WATER WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE LIGHT COVER FIXTURE, WHICH CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT AND CORROSION TO THE WIRE HARNESS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
SERVICE BRAKESOctober 29, 2016
I WAS TRAVELING LESS THAN 25 MPH ON A CITY STREET WHEN THE CAR IN FRONT SUDDENLY STOPPED. I PANIC STOPPED - MOVING MY FOOT OFF THE GAS PEDAL AND I BELIEVE THAT I HIT THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE BRAKES DID NOT APPLY, AND I REAR-ENDED THE CAR IN FRONT. I LEFT NO SKID MARKS. OBVIOUSLY I COULD HAVE NOT ACTUALLY PUSHED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT I SINCERELY BELIEVE THAT I DID. THE CAR BRAKES SEEM TO BE FINE, SO IF THE CAR FAILED TO STOP THE PROBLEM HAD TO BE IN THE COMPUTER. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10919990ENGINEOctober 22, 2016
DROVE OVER OBJECT. PULLED OVER RIGHT AWAY. OBJECT DISLODGED. DIDNT SEE ANY FLUID KEPT ON DRIVING. AFTER 15 MILES ENGINE OVERHEATING LIGHT CAME ON AND PULLED OVER IMMEDITIATELY AND TURNED OFF ENGINE. HAD CAR TOWED TO NEAREST TOYOTA DEALER.NOW I M TOLD THAT OBJECT TORE A HOLE IN RADIATOR WHICH CAUSED ALL THE FLUID TO LEAK OUT AND CAUSED ENGINE TO OVERHEAT. TO THE POINT OF NO LONGER WORKING. WHAT IS THE POINT OF HAVING A WARNING LIGHT THAT COMES ON WHEN ITS TOO LATE TO REMEDY THE SITUATION?
SERVICE BRAKESAugust 24, 2016
ON 07/20/15 THE BRAKES FAILED COMPLETELY WHILE DRIVING. ON 08/05/16 THE SAME BRAKES FAILED AGAIN WHILE DRIVING. IT IS THE SAME ISSUE VERIFIED BY TWO TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS, (FRONT LEFT CALIPER AND BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENTS NEEDED). THE CAR WAS BOUGHT NEW. THE BRAKES HAVE FAILED TWICE, THEY CITE SAFETY DEFECTS. ON 08/15/16 I PHOTOGRAPHED LEFT FRONT BRAKE ISSUE. THEY CLAIM THEY, "DON'T KNOW WHY IT'S HAPPENING." IT IS CLEAR THE CAR IS UNSAFE AND SHOULD BE REPLACED ENTIRELY. I REPORTED THE FIRST BRAKE FAILURE 07/20/15 THE BRAKES FAILED WHILE DRIVING. THE DEALER STATED IT WAS A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT THAT THEY COULD NOT FIGURE OUT WHY AND THUS SENT THE ORIGINAL BRAKES TO TOYOTA FOR INSPECTION & INVESTIGATION. I NEVER HEARD BACK. ON 08/05/16 (12 MONTHS 15 DAYS LATER, APPROX. 12,000 MILES DRIVEN) THE SAME BRAKE FAILURE HAPPENED AGAIN. FILLED IT WITH BRAKE FLUID ON 08/15/16 MAKE IT TO DEERFIELD TOYOTA (CLOSEST) THAT STATED I WOULD HAVE TO TAKE IT TO THE ORIGINAL TO AVOID PAYING. VERY DANGEROUS. THEN TOOK TO SAME, ERIC JONES, LIPTON TOYOTA, FORT LAUDREDALE, FL, AS LAST TIME. HE STATED THE REPLACED CALIPERS AND BRAKE PADS WERE DEFECTIVE. THE CAR REMAINS THERE, 10 DAYS AWAITING A BACK ORDER. I INQUIRED FURTHER ON 08/22/16 TO WHICH MR. JONES STATED THE CAR WAS BOUGHT NEW WITH DEFECTIVE BRAKES/ CALIPERS AND THAT THEY HAD REPLACED THEM 07/2015 BUT THAT THEY HAD REPLACED THEM WITH TOYOTA DEFECTIVE BRAKES AGAIN. (ESPECIALLY SPECIFICALLY THE FRONT LEFT CALIPER AND BRAKE PADS). BRAKES HAVE FAILED TWICE. IT IS CLEAR THE DEFECTIVE ISSUE IS FROM THE CAR. PHOTOS REVEAL THAT THE REPLACEMENTS NEVER RESOLVED THE ISSUE AS IT HAS BEEN OCCURRING EVER SINCE THEN. TO CONTINUE DRIVING TO SEE IF A 3RD BRAKE FAILURE OCCURS IS TO RISK MINE AND OTHERS ON THE ROAD LIVES. 1ST REPORTED SAFETY CONCERN TO NHTSA ON 07/20/15, REFERENCE #10735054 : RANDY REID. I AM SCARED. HELP PLEASE.
STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHERMay 28, 2016
IN HEAVY RAINS BREAKING DOES NOT WORK WELL. EVEN AT 10 MPH IF YOU HIT A PUDDLE OF WATER. CAN CAUSE A CRASH. IT HAS HAPPENED ON A DIRT ROAD GOING AT LOW SPEED. BACK ROAD WHERE WATER RISES AND IN SOME HEAVY RAIN ON THE HIGHWAY
AIR BAGSApril 14, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. ALL THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED EXCEPT THE STEERING WHEEL AIR BAG, WHICH HAD A DELAYED DEPLOYMENT. THE CONTACT'S HEAD STRUCK THE STEERING WHEEL AND WAS INJURED, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE NOT PROVIDED.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10855446SERVICE BRAKESApril 14, 2016
WHEN THE DRIVER HAS TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES REALLY QUICKLY THE CAR DOES NOT SLOWDOWN AT ALL. THE SKID LIGHT COMES ON THE DASH BOARD, BUT OTHERWISE THE CAR DOES NOT STOP. THIS HAPPENS EVEN ON A DRY SURFACE, WITH NO MOISTURE ON THE SURFACE, AT SPEEDS AS LOW AS 20-30 MILES PER HOUR. IT ALMOST ALWAYS DOES IT. IF THE DRIVER LIGHTLY TAP THE BREAKS, THEN THE CAR WILL DECELERATE, BUT NOT IF THE DRIVER HAS TO ABRUPTLY STOPPED. THIS IS QUILT A PROBLEM GIVEN THAT SOMETIMES YOU NEED THE CAR TO STOP SUDDENLY IT IT SIMPLY WON'T AT SPEEDS OF 20 MORE. THE CAR JUST STARTS TO SKID. IT WILL NOT STOP OR GAIN TRACTION WITH THE SURFACE THAT IT IS ON. THIS MEANS THAT IN A SITUATION WHERE THE DRIVER NEEDS TO HIT THE BREAKS ALL THE WAY DOWN, THE CAR STILL WON'T STOP. THIS PROBLEM IS MUCH WORSE IF ON WET OR NEGATIVE SLOPING ROADS. HOWEVER, IT CAN HAPPEN EVEN ON COMPLETE DRY SURFACE.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10855586ENGINEApril 4, 2016
CAR STALLED ON FREEWAY 163 BOUND NORTH (NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE SEEN) AT 10 PM PASSENGERS (3) WERE EXPOSED TO SEVER DANGER . TOYOTA DEALER COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM. POLICE ASSISTED AND CAR WAS TOWED AWAY (ROAD ASSISTANCE) TO OWNER RESIDENT . DEALER CLAIMED THAT RECALL WAS SERVICED. SYMPTOMS APPEAR TO BE EXACT TO WHAT IT WAS REPORTED FOR PRIUS 2010 TO 2013. DEALER IS IN DENIAL
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKESMarch 28, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH ON A ROADWAY, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED AND MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE. ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WHILE THE CONTACT WAS MAKING A TURN. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER SIDE AND THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A YARD AND THEN TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP FOR FURTHER INSPECTION BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS WAITING TO DETERMINE IF AN INVESTIGATOR WOULD BE SENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A HEAD INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT AND WAS HAVING DIFFICULTY WITH VISIBILITY DUE TO THE IMPACT OF THE CRASH AND NO AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10851950VISIBILITY/WIPERMarch 26, 2016
THE SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY BROKE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE LOCATION OF INCIDENT WAS IN WESTERN NEVADA WHERE TERRAIN IS FLAT AND NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE IN SIGHT EITHER IN FRONT OR BEHIND.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMMarch 24, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER RESTARTING, THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,300.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLMarch 17, 2016
THIS VEHICLE ATTEMPTS TO GO 8 MPH WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL NOT DEPRESSED AT ALL. IT DOES THIS ANY TIME THE CAR IS "ON", EVEN IF IT IS IN REVERSE. THE BRAKE MUST BE APPLIED TO STOP THE CAR. EVEN WHEN THE BRAKE IS PRESSED, THE COMPUTER WILL APPLY POWER TO THE WHEELS, WHICH RESULTS IN THE BRAKE HAVING TO FIGHT AGAINST THE MOTORS. SOMETIMES THE CAR CAN LURCH SLIGHTLY, AND ONCE IT HIT A CURB UNEXPECTEDLY CAUSING DAMAGE TO FRONT PLASTIC PARTS. IF YOU ARE STOPPED AT A RED LITE, YOU MUST APPLY THE BRAKE OTHERWISE IT WILL CRASH INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF YOU ON ITS OWN. THIS BEHAVIOR IS DANGEROUS AND VERY ANNOYING. ONE MECHANIC I SPOKE TO AT THE DEALER SAID THIS IS NORMAL. IT SEEMS SENSELESS AND SHOULD NOT BE NORMAL. I ASK TOYOTA TO FIX THE MINOR DAMAGE TO MY CAR AND FIX THIS PROBLEM.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMJanuary 27, 2016
WHILE DRIVING MY PRIUS C 2013, WITH 11,484 MILES, FOR 5 MINUTE, THE MESSAGE PANEL INDICATE IMMIEDIATE STOP AT SAFE PLACE WITH ALL PRECAUTIONS. HABRID SYSTEM NOT FUCNTIONING.. 6 OR 7 WARNING LIGHTS APPEAR ON DISPLAY PANEL. AND MOTOR BECOMES UNSTABLE OF ITS RPM'S. AND STARTS HESITATION. CAR IN DEALERS SHOP FOR 3 DAYS WITH NO IDEA OF REASONS FOR THIS OCCURRENCE.FORTUNETLY I WASN'T ON HIGHWAY OR TURNPIKE, I WAS 3 MINUTES FROM MY HOME.. TOYOTA DOES NOT PROVIDE ROADSIDE ASSITTENCE EVEN IF YOU BOUGHT CAR NEW WITHIN 36,000 MILES OR 3 YEAR WARRENTY.??????
SERVICE BRAKESJanuary 11, 2016
I WAS DRIVING HOME IN MY 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2015, AT APPROXIMATELY 4:30P.M. WHILE TURNING RIGHT FROM THE STREET ON WHICH I LIVE INTO MY DRIVEWAY, THE CAR, AFTER I APPLIED THE BRAKES, SUDDENLY SURGED FORWARD. IN SPITE OF CONTINUOUSLY PUSHING DOWN ON THE BRAKES, THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP. THE DRIVEWAY SHOWS SKID MARKS FROM MY ATTEMPTS TO STOP THE CAR. THE CAR DID NOT STOP. THE BRAKES FAILED. THE CAR SHOT FORWARD, CRASHING INTO THE CLOSED WOODEN GARAGE DOOR AND THE WALL TO THE LEFT OF THE GARAGE DOOR. THE GARAGE DOOR BROKE AND ONE HALF OF THE GARAGE DOOR SPLIT AND WAS PUSHED INTO THE GARAGE. THE GARAGE DOOR COLLAPSED ON MY CAR AS WELL AS ITEMS STORED IN THE GARAGE INCLUDING PARTS OF THE GARAGE STRUCTURE AND LARGE SECTIONS OF A STORAGE UNIT, WHICH WAS BOLTED TO THE WALL. APPROXIMATELY 90% OF MY CAR WAS INSIDE THE GARAGE. I TRIED TO EXIT THE CAR THROUGH THE DRIVER'S SIDE BUT THE DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN. I CRAWLED TO THE TRUNK AREA AND COULD NOT FIND A MECHANICAL RELEASE FOR THAT DOOR. FINALLY I FORCED OPENED THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR DOOR AND EXITED THE CAR THROUGH THE BROKEN WALL. IF THE BRAKES HAD NOT FAILED THIS WOULD HAVE NOT HAVE HAPPENED. AS A RESULT OF THE BRAKE FAILURE, I HAVE INCURRED SUBSTANTIAL LOSS, INCLUDING THE GARAGE DOOR (A TOTAL LOSS), DAMAGE TO STRUCTURAL SUPPORT TO THE GARAGE WALL, A BUILT-IN GARAGE STORAGE UNIT, CONTENTS STORED IN THE GARAGE AND SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE TO THE CAR. FORTUNATELY, I DID NOT SUFFER ANY MAJOR PHYSICAL INJURIES, ALTHOUGH FOLLOWING THE COLLISION I EXPERIENCED AND CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE MUSCLE, JOINT, HIP, NECK AND BACK PAIN AND DISCOMFORT. IN ADDITION, I CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE EMOTIONAL DISTRESS FROM THIS INCIDENT. I WANT TOYOTA TO PERFORM A COMPLETE DIAGNOSTIC SAFETY CHECK OF ALL SYSTEMS INCLUDING THE BRAKES AND ANY SOFTWARE THAT CONTROLS THE BRAKING SYSTEM.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10819439ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMOctober 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED, AND THE BRAKES HESITATED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE COMPUTER NEEDED TO BE RESET. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V053000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE YEAR, MAKE, AND MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000. UPDATED 1/15/16 *CN UPDATED 11/30/2017*JS
SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 21, 2015
RECURRING PROBLEM. WHEN BRAKING THE VEHICLE WILL OCCASIONALLY "SLIDE" RATHER THAN BRAKE WHEN THE CAR GOES OVER DIFFERENT ROAD SURFACES. THIS HAPPENS FOR ABOUT THE LENGTH OF THE CAR OR LESS (PROBABLY THE LENGTH OF THE DIFFERENT SURFACE) AND THEN THE BRAKING CONTINUES ONCE THE ROAD IS CONSISTENT AGAIN. I HAVE SPOKEN WITH THE DEALER AND THEY INDICATE THIS IS A KNOWN SYMPTOM OF THE CAR'S DEGENERATIVE BRAKING SYSTEM FUNCTIONING "PROPERLY" WHEN ALL TIRES ARE NOT WORKING IN SYNC. I THINK IT'S A DEFECT THAT WILL EVENTUALLY LEAD TO REAR-END COLLISIONS. THIS HAS OCCURRED WHEN GOING OVER STEEL PLATES, POTHOLES, APPROACHING TOLL-BOOTH STOPS - ALL IN GOOD WEATHER, AND ON SLICK ROAD SURFACES DURING POOR WEATHER.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERAugust 5, 2015
I REAR-ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE WHICH CASUED THE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY AND SERIOUS FRONT END DAMAGE. MY CONCERN IS THAT WE WERE NOT ABLE TO OPEN THE BACK DOORS OR HATCH BACK WHCIH WERE NOT DAMAGED. UNDERSTANDABLY THE POWER WAS LIKLELY CUT SO THE AUTOMATIC UNLOCK VIA THE KEY DIDNT WORK, BUT WE COULD NOT EVEN OPEN THE BACK DOORS FROM WITHIN THE VEHICLE. I WAS ALONE BUT HAD MY CHILDREN BEEN WITH ME AND INJURED IT WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY DIFFICULT TO GET A BACK SEAT PASSENGER OUT THROUGH THE FRONT. THE FRONT DOORS WERE DAMAGED BUT BENT AND NOT FULLY ENGAGED SO MAYBE THAT IS WHY I WAS ABLE TO PUCH THEM OPEN.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10746413SERVICE BRAKESJuly 20, 2015
THE BRAKES STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY AND SUDDENLY . EXTREMELY DANGEROUS .
SERVICE BRAKESJuly 14, 2015
ABS, BRAKE AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ON POSTED LIMITS ON HIGHWAY UNDER DRY CONDITIONS. AT SAME TIME, BRAKE PEDAL SUDDENLY REQUIRED MORE PRESSURE TO STOP CAR. WARNING LIGHTS STAYED ON, AND RETURNED AFTER CAR WAS TURNED OFF AND ON AGAIN. DEALER STATED IT WAS BRAKE STROKE SENSOR MALFUNCTION AND REPLACED PART. CAR WAS PURCHASED NEW AND HAD ONLY DRIVEN IT FOR A FEW WEEKS. EXACT SAME THING HAPPEN AGAIN JUNE 2015 AND JULY 2015. DRIVING ON HIGHWAY, DRY CONDITIONS, ALL THREE WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON, AND BRAKE PEDAL REQUIRED MUCH MORE PRESSURE TO WORK. STEERING ALSO LOST SOME POWER. DEALER DIAGNOSED A STROKE SENSOR MALFUNCTION. COMPUTER CODE WAS C1247. FIRST DEALER I TOOK IT TO IN JUNE 2015 COULDN'T RECREATE THE PROBLEM, CLEARED THE CODE, AND SAID EVERYTHING WAS FIXED. WROTE "CAR IS SAFE TO DRIVE" ON MY RECEIPT. 2 WEEKS LATER SAME PROBLEM REAPPEARED AND A DIFFERENT DEALER SAID BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER WAS FAILING.
AIR BAGS,SEATSMay 18, 2015
I WAS STOPPED IN TRAFFIC WHEN A BOX TRUCK DROVE INTO MY CAR, PUSHING IT INTO THE CAR INFRONT OF ME, OVER A CURB, AND THEN OFF THE ROAD. THERE WAS SEVERE DAMAGE TO EACH SIDE OF MY CAR; INCLUDING THE CRUMPLED BACKEND. THE DIVERS SEAT GAVE OUT AND FELL BACKWARDS SOMEHOW CAUSING THE HEADREST TO TWIST OFF LEAVING THE LEG OF IT BENT TOWARDS BY MY HEAD. THERE WAS NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT IN THE ACCIDENT. THE SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE CAR DEEMED IT TOTALED. HOW IS IT THAT THERE WAS SEAT, HEADREST, AND AIRBAG FAILURE?
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10717223ELECTRICAL SYSTEMApril 9, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGES WAS 21,934.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMApril 9, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS MOISTURE WITHIN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL THAT CAUSED MOLD TO GROW INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110.
AIR BAGSApril 4, 2015
FRONT PASSENGER'S AIRBAG SENSOR DOESN'T SENSE MEDIUM WEIGHT PASSENGER. I'VE TALKED TO THE TOYOTA DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME THAT IF SOMEONE OVER 70LBS IN PASSENGER SEAT, THE LIGHT WILL COME ON "AIRBAG ON" AND STAY ON. IF THERE IS SOMETHING IN THE SEAT THAT IS LIGHTWEIGHT, THE LIGHT WILL SAY "AIRBAG OFF." IF THERE IS NOTHING IN THE SEAT, THE LIGHT WILL REMAIN OFF. MY WIFE IS ABOUT 110 LBS BUT THE WARNING LIGHT "AIRBAG OFF" IS ON MOST OF THE TIME. SOMETIMES I NOTICE IT AND ASK MY WIFE TO GET OUT AND THEN GET BACK IN TO ACTIVATE IT. SEEMS LIKE IT WORKS THAT WAY. MANY TIMES I DID NOT PAY ATTENTION TO IT UNTIL WE CAME TO OUR DESTINATIONS. I DID ASK MY WIFE TO LIFT HER BODY UP FOR A FEW SECONDS AND SIT DOWN BUT THE WARNING LIGHT "AIRBAG OFF" JUST STAY ON. DEALER SAYS THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO BECAUSE THE SENSOR IS NON-ADJUSTABLE AND THERE IS NO RECALL FOR IT. *TR
STRUCTUREMarch 27, 2015
THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT HAS HAPPENED TWICE NOW. IN MY 2013 PRIUS AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT HAVE DRIVEN OVER THE CEMENT MEDIAN BARRIER. THE WINDSHIELD PILLAR ON THE DRIVERS SIDE IN AN OBSTRUCTION ( BLIND SPOT) WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN. I ALWAYS SEEM TO BE LEANING TOWARDS THE CENTER SEAT COLUMN WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN AND EVEN GOING AROUND A BEND TO THE LEFT. I BELIEVE THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM. THE LITTLE WINDOW THEY HAVE IN FRONT DOESN'T HELP WITH THIS. IN SPEAKING WITH A FRIEND WHO HAS THE SAME CAR, HE STATED HE NEARLY HIT A MAN CROSSING THE STREET BECAUSE OF THIS SAME PROBLEM. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10702082EQUIPMENTMarch 6, 2015
I PURCHASED A NEW 2013 PRIUS. I'VE OWN SEVERAL TOYOTAS AND NEVER HAD A REASON TO SUSPECT TOYOTA WOULD PUT ANYTHING BUT THE BEST QUALITY ACCESSORIES ON THEIR CARS. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH THE POOR QUALITY NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND BACKUP CAMERA THAT CAME STANDARD WITH MY NEW 2013 PRIUS. THEY ARE NOT ONLY POOR QUALITY, BUT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS TO USE. TOYOTA'S NAVIGATION SYSTEM VERY DIFFICULT TO READ, EVEN CONFUSING. I DON'T EVEN CONSIDER IT SAFE TO USE SINCE IT TAKES SO MUCH ATTENTION TO READ IT. IT'S VERY DISTRACTING TO USE IN TRAFFIC. AS FOR THE BACKUP CAMERA, IT IS NOT ONLY USELESS BUT ACTUALLY DANGEROUS. IT'S NOTHING MORE THAN A FISH EYE LENS USED IN PHOTOGRAPHY TO DELIBERATELY DISTORT PERCEPTION. IT HAS NO LINES FOR GUIDANCE AND NO RELIABLE DEPTH PERCEPTION. YOU CAN LOOK AT SOMEBODY STANDING BEHIND THE CAR IN THE BACKUP SCREEN, THEN LOOK AT THEM OUT THE BACK WINDOW AND YOU WILL FIND THE PERSON MUCH CLOSER TO THE CAR THAN DISPLAYED IN THE BACKUP CAMERA. THE DRIVER CANNOT EVEN TELL WHERE THE SIDES OF THE CAR ARE MUCH LESS THE DISTANCE TO AN OBJECT. THESE TWO PROBLEMS MAKE THE BACKUP SYSTEM DANGEROUS TO USE. THIS PRODUCT ONLY CREATES AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. SINCE I WAS FORCED TO PAY FOR THESE TWO NEXT TO WORTHLESS, EVEN DANGEROUS ACCESSORIES, I'D LIKE THEM RECALLED AND REPLACED WITH THE QUALITY, SAFE ACCESSORIES I USE TO TRUST AND RELY UPON TOYOTA TO PUT ON THEIR CARS OR BE GIVEN A FULL REFUND FOR WHAT I PAID FOR THEM. I BELIEVE THE ITEMS SHOULD BE TESTED BY GOVERNMENT AND RECALLED. I CANNOT BUT WONDER HOW MANY ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES HAVE ALREADY BEEN CAUSE BY THESE TWO POORLY DESIGNED ACCESSORIES. THIS IS A COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SEEMINGLY NEW, TOYOTA POOR QUALITY STANDARDS FOR THEIR ACCESSORIES AND IS IN NO WAY A REFLECTION ON THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR. TOYOTA DESIGNED THE CAR AND SELECTED THE ACCESSORIES, NOT THE DEALERSHIP. *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFebruary 27, 2015
I HAVE HAD MY TOYOTA PRIUS C FOR 1.5 YEARS. I WAS ASSURED IT WAS A SAFE CAR. HOWEVER THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS. THE CAR HAS AN AUTO TRACTION CONTROL THAT WILL TURN ON DURING FLURRIES OR IF THERE ARE WET LEAVES OR RAIN. WHEN THE TRACTION CONTROL (A SAFETY FEATURE) TURNS ON MY WHEELS STOP,MY BRAKES STOP, I CANNOT CONTROL MY STEERING AND I AM BASICALLY AT THE MERCY OF THE CAR. I HAVE BEEN IN SEVERAL NEAR ACCIDENTS ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS 55-65 MPH, AND ON BACK ROADS 25MPH+ AND ON TURNS WHERE I AM GOING 2-4 MPH AT A GLIDE, OR ON HILLS, BECAUSE THE CAR WILL TURN ON THE AUTO TRACTION AND I LOSE COMPLETE CONTROL. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS BASED ON THIS FEATURE OF THE CAR (WHICH OTHER CARS HAVE A FEATURE TO TURN OFF THE TRACTION) YET TOYOTA HAS DONE NOTHING. PEOPLE HAVE FOUND A WAY TO SHUT OFF THE TRACTION THEMSELVES IN NEWER MODELS THROUGH A SET OF STEPS THAT COULD BLOW THE ENGINE, YET THEY SAY THE RISK IS THE SAFER OPTION. A GOOGLE SEARCH WILL SHOW THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE WHO FEEL LIKE THEIR LIFE IS IN DANGER BECAUSE OF HOW BAD THIS FEATURE IS IN BAD WEATHER. THIS CAR CANNOT HANDLE ANY TYPE OF BAD WEATHER. I TRIED TO GO TO A TOYOTA MECHANIC (JONES JUNCTION IN BEL AIR MARYLAND) AND WAS TOLD I WAS OUT OF LUCK AND I WOULD JUST HAVE TO CRASH MY CAR IN A POTENTIALLY FATAL ACCIDENT BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T WANT TO BE LIABLE. I FEEL LIKE MY LIFE AND THOSE AROUND ME ARE IN DANGER BECAUSE THE CAR SO EASILY GOES OUT OF CONTROL. I CAN'T EVEN GET IN MY OWN DRIVEWAY OR MOVE IF THERE IS 1 INCH OF SNOW BECAUSE EVERYTHING SHUTS OFF AND I GET STUCK IN THE STREET. I'M SCARED IN THIS CAR BUT I CANNOT RETURN IT BECAUSE I WOULD LOSE SO MUCH MONEY. THIS "SAFETY FEATURE" PUTS LIVES IN DANGER AND THERE IS NO OPTION TO TURN IT OFF UNLIKE OTHER BETTER CAR MODELS. TOYOTA NEEDS TO RECALL THEIR PRIUS AND PRIUS C AND PRIUS V CARS SO OWNERS CAN HAVE THE OPTION OF TURNING ON OR OFF THE TRACTION. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGFebruary 23, 2015
BOTH LEFT & RIGHT LOW BEAMS WENT OUT. ALL OTHER LIGHTS WORK FINE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFebruary 5, 2015
DISPLAY DISAPPEARS. DISPLAY BLACK/DARK. DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS: ZERO. FROM DARK PARKING LOT INTO BRIGHT SUNSHINE. STARTED CAR WHICH WAS PARKED IN THE SHADED PARKING LOT OF MALL. DISPLAY OK/BRIGHT (AS SHOULD BE). DROVE TO EXIT OF PARKING LOT: DISPLAY IS FINE (AS SHOULD BE). DRIVE CAR FROM EXIT OF SHADED PARKING LOT INTO BRIGHT SUNLIGHT OUTSIDE. THE DISPLAY GOES DARK. I GOT WORRIED, AND DROVE IN BRIGHT SUNLIGHT IN THE RESIDENTIAL AREA AROUND PARKING LOT FOR TWENTY MINUTES, CIRCLING THE AREA SLOWLY. AFTER DRIVING FOR TWENTY TWO MINUTES, THE DISPLAY WAS STILL DARK, BUT THE CAR WAS RUNNING FINE WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER. DECIDED TO DRIVE TOWARDS MY HOME WITHOUT STOPPING THE CAR, AS I DID NOT WANT THE PRIUS TO STALL IN A PLACE FAR FROM HOME. ON THE FREEWAY, (STILL BRIGHT SUNLIGHT), I DECIDED TO TRY THE BRIGHTNESS CONTROL SWITCH. I BARELY TOUCHED THE BRIGHTNESS CONTROL SWITCH, AND THE DASHBOARD BRIGHTNESS CAME BACK. I HAD LOST THE DISPLAY TWICE PREVIOUSLY. , I HAD SWITCHED THE ENGINE OFF/ON WITH THE POWER BUTTON, TO RESTORE THE BRIGHTNESS. IF YOU HAVE SIMILAR DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS PROBLEM, THE EASY SOLUTION IS TO TOUCH THE BRIGHTNESS CONTROL SWITCH. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJanuary 15, 2015
WE HAVE REPLACED 3 HEAD LAMP BULBS IN THE PAST 6 WEEKS. *TR
ENGINEDecember 30, 2014
2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. CONSUMER WOULD LIKE REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIRS AND PARTS FOR THE DEFECTED OIL FILTER HOUSING PART. *TA THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH A CHEAP, PLASTIC OIL FILTER HOUSING. OVER TIME, THE HEAT GENERATED BY THE ENGINE CAUSED THE OIL FILTER HOUSING TO FAIL TO MAINTAIN ITS REQUIRED SHAPE. CONSEQUENTLY, WHEN SHE TOOK THE VEHICLE FOR A ROUTING OIL CHANGE, IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE FOR THE MECHANIC TO SEPARATE THE OIL FROM THE OIL FILTER HOUSING. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLDecember 25, 2014
AT APPROXIMATELY 2:10PM ON MONDAY DECEMBER 10, 2014 I WAS RETURNING HOME FROM A BRIEF TRIP. I WAS MAKING THE 90 DEGREE RIGHT TURN INTO MY DRIVEWAY WHEN I FELT MY CAR, A PRIUS, ACCELERATE BY ITSELF. BUT THIS ACCELERATION WAS NOT LIKE WHAT YOU GET WHEN YOU STEP ON THE GAS. IT WAS AS IF THE CAR HAD A MIND OF ITS OWN AND IT WAS GOING TO GO! THIS CAR HAS A LOW HORSEPOWER ENGINE AND I CAN'T IMAGINE ME BEING ABLE TO "LAY RUBBER" WITH THIS VEHICLE AND YET THE PHOTOS MY HUSBAND TOOK LATER CLEARLY SHOW TIRE MARKS ON THE ASPHALT DRIVEWAY. THE CAR HIT MY NEIGHBOR'S CONCRETE BLOCK RETAINING WALL AND CLIMBED IT. THE UPWARD THRUST WAS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL OF THE VEHICLE AND THE CAR FLIPPED OVER AND CAME TO REST ON ITS WINDSHIELD. THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW WAS SHATTERED, BUT NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. I WAS UPSIDE DOWN, HANGING FROM THE SEAT BELT AND SHOULDER HARNESS. I WAS NOT HURT AS FAR AS I CAN DETERMINE, WHICH IS PRETTY AMAZING. I WAS ABLE TO EFFECT AN EXIT FROM THE VEHICLE, WITH ASSISTANCE, THROUGH THE SHATTERED WINDOW. OUR DRIVEWAY IS PRETTY SHORT SO ALL THIS HAPPENED WITHIN LESS THAN 3 SECONDS AND ~20 FEET. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10668239AIR BAGSDecember 18, 2014
2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. CONSUMER CONCERNED ABOUT DEFECTIVE AIRBAG INFLATORS MANUFACTURED BY TAKATA CORP. *TA
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKESNovember 7, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO RESPOND. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A TREE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BACK AND KNEE INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND YARD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000.
Crash reported1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10653254TIRESNovember 5, 2014
I WAS TRAVELING SOUTH ON I95 ABOUT A MILE FORM EXIT 89 IN CT. I LOST THE TREAD OF THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE TIRE. FROM THE TIME I NOTICED THE ROAD FEELING A LITTLE ROUGH TO REALIZING THAT I HAD WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A BLOWOUT TOOK MAYBE 10-15 SECONDS. (ONCE I EXITED THE CAR I WAS SURPRISED THE ENTIRE TIRE HAD SEPARATED AT BOTH SIDEWALLS.) I FELT I WAS REAL LUCKY TO HAVE ESCAPED HAVING AN ACCIDENT OR INJURY AS WHEN THE TIRE CAME OFF I HAD LITTLE CONTROL OF THE CAR AS IT HEADED RIGHT TOWARD THE GUARDRAIL THEN BACK LEFT CROSSING THE INTO THE HIGH SPEED LANE BEFORE FINALLY COMING TO A STOP. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTSNovember 4, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR END OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A HEAD INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER SUSTAINED HEAD AND NECK INJURIES THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,800. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Crash reported2 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10652498AIR BAGSOctober 28, 2014
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY ALL TOYOTA VEHICLES HAVE NOT BEEN RECALLED DUE TO THE CURRENT AIR BAG PROBLEM. IT'S NOT LIKE THE CAR IS NEVER DRIVEN OUT OF THE STATE AND IT DOES GET HUMID AND HOT HERE! I DROVE TO CALIFORNIA AND ARIZONA THIS PAST SUMMER...AND YES, I AM CONCERNED!!! I EXPECT TOYOTA TO TAKE CARE OF ALL OF THEIR CARS! *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLOctober 7, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE REVERSING AT 3 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED CAUSING THE VEHICLE SPIN AND CRASH INTO SEVERAL PARKED VEHICLES. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10643071STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKESSeptember 15, 2014
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 55~60MPH, AND SUDDENLY THE POWER STEERING TROUBLE LIGHT INDICATOR CAME ON. I NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL WAS A BIT HARDER TO TURN( LEFT OR RIGHT). I SLOWED DOWN AND TOOK THE FIRST EXIT, REDUCING SPEED TO 30~35MPH. AT THE STOP SIGN, ALL INDICATORS LIGHT CAME ON AND I COULDN'T TURN THE STEERING WHEEL (LEFT OR RIGHT). I WAS ABLE TO ACCELERATE OUT OF THE STOP SIGN, BUT THEN I FELT A "THUGH" IN THE ENGINE, AND NOTICE I DIDN'T HAVE ANY BRAKING POWER FOR A FEW SECOND. SO I PULLED OVER, I TURNED THE CAR OFF, AND TURNED ON AGAIN, I IMMEDIATELY DROVE INTO A PARKING LOT AFTER THE STOP SIGN, THE CAR JUST DIED; I COULDN'T BRAKE, NO STEERING, NO GAS POWER, NOTHING. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THIS WAS THE 2ND INCIDENCE WITHIN 3 WEEKS. THE FIRST TIME THIS OCCURRED WITH SIMILAR SEQUENCE OF FAILURE. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THE AUXILIARY BATTERY DIED, AND REPLACED IT FREE OF CHARGE ( CAR WAS 24,250 MILES AT THAT TIME). THIS SECOND TIME, I HOPE TOYOTA CAN FIND THE ROOT CAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. I DON'T THINK THE NEW AUXILIARY BATTERY DIED AGAIN. IT'S ONLY BEEN 3 WEEKS SINCE TOYOTA INSTALLED THE BATTERY. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY RISK. I'M AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR NOW. I THINK I WILL NEED TO SELL THE CAR. *TR
STEERING,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGESSeptember 12, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL PULLED TO THE LEFT AND RIGHT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE CONTACT HAD TO USE EXCESSIVE FORCE TO STEER THE VEHICLE IN ITS APPROPRIATE LANE. IN ADDITION, THE DOOR LOCKS ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY AND FAILED TO UNLOCK OCCASIONALLY WITH THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL. THE DEALER ATTEMPTED TO CORRECT THE STEERING WHEEL FAILURE BY PERFORMING AN ALIGNMENT, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DOOR LOCK FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50. UPDATED 10/24/2014*LJ UPDATED 4/20/2015 *JS
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMAugust 28, 2014
THE RENTED 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS WITH ONE PASSENGER AND THE DRIVER, PULLED INTO A DIAGONAL PARKING SPACE IN FRONT OF A STRIP MALL STORE. TRAVELING AT MAYBE 5 MPH TO PARK, THE CAR'S BRAKE PEDAL GAVE WAY AND HIT THE FLOOR FLAT, PROVIDING NO BRAKING AT ALL. THE CAR KEPT ROLLING TOWARD THE CORNER OF THE BRICK BUILDING. THE CAR THEN SUDDENLY SURGED AHEAD, SMASHING INTO THE CORNER OF THE ENTRY TO THE BRICK BUILDING AT SUCH A SUDDEN FORCE THAT THE DOORS TO THE BUILDING WERE WEDGED SHUT. AFTER EMERGENCY VEHICLE TOOK THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER TO THE HOSPITAL, THE POLICEMAN ON THE JOB, AS WELL AS THE WRECKER SERVICE THAT CAME TO EXTRACT THE VEHICLE, COULD NOT MOVE THE CAR BECAUSE THERE WERE NO BRAKES, AS STATED IN THE POLICE REPORT. THE WRECKER DRIVER COULD NOT LOAD THE VEHICLE TO TOW USING THE CAR'S POWER BECAUSE THERE WERE NO BRAKES. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, BUT THE CONDITION OF THE CORNER SHOWS DAMAGE THAT A VEHICLE MOVING FASTER THAN 5 MPH WOULD INCUR. THE POLICEMAN CAME TO THE HOSPITAL TO INFORM THE DRIVER THAT THERE INDEED WERE NO BRAKES ON THE CAR AND THE DRIVER WAS NOT AT FAULT - THE VEHICLE'S BRAKING AND ACCELERATION SYSTEMS HAD FAILED. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10629088VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMAugust 20, 2014
THE DATES I AM NOT SURE OF IT WOULDN'T LET ME CONTINUE WITH OUT PUTTING IN A DATE AND THE SAME FOR MILEAGE AND SPEED, I HAD MY CAR UPDATED BY TOYOTA THEY SAID IT WAS A VOLUNTARY RECALL , EXACTLY AFTER THE UPDATE I NOW GET10-15 MILES LESS A GALLON AND MY VEHICLE HESITATES ON ACCELERATION 1-3 SECONDS ,I HAVE BROUGHT THE CAR BACK 2 TIMES AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAVEN'T HEARD OF ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT PROBLEMS AFTER THE UPDATE I LEFT MY CAR WITH THEM BOTH TIMES ON A FRIDAY AND PICKED UP ON A MONDAY THEY SAID THEY RECALIBRATED THE COMPUTER THE FIRST TIME AND IT HAD BETTER MILEAGE UNTIL I FILLED UP AND RESET THE ODOMETER AND BACK TO THE LESS MILEAGE AGAIN, 2ND TIME THEY SAID I NEEDED A FUEL SYSTEM CLEAN AND ANOTHER THING ,I DID THEM BOTH AND NOTHING AGAIN NO CHANGE (THEY SAID IT MIGHT IMPROVE MY MILES SOME ). I HAVE BEEN ON SOCIAL NETWORK SITE PRIUS CHAT ETC. AND OTHERS ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME THING AND MORE I FEEL LIKE IM GETTINGA RUN AROUND WITH THEM (TOYOTA) IT HAS COST ME ALMOST $500 TO GET NO WHERE, AND THE LOSS OF MILES IS COSTLY ALSO I OWN A HYBRID AND FEELS LIKE IN DRIVING A STANDARD 4 CYLINDER, THE ACCELERATION DELAY STARTED ABOUT A MONTH AGO IM GONNA BRING IT BACK FOR BOTH PROBLEMS AND I EXPECT TO BE TOLD I NEED SOMETHING ELSE (TUNE UP ETC)THAT WONT RESOLVE MY ISSUE THANK YOU *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLJuly 18, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BEING APPLIED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A DITCH AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,000.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10614478HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMJune 17, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V053000 (HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM) THE VEHICLE STALLED CONTINUOUSLY. BOTH MANUFACTURER AND DEALER HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,436. UPDATED 8/19/14*CN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTUREJune 9, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT NOTICED A RAT INSIDE THE VEHICLE THAT WAS EATING THE WIRES. THE WIRES WERE COATED WITH OIL, WHICH ATTRACTED THE RAT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJune 8, 2014
SMART KEY WAS IN CAR AND CAR LOCKED ANYWAY FROM DOOR ACTIVATION. CAR ISN'T SUPPOSED TO LOCK IF KEY IS IN CAR. I CALLED DEALERSHIP BUT THEY OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. A SECOND KEY HAD TO BE BROUGHT FROM HOME AND USED TO GAIN ENTRY. FORTUNATELY, NO CHILD OR ANIMAL WAS IN CAR AS WEATHER WAS IN UPPER 70S SO EXCESSIVE HEAT COULD HAVE BEEN A PROBLEM. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRESJune 8, 2014
FIRST, UNDERSTAND THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT, NO ONE GOT HURT, AND IT DIDN'T COST ME A DIME. THE DEALER AND WARRANTY PICKED UP THE FULL TAB. ALL IT COST ME WAS A LITTLE AGGRAVATION. HOWEVER, I FEEL IT SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED. IT STARTED WHEN I HAD A FLAT TIRE. I REMOVED THE FLAT AND PUT ON THE SPARE, NO PROBLEM. THE TIRE HAD A SIDEWALL PUNCTURE SO FIRST THING MONDAY I TOOK IT TO GK TIRE & AUTO FOR REPLACEMENT. THEY MOUNTED A NEW TIRE AND PUT THE SPARE BACK IN THE TRUNK. THAT IS WHERE THINGS WENT WRONG. MY PRIUS WOULD NOT START. I CALLED THE DEALER. THE DEALER SENT A TOW TRUCK AND HAULED THE PRIUS OFF. THE NEXT DAY THEY CALLED TO SAY IT WAS FIXED. THE SERVICE TICKET SAID "PULLED CODE P0A0D...CLEARED CODES, AND CHECKED SERVICE PLUG. FOUND PARTIALLY PULLED OUT." ... "INSTALLED SERVICE PLUG ALL THE WAY AND TEST DROVE VEHICLE. GOOD, DONE". BECAUSE GK TIRE HAD NO REASON TO BE ANYWHERE BUT IN THE TRUNK I ASSUME THAT IS WHERE THE 'SERVICE PLUG' IS AND THEY KNOCKED IT OUT OF PLACE WHEN THEY RE STOWED THE SPARE. MY PROBLEM IS THAT IF THE TIRE PEOPLE COULD DO THAT, THEN I MIGHT HAVE DONE THAT. AND, IF I HAD DONE THAT IT COULD HAVE BEEN IN THE MIDDLE OF NO WHERE, OR EVEN WORSE, THE CROSS BRONX EXPRESSWAY. I WOULD NOT EXPECT THAT I WOULD HAVE TO TREAT THE TIRE COMPARTMENT OF A TRUNK LIKE A FINE SWISS WATCH. IF THAT WAS THE PROBLEM, I CONSIDER IT A DESIGN DEFICIENCY. WHEN GK TIRE PUT IT ON THE LIFT? STILL A DESIGN DEFICIENCY. IT SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED. *TR
AIR BAGSMay 28, 2014
MY DAUGHTER (AGE 17) WEIGHS RIGHT AROUND 100 POUNDS. WHEN SHE SITS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, THE LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD SAYS THE AIRBAG IS TURNED OFF. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESMay 19, 2014
TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED. THE VEHICLE RESUMED TO 40 MPH ONCE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AGAIN. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AGAIN AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED. A CRASH OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THERE WAS A DELAY IN THE BRAKING SYSTEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,000.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10592400AIR BAGSMay 15, 2014
VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN A LINE OF TRAFFIC ON THE HIGHWAY. A VEHICLE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH HIT IT FROM BEHIND PROPELLING IT INTO THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF IT. DAMAGE TO THE PRIUS WAS IN EXCESS OF $12,000. PART OF THE REPAIR WAS TO REPLACE THE AIR BAG SENSOR. THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY DURING THE ACCIDENT. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10588602ELECTRICAL SYSTEMMay 10, 2014
DASHBOARD LIGHTS CONTINUALLY TO LOSE ITS DISPLAY LIGHTING. DASHBOARD GOES DARK AND CAN REMAIN THAT WAY FOR MANY MILES. DEALERSHIP SAYS DASHBOARD LIGHTS WORK AS DESIGNED. THIS WILL HAPPEN WITH HEADLIGHTS ON AND DURING THE DAY. DRIVING UNDER A SHADED AREA (SUCH AS UNDER AN OVER PASS OR A SIGN) THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS WILL GO OUT COMPLETELY DARK AND SOMETIMES RETURN TO NORMAL AFTER RETURNING TO THE SUN LIGHT AREA. RECENTLY THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS DID NOT RETURN TO NORMAL AFTER GOING UNDER A SHADE SIGN (DURING THE DAY) AND I CONTINUED TO DRIVE FOR OVER 5 MILES. TURNING THE CAR OFF AND ON RETURNED THE DASH BOARD LIGHTS TO NORMAL OR ADJUSTING THE BRIGHTNESS OF THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS WITH THE SWITCH WHILE DRIVING. DEALERSHIP HAS LOOKED AT THIS ISSUE OVER 3 TIMES AND HAS INDICATED THE DASH BOARD LIGHTS WORK THE SAME AS OTHER 2013 PRIUS. I CAN PROVIDE A VIDEO SHOWING THE DASH BOARD LIGHTS GOING COMPLETE DARK. *TR
VISIBILITYMay 4, 2014
I GOT IN MY CAR, WHICH WAS PARKED IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE, AT 6:15 PM AFTER A SUNNY, WARM DAY. WHEN I CLOSED THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR, THE BACK WINDOW SHATTERED WITH AN EXTREMELY LOUD BANG. THE MAJORITY OF THE GLASS WAS OUTSIDE THE CAR, ON THE STREET. WHEN I SPOKE TO THE CLAIMS ADJUSTER FOR MY INSURANCE COMPANY AFTER HE EXAMINED THE CAR, HE HAD SOME THEORIES ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED BUT NOTHING CONCRETE. HE MENTIONED THAT PERHAPS THE INTERIOR VENTS WERE BLOCKED WHICH COULD HAVE CAUSED PRESSURE INSIDE THE CAR TO SHATTER THE BACK WINDOW, SO THE BODY SHOP GUYS EXAMINED THOSE VENTS. THEY FOUND THEM TO BE CLEAR. BOTH THE CLAIMS ADJUSTER AND THE BODY SHOP GUYS ASKED ME IF THERE HAD BEEN ANY DAMAGE TO THE GLASS ON BACK WINDOW BEFORE THE INCIDENT, AND I SAID THAT I HAD NOT NOTICED ANY. *TR
STRUCTUREApril 23, 2014
THE SKID "PLATE" - AN EXTREMELY THIN PIECE OF MOLDED PLASTIC ATTACHED BY A COUPLE OF LAG SCREWS - CAME LOOSE ON THE FREEWAY, ROLLED UP UNDER THE CAR AND OUT INTO THE ADJACENT LANE. THE FRONT (MOLDED PLASTIC OF COURSE) BUMPER OF CAR WAS SHATTERED. OTHER DRIVERS IN THE FAST LANE HAD TO AVOID THE SKID PLATE WHICH CAME FLYING OUT FROM UNDER MY CAR. THE CLEARANCE OF THIS CAR'S SKID PLATE (WITH AN "L" SHAPED EXTENSION DOWN TOWARDS THE GROUND) IS PROBABLY NO MORE THAN 6 INCHES, MEANING THAT IT WILL NOT CLEAR THE COMMON PARKING LOT CURB. THIS LIKELY CONTRIBUTED TO THE SKID PLATE COMING LOOSE IN THE FIRST PLACE. THIS IS A SERIOUS DESIGN PROBLEM THAT IS GOING TO RESULT IN SOMEONE GETTING HURT, EITHER THROUGH LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE (IT MISSED MY FRONT TIRES AND THEREFORE DIDN'T AFFECT MY STEERING BUT IT COULD HAVE CAUSED PROBLEMS FOR OTHER DRIVERS AS WELL). I DID NOT OWN THIS CAR, BUT NOW IT IS APPARENTLY GOING TO COST ME $1200 TO FIX THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY THE THIS DESIGN FLAW. TOYOTA NEEDS TO BE TAKEN TO TASK FOR PUTTING SOMETHING THIS UNSAFE INTO THE MARKET. *TR
TIRES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMApril 15, 2014
COLLISION: A COLLISION NEVER OCCURRED WITH ANY OBJECT, BASED ON THE PHYSICAL LOCATION, WHERE THE VEHICLE CAME TO REST. I ENCLOSE THREE (3) PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING THE CONDITION OF THE CAR, THE TWO RIGHT TIRES BLOWN OUT, AND THE CAR HAVING GROUND TO A HALTFROM THE WEIGHT OF VEHICLE AS IT SHARPLY VEERED RIGHT INTO (NOT ONTO) THE RIGHT HAND SHOULDER OF 101. I LOST CONTROL AFTER HEARING A BANG,BUT NO AIRBAG DEPLOYED, FURTHER PROVING THERE WAS NO COLLISION. LOCATION: THE OFFICER REPORTED THE LOCATION OF THE INCIDENT BEING AT THE INTERSECTION OF 101 AND 18TH STREET (WHERE THERE ALSO IS AN OVERPASS): HOWEVER, AFTER COMPARING MY PHOTOGRAPHS AND THE UNIQUE GEOGRAPHIC FEATURES IN THE PHOTOS TO GOOGLE MAPS, I WAS ABLE TO CORRECTLY IDENTIFY THE CRASH SITE ABOUT 15-20 METERS PAST THE 22ND STREET PEDESTRIAN OVERPASS, WHERE THE HIGHWAY GRADE IS UPHILL CURVING LEFT; & SIGNS SAY TO REDUCE SPEED TO FROM 55 TO 50 MPH APPROACHING THE TOP OF POTRERO HILL, NEAR SF GENERAL HOSPITAL. THERE IS NO GUARD RAIL OR SIGN POSTS TO HIT; ONLY A SOFT SHOULDER (BORDERED BY SHRUBBERY) EXISTS WHERE I CAME TO A HALT: THERE WAS NOTHING (NO OBJECTS) TO COLLIDE WITH. (SEE ATTACHED) ROAD CONDITION: VERY NARROW SHOULDER: MAYBE 5 FEET. PEBBLES ROCKS AND DIRT MAKE UP THE SHOULDER, AND SLIGHTLY AFFECTED THE CAR'S DIRECTION,BUT PRIMARILY CAUSED DAMAGE, PULLING OFF THE READ BUMPER, SCRATCHING THE BODY THROUGHOUT, AND CAUSING THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL TO COLLAPSE LIKE A BEER CAN, AFTER THE FRONT RIGHT, THEN THE REAR RIGHT TIRE BLEW OUT. I ATTEMPTED TO PUSH THE CAR, AT MY OWN RISK FROM THE RIGHT LANE, BUT IT FELT AS IF ALL FOUR BRAKES HAD SEIZED, SO I COULD NOT BUDGE THE VEHICLE SO MUCH AS 1/10TH OF A MILLIMETER, WITH ALL MY WEIGHT AND STRENGTH. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10582818SERVICE BRAKESApril 11, 2014
TODAY, APRIL 11, 2014 AROUND 6PM PST, MY DAD COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED BECAUSE OF YOUR TOYOTA PRIUS 2013 FAILED AT BREAKING AND MALFUNCTIONED AND ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. I AM VERY VERY CONCERNED AND ANGRY ABOUT THIS. YOU SHOULD UNDERSTAND. MY FATHER ALMOST GOT KILLED BY TOYOTA. BECAUSE YOU FAILED AT MAKING SURE THAT THE SYSTEM DOES NOT HAVE ANY ISSUE. MY FATHER TODAY WAS PARKING THE CAR AFTER THE DROPPING MY MOTHER OFF AT WORK AND COMING BACK HOME. HE WAS PARKING THE CAR AT THE USUAL PARKING SPOT IN FRONT OF OUR HOME. HE PRESSED THE BREAKS AS HE NORMALLY DOES WHEN CAR WAS TRAVELING LESS THAN 5MPH. BUT INSTEAD OF PRIUS STOPPING, IT ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. WE HAVE THICK PLANTS IN FRONT OF OUR HOME AND THIS STOPPED THE CAR. BUT THE MALFUNCTIONED CAR GOT A LONG SCRATCH ON THE BUMPER AND WE MOST LOST MY FATHER TO THIS TRAGIC INCIDENT. WE THANK GOD THAT NO ONE GOT KILLED BUT YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THAT THIS COULD HAVE ENDED WITH SOMEONE DEAD. MURDERED. WE TRUSTED TOYOTA. AS A CONSUMER, WE RELY ON THE MANUFACTURER TO LEARN FROM THEIR MISTAKES AND MAKE SURE SAME THING DOES NOT HAPPEN. BUT YOU FAILED US. WE BOUGHT YOUR PRIUS BELIEVING IN THE INTEGRITY OF TOYOTA AND TRUSTING THAT THE ABRUPT ACCELERATION THAT CAUSED DEATH AND INJURED PEOPLE WERE RESOLVED. YOU RECALLED AND FIXED THIS ISSUE FOR YOUR PREVIOUS VEHICLES. THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED. WE ARE GENUINELY CONCERNED ABOUT OUR SAFETY. WE CONTACTED THE DEALER BUT BECAUSE IT IS OUTSIDE OF THEIR BUSINESS HOUR, THEY WERE UNREACHABLE. WE ARE TOO SCARED EVEN THINKING OF DRIVING THIS CAR BACK TO THE DEALER. WHAT IF THIS HAPPENS ON THE ROAD? WHAT IF WE CAUSE A DEATH OF A PERSON, A CHILD ON THE WAY TO THE DEALER? I AM TERRIFIED. WE ARE VERY SHAKEN UP BY THIS EXPERIENCE. I WANT ANSWERS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I CALLED TOYOTA CUSTOMER SUPPORT LINE, I CALLED THE DEALER... NO ONE WAS THERE TO HELP ME. *JS
TIRES,WHEELSMarch 27, 2014
I HAD A REAR TIRE BLOW OUT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING. AND IT APPEARS TO BE A DEFECT. I DID HAVE TO DRIVE OFF ROAD TO SAFELY AVOID RISKY SITUATION. THE TOYOTA DEALER REFUSED TO TAKE UP WITH YOKOHAMA. I BOUGHT THE CAR ONLY IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR AND BARLEY HAS ANY MILES ON IT. THE DEALERSHIP COMPLETELY UNHELPFUL. THIS IS CLEARLY A DEFECT AND SAFETY HAZARD! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTUREMarch 24, 2014
WHEN I TURN ON THE LOW BEAM OF THE HEADLIGHTS THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT SHADOW ON THE UPPER HALF OF THE WINDSHIELD. IT GREATLY DIMINISHES VISIBILITY. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR IN FOR ITS 6 MONTHS SERVICE A FEW WEEKS AGO THEY ACKNOWLEDGED THE PROBLEM BUT SAID THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN BE DONE TO FIX IT. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGMarch 20, 2014
WHEN I TURN ON THE LOW BEAM OF THE HEADLIGHTS THERE IS A DARK SHADOW ON THE UPPER HALF OF THE WINDSHIELD THAT DIMINISHES VISIBILITY. I ASKED THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT ABOUT IT AT FREEMAN TOYOTA IN SANTA ROSA WHERE I PURCHASED IT NEW IN AUGUST OF 20123 AND WAS TOLD NOTHING COULD BE DONE TO FIX IT. IT'S A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD WHICH I HOPE YOU CAN HELP ME REMEDY. THANK YOU. *TR
STRUCTURE,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKESMarch 19, 2014
WHILE THE CAR WAS GOING DOWN THE RAMP TO THE PARKING BASEMENT, THE BRAKE IN OUR PRIUS DIDN'T FUNCTION EVEN THOUGH THE DRIVER SLAMMED ON IT AND THE CAR CONTINUED TO PICKED UP ACCELERATION. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED EITHER, AMAZINGLY. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN AND MISSED THE WALL/CONCRETE PILLAR, BUT THE DRIVER HIT A PARKED CAR AND THAT'S WHAT STOPPED THE PRIUS FROM MOVING FURTHER. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10573591STEERING,SERVICE BRAKESFebruary 12, 2014
I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. THE STEERING BEGAN TO VEER BACK AND FORTH. I THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE DUE TO AN UNEVEN ROAD. I SWITCHED LANES AND EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. IT BECAME VERY APPARENT THAT IT WAS NOT DUE TO AN UNEVEN ROAD. AS I BEGAN TO APPLY THE BRAKES DUE TO A TRAFFIC JAM, THE BRAKES WERE WEAK AND HAD TO EVENTUALLY SLAM ON THE BRAKES TO STOP ON TIME. I HAVE TO BEGIN APPLYING THE BRAKES AT ABOUT 50 YDS FROM A STOP SIGN TRAVELING AT 45 MPH IN ORDER TO STOP ON TIME. *TR
VISIBILITY/WIPERJanuary 30, 2014
THERE IS A SEVERE DIFFRACTION EFFECT THROUGH WINDSHIELD. BRIGHT LIGHTS ARE TRIPLED. FOR EXAMPLE ONE BELOW AND ONE ABOVE THE BRAKE LIGHT OR TRAFFIC SIGNAL LIGHT. IT IS VERY DISTRACTING, AND VERY TIRING AFTER 20-30MINS OF DRIVING ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. BUT HAPPENS ALL THE TIME (EVEN FOR ONCOMING HEADLIGHTS). *TR
WHEELSDecember 23, 2013
I BOUGHT THIS CAR IN NOVEMBER SINCE THE CAR IS NEW . I WANTED TO INSTALL MUD GUARDS SO I HAD TO REMOVE EACH WHEEL. AS I WAS TORQUING THE WHEEL NUTS, ONE STUD CAME OFF. I USED A TORQUE WRENCH 65 FTLB. I WENT TO THE DEALER THEY TOLD ME THAT I BROKE THE STUD THAT THIS IS NOT COVER BY THE WARRANTY. I TOLD THEM THAT THIS STUDS MUST HAVE A DEFECT FROM MANUFACTURING. I HOPE THEY DON'T FAIL WHILE I'M DRIVING. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESDecember 19, 2013
2013 PRIUS C TWO, BOUGHT BRAND NEW WITH 15 MILES ON IT 5 WEEKS AGO. A FEW TIMES WHEN DRIVING, I NOTICED THE BRAKES SEEMED WEAK, LIKE THEY WEREN'T STOPPING THE CAR VERY WELL EVEN AT LOW SPEEDS. MY DRIVING IS MOSTLY IN TOWN ON RESIDENTIAL STREETS, SO I'M RARELY GOING OVER 35 MPH. EVEN SO, I'D HAVE TO REALLY MASH THE PEDAL ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR TO GET THE CAR TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP, OTHERWISE IT WOULD KEEP MOVING FORWARD. SEVERAL TIMES I ENDED UP ABOUT 5-10 FEET PAST THE LINE, STICKING THE FRONT BUMPER INTO CROSS TRAFFIC. LUCKILY NO ONE HIT ME. I CHALKED IT UP TO THE QUIRKS OF A DIFFERENT CAR THAN THE ONE I WAS USED TO, AND FIGURED IF IT KEPT HAPPENING I'D TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP. ON MONDAY, MY WIFE WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND THE CAR IN FRONT OF HER STARTED TO MOVE FORWARD. AFTER A FEW HUNDRED FEET, HE SUDDENLY SLAMMED ON HIS BRAKES. SHE SAID HER BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR, AND THE PRIUS DIDN'T SLOW DOWN AT ALL. SHE HIT HIM GOING ABOUT 25 MPH AND TOTALED THE PRIUS. SHE'S AN EXCELLENT DRIVER AND I'VE BEEN WITH HER BEFORE WHEN SHE'S HAD TO PANIC-STOP. SHE'S NEVER DRIVEN A CAR WITHOUT ABS, SO SHE IS USED TO PUSHING THE PEDAL HARD AND KEEPING HER FOOT ON IT. SHE WOULDN'T EVEN KNOW HOW TO "PUMP" THE PEDAL. SHE SWEARS THE PEDAL JUST WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR DIDN'T SLOW DOWN AT ALL. THANKFULLY, SHE'S OKAY AND NO ONE WAS INJURED. *TR
Crash reported
NHTSA #10556587VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESDecember 18, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED ABNORMALLY, TRAVELED OVER A SIDEWALK AND THEN OVER THE STEPS OF THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER HOWEVER, THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATION FAILURE WAS RECURRING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,500. UPDATED 01/08/14*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER WENT FAR BEYOND, WHAT THEY HAD TO DO, TO MAKE SURE SHE WAS TAKEN CARE OF. HOWEVER, TOYOTA CORPORATION WAS LESS THAN HELPFUL. UPDATE 01/09/13
SEAT BELTS,CHILD SEATNovember 15, 2013
WE PURCHASED A 2013 PRIUS V IN JULY. WHEN WE BOUGHT IT, I WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE BACK SEAT MIDDLE BODY RESTRAINT BEING ATTACHED TO THE INSIDE ROOF BEHIND THE BACK PASSENGER SEAT. BUT MY BOYS ARE 6, SO FELT THEY WOULD BE OKAY. THIS WEEK, ONE OF THE BOYS GOT TANGLED IN THE SEAT BELT. WHEN HE TRIED TO RELEASE THE BELT, IT RACHETED UP AND TIGHTENED WITH THE BELT WRAPPED AROUND HIS NECK. HE & HIS BROTHER TOLD US HE WAS CAUGHT & ASKED US TO STOP. WE WERE ON A HIGHWAY, & HAD TO TURN OFF & FIND A SAFE PLACE TO PARK. IN THE MEANTIME, HE BECAME MORE DISTRESSED, & SAID HE WAS HAVING TROUBLE BREATHING. WE LOOKED BACK & HE WAS WRAPPED IN THE BELT, STRETCHED IN THE SEAT. NEEDLESS TO SAY, WE WERE VERY UPSET. WE STOPPED, & TRIED TO GET THE BELT LOOSE, BUT IT JUST PULLED TIGHTER. THE BELT IS PERMANENTLY ATTACHED TO THE LAP BELT SECTION, & COULD NOT BE RELEASED. WE WERE IN THE COUNTRY. NO ONE NEARBY. WE DON'T CARRY KNIVES. FORTUNATELY, I HAD BOUGHT YEARS AGO, A TOOL FOR BREAKING AUTO GLASS, WITH A CUTTER IN IT FOR SEAT BELTS. I WAS ABLE TO FIND IT, AND CUT THE BELT. IT WAS VERY TOUGH, & TOOK A LOT OF EFFORT. OUR SON WAS BRUISED, FRIGHTENED, BUT OTHERWISE OKAY. WE WILL NOT BE REPAIRING THE SEATBELT, AS THIS IS A DEFINITE SAFETY HAZARD. OUR SON WOULD HAVE HUNG IN THE BACK SEAT, IF HE HAD NOT BEEN ABLE TO TELL US HE WAS CAUGHT, & COULDN'T BREATHE WELL. THIS COULD HAPPEN TO A CHILD TOO YOUNG TO REALIZE WHAT WAS HAPPENING, AND BE FATAL. THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW THAT COULD BE FIXED BY ALLOWING THE BELT TO BE RELEASED FROM THE LAP COMPONENT OF THE BELT. *TR
1 injury(ies)
NHTSA #10552422UNKNOWN OR OTHERNovember 15, 2013
CAR WENT INTO REVERSE WHEN SHIFTER WAS PUT IN DRIVE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERNovember 15, 2013
SHIFTED INTO DRIVE AND CAR WENT TO REVERSE. THIS IS 4TH OCCURRENCE OF THIS ISSUE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHERNovember 15, 2013
CAR REVERSED WHEN PUT INTO DRIVE. CAR CRASHES INTO A PARKED JEEP SUSTAINING DAMAGE OF 2000.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10552480POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNovember 12, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS 5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHENEVER SHE WAS DRIVING IN REVERSE, THE VEHICLE WOULD JERK VIOLENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE INTERIOR DOME LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE SPORADICALLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL OF THE LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND RADIO CONSOLE FAILED TO ILLUMINATE AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 10,900.
VISIBILITY/WIPERNovember 1, 2013
I AM SEEING MULTIPLE LIGHT IMAGES ABOVE AND BELOW THE ORIGINAL LIGHT. FOR INSTANCE, IF I SEE A RED LIGHT, I SEE ONE GHOST IMAGE ABOVE, AND ONE GHOST IMAGE BELOW. AS I GET CLOSER TO THE LIGHT SOURCE, THE IMAGES CONVERGE. ANY LIGHT SOURCE AT NIGHT APPEARS TO HAVE THIS GHOSTING EFFECT AT DISTANCES 25' +. IT CAN BE VERY BLINDING WHEN SEVERAL CARS IN FRONT HIT THEIR BRAKES. IT IS ALSO BLINDING FROM THE HEADLIGHTS OF CARS TRAVELING ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I DETERMINED IT WAS THE WINDSHIELD AFTER RIDING IN ANOTHER VEHICLE AT NIGHT, AND DID NOT HAVE ANY VISION ISSUES. THE NEXT TIME I DROVE THE PRIUS AT NIGHT AND EXPERIENCED THE GHOSTING, I LOOKED AT THE SAME OBJECTS FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE, AND THEY WERE CLEAR. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGOctober 25, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH UPHILL, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE AN ADEQUATE AMOUNT OF ILLUMINATION. THE FAILURE RECURRED WHENEVER THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING ON AN INCLINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. UPDATED 11/15/13*CN
SEATSSeptember 24, 2013
THE HEAD RESTRAINTS PUSH MY HEAD UNCOMFORTABLY AND DANGEROUSLY FORWARD. THIS MAKES DRIVING A LITERAL PAIN IN THE NECK. IT ALSO LIMITS MY ABILITY TO SEE STRAIGHT IN FRONT OF ME OUT THE WINDSHIELD (BECAUSE MY HEAD IS FORCED FORWARD AND DOWN) AND IT SEVERELY LIMITS MY ABILITY TO TURN MY HEAD TO SEE BEHIND MY VEHICLE OR TO THE SIDES OF THE CAR. NHTSA HAS MADE A HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE "SAFETY" LAW AND TOYOTA AND OTHER MANUFACTURES HAVE IMPLEMENTED IT IN THE WORST WAY POSSIBLE. NOT ALL DRIVERS ARE BALD, 6-FOOT-TALL MALES. THE MANUFACTURES AND THE NHTSA NEED TO CONSIDER SHORTER DRIVERS AND DRIVERS WITH HAIR (HAIR STYLED IN BUNS, PONYTAILS, BRAIDS, FRENCH TWISTS, ETC. CAN EFFECT THE OVERALL DIAMETER OF THE HEAD) BEFORE INSISTING THAT THE HEAD RESTRAINTS LEAN RIDICULOUSLY AND DANGEROUSLY FORWARD. *JS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITYSeptember 10, 2013
EVERY TIME I RECEIVED CALL ON MY CELL BLUETOOTH SEEMS LIKE VOICE BREAKING UP. IT IS NOT THE PHONE PROBLEM. I HAVE CHECKED THE SAME PHONE IN MY OTHER CARS AND WORKS FINE. THIS BLUETOOTH NEEDS SOFTWARE UPGRADE. *TR
VISIBILITY/WIPERAugust 25, 2013
THERE IS A SEVERE DIFFRACTION EFFECT THROUGH THE LAMINATED WINDSHIELD. BRIGHT LIGHTS ARE TRIPLED. THIS IS LIKELY CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE PLASTIC LAYER BETWEEN THE GLASS. IT IS VERY DISTRACTING, ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJuly 25, 2013
MY 2013 PRIUS-V3, HAS A BUILD UP OF CONDENSATION IN HEADLIGHTS, DEALER REPLACED BOTH ONCE. CONDENSATION RETURNED, DEALER TOOK PICTURES AS TOYOTA CORPORATION WANTED. AFTER WEEKS, TOYOTA SAID THEY WOULD DO NOTHING TO FIX PROBLEM UNLESS THERE WAS STANDING WATER IN THE HEADLIGHT. NOTE CONDENSATION SHOULD NOT EXIST, AND CONDENSATION WILL DAMAGE THE BULBS WHICH IN TURN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMJuly 18, 2013
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR--ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS--THE DASH LIGHTS ALL ILLUMINATE AT ONCE, FOLLOWED BY UNRESPONSIVE CONTROLS FOR A FEW SECONDS. THEN THE DASH LIGHTS GO OUT (RETURN TO NORMAL) AND NORMAL CONTROLS AND ACCELERATION RETURN. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMJuly 18, 2013
WHILE SLOWING DOWN FOR A RED LIGHT THE CAR'S ELECTRONICS MADE A BEEPING NOISE, ALL THE DASH LIGHTS CAME ON, THE GAS GAUGE DISPLAYED A RAPIDLY DROPPING QUANTITY, THEN WENT BACK UP TO HALF FULL. A RED TRIANGLE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE DASH DURING THIS TIME. DURING THIS TIME, THE CAR WAS COMPLETELY DISABLED AND UNABLE TO MOVE AND WAS SITTING IN THE INTERSECTION. I TRIED MULTIPLE TIMES TO RESTART THE CAR, THE DASH LIGHTS WOULD COME ON, BUT THE CAR WASN'T ACTUALLY RUNNING OR RESPONDING TO PEDAL INPUTS. AFTER 7 MINUTES THE CAR FINALLY STARTED BACK UP AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO THE DEALERSHIP. I LEFT THE CAR'S ENGINE RUNNING (EV MODE WHILE PARKED) AND THEY HOOKED IT UP TO THE COMPUTER. THEY SAID EVERYTHING WAS FINE AND THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. THIS HAS HAPPENED BEFORE, AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN, TWO DAYS AFTER THE DEALERSHIP GAVE ME MY CAR BACK (THEY KEPT IT THAT WEEKEND). *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMJuly 18, 2013
WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY THE CAR'S DASH LIT UP AND THE CAR'S ENGINE DIED AND THEN RESTARTED. THE FUEL QUANTITY DISPLAYED, DECREASED BY THREE BARS BEFORE RETURNING TO IT'S NORMAL--ACCURATE--LEVEL. THE CAR THEN DROVE NORMALLY AND ALLOWED ME TO GET IT INTO THE DRIVEWAY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJuly 15, 2013
WHEN I PULLED UP OUTSIDE OF MY HOUSE AND WENT TO OPEN THE BACK HATCH, I ACCIDENTALLY HIT THE LOCK BUTTON. THE CAR THEN LOCKED - BUT WITH MY SMART KEY FOB AND MY 10-MONTH-OLD DAUGHTER INSIDE OF THE CAR. IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE IMPOSSIBLE TO LOCK THE CAR WITH THE KEY FOB INSIDE. I HAD NO WAY OF GETTING INTO THE CAR TO GET MY DAUGHTER OUT - I HAD TO CALL THE POLICE AND HAVE THEM BREAK INTO THE CAR FOR ME. AS THE CAR STARTED AND DROVE TWICE - FROM WORK TO MY SITTER'S, FROM MY SITTER'S TO MY HOUSE - THE KEY WAS DETECTABLE FROM ITS LOCATION IN MY CAR. THERE IS NO WAY IT SHOULD HAVE LOCKED WITH THE KEY FOB STILL INSIDE. AND I CAN'T EMPHASIZE HOW MUCH OF A SAFETY HAZARD THIS IS - MY 10-MONTH-OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE CAR. WHAT IF IT HAD BEEN A REALLY HOT DAY? WHAT IF I HAD BEEN SOMEWHERE WHERE IT TOOK THE POLICE TIME TO GET TO ME? WHAT IF MY PHONE HAD BEEN LOCKED IN THE CAR? WHILE IT ALL TURNED OUT FINE, IT COULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS. AND THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE. THE SMART KEY SYSTEM ON MY CAR SHOULD NEVER ALLOW THE KEY TO BE LOCKED INSIDE. *TR
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPERJuly 13, 2013
WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT I NOTICE THAT ON-COMING LIGHTS (BOTH FROM ON-COMING CARS AND TRAFFIC LIGHTS) ARE DISTORTED SO THAT THERE IS A TRIPLE IMAGE, WITH DUPLICATE IMAGES BOTH ABOVE AND BELOW THE ACTUAL LIGHT SOURCE. THESE DUPLICATE IMAGES GET CLOSER AND CLOSER TO THE ORIGINAL LIGHT SOURCE AS THE VEHICLE GETS CLOSER TO THE LIGHT SOURCE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMJuly 12, 2013
WHEN PUTTING THE VEHICLE IN REVERSE A LOUD BEEPING IS HEARD INSIDE THE CABIN. WE AREN'T SURE OF ITS PURPOSE AS THE BEEPING CANNOT BE HEARD OUTSIDE OF THE CAR IF THE WINDOWS ARE UP OR IF THE WINDOWS ARE DOWN AND THE RADIO IS ON. THE BEEP CAN ONLY BE FAINTLY HEARD OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE IF THE WINDOWS ARE DOWN AND THERE IS NO OTHER NOISE. BECAUSE THE BEEPING IS SO LOUD IN THE VEHICLE, THE DRIVER CANNOT HEAR SHOUTS, SCREAMS OR OTHER DISTRESS SIGNALS TO ALERT THEM OF A HAZARD WHEN BACKING UP. THE BEEPING IS LOUD AND CONSTANT AND IS NOT AFFECTED BY THE NEARNESS OF AN OBJECT, AS WITH OTHER VEHICLE BEEPING BACKUP SYSTEMS. THE LOUD BEEPING CREATES A HAZARD BY DISTRACTING THE DRIVER AND NOT ALERTING PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLJuly 8, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DECELERATING, THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO A POLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR WAS THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 300. UPDATED 08/27/13*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED JUST BEFORE COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AND HIT A BRICK POST. UPDATED 08/29/13
Crash reported
NHTSA #10523653VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLJuly 5, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 2 MPH AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD AND ACCELERATED UNEXPECTEDLY. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESPOND TO THE BRAKES AND CRASHED INTO A NEARBY CEMENT POST. THERE WERE NO PERSONAL INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WAS SEVERE BODY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY WITH THE IMPACT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A COLLISION CENTER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10523319SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKESJune 19, 2013
I OWN A NEW 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS V-5. WHILE ON THE FREEWAY TAKING AN INTERCHANGE. I HAD CRUISE CONTROL SET AT 65 MPH, DISENGAGING IT AS I APPROACHED THE INTERCHANGE THAT SLOWS TO 35 MPH DUE TO THE CURVE. I WAS COASTING WHEN THE CAR SUDDENLY BRAKE, INTERNAL WARNING LIGHT FLASHING, ALARM BEEPING AND SEAT BELT LOCKED UP. I WAS ALONE IN THE CAR (THANK GOD) WITH NO CARS BEHIND ME OR IN FRONT OF ME. IT WAS AN EXTREMELY WINDY DAY AND WAS TOLD BY TOYOTA THAT IT IS POSSIBLE SOMETHING BLEW IN FRONT OF THE SENSOR. THAT IN ITSELF IS ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE. CAN I NOT DRIVE MY CAR ON A WINDY, RAINY OR SNOWY DAY, IN FEAR OF THE PRE COLLISION SYSTEM MISINTERPRETING WHAT IS IN FRONT OF THE SENSOR? I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP ONLY TO BE TOLD TODAY THAT THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG AND THAT I AM MORE THAN WELCOME TO TAKE A DRIVE WITH THEIR TECHNICIAN TO SEE IF I CAN REPLICATE WHAT HAD OCCURRED. I INQUIRED IF THE EDR HAD RECORDED THE EVENT AND THEY TOLD ME NO. IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE EDR? SHOULDN'T IT HAVE RECORDED SOMETHING LIKE THAT? I CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHY THE PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM (PCS) WOULD ACT AS IF IT WERE TRYING TO PREPARE FOR IMPACT IF THERE WAS NOTHING IF FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. I COULD HAVE BEEN REAR ENDED OR LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGJune 15, 2013
NEITHER MY WIFE NOR I CAN HEAR THE DIRECTIONAL SIGNAL INDICATOR (THE CLICKING) WHEN THE SIGNAL INDICATES A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING. THUS, WE DON'T TURN OFF THE INDICATOR WHEN WE FINISH TURNING. THEREFORE, WE ARE VERY OFTEN DRIVING WITH OUR DIRECTIONAL SIGNALS INDICATING A TURN WHEN WE HAVE NO INTENTION OF TURNING. WE CALLED THE LOCAL TOYOTA SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND THEY TOLD US THAT THEY ARE UNABLE TO AUGMENT THE SOUND SO THAT IT IS AUDIBLE. WE BELIEVE THAT THIS CONDITION OF THE PRIUS IS HAZARDOUS AND TOYOTA SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL AND FIX IT. *TR
EQUIPMENTJune 11, 2013
A VERY DANGEROUS CONDITION EXISTS IN THE NAVIGATION SYSTEMS, APPARENTLY IN ALL MODELS OF 2012 AND 2013 TOYOTAS EQUIPPED WITH FACTORY INSTALLED NAVIGATION SYSTEMS. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE SYSTEM FAILS TO PRODUCE A VOICE PROMPT FOR TURNS PERHAPS AS MUCH AS 50% OF THE TIME. FAILURE OF THE VOICE PROMPT MEANS THAT YOU MUST CONTINUALLY LOOK DOWN AT THE SCREEN IN ORDER TO KNOW WHERE AND WHEN TO TURN. I'M CERTAIN THAT THIS HAS CAUSED MANY, MANY ACCIDENTS AND FATALITIES AS WELL. THERE IS A WARNING THAT COMES UP EVERY TIME YOU TURN THE SYSTEM ON SAYING THAT WATCHING THE SCREEN IS DANGEROUS AND CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR BACK TO THE TOYOTA DEALER I BOUGHT IT FROM SEVERAL TIMES, AND HAVE DEMONSTRATED THE FAILURE TO THEM. THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE VOICE PROMPTS ARE A SOMETIMES THING. AT MY REQUEST, THEY TESTED ANOTHER TOYOTA OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL, AND INFORMED ME THAT IT HAD FAILED AS WELL. I TESTED A NEIGHBOR'S 2013 PRIUS C AND FOUND IT TO FAIL THE PROMPTS AT THE SAME INTERSECTIONS. I ALSO TESTED A 2012 PRIUS, AND IT FAILED ALSO. THE TOYOTA SALESMAN TELLS ME THE THE SAME NAVIGATION SYSTEM IS USED IN ALL BUT A FEW 2012 AND 2013 TOYOTA MODELS; SO I'M ASSUMING THAT THIS PROBLEM EXISTS THROUGHOUT AT LEAST ALL 2012 AND 2013 TOYOTAS BUT FOR A FEW THAT USE A DIFFERENT SYSTEM. ALL FOUR OF THE TOYOTAS TESTED, INCLUDING THE ONE TESTED BY THE DEALER HAVE FAILED TO PROVIDE VOICE PROMPTS AT THE SAME INTERSECTIONS.THESE ARE NOT NEWLY CREATED OR REMOTE INTERSECTIONS. ONE OF THEM IS A 6 LANE ARTERIAL (NE164TH AVE & SE 164TH AVE. IN VANCOUVER, WA).THE SYSTEM HAS FAILED ON FREEWAY EXITS AND IN OTHER CITIES (STEVENSON, WA, 54 MILES DISTANT, BEAVERTON AND PORTLAND, OR, AND LONGVIEW, WA.) AND IN CLEAR AS WELL AS OVERCAST WEATHER. I'VE USED GARMEN AND TOM TOM SYSTEMS EXTENSIVELY WITHOUT EVER EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM BEFORE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMMay 20, 2013
TOYOTA PRIUS EMITS A LOUD AND DISTRACTING BEEPING TONE INSIDE THE CABIN WHEN PLACED IN REVERSE. THE TONE IS SO LOUD THAT A DRIVER MAY NOT HEAR SHOUTS, A HORN, OR OTHER EXTERIOR NOISE INDICATING A HAZARD WHILE REVERSING. TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS CHARGE HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS TO TURN OFF THE INTERIOR BEEPING, DESPITE THE EVIDENT SAFETY HAZARD IS POSES. *TR
SEATSApril 24, 2013
AFTER BUYING A NEW 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS I NOTICED THAT THE DRIVERS HEADREST WOULD WORK ITS WAY UP TO THE HIGHEST POSITION AT ANY SPEED, NOT JUST THE SPEED LISTED AT THE TIME OF INCIDENT. MAKING THE A POTENTIALLY FATAL DESIGN FLAW, I AM CONCERNED THAT IN A FRONT OR REAR END COLLISION THIS DEFECT COULD EITHER SNAP, BREAK OR INCREASE THE POSSIBILITY OF EXCESSIVE INJURY TO MY NECK. I TOOK THE CAR BACK THE DEALER SHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT COULD BE DONE ABOUT IT. THE SERVICE MANAGER ([XXX]) IT WAS A DESIGN FLAW. I HAVE OWNED A 2008 PRIUS WITH NO PROBLEM, MY WIFE'S 2010 PRIUS HAS NO SUCH PROBLEM EITHER. I AM WANTING THIS DOCUMENTED SO THAT IF I AM INVOLVED WITH THE ABOVE MENTIONED ACCIDENT TYPE THAT SOMETHING MAY BE DONE ABOUT THIS. I AM CONSTANTLY HAVING TO RELEASE THE LOCKING LATCH AND PUSH THE HEADREST BACK DOWN. THIS OCCURS ON AVERAGE 5 TO 10 TIMES IN AN HOUR DRIVE OR LESS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
VISIBILITY/WIPERApril 5, 2013
PURCHASED 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS NEW, WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT THERE IS A GHOST OR PRISM EFFECT THROUGH THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. THIS IS ESPECIALLY NOTICEABLE WITH THE HEADLIGHTS OF OTHER VEHICLES, THEY ARE DOUBLED OR TRIPLED STACKED ON TOP OF THE ONE HEADLIGHT. ALSO VERY NOTICEABLE WITH ONCOMING TRAFFIC HEADLIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS. TRAFFIC SIGNALS, ESPECIALLY THE RED STOP LIGHT AND THE GREEN GO LIGHT, THERE WILL BE ONE LIGHT WITH A GHOST IMAGE ABOVE AND BELOW. THIS IS VERY DISTRACTING, CREATES HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND MAKES IT HARD TO ESTIMATE DISTANCES AND AFTER A PERIOD OF TIME (5-10 MINUTES) BECOMES A STRAIN ON THE EYES. *TR
VISIBILITYMarch 26, 2013
THIS PRIUS HAS FOGGINESS IN THE WINDSHIELD WHICH APPEARS TO BE A DEFECT CAUSED DURING THE TEMPERING PROCESS OF THE GLASS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLMarch 19, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND CRASHED INTO A WOODEN STAIRCASE. THE CONTACT THEN SHIFTED INTO REVERSE AND THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY IN REVERSE, COMING TO A STOP IN THE STREET. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. AN ENGINEER WAS DISPATCHED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE RESULTS WERE MAILED TO THE CONTACT, STATING THAT THERE WAS NO CAUSE FOR THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 899.
Crash reported
NHTSA #10503606SEATSDecember 18, 2012
I WOULD LIKE TO REGISTER A MAJOR COMPLAINT ABOUT THE DESIGN OF THE HEADREST. IT PUSHES MY HEAD FORWARD AT SUCH AN ANGLE THAT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SIT COMFORTABLY IN THE SEAT. IN ORDER TO HOLD MY HEAD UP STRAIGHT I MUST TILT THE SEAT BACK BEYOND WHAT IS SAFE OR DESIRABLE FOR DRIVING AND EVEN THAT IS NOT COMPLETELY SATISFACTORY FOR THE ANGLE OF MY HEAD. PLEASE REQUIRE CAR MANUFACTURERS TO PROVIDE ADJUSTABLE OR ALTERNATIVE HEADRESTS WHICH CAN ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT DRIVERS MORE SAFELY. IF NTSB IS REQUIRING THE CURRENT DESIGN, THEY'VE MADE A BIG MISTAKE. *TR