Toyota Prius (2001–2024) Technical Guide — DTC, Fluids & Parts | TroubleAtlas

🌐 ▾
Toyota Prius (2001–2024)
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.7/10
TroubleAtlas Score
The TroubleAtlas app on a phoneTROUBLEATLAS APP · FREEFREE APPDownload our free appDownload our free appOur shopping centre in your pocket: dozens of suppliers that deliver in your country, compared, department by department.Dozens of suppliers compared, in your country. Get it free Get it free

TOYOTA PRIUS (2001–2024) Manual — Codes, Tyres & Parts

Built 2001–2024 · all production years covered on this single page

2.0L I4 PHEV • Hybrid

Toyota Prius (2001–2024)

© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA

5 Common problems View details →
29 OBD2 codes View details →
52 Recalls / TSB View details →
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliability
n/a
Safety & recalls
n/a
Repair cost
7.7
Parts & repairability
3.8
Maintenance & durability
7.1
Documentation & support
8.0
★ How we calculate this → Methodology
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.7/10
Independent · Verified · Never for sale

Every figure on this Toyota Prius (2001–2024) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.

The Toyota Prius (2001–2024) uses Toyota Genuine 0W-20 engine oil. Its battery is group 51R (BCI), rated at 410A cold-cranking amps. It is a hybrid (2.0L I4 PHEV). Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.

⚠️ COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT

Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.

Related codes: P0217

Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT

ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.

Related codes: P0522

Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT

Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.

Related codes: P0524

Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT

Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.

Related codes: P0606

Throttle actuatorFREQUENT

Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.

Related codes: P2100

🔧 COMMON REPAIRS
🔧
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.8h
€56 – €72
🔧
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
🛢
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.4h
€28 – €36
🔧
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS

Prices may vary by area and workshop.

🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
⏱️ OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)

Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.

Brakes8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
ABS Module2.0h€ 90–€ 150
ABS Pump2.5h€ 112–€ 187
ABS Tone Ring1.5h€ 67–€ 112
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front0.8h€ 36–€ 60
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Brake Bleed - All Four1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Brake Booster2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Brake Booster Check Valve0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Cooling8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Coolant Bypass Pipe1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Coolant Flush1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Coolant Reservoir0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Coolant Temperature Sensor0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Cooling Fan Assembly1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Cooling Fan Motor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Cooling Fan Relay0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Engine Oil Cooler2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Electrical8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Airbag - Driver1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Airbag - Passenger1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Airbag - Side2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Airbag Module/Computer1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Alternator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Alternator Belt0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Amplifier1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Antenna0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Engine8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Camshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Camshaft R&R8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Connecting Rod Bearings15.0h€ 675–€ 1125
Crankshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Crankshaft R&R20.0h€ 900–€ 1500
Cylinder Head R&R6.0h€ 270–€ 450
Cylinder Head Resurface8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Engine Mount - Front1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Exhaust8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Injection Check Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Catalytic Converter - California1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Universal2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Downpipe2.0h€ 90–€ 150
EGR Cooler3.0h€ 135–€ 225
EGR Tube1.5h€ 67–€ 112
EGR Valve1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Fuel system8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Charcoal Canister1.0h€ 45–€ 75
EVAP Purge Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
EVAP Vent Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Fuel Cap0.1h€ 4–€ 7
Fuel Filler Neck1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Fuel Filter0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Fuel Filter - In-Tank2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Fuel Injector - Single1.0h€ 45–€ 75
HVAC8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
AC Accumulator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Clutch Coil1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Compressor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Compressor Clutch2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Compressor Oil Add0.5h€ 22–€ 37
AC Condenser2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Evaporator6.0h€ 270–€ 450
AC Expansion Valve (TXV)4.0h€ 180–€ 300
Steering8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Center Link/Drag Link1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Module1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Motor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Idler Arm1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Pitman Arm1.2h€ 54–€ 90
Power Steering Fluid Flush0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Power Steering Gear Box3.5h€ 157–€ 262
Power Steering Hose - High Pressure1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Suspension8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Line1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Spring/Air Bag1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Compressor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Height Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Suspension Valve Block2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Ball Joint - Lower1.8h€ 81–€ 135
Ball Joint - Upper1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Ball Joints - Upper and Lower3.0h€ 135–€ 225
Transmission8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Kickdown Cable0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Neutral Safety Switch1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Overdrive Solenoid2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Shift Cable1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Shift Linkage1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Transmission Control Module1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Transmission Cooler Lines1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Transmission Filter1.0h€ 45–€ 75
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY

Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.

🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Engine oil
Engine oil
Toyota Genuine 0W-20
With filter change
4.3 L
Coolant
Coolant
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink)
Use pre-mixed or mix 50/50 with distilled water
7.1 L
Brake fluid
Brake fluid
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Replace when moisture content exceeds 3% or every 2-3 years
Transmission fluid
Toyota WS ATF
9.5 L
Power steering fluid
Electric Power Steering (No Fluid)
Electric power steering - no fluid required
Washer fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid
Refill as needed. Use winter-rated in cold climates.
3.3 L
🔧 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
Brake Fluid36 months
Fuel Filter—
Brake Fluid Replacement36 months
Engine Oil And Filter16,000 km / 12 months
Tire Rotation16,000 km / 12 months
Brake System Inspection16,000 km / 12 months
Drive Belt Inspection16,000 km / 12 months
Exhaust System Inspection16,000 km / 12 months
📋 RECALLS & TSB (52)
NHTSA 06V188000
Steering › Electric Power Assist System
Date: 31/05/2006
THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT AND SLIDING YOKE IN THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING SYSTEM CAN CRACK WHEN LARGE FORCES ARE APPLIED AND THE CONNECTION MAY SEPARATE OR THE SLEEVE MAY FRACTURE.
NHTSA 18V085000
Air Bags › Side/Window
Date: 31/01/2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016 Toyota Prius and Lexus RX 350, RX 350 F Sport, RX 450h F Sport and RX 450h vehicles and 2015-2016 Lexus NX 200T, NX Turbo and NX 300h vehicles. The air bag pressure sensors and/or the acceleration sensor…
NHTSA 25V744000
Back Over Prevention › Display Function
Date: 30/10/2025
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview ca…
NHTSA 16V487000
Air Bags › Side/Window
Date: 30/06/2016
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus CT200h vehicles. A weld in the curtain shield air bag inflator may crack causing one or both portions of the i…
NHTSA 26V049000
Electrical System › Wiring › Switches/Knobs/Buttons
Date: 28/01/2026
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Prius Prime, 2023-2026 Prius, and 2025-2026 Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly.
NHTSA R/2016/213
Airbag May Incorrectly Deploy
Date: 28-11-2016
The passenger air bag inflator may have been incorrectly manufactured/assembled. This may allow leakage of compressed gas and partial inflation of the airbag without a deployment command.
NHTSA 19V244000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 27/03/2019
Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehi…
NHTSA R/2006/130
Engine May Stall
Date: 27-11-2006
Due to improper moulding of the body of the crankshaft position sensor engine oil may penetrate the seal and enter the sensor wiring connector. In this condition the engine oil within the sensor's wiring connector may expand due to engine heat and could deform the sensor. In …
NHTSA R/2011/065
Steering Control Could Be Affected
Date: 27-06-2011
The nut that secures the pinion to the electric power steering system motor shaft may become loose if excessive force is used in full lock manoeuvrers. This could in extreme cases have an affect on the steering operation.
NHTSA R/2019/440
An Electrical Short Circuit In The Combination Meter Could Occur
Date: 27-01-2020
An electrical short circuit in the combination meter could occur.
NHTSA R/2006/057
Airbags May Not Inflate During A Collision
Date: 26-07-2006
Due to improper assembly of the airbag inflator used in the side airbag curtain shield airbag and knee airbag systems the subject airbags may not fully inflate during a collision resulting in an increased risk of injury to the vehicle's occupants.
NHTSA 19V544000
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Date: 24/07/2019
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Lexus LS500, LC500, ES300h, UX250h, LS500h, Toyota Prius, RAV4 HV, 2019-2020 Toyota Prius Prime, and 2020 Corolla HV vehicles. The brake booster pump may fail causing a deactivation of the Vehicle Stabil…
NHTSA 20V369000
Hybrid Propulsion System › Inverter
Date: 24/06/2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Prius and 2014-2017 Prius V vehicles not included in recall 18V-684. Excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter may cause the hybrid system to shut down, causing the…
NHTSA 24V548000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 23/07/2024
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, P…
NHTSA 04V558000
Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch
Date: 22/11/2004
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH AN IMPROPERLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. A SILICON OXIDE BUILD-UP OCCURS ON THE CONTACTS INSIDE THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH, WHICH CAN MAKE IT INOPERABLE.
NHTSA 21V734000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Engine Control Module (Ecu/Ecm) › Software
Date: 22/09/2021
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) software may falsely detect an error and shut down the hybrid system, causing a loss of drive power.
NHTSA 00V285000
Steering › Gear Box (Other Than Rack And Pinion)
Date: 21/09/2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INSUFFICIENT ELECTRICAL CONTACT CAN OCCUR IN THE TORQUE SENSOR THAT CONTROLS THE POWER ASSIST OPERATION OF THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING GEAR BOX. THE TORQUE SENSOR COULD SEND IMPROPER ELECTRICAL SIGNALS.
NHTSA R/2016/237
Parking Brake May Fail
Date: 21-11-2016
The subject vehicles are equipped with a foot-operated parking brake system containing a parking brake cable and a crank lever which upon activation transmit the force of the parking brake pedal to the brake caliper piston. Over time during normal operation of the vehicle the cab…
NHTSA 14V743000
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler
Date: 19/11/2014
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and…
NHTSA 06V266000
Engine And Engine Cooling
Date: 19/07/2006
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER MOLDING OF THE RESIN BODY OF THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENOR INSTALLED ON THE ENGINE BLOCK, ENGINE OIL MAY PENETRATE THE SEAL AND ENTER THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR. THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENTLY ATTACHED TO THE LO…
NHTSA 17V658000
Hybrid Propulsion System › Inverter
Date: 18/10/2017
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016 Prius vehicles. A capacitor within the hybrid system may not have been properly bolted to the inverter housing.
NHTSA 24V274000
Electrical System › Wiring › Switches/Knobs/Buttons
Date: 17/04/2024
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles. Water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly.
NHTSA 16V672000
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module
Date: 16/09/2016
Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Prius vehicles manufactured November 30, 2015, to June 14, 2016. An air bag inflator manufacturing error may result in the inadvertent partial inflation of the front passenger air bag…
NHTSA 13V014000
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Date: 16/01/2013
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model ye…
NHTSA R/2026/027
Date: 16-03-2026
For affected vehicles that are equipped with an electric rear door lock system which includes a door opener switch and a rear door lock release actuator If the seal performance for this switch is reduced this can temporarily allow water to enter the switch which can cause the swi…
NHTSA 12V537000
Steering
Date: 14/11/2012
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2009 Prius vehicles manufactured August 5, 2003, through March 30, 2009. The affected vehicles have a steering intermediate extension shaft assembly built with metal splines that complete the connection from the steering wheel to the s…
NHTSA 12V536000
Engine And Engine Cooling
Date: 14/11/2012
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2009 Prius vehicles manufactured August 6, 2003, through March 30, 2009 and FCHV-adv vehicles manufactured December 12, 2008, through September 13, 2011. During manufacturing, a scratch may have occurred inside of the electrically driv…
NHTSA 16V741000
Parking Brake
Date: 14/10/2016
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Prius vehicles manufactured August 6, 2015, to October 3, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with a foot-operated parking brake system that has a parking brake cable that may diseng…
NHTSA R/2004/198
Possbility That The Stop Lamp Could Fail
Date: 14-03-2005
In the stop lamp switch of subject vehicles equipped with LED stop lamps there is the possibility that silicone oxide may be generated the surface of the contact point and in consequence the resistance of the contact could increase. In this circumstance current may not flow causi…
NHTSA R/2018/293
Vehicle May Not Enter Failsafe Driving Mode As Intended In Response To Certain Hybrid System Faults
Date: 14-01-2019
The vehicle may not enter a failsafe driving mode as intended.
NHTSA 14V053000
Hybrid Propulsion System › Inverter
Date: 12/02/2014
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If …
NHTSA R/2016/153
Curtain Shield Airbag May Deploy Unintentionally
Date: 12-09-2016
On affected vehicles the curtain side air bag inflator may have a crack in a weld. If this crack propagates gas may leak and in certain conditions partially in inflate the air bag.
NHTSA 19V876000
Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel
Date: 11/12/2019
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2019 Prius vehicles. An electrical short circuit in the combination meter could occur, causing the speedometer, the odometer, and the fuel gauge to go blank. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the r…
NHTSA R/2014/024
Loss Of Power May Occur
Date: 10-03-2014
In certain circumstances components within the inverter assembly may overheat which can lead to the selection of: fail safe mode where the vehicle can still drive with reduced power for a certain distance or in the worst case the drive systems shut down and the vehicle stop.
NHTSA 13V123000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 09/04/2013
Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota L…
NHTSA 10V039000
Service Brakes, Air › Antilock › Control Unit/Module
Date: 09/02/2010
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS AND LEXUS HS250H PASSENGER VEHICLES. CUSTOMERS HAVE EXPERIENCED INCONSISTENT BRAKE FEEL AFTER ABS ACTUATION DURING SLOW AND STEADY APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES ON ROUGH OR SLICK ROAD SURFACES. STOPPING DISTANCES MAY BE INCRE…
NHTSA R/2020/025
Improper Assembly Of The Electrical Contacts In The Driver'S Seat Belt Reminder Switch
Date: 09-03-2020
An improper assembly of the electrical contacts in the reminder switch for the driver seat belt
NHTSA 09V388000
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal
Date: 05/10/2009
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT.
NHTSA 18V579000
Electrical System › Wiring
Date: 05/09/2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles. A portion of the engine wire harness connected to the hybrid Power Control Unit (PCU), could contact the cover at this connection and wear, causing an electrical short circuit…
NHTSA 13V235000
Service Brakes
Date: 05/06/2013
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 Prius vehicles manufactured March 31, 2009, through October 9, 2009; and model year 2010 Lexus HS250h vehicles manufactured June 19, 2009, through October 9, 2009. Nitrogen gas from a component of the brake booster pump assembly could …
NHTSA 18V684000
Hybrid Propulsion System
Date: 04/10/2018
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V vehicles. Excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter may cause the hybrid system to shut down, causing the vehicle to stall…
NHTSA R/2017/309
The Electric Vehicle (Ev) Fuse May Malfunction
Date: 04-12-2017
The Electric Vehicle (EV) fuse which may malfunction if the vehicle isrepeatedly operated by the electric motor under high-load driving conditions such as during a long hill climb. If the fuse malfunctions warning lights and warning messages will illuminate. In some cases the veh…
NHTSA R/2017/286
Invertor Capacitor May Not Be Secure
Date: 04-12-2017
The hybrid system of the subject vehicles includes an inverter assembly which contains a capacitor that may not have been properly bolted to the inverter housing. In this condition the terminal of the capacitor could be damaged by vibration during normal vehicle operation.
NHTSA R/2019/248
Brake Booster Pump May Stop Working
Date: 04-11-2019
An electrical connection within the motor may cause the brake booster pump to stop operating
NHTSA 06V096000
Air Bags
Date: 03/04/2006
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THE AIR BAG INFLATOR, WHICH IS USED IN THE SIDE AIR BAG, THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIR BAG, AND THE KNEE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY, SOME INFLATORS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF THE HEATING AGENTS NECESSARY FOR PROPER AIR BAG DEPLOYM…
NHTSA 10V036000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 03/02/2010
SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATI…
NHTSA 10V035000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 03/02/2010
GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISIT…
NHTSA R/2012/146
Short Circuit May Occur
Date: 03-12-2012
In the Hybrid system of the subject vehicles there is an electrically driven water pump assembly that circulates coolant through the hybrid components. It is possible the coil wire of the electric motor installed in the water pump may have been scratched during the coiling manuf…
NHTSA 16V396000
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler
Date: 02/06/2016
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 V…
NHTSA 17V295000
Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Date: 02/05/2017
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) is recalling certain 2017 4Runner , 86, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius C, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sienna and Yaris vehicles. The spare tire air pressure was not adjusted to the prop…
NHTSA 11V304000
Steering › Electric Power Assist System
Date: 01/06/2011
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001 THROUGH 2003 PRIUS PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 28, 2000, THROUGH MAY 30, 2003. THE STEERING LINKAGE MAY LOOSEN, RESULTING IN REDUCED ELECTRIC STEERING ASSISTANCE WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN.
NHTSA R/2018/240
Engine Wire Harness Connected To Hybrid Vehicle Power Control Unit Could Contact Cover
Date: 01-10-2018
Due to assembly variation a portion of the engine wire harness could contact the cover.Should the insulation wear and the core wires become exposed there is an increased risk of a vehicle fire.
🔴 DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE

60 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.

Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
!BRAKE
Brake System WarningBrakes
K
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
+−
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
!BRAKE
ABS WarningBrakes
!BRAKE
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
!BRAKE
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
!
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
S
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
N
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
!
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
Master Warning (Toyota)Electrical
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
?
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
L
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
L
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
AC
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
A
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
Pre-Collision System Off (Toyota)ADAS
Lane Departure Alert Off (Toyota)ADAS
Slip Indicator (Toyota)Chassis
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
L
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
A
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
A
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
A
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
A
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
!
Door Open WarningBody
!
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
READY Light (Toyota)Electrical
EV Mode Indicator (Toyota)Electrical
B-Ready (EV Brake) (Toyota)Brakes
📢 REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)

12728 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Toyota Prius across model years 2001–2024. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.

1026 crash reports 68 fires 547 injuries 25 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 20102818
Model year 20072003
Model year 20081497
Model year 20061439
Model year 20051051
Model year 2012678
Model year 2004610
Model year 2011512
Most reported components (all years)
Service Brakes4335
Exterior Lighting3405
Hydraulic1535
Electrical System1500
Vehicle Speed Control995
Electric793
Sample reports
The brake system is constantly failing/malfunctioning.It is available for inspection upon request. There has been several incidents where other vehicles have nearly been rear ended. I took my 2011 Toyota Prius (hybrid) to Toyota approxim… (MY 2011)
1, DARK INSTUMENT PANEL, SPEEDOMETER, ODOMETER, FUEL GAUGE, PRND DISPLAY. 2, POWER BUTTON INOPERABLE, AT THE TIME OF SPEEDOMETER FAILSURE THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS WHEN DRIVING WITHOUT INSTRUMENT PANEL, YOU DO NOT KNOW THE SPEED OF DR… (MY 2008)
MY CAR'S BRAKE ACTUATOR FAILED WHILE I WAS ON HIGHWAY. GLADLY NOTHING DANGEROUS HAPPENED BUT I AM CONCERNED OTHERS WILL FACE THE SIMILAR SITUATION WITH WORST SCENARIO. TOYOTA TOLD ME THE WARRANTY EXPIRED AND QUOTED ME $2600. PLEASE ASK T… (MY 2009)
BRAKE ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY FAILED. *DT *JB (MY 2006)

Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2001–2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Toyota Prius have any safety recalls?

Yes — 35 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION). Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.

What does fault code P0003 mean on the Toyota Prius?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0002 mean on the Toyota Prius?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0001 mean on the Toyota Prius?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

Are engine problems common on the Toyota Prius?

Yes — 477 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “THE CAR SUDDENLY LOST POWER WITHOUT ANY WARNING WHILE DRIVING 65+ MPH ON THE FREEWAY. THE CHECK HYBRID WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR BECAME DANGEROUSLY UNRESPONSIVE, LUCKILY WE WERE NEAR AN EXIT AND …” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are brakes problems common on the Toyota Prius?

Yes — 867 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the brakes. One owner reported: “MY CAR IS EXPERIENCING WHAT IS KNOWN ONLLINE AS 'THE BIG HAND SYNDROM'. WHILE DRIVING, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CHANGES RESISTANCE AND IT FEELS LIKE SOMEONE GRABS THE CAR AND IT DRAMATICALLY SLOWS. YOU T…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are electrical problems common on the Toyota Prius?

Yes — 2390 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “PS WARNING LIGHT DISPLAY, CAR WILL NOT START. PARKED IN HOME DRIVE WAY.…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

What tyres does the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) use?

The original OEM tyre size for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["245/45R19", "195/50R19", "195/60R17"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.

What is the right battery for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024)?

The battery specified for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) is group 51R (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 410A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.

What engine oil should I use on the Toyota Prius (2001–2024)?

The engine oil specification for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) is Toyota Genuine 0W-20. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.

Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024)?

Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.

How often should the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) be serviced?

Routine maintenance for the Toyota Prius (2001–2024) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.

Considering buying a Toyota Prius (2001–2024)? Use this guide to check expected maintenance costs, the most reported fault codes and parts availability on the market. Real data, zero commercial estimates.

Scroll to Top