Toyota Prius Problems and Common Complaints
skybound Trampoline,Black Trampoline,Black Trampoline With Net,16ft Trampoline Jiangsu Baoxiang Sports Equipment Co., Ltd , https://www.skyboundbx.com
Whether you're considering purchasing a Prius or simply looking to maintain your eco-friendly sedan, it's always wise to be aware of the common issues associated with this vehicle model.
Note: The list below is organized by the vehicle's generation. Scroll down to find information relevant to your specific model year.
2016-Present Prius - Common Issues:
Good news: Reports of problems for this generation of Prius are relatively scarce. One of the most frequently mentioned concerns is that the windshield is prone to cracking when struck by a rock. This issue is more likely to occur if you live in areas where gravel or road salt is used during winter. However, in warmer climates, this problem is less likely to arise.
2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues:
Ineffective Headlight Wiring:
It's not unusual for Prius owners to encounter intermittent or even complete HID headlight failures. This occurs because the wiring is designed to overheat the bulbs, leading to their premature burnout. Sometimes, the wires themselves can melt. Fixing this involves replacing the wiring and/or harness.
Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Many Prius drivers have reported a loss of brake pressure or unexpected brake release while driving over rough terrain. This happens because the brake pressure accumulator can crack due to excessive vibration. Toyota issued a recall in 2013 to inspect thousands of Prii and replace the brake actuator free of charge if necessary.
Clogged Piston Rings:
The 2010-2015 Prius models came equipped with thinner piston rings and an updated piston design, which unfortunately proved ineffective. As a result, this generation of Prius experiences clogged piston rings, leading to excessive oil consumption. Many owners have found success by replacing the pistons and piston rings.
Cracked Side Curtain Airbag Inflators:
The side curtain airbag inflators consist of two parts welded together. A small crack can develop in the weld area, causing the airbag to inflate unexpectedly. In 2016, Toyota recalled affected Prius models and installed retention brackets free of charge.
Intelligent Power Module (IPM) Malfunction:
The IPM, which manages mileage and power performance, is susceptible to failure under high operating temperatures. Consequently, the Prius might stall completely or operate in a reduced power mode. To address this issue, Toyota had its dealers either update the software in the motor control module and hybrid control module or replace the IPM entirely in affected vehicles.
2003-2009 Toyota Prius - Common Issues:
Ineffective Headlight Wiring:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues section.
Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues section.
Clogged Piston Rings:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues section.
Premature Steering Intermediate Extension Shaft Wear:
The extension shaft in older Prii was manufactured with metal splines that were not strong enough to withstand prolonged pressure. As a result, drivers may experience loose steering or even complete loss of steering. Toyota responded by recalling all affected Prii and having dealers inspect and replace the extension shaft if needed.
Corroded Coil Wire in the Water Pump:
Some water pumps were scratched during manufacturing, leading to corrosion in the coil wire. Once the wire breaks, it can cause a short circuit, rendering the water pump inoperable and potentially causing the Prius to overheat or stall. In 2012, Toyota recalled and replaced the electric water pump in approximately 350,000 Prii free of charge.
2000-2002 Toyota Prius - Common Issues:
Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues section.
Throttle Body Failure:
Many Prius owners have encountered a sudden drop in engine power while driving. This issue is attributed to throttle body failure, which can typically be resolved by replacing it.
Loose Steering Linkage:
The steering linkage in first-generation Prii tends to loosen over time, resulting in reduced power steering, especially noticeable when making a left turn. A recall was issued by Toyota in the summer of 2011 to replace the nuts in the steering linkage in over 50,000 Prius vehicles.
2001-2017 Toyota Prius Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs):
To locate these TSBs, you can try searching Google using the TSB ID number, the name of the TSB, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, you can visit NHTSA.gov and search for the TSB by entering your VIN.
For a comprehensive table listing TSBs from 2001 to 2017, please refer to the original document.