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    Toyota Prius Problems

    Are you having problems with your Toyota Prius? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Toyota Prius issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the Toyota Prius in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

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    Used Toyota Prius review: 2003-2015
    By Ewan Kennedy · 11 Jul 2016
    Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Toyota Prius as a used buy.
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    Toyota Corolla, HiLux, Fortuner, Prius recalled over airbag sensor fault
    By Spencer Leech · 01 Feb 2018
    Toyota Australia has been forced to initiate a safety recall on approximately 23,968 vehicles.
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    Toyota recalls 1.9m cars, 5500 in Australia
    By Karla Pincott · 12 Feb 2014
    Another recall has hit Toyota, with the brand issuing a notice on the hybrid Prius for a defect that can see the cars suddenly lose power or stop, creating a safety risk for occupants and nearby traffic.The problem has been traced to a fault in the software that controls a power converter, and affects 1.9 million Prius cars around the world built between 2009 and 2014, with 5500 affected in Australia. The software failure can activate the car's warning lights and cause it to enter 'limp home' mode, allowing it to still be driven but only slowly."Because, in the worst case, the car could stop while driving we do consider this a potential safety issue and that's the reason why we are implementing this recall," a spokesman at Toyota's Japanese headquarters told media.However, Toyota Australia spokesman Mike Breen said there have been no incidents reported locally. "We're contacting local owners, who can take their Prius to a dealer and have the software remapped," he said, adding that the fix would take about an hour. Breen said there were no extra precautions Prius owners needed to take until the issue was rectified.The recall follows two previous ones for the Prius -- in 2013 and 2010 -- however this is the largest in scale. It comes on the heels of news that Toyota is close to settling a US$1.1 billion claim from a class action lawsuit by 16.3 million owners of vehicles whose value was affected by previous recalls.Toyota also yesterday announced an overseas recall on other models, including the RAV4 and Lexus RX350, but there will be no impact on Australia as the defective feature is not available here. 
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    800,000 cars recalled in two days
    By Joshua Dowling · 30 Jun 2016
    Cars are either being built worse -- or companies are getting better at detecting faults.a range of models made over the last 10 years replacing potentially deadly Takata airbags in 1.3 million cars in Australia. a second, airbag-related recall for the Priusreplacing potentially deadly Takata airbags in 1.3 million cars in Australia
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    Toyota recalls more than 1600 Prius hybrids
    By Malcolm Flynn · 08 Jun 2013
    Toyota has issued a recall of the 2008-09 ZW30 third-generation Prius hybrid. The recall affects some 1,652 Australian models, and relates to a potentially faulty Brake Booster Pump Assembly --a key element of the car’s braking system.The potential fault can result in a fatigue crack to the accumulator within the system, which could cause nitrogen gas to leak and result in a spongy or longer travel to the brake pedal. This could in turn increase stopping distances and the risk of collision.The recall includes all Prius models within the VIN number range: JTDKN36U# 01000031 – 01092008 and JTDKN36U# 05000003 – 05076028, produced between October 2008 and October 2009.Toyota will alert owners of the recall via mail, advising they visit their Toyota dealer for a free inspection of the relevant system. If necessary, the assembly will be replaced free of charge. 
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    I'm in the market to buy a new car and not too sure whether I should go with an electric car or a hybrid?
    Answered by David Morley · 05 Aug 2022

    This is a really topical question right now, and the fear is that you could buy something today that would be technically obsolete next week. However, if you look at the way alternative powertrains (hybrids and EVs) have progressed over the years (and it’s been decades since the Toyota Prius introduced us to the hybrid principle) that hasn’t happened yet. Nor is it likely to.

    Obviously, the best way to future-proof your purchase is to buy the latest tech. So that would be an EV. But even then, future EVs will be better than today’s models. That’s just progress for you.

    The other factor is how you use your car. If you only drive in an urban setting and can recharge at home, then an EV makes plenty of sense. But if you live or drive in regional areas, then a conventionally powered car remains a valid choice. If your driving is mainly urban running with the odd long-distance trip thrown in, then a hybrid is the one that makes most sense.

    As to whether you wait a few months, if you plan to buy a popular make and model, you’ll be waiting anyway. The global shortage of silicon chips as well as manufacturing bottle-necks due to Covid and other factors means that car-makers are struggling to keep up with demand.

    Prius slow to accelerate
    Answered by Paul Gover · 23 May 2016

    The early Prius was a bit dozy from the lights but before you defect you should try the new model, which is more lively.

    Toyota Prius park brake and spark noise
    Answered by Graham Smith · 19 Sep 2013

    We haven't had any reports of the issues you complain about. I would be concerned about the noise from the rear of the car when slowing down, and would get that checked out. As for rolling on a slope after applying the park brake I'm thinking that's happening while the brake sets after you've applied it. That doesn't sound like it's anything to worry about.

    Rusty Prius
    Answered by Carsguide.com.au · 26 Oct 2012

    Rust isn't a particular issue with the Prius any more than it is on any other Toyota. I would show it to your dealer and have Toyota inspect it with a view to repairing it.

    Toyota Prius: Key fob replacement
    Answered by Malcolm Flynn · 09 May 2019

    The cost will depend on where you get the replacement, sometimes there are more affordable options than your dealer. You can read more about how to replace your car keys here.

     

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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