Toyota Prius Problems and Common Complaints
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Whether you're in the market for a Prius or simply looking to maintain your eco-friendly sedan, it’s always beneficial to understand the common issues associated with this model.
Please note that the problems listed below are categorized by vehicle generation. Scroll down to locate your specific model year.
### 2016-Present Prius - Common Issues
While there aren’t many complaints for this generation of the Prius, one frequently reported issue is windshield damage. Specifically, the windshield tends to crack more easily than expected when struck by debris like stones, particularly in regions where gravel or road salt is commonly used. Drivers in warmer climates are less likely to encounter this problem.
### 2010-2015 Toyota Prius - Common Issues
#### Ineffective Headlight Wiring:
A common complaint among Prius owners from this era is intermittent or complete failure of their HID headlights. This happens because the wiring is designed to overheat the bulbs, leading to burnouts. In some cases, the wires themselves may even melt. Fixing this issue typically involves replacing the wiring or the entire harness.
#### Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Many Prius owners reported losing brake pressure or experiencing unexpected brake releases while driving over rough terrain. This issue stems from the brake pressure accumulator cracking due to excessive vibration. Toyota addressed this by issuing a recall in 2013 and inspecting thousands of affected vehicles. If needed, they replaced the brake actuator free of charge.
#### Clogged Piston Rings:
The 2010-2015 Prius models came equipped with thinner piston rings and an updated piston design, which unfortunately didn’t perform well. Consequently, this generation of Prius is prone to clogged piston rings, leading to excessive oil consumption. Replacing the pistons and rings has been a successful solution for many owners.
#### Cracked Side Curtain Airbag Inflators:
The side curtain airbag inflators are constructed by welding two parts together. Over time, a small crack can form at the weld area, causing the airbag to inflate unintentionally. Toyota recalled affected models in 2016 and installed retention brackets free of charge.
#### Intelligent Power Module (IPM) Malfunction:
The IPM, which manages mileage and power performance, is susceptible to failure when exposed to high temperatures. This often results in the Prius either stalling entirely or switching to a reduced power mode. To resolve this, Toyota updated the software in the motor control module or replaced the IPM in affected vehicles.
### 2003-2009 Toyota Prius - Common Issues
#### Ineffective Headlight Wiring:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius section for details.
#### Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius section for details.
#### Clogged Piston Rings:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius section for details.
#### Premature Steering Intermediate Extension Shaft Wear:
Older Prius models had extension shafts made with metal splines that were too soft to withstand long-term use. This could lead to loose steering or complete loss of steering control. Toyota responded by recalling all affected vehicles and replacing the extension shaft as necessary.
#### Corroded Coil Wire in the Water Pump:
Some water pumps were scratched during production, causing corrosion in the coil wire. Once the wire breaks, the water pump stops functioning, potentially leading to overheating or stalling. In 2012, Toyota recalled and replaced the electric water pump in around 350,000 Prius vehicles free of charge.
### 2000-2002 Toyota Prius - Common Issues
#### Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator:
Refer to the 2010-2015 Toyota Prius section for details.
#### Throttle Body Failure:
Several Prius owners have reported a sudden drop in engine power while driving. This issue is linked to throttle body failure, which is usually resolved by replacing the throttle body.
#### Loose Steering Linkage:
The steering linkage in first-generation Prius models tends to loosen over time, especially during left turns, reducing power steering effectiveness. In summer 2011, Toyota issued a recall to replace the nuts in the steering linkage in over 50,000 Prius vehicles.
### 2001-2017 Toyota Prius Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
To find these TSBs, try searching Google using the TSB ID number, the TSB name, or a combination of both. Alternatively, visit NHTSA.gov and enter your VIN to locate the TSB.
| YEAR | MAKE | MODEL | TSB NAME | TSB ID | ISSUE DATE |
|------|------|-------|----------|--------|------------|
| 2013-2016 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | Vibration/Tapping and/or Misfire After Cold Soak | 196628 | 10/14/2016 |
| 2013-2015 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0A80 Due to Dust or Debris in HV Battery Cooling Fan | 194925 | 6/24/2016 |
| 2012-2015 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | Abnormal Entune/Navigation Operation For Display Audio (Non-HDD Type) | 195716 | 8/1/2016 |
| 2012-2014 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0A80 or P0A7F due to Dust or Debris in HV Battery Cooling Fan | 182309 | 11/18/2013 |
| 2012-2014 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | Combination Meter Cloudy Lens | 189793 | 5/21/2015 |
| 2010-2017 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | HVAC Evaporator Drain Hose Clogged Due to Insect Intrusion | 198794 | 3/8/2017 |
| 2010-2016 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | Misfire While Driving With EGR Active | 195712 | 8/11/2016 |
| 2010-2016 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P2111 and P0A0F After Cold Soak | 196179 | 9/8/2016 |
| 2010-2014 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | Inverter Failure may cause Hybrid Vehicle to Stall | 183795 | 2/12/2014 |
| 2010-2014 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0A94, P324E, P0A1A, and/or P3004 | 194501 | 5/12/2016 |
| 2010-2013 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0A0F, P3190, P3191, P0171 Due to Purge VSV Vacuum Line Separation | 190245 | 6/30/2015 |
| 2010-2012 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0A80 due to Dust or Debris in HV Battery Cooling Fan | 175353 | 7/13/2012 |
| 2010-2012 | Toyota | Prius - All Models | MIL "ON" DTC P0401 and/or Rattle After Cold Soak | 193624 | 3/31/2016 |
This list continues with additional technical service bulletins for various years and models. If you own a Prius, staying informed about these issues can help ensure your vehicle remains reliable and efficient.