Ask the seller for proof the repair was completed, or run the free VIN check. Recall repairs are done at no cost by a dealer.
Before you buy
- Momentary brake loss over bumps: about 44% of complaints. Ask whether the brake recall software update was done, and on a test drive brake gently over bumps to check for any loss of braking.
- Car surges forward while braking: about 1 in 6 complaints.
- Brake booster and actuator failure: about 1 in 8 complaints.
- Safety: Hybrid system stall and power loss (can affect control: 7 of 7 reports), about 2% of complaints.
- Run the free VIN recall check for the 10 recalls to confirm on this model, starting with the safety recall (18V684000).
Based on a random sample of 300 of the 2,822 complaints filed with NHTSA for this model, read and summarized with AI. 295 of them describe a failure the owner experienced; the rest (recall notices, parts delays, worries) are left out of these counts. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Known problems
What owners report most often, grouped into named problems. Summaries are written by AI from the complaints; open a problem to read the owners' own words.
Momentary brake loss over bumps
Owners report the brakes briefly stop working or feel delayed when braking over potholes, railroad tracks, snow or rough pavement, sometimes leading to near misses or crashes. Some say the problem continued after the brake recall software update.
- How common
- 132 of the 300 complaints we read (44%), roughly 1,242 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 117 of 132 reports; 16 reports mention a crash; 1 report mentions an injury
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 10V039000. Check the VIN for it.
Before you buy: Ask whether the brake recall software update was done, and on a test drive brake gently over bumps to check for any loss of braking.
- Brakes and pre-collision system suddenly failed without warning. · filed Oct 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The brake and pre collision system suddenly fail without warning.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11690902
- Brakes failed to stop the car with warning lights on; owner says the dealer denied support program coverage due to mileage. · filed Aug 2024
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. In addition, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with brake system failure. The contact was informed that the braking system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for service. The contact was made aware of Customer Satisfaction Program: C1391. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with brake system failure. The contact was informed that the braking system needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the Customer Satisfaction Program: C1391, because the mileage had been exceeded. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 166,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11608444
- Brakes failed without warning and the car nearly crashed. · filed May 2023
Read the owner's complaint
Almost caused a major accident. Brakes failed with no warning!
NHTSA complaint ODI #11523119
Car surges forward while braking
Owners report the car lurches, surges or briefly accelerates when braking over bumps, potholes or rough roads, forcing them to brake harder. Dealers often could not reproduce it.
- How common
- 47 of the 300 complaints we read (16%), roughly 442 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 47 of 47 reports; 1 report mentions a crash
- Car surges and slides forward when braking at stops, worse in rain. · filed Oct 2020
Read the owner's complaint
MY CAR IS ACCELERATING WHILE BRAKING. WHENEVER I TRY TO BRAKE ON THE ROAD WHILE CURBING OR STOPPING AT THE TRAFFIC SIGNALS, THE CAR SKIPS/SLIDE FORWARD. IT'S GETTING WORSE ON THE RAINY TIME THOUGH.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11362616
- Car lurches forward before stopping when braking on rough surfaces; owner says Toyota told them the car is not included in the software fix. · filed Jul 2015
Read the owner's complaint
CAR SEEMS TO LURCH FORWARD BEFORE STOPPING WHEN BRAKING ON A ROUGH SURFACE. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM. DESPITE NHTSA NOTICE THAT THERE IS A SOFTWARE FIX AVAILABLE FOR SOME 2010 PRIUSES, TOYOTA MAINTAINS MY CAR IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE BATCH THAT WAS TO RECEIVE THEM. UPDATE 9/15/15*CW UPDATED 12/06/2017*CN
NHTSA complaint ODI #10743293
- Car surges ahead when braking at low speed, sometimes subtly, most recently moving forward a couple of feet while slowing to turn. · filed Nov 2014
Read the owner's complaint
THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS. AS I BRAKE AT LOW SPEEDS, THE CAR SURGES AHEAD AS THOUGH YOUR FOOT IS ON THE ACCELERATOR. SOMETIMES IT WAS SO SUBTLE, YOU WONDERED IF IT REALLY HAPPENED. TODAY (11/23/14) THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO MISTAKING IT. THE CAR SURGED FORWARD A COUPLE OF FEET AS I WAS SLOWING TO TURN LEFT. IF SOMEONE HAD BEEN STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME, I WOULD HAVE HIT THEM FROM BEHIND. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10660372
Brake booster and actuator failure
Owners report brake, ABS and stability warning lights with a soft, sinking or hard pedal and weak braking, often with pump whine or barking noises. Dealers found failed or leaking brake boosters, booster pumps, accumulators, actuators or ABS pumps.
- How common
- 36 of the 300 complaints we read (12%), roughly 339 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 22 of 36 reports
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 13V235000, 10V039000. Check the VIN for it.
- Brake booster accumulator leak intermittently disables regenerative braking at speed, leaving a spongy pedal and causing near-accidents. · filed Aug 2025
Read the owner's complaint
It is a known problem that Priuses manufactured from 2004 to 2015 have issues with the brake master cylinder and brake booster accumulator. When the vehicle computer recognizes an internal leak (ABS C1391) or other issue in the accumulator pump, it completely disables the regenerative braking system, which significantly reduces braking power. In my case, the problem is intermittent, and the vehicle computer will occasionally clear the code and operate normally. A slight whirring sound can still be heard (indicative of an internal leak), leading me to conclude that the part is still damaged, even when the code clears itself. This continues to affect my and my passengers' safety because the problem comes back with no warning while driving. Many times at highway speeds, the regenerative braking system will shut off while decelerating. This has caused scares and near-accidents. Imagine you are approaching stopped traffic while traveling 65 miles per hour. You press the brake to start slowing down, and while decelerating, the dashboard lights up and the brake pedal goes spongey. Now, you must slam the brake all the way into the firewall to engage the disks and pads exclusively. Aside from the imminent terror of hitting the car in front of you, now you are skidding on the brakes, worried the car behind you will crush the rear. Sooner or later this will cause somebody to get into an accident when a split-second decision cannot to be made quickly enough. The issue is well-known, and a warranty recall was issued, but it does not cover any vehicles over a certain age and mileage. It has been reproduced by my local mechanic and inspected by a Prius specialist, who both quote about $3800 to fully replace and recalibrate the failing parts. There were no indicators of this issue before it happened to my wife and I the first time on the highway. While I am grateful that nobody was injured, the situation could be completely different had the problem occurred just seconds later.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11683582
- Braking power dropped with ABS and traction lights on at 45-50 mph; dealer found the brake booster and master cylinder failed. · filed Jun 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving 45-50 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the ABS, the traction control, and the check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced reduced braking power and the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that upon engaging the brake, the vehicle decelerated, and the contact pulled to the base of an inclined side street, where the vehicle was able to stop. The contact was able to safety park and inspected the vehicle. The contact was able to drive to the residence at slow speeds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the brake booster and master cylinder had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11670352
- ABS warning lights came on and the ABS part needs replacement. · filed Jul 2024
Read the owner's complaint
ABS Lights turned on and need replacement. This is my 3rd Prius that have the Issue.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11604853
Headlight bulbs burning out
Owners report low beam and HID headlights repeatedly failing or flickering while driving, requiring frequent bulb or headlight replacement.
- How common
- 19 of the 300 complaints we read (6%), roughly 179 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Reduced safety margin: 19 of 19 reports
- Headlights burn out often and are very dim, making it hard to see without high beams. · filed Aug 2017
Read the owner's complaint
HEADLIGHTS BURN OUT OFTEN AND ARE EXTREMELY DIM MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE WITHOUT USING BRIGHTS. LIGHTS ARE THE SAME STATIONARY AS WELL AS DRIVING
NHTSA complaint ODI #11015190
- Low beam headlights fail about every two months; dealer said the low beam wiring harness needs replacement, but it has not been repaired. · filed Aug 2017
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS WOULD FAIL APPROXIMATELY EVERY TWO MONTHS. THE CONTACT HAD TO REPLACE THE LOW BEAM LIGHTS APPROXIMATELY 20 TIMES SINCE 2010. THE CONTACT CALLED THE JEYES TOYOTA DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE'S LOW BEAM HEAD LAMPS FAILED AND THE LOW BEAM LIGHTING HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11012072
- Low beam headlight bulbs keep burning out on both sides; new bulbs give a very weak beam, and dealer charges for diagnosis. · filed Dec 2016
Read the owner's complaint
IN 2014 MY REGULAR BEAM HEADLIGHT WENT OUT. THE DEALERS WANTED $130 TO PUT IN A NEW BULB SAYING THE BUMPER HAD TO BE REMOVED. MY HUSBAND BOUGHT A BULB AT THE AUTO PARTS STORE AND INSTALLED IT WITHOUT REMOVING THE BUMPER. SINCE THEN I HAVE REPLACED SEVERAL BULBS ON BOTH SIDES AND WAS FINALLY TOLD BY SYLVANIA THAT I NEED TO CHANGE BOTH AT THE SAME TIME WHICH I DID ABOUT A MONTH AGO. A COUPLE OF NIGHTS AGO, I STARTED THE CAR AND BOTH HEADLIGHTS WERE OUT AND THE FUSES WERE INTACT. I PUT IN TWO MORE BULBS, BUT I CAN BARELY SEE WITH THEM ALTHOUGH THEY ARE LIT. THE BEAM IS VERY WEAK. THE DEALERS WANT OVER $100 TO DO A DIAGNOSTIC TO FIND THE PROBLEM OR BEFORE THEY WILL GIVE ME A QUOTE OF THE COST TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM AS STATED BY TOYOTA IN A TECHNICAL BULLETIN. THIS WAS MY THIRD PRIUS, AND LAST ONE. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10935179
Hybrid system stall and power loss
Owners report the car losing power or shutting down while driving, sometimes at highway speed, often with a hybrid system warning. Dealers often could not find the cause.
- How common
- 7 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 66 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 7 of 7 reports
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 18V684000. Check the VIN for it.
- Hybrid Malfunction message appeared and car lost power while driving, repeatedly; dealer could not find the cause. · filed Jun 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Hybrid Malfunction" was displayed, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to restart after detaching and reconnecting the rear battery. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11668166
- Car starts but shuts off and dies when the owner tries to drive it. · filed Aug 2020
Read the owner's complaint
THE CARS STARTS DOES NOT STAY ON IF I TRY TO DRIVE IT WILL TURN OFF AND DIE OUT .
NHTSA complaint ODI #11351017
- After recall software update, car went into limp mode and shut down on the freeway at low fuel and would not restart. · filed Apr 2019
Read the owner's complaint
JUST HAD RECALL WORK COMPLETED INCLUDING SOFTWARE UPDATE. CAR NOW EXHIBITS NEW LIMP MODE BEHAVIOR WITH LOW FUEL. THIS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE THE SOFTWARE UPDATE. TRIP METER INDICATED MORE THAN 50 MILES REMAINED WITH CURRENT FUEL SUPPLY. FUEL LEVEL WAS AS TWO BARS AND LOW FUEL LIGHT HAD NOT YET COME ON. LIMP MODE OCCURRED AT SPEED ON 4 LANE FREEWAY. VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART AND DASH MESSAGING INDICATED HYBRID SYSTEM FAILURE. HAD VEHICLE TOWED ONLY TO REALIZE IT WAS ALL HAPPENING DUE TO A LOW FUEL LEVEL. I BELIEVE THE SAFETY RECALL SOFTWARE UPDATE HAS INTRODUCED AGREATER RISK TO MY ROADSIDE SAFETY AND HAS MADE THE VEHICLE LESS TRUSTWORTHY AND HAS REDUCED VALUE.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11196184
Grabby or stiff brakes at startup
Owners report the brakes grab hard with a light touch, or the pedal feels stiff and the brakes do not hold right after starting the car and shifting into reverse.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 56 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 6 of 6 reports
- Brake pedal feels hard and brakes do not hold for about 5 seconds after starting and shifting to reverse, letting the car roll; dealer called it normal. · filed Aug 2010
Read the owner's complaint
2010 TOYOTA PRIUS OCCASIONAL LOSS OF BRAKE PERFORMANCE IMMEDIATELY UPON START-UP OF VEHICLE. ON 4 SEPARATE OCCASIONS, THERE WAS NOTED LOSS OF BRAKING CAPABILITY AFTER SHIFTING INTO REVERSE IMMEDIATELY AFTER TURNING ON THE IGNITION. THIS CAUSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO FEEL HARD, AND ALLOWED THE CAR TO SLOWLY MOVE AGAINST THE OPERATOR'S INTENTIONS. AFTER ABOUT 5 SECONDS, THE BRAKES BEGIN TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. A TOYOTA DEALERSHIP TOLD ME IT TAKES A FEW SECONDS FOR BRAKE PRESSURE TO COME UP AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE AND THAT I SHOULD WAIT BEFORE SHIFTING INTO GEAR. THIS INSTRUCTION SEEMS COUNTERACTIVE TOWARDS SAFETY, AND THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO SHIFT INTO GEAR UNTIL BRAKE PRESSURE IS PRESENT. A SIMPLE SOFTWARE UPDATE SHOULD BE ABLE TO ADDRESS THIS CONCERN. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10351511
- Brake pedal felt stiff when starting in reverse, car rolled back faster, then stopped abruptly; happened twice. · filed Apr 2010
Read the owner's complaint
IN MY 2010 PRIUS I HAVE HAD TWO INCIDENCE WITH MY BRAKE WHEN STARTING OUT IN REVERSE. FIRST TIME WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY, DON'T REMEMBER HOW LONG I WAS IN THE CAR UNTIL MY GIRLFRIEND GOT IN.. BUT WHEN I PUT IT INTO REVERSE I GOT A"STIFF" FEELING IN THE PEDAL AND IT FELT LIKE IT WOULDN'T GO DOWN ALL THE WAY... THE CAR SEEMED TO ACCELERATE BACK FASTER THAN EXPECTED WHEN I LIFTED MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE.... I LIFTED MY FOOT AND PUT THE BRAKE DOWN AND I STOPPED VERY QUICKLY (AS IF I WAS SLAMMING ON THE BRAKES) I THEN TOOK MY FOOT OFF AND REAPPLIED A FEW TIMES AND THE PEDAL FELT FINE. WE THEN DROVE TO THE LOCAL MARKET.. I SAT IN THE CAR WITH THE ACC MODE ON FOR ABOUT 5-8 MINUTES WHILE SHE WENT IN... WHEN SHE CAME OUT I STARTED THE CAR, WENT TO BACK UP AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED.... THIS WAS VERY DISCONCERTING IN A CROWDED LOT WITH LOTS OF PEOPLE WALKING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE CARS.... I BELIEVE I JUST HIT THE PARK BUTTON... THEN REAPPLIED THE BRAKE (WHICH NOW FELT NORMAL) AND I HAVEN'T HAD THE ISSUE SINCE.... THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN DISCUSSED IN PRIUS FORUMS AT LENGTH AND THERE IS A VERY CONSISTENT THEME TO THE INCIDENTS THAT TOYOTA SHOULD EXPLORE AND DEAL WITH. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10327735
- Brakes are very grabby when reversing with light pedal pressure, almost like a panic stop. · filed Feb 2010
Read the owner's complaint
2010 TOYOTA PRIUS SOMETIMES HAS VERY GRABBY BRAKES WHEN REVERSING AND APPLYING SLIGHT FORCE ON BRAKE PEDAL. BRAKE RESPONSE IS ALMOST LIKE A PANIC STOP. THIS HAPPENS OCCASIONALLY WHEN STARTING CAR AND PUTTING IN REVERSE. THE REMEDY IS TO PUT CAR IN PARK THEN PUT IN REVERSE. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10310556
Sudden unintended acceleration
Owners report the car suddenly accelerating on its own, including while reversing and with the brake applied. One owner says the problem continued after recall repairs.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 56 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 5 of 6 reports; 1 report mentions a crash
- Car accelerated on its own at about 65 mph on the highway until owner regained control by working the brake and accelerator. · filed Feb 2018
Read the owner's complaint
MY CAR IS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS WITH NEARLY 100K MILES. I WAS TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY AT APPROX 65 MPH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE WAS TRYING TO MERGE ONTO THE HIGHWAY. I USUALLY MAINTAIN MY SPEED BUT IN THIS SITUATION OF TRAFFIC I SLOWED SLIGHTLY AND FLASHED MY HEADLIGHTS FOR THE DRIVER TO GO AHEAD OF ME. THE DRIVER SEEMED TO BE UNSURE OF MERGING SAFETY AND PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. IN THAT PROCESS I BRAKED TO SLOW AND THEN ACCELERATED IN AN EFFORT TO MAINTAIN SPEED WITH ONGOING TRAFFIC. THEN ODDLY THE ACCELERATION WENT FROM UNDER FOOT AS IF A 'GHOST' WAS PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. AT FIRST I THOUGHT PERHAPS THE FLOOR MAT WAS IMPROPERLY PRESSING IT. I PRESSED THE BRAKE A BIT A FEW TIMES AND LOOKED TO THE HAZARDS TO ALERT OTHER VEHICLES BUT NEVER PRESSED THEM INSTEAD INTUITIVELY TRYING TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE CAR. THE PROCESS OF PRESSING THE BRAKES AND ACCELERATOR GENTLY SEEMED TO RESET THINGS. HARD TO SAY AS MOST OF MY ATTENTION WAS FOCUSED ON TRYING THINGS TO STOP THE ACCELERATOR. I JUST GOT LUCKY I THINK. I WAS ABLE TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE CAR WITHIN A SHORT TIME THAT FELT LIKE A LONG TIME IN RETROSPECT. PERHAPS A MOMENT OR TWO THAT FELT LIKE LONGER. I DID NOT SEE INDICATING LIGHTS ON MY DASHBOARD AND THEY MAY HAVE LIT UP- I WAS DOING MY BEST TO NOTICE CARS AROUND ME AND MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. MY CAR HAS BEEN 'FINE' SINCE BUT I HAVE NOT GONE BACK ON THE FREEWAY. I HAVE NOT RETURNED TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP BUT THOUGHT ABOUT GOING TODAY. I'LL WAIT TO HEAR BACK IN CASE THERE ARE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS I SHOULD FOLLOW FOR THAT TO HELP. I LOOKED ONCE STOPPED AND THE FLOOR MAT IS NOWHERE NEAR ANYTHING THAT COULD CATCH A PETAL. WEATHER CLEAR ON THE EVENING OF FEB 1 APPROX 6 PM MEDFORD OREGON ON NORTHBOUND I-5
NHTSA complaint ODI #11067011
- Car accelerated abnormally at 50 mph; the driver shifted to neutral to stop it. · filed Mar 2012
Read the owner's complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE TRAVELING 50 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED. IN ORDER TO STOP THE ACCELERATION THE CONTACT SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED AND OR REPAIRED.THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 46,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #10450384
- Car suddenly accelerated from 35 to 45 mph; the driver stopped it by applying the brakes. · filed Nov 2010
Read the owner's complaint
2010 TOYOTA PRIUS. CONSUMER STATES SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED FROM 35 MPH TO 45 MPH. HE WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY APPLYING THE BRAKES. *JB
NHTSA complaint ODI #10364640
Brake lockup and skidding
Owners report the brakes locking and the car skidding or sliding on ice, sand, rough roads or under hard braking, despite anti-lock brakes.
- How common
- 5 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 47 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 5 of 5 reports
- Front tires lost traction under hard braking at highway speed and the car spun across lanes; a similar event happened before. · filed Feb 2025
Read the owner's complaint
While driving at a high speed in the left lane of a 2 lane interstate a car in the right lane merged into me. Luckily I was able to brake in time to avoid a collision, unfortunately the sudden braking at a high speed caused my car to loose all control. Upon braking my front tires lost all traction and shifted my car to the right, I remained horizontal sliding across the highway for an unrecognized distance (my guess is 10-20 meters), before shifting another 90 degrees to the right leaving me backwards. At this point I had shifted across both lanes and the emergency lane, I was backwards in a grass border on the right side of the interstate. If this had been any other sort of barrier I may not have Lived. This incident has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle had recently had its worn brake components replaced in response to a similar incident happening, which I first attributed to worn brakes— this theory was supported by the brake technician prior to service. I have had a tire pressure light on since I purchased the car, but this was explained to me as a malfunctioned TPS.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11640202
- After the brake recall fix, car still skids side to side when braking and once bumped a fixed object; owner says Toyota said nothing is wrong. · filed Apr 2010
Read the owner's complaint
DESPITE HAVING HAD THE BRAKE RECALL ITEM FIXED ON MY 2010 TOYOTA PRIUS, I CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE INSTANCES WHEN I DEPRESS THE BRAKE AND THE CAR SKIDS FROM SIDE TO SIDE WITH A SENSATION THAT THE END OF THE CAR IS LITERALLY LIFTING OFF THE GROUND. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME MULTIPLE TIMES AND TOYOTA HAS TOLD ME THAT THE RECALL FIXED ANY CONCERNS, SO THERE SHOULDN'T BE ANYTHING WRONG. ON ONE OCCASION WHEN THIS HAPPENED MY VEHICLE ACTUALLY BUMPED INTO A FIXED OBJECT, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE FRONT BUMPER. I PURCHASED THIS CAR BASED ON TOYOTA'S REPUTATION AND AM NOW SO MISTRUSTING OF IT THAT I HESITATE TO PUT MY FAMILY IN IT. AS A CONSUMER I STRONGLY FEEL THAT I AND ALL OWNERS OF 2010 PRIUS' SHOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO OPT TO RETURN OUR VEHICLES TO TOYOTA AND HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SELECT A DIFFERENT NEW OR USED VEHICLE OF THE SAME PRICE FOR WHAT WE PAID FOR OUR CARS. THE PROVEN CONCERNS ABOUT THE 2010 PRIUS SHOULD BE ENOUGH FOR THE NHTSA TO PUT PRESSURE ON TOYOTA TO ALLOW FOR SOME TYPE OF RESTITUTION. IT IS NOT AS SIMPLE AS JUST TRADING IN THE CAR AT ANY RANDOM DEALER BECAUSE THE REPUTATION OF THESE CARS HAS SEVERELY LOWERED THE MARKET VALUE. TOYOTA'S ERRORS SHOULD NOT BE PERMITTED TO HAVE A FINANCIAL IMPACT ON THOSE CONSUMERS WHO PURCHASED THEIR CARS. I WOULD BE HAPPY TO ALLOW NHTSA TO TEST MY VEHICLE FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME IF IT WOULD HELP IN THE RESEARCH OF THIS PROBLEM. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10323663
- Brake system locked up and then released, briefly losing braking control and nearly hitting the car ahead. · filed Feb 2010
Read the owner's complaint
I HAVE EXPERIENCED MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF LOSS OF BRAKING CONTROL IN MY 2010 PRIUS. TODAY I WENT TO PUT ON MY BRAKES AND THE SYSTEM LOCKED UP ON ME AND THEN, LUCKILY, RELEASED AND I REGAINED CONTROL OF MY BRAKES BEFORE HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10305272
Excessive engine oil consumption
Owners report the engine burning large amounts of oil at higher mileage, with one owner replacing the engine.
- How common
- 5 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 47 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Not a safety issue
- Engine used 1.5 quarts of oil in about 1,200 miles and failed Toyota's oil consumption test; owner was quoted a new engine. · filed Jan 2022
Read the owner's complaint
Last year on September 13, 2021 I purchase a used 2010 Toyota Prius ( Vehicle VIN[XXX]) with 122414 miles on the Odometer, I got my oil changed on October 29, 2021 so I can keep track of when my oil is due. My odometer reading on oil change was 123,268. I drove 2806 miles, when I woke up on December 08, 2021 with no oil in my engine. I thought that was very strange so after adding a quart of oil My husband got for me. I took the vehicle back to the shop ( Good Year Tire & Rubber Company 1585- A Island Lane Fleming Island, FL 32003) I originally had my oil changed at, to have them check if there was some sort of leak. The odometer reading at that day/ service was 126,074. After a full inspection of the engine exterior componence, no leak was to be found. Then I decided to do some research only to find out that back in 2016 Toyota had a lawsuit against them for having manufacturer defects in the productions of engine between the years of 2006 - 2011. The manufacturer defect was the engine piston would eventually start having oil leaks into the engine causing engine excessive oil consumption. That same day I took my vehicle to the nearest Toyota dealership ( Coggin Toyota At the Avenues 11340 Philips Hwy Jacksonville FL32256) for a engine oil consumption test to be serviced on my vehicle. This process takes place by filling oil to the full line marking it... confirming there is no leaks....sealing everything and I was to return after driving 1200 miles ( odometer reading at service was 126,094). upon returning the vehicle on December 30, 2021...My vehicle failed the engine oil consumption test because after driving 1221 miles my engine was low on oil by 1.5 quart. This kind of engine oil consumption not only causes my engine to deuterate in time, but also my vehicle diminishes in value. After it was established that my vehicle engine consumes oil / failed the engine oil consumption test. Toyota advised me to get a new engine that would cost me $6987.63 INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint ODI #11447625
- Engine started burning about a quart of oil every 1,200 miles at 130,000 miles; dealer blamed bad piston rings. · filed Nov 2020
Read the owner's complaint
BAD RINGS IN THE MOTOR. MY DEALER SAID HE IS SEEING A LOT OF PRIUS'S LIKE THIS. HE THINKS TOYOTA WILL HAVE A RECALL ON THE PRIUS SOON. CAMRY AND RAV-4 HAS ALREADY BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS REASON. MY PRIUS JUST STARTED USING A LOT OF OIL @130,000. (1QT PER 1200 MILES) PLEASE ENFORCE A RECALL FOR CONSUMER PROTECTION.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11373231
- Engine burned excessive oil for years and eventually failed; owner paid about $5,000 for a used replacement engine. · filed Mar 2019
Read the owner's complaint
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION LED TO ENGINE FAILURE AND REPLACEMENT COST OF APPROXIMATELY $5000.00 ALSO EXCESSIVE OIL COST TO CONSTANTLY FILL OIL OVER THE YEARS. I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW. AND GOT STUCK WITH IT AS I WAS GOING THROUGH DIVORCE AND NOT WORKING IT WAS UNFORTUNATELY CHEAPER TO PAY FOR A USED ENGINE REPLACEMENT THROUGH TOYOTA. I HAVE SAVED ALL RECEIPTS IN HOPES OF RECUPERATING MONEY IN THE FUTURE
NHTSA complaint ODI #11183633
Brake master cylinder failure
Owners report total brake failure while driving, with dealers replacing the brake master cylinder assembly.
- How common
- 3 of the 300 complaints we read (1%), roughly 28 of all 2,822 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 2 of 3 reports
- ABS and brake lights came on at 55 mph and anti-lock braking was lost; shop found a bad master cylinder with nitrogen leaking into brake lines. · filed Jul 2017
Read the owner's complaint
ABS AND BREAK LIGHT LIT WHILE GOING 55 MPH. LOST ANTILOCK BREAK FEATURE. LOCAL PORT ST LUCIE TIRE AND BREAK DIAGNOSED BAD MASTER CYLINDER AND NITROGEN LEAK INTO BREAK LINES. FOUND RECALL ON SIMILAR 2010 PRIUS' DUE TO NITROGEN LEAKAGE INTO BREAK LINES
NHTSA complaint ODI #11003405
- Brake system totally failed on the freeway twice; the dealer replaced the brake master cylinder assembly each time without explaining why. · filed Aug 2014
Read the owner's complaint
I WOULD LIKE TO FILE THIS CLAIM AS THE SAME INCIDENT DESCRIBED BELOW HAPPEN TWO TIMES IN LESS THAN TWO YEARS. THIS IS A BIG SAFETY ISSUE WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL. -- FIRST EVENT OCCURRED ON 8/17/2012 (ODOMETER 55899). BRAKE TOTALLY FAILED ON A FREEWAY AND ALMOST LOST MY LIFE THAT DAY. TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY REPLACED 1) BREAK CYLINDER ASSEMBLY PN#47050-47060, 2)GASKET, BREAK BOOST PN#44785-02060 & 3) BREAK FLUID. WHEN ASKED TO THE DEALER WHAT THE REASON FOR THE FAILURE WAS, WE WERE TOLD THAT THEY DO NOT KNOW THE CAUSE AND FAILED PART WAS SENT TO THE MANUFACTURER FOR INVESTIGATION. WE REQUESTED TO TELL US THE FINDINGS FROM THE MANUFACTURER BUT NEVER HEARD BACK AND SOON AFTER THIS INCIDENT TOYOTA HAD A RECALL FOR BREAKS. -- THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED ON 7/16/2014 (ODOMETER 91965) AND SAME BRAKE FAILURE OCCURRED AGAIN AS DESCRIBED ABOVE.THIS TIME DEALER REPLACED 1) BREAK CYLINDER ASSEMBLY PN#47050-47140, 2) GASKET, BRAKE BOOST PN#44785-02060 & 3) BREAK FLUID. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE SECOND TIME THE BRAKE CYLINDER ASSEMBLY PN# IS DIFFERENT. WE ASKED THE DEALER AGAIN WHAT WAS THE REASON FOR FAILURE OF THE SAME PART AGAIN BUT DID NOT GET A CLEAR ANSWER FROM THEM. WE WROTE SEVERAL EMAILS TO THE DEALER BUT NO RESPONSE YET AS OF TODAY (8/19/14). I AM A VERY UNHAPPY CUSTOMER. WHAT WILL TOYOTA DO IF THIS HAPPENS AGAIN? SOON OUR WARRANTY WILL EXPIRE AND IF THIS HAPPENS AGAIN WHICH IS A TOYOTA'S EXISTING PROBLEM, HOW IT WILL BE COVERED? -- HOPE TO HEAR SOON FROM TOYOTA. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10626500
- Brakes failed twice while driving; dealer said the master cylinder needed replacing and Toyota declined help as it was out of warranty. · filed May 2013
Read the owner's complaint
FIRST INCIDENT: APRIL 15, 2013 I LOST MY BRAKES WHILE I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM MY NIGHT SHIFT WORK AS A REGISTERED NURSE. I WAS AT AN INTERSECTION TWO BLOCKS FROM MY HOUSE WHEN I FELT THE BRAKE WAS FAILING. IT WAS A GOOD THING THAT I WAS DRIVING SLOW TO MAKE A TURN WHEN I FELT THE BRAKE SYSTEM WAS NOT WORKING. I WAS ABLE TO STEER IT TO A PARKING LOT NEARBY BY USING THE FOOT BRAKE. PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT, I HEARD SQUEAKING NOISES FOR ABOUT THREE DAYS WHENEVER I STEP ON THE BRAKES. I WAS RELIEVED THAT I DID NOT GET INTO AN ACCIDENT. ACTION AFTER THE 1ST INCIDENT: APRIL 24, 2010. WE TOWED THE CAR TO DCH TOYOTA FREEHOLD, AND IT TOOK ABOUT 5 DAYS TO REPAIR THE BRAKES SO THEY GAVE US A LOANER CAR WHICH WE TRULY APPRECIATE. BUT WHEN WE PICKED UP THE CAR, THE BRAKES WERE FIXED BUT THE SQUEAKING NOISE IS STILL PRESENT, AND OUR WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED. WE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP RIGHT AWAY TO INFORM THEM ABOUT THE SQUEAKING NOISE AND TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE CRACKED WINDSHIELD. I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE THAT THEIR TECHNICIANS TESTED MY CAR AND DEEMED IT SAFE TO DRIVE AND THAT THEY WOULD NEVER RELEASE MY CAR UNLESS THEY KNOW IT IS SAFE TO BE ON THE ROAD. SECOND INCIDENT: APRIL 29, 2013, I LOST THE BRAKES AGAIN WHILE I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK AROUND 7:00 PM. I REALLY GOT VERY SCARED BECAUSE THERE WAS SO MUCH TRAFFIC AT THAT TIME. I WAS ABLE TO STOP AND PARK MY CAR SLOWLY TO THE CURB WITHOUT HITTING ANYBODY ELSE BY USING THE FOOT BREAK. ACTION AFTER THE SECOND INCIDENT: SAME NIGHT, WE TOWED THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR, AND AFTER A WEEK OF WAITING, THEY FINALLY CAME BACK TO US SPECIFYING THAT THE WHOLE MASTER CYLINDER AND BRAKE PAD ASSEMBLY IS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND WILL COST MORE THAN 4K FOR PARTS ALONE. CONTACTED TOYOTA ABOUT THIS ISSUE, AND THEY SAID THAT THEY WILL NOT ASSIST US, SINCE WE EXCEEDED THE WARRANTY PERIOD. *TR
NHTSA complaint ODI #10512218
Less common problems (complaints in the sample)
- Hybrid inverter failure (3)
- Airbags not deploying (2)
- Poor headlight range (2)
- Brake warning lights flicker (1)
- Car jumps when shifting gears (1)
- Charcoal canister fuel leak (1)
- Engine knock on cold start (1)
- Engine misfire after starting (1)
- Engine restarts with spare key (1)
- Headlamp fire (1)
- Hybrid battery failure (1)
- Inaccurate navigation locations (1)
- Inner fender tearing loose (1)
- Instrument cluster going blank (1)
- Integrated power module failure (1)
- License plate mount detaching (1)
- Lunging while reversing (1)
- Mice entering cabin vents (1)
- PCV valve stuck open (1)
- Peeling paint (1)
- Rear brake line rupture (1)
- Specks inside windshield glass (1)
- Turn signals activating themselves (1)
- Uneven front tire wear (1)
- Windshield cracking (1)
Recalls
Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.
Safety recall
If the hybrid system shuts down unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0V. Note: The software updates in this recall are needed even if the vehicle had the software previously updated under recalls 14V-053 or 15V-449.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
If either portion of the curtain shield air bag inflator ejects into the passenger cabin, there is an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy
- Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install retention brackets to the curtain shield air bags, free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota Customer Service Department at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is Toyota G0U, and Lexus GLJ.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
- Remedy
- SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will repair or replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall began on March 21, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Brakes recall
As nitrogen is released into the brake fluid, the brake pedal may have reduced hydraulic pressure. Under certain circumstances, this condition could affect stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected brake booster pump assemblies. The recall began on August 7, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
- Remedy
- Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Brakes recall
VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCES MAY INCREASE RELATIVE TO A CUSTOMER'S EXPECTATION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REWRITE THE PROGRAMMING OF THE ABS CONTROL UNIT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 3, 2010, AND IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN LATE MARCH 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 AND LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Owner complaints by system
Unverified reports owners filed with NHTSA, grouped by the part of the car. Useful for spotting patterns. Open a group to read recent examples.
Engine & powertrain
363
Most reports here involve unintended acceleration. Of these, 21 mention a crash, 5 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
For the last 14 years, a check engine light has been coming on telling me that I have a fuel canister emissions leak because the canister is cracked. In 2016 2.87 million Toyota Priuses were recalled with the fuel canister crack issue. For unknown reasons Toyota has refused to fix this dangerous issue and has told me that my car was NOT included in the recall. I do not believe Toyota is being honest in their continued denial of this dangerous issue and excluding my 2010 Toyota Prius. This issue has been ongoing since the car was new.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11722506 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Electrical & infotainment
296
Most reports here involve sudden stalling. Of these, 3 mention a crash.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a strong and unusual odor was detected inside the vehicle with no warning lights illuminated. The contact further stated that the following day, upon entering the vehicle, both the contact and the contact’s spouse experienced headaches, nausea, and cognitive discomfort. Concerned about possible exposure to harmful fumes, the contact inspected the vehicle and determined that the vehicle’s battery appeared to be inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact expressed concern that the failure presents a serious safety hazard due to potential exposure to toxic fumes within the cabin. The contact noted that the situation could have been more severe if a child had been present in the vehicle at the time of the incident. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11735753 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Brakes
1923
Most reports here involve loss of braking. Of these, 130 mention a crash, 33 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
Subject: Vehicle Safety Defect Complaint / Request for Investigation Review Vehicle: 2010 Toyota Prius VIN: [XXX] Component: Electronic Brake Booster / Pressure Accumulator Assembly Dear Administrator, I am writing to formally report a critical safety defect in my 2010 Toyota Prius regarding the electronic brake booster and accumulator pump assembly. This component exhibits classic failure symptoms—specifically a distinct puffing, ticking, and pressure-loss noise directly from the brake pedal mechanism—which points to internal nitrogen or hydraulic pressure leakage. This component was previously the subject of Toyota’s Customer Support Program / Safety Recall (Campaign ZJB / D0H) due to fatigue cracking in the internal accumulator bladder. However, Toyota's arbitrary cutoff timelines have left me completely unprotected, even though the underlying engineering defect remains identical and poses an active, catastrophic threat to public safety. The real-world implications of this failure are severe: •Daily Risk to Life: I am a self-employed small-business owner who relies on this vehicle daily to travel between clients across the greater [XXX] area. Because of this failing component, I experience profound fear every single time I drive that I will completely lose my brakes in heavy traffic. •Financial Barrier to Remedy: Authorized Toyota dealerships have quoted me several thousand dollars for the repair. Due to a 40% drop in my business income amid the soaring cost of living in [XXX], I cannot afford this repair, nor can I afford a rental car or alternative transportation. My car is my literal lifeline, forcing me to drive a vehicle with a compromised, safety-critical braking system. •Unfair Expiration of Safety Remedies: My vehicle was serviced by authorized Toyota dealerships twice during the active primary campaign window (on XXX at 36,675 miles, on 08/30/2019 at 41,238 miles), where recall status checks were routinely requested INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11763884 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Steering, suspension & tires
91
Most reports here involve unintended acceleration. Of these, 6 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
I had begun to notice a slight shimmy at highway speed for a few days, but it wasn't pronounced enough to cause concern, especially since the weather was very windy and already subjecting the car to heavy crosswinds. On Monday, [XXX], the shimmy became suddenly more pronounced, so I pulled off the highway ([XXX]) and parallel-parked on street in Cambridge, MA. While parking, I heard a loud creaking and grinding sound, and the car no longer responded to steering inputs. I exited the car and noticed the rear driver's side wheel protruding at a strange angle from the wheel well. I called AAA and the tow truck driver discovered that, behind the wheel, where the wheel meets the rear axle, the arm had rusted clean through. In other words, the wheel had completely fallen off, and was being held to the car only by the brake line. I was towed to a mechanic in Salem, MA. Both the Salem mechanic and the AAA tow truck driver said that they had never seen anything like this in all the years they'd been servicing cars. I told them that the car had never been in a flood or otherwise involved in the kind of extraordinary event that would cause more than typical rust exposure. Had the wheel come off at highway speed, I could have been seriously injured or killed. The issue did not seem to have been caused by driver/owner oversight or normal wear and tear. It seems highly unusual and potentially indicative of a defect or manufacturing error. I hope other 2010 Prius owners are aware of the vehicle's susceptibility to this issue. And I would like Toyota to take some responsibility for the high cost of repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11588095 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Airbags & seat belts
72
Most reports here involve airbags not deploying. Of these, 19 mention a crash, 17 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Prius. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V487000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11661544 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Structure & body
37
Most reports here involve fluid leaks. Of these, 2 mention a crash, 2 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The color of my Prius 2010 starts with 070, blizzard white pearl. The body started peeling. I have visited Toyota dealer on 12/29/25 with this issue and got to know that this issue is well known but the service campaign was finished around June, 2025. I own this car from 2023, October and visiting Toyota dealers for services regularly, but never thought that this issue was a common issue by Toyota. Also, I have not heard anything from dealer. It is also true that the issue was not severe and even if it was, I was not attentive to that, apologize for my ignorance. However, it seems the issue is getting worse day by day. I did not receive any notice from Toyota about any campaign about this issue. My Toyota dealer recommended me to reach out to Toyota if any courtesy repair can be done on my vehicle. I reached out to Toyota, but seems to me they cannot do much. Can I get any help in this regards?
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11707554 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Other systems
40
Most reports here involve unintended acceleration. Of these, 2 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11644827 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
How does it compare with other years? The 2010 has 2,822 complaints on file, more than the 2011 (517). That is the most of the 15 model years of the Toyota Prius we cover. Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.