2014 Toyota Prius Problems & Owner Complaints

Service Brakes 104 15 crash 7 injury

“BRAKES COMPLETELY FAILED AND I REAR ENDED A CAR. I WAS STOPPING NORMALLY ON A CITY STREET. ACCORDING TO DASHCAM I WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 25MPH. THE CAR SLOWED TO ABOUT 12MPH WHEN THE BRAKES WENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR ACCELERATED.”
NHTSA complaint #11154835, 2018 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“IN NOV 22 2017 I PARKED MY CAR AT 1719 BRADER PL. SOUTH IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON IN A CITY STREET. APPROXIMATELY AT 1500 PM, I PULED THE CAR FROM THE STREET PARKING I-ORDER TO PICK A PASSENGER ABOUT 4 FEET AND THE CAR ACCELERATED BY ITSELF TOWARD RIGHT INTO THE BUILDING COMPLEX ON RIGHT AND FLIPPED ON THE SIDE OF THE DRIVER SIDE. THE CAR WAS ON DRIVE BUT I WAS TRYING TO STOP TO PICK UP A PASSENGER, BUT FAILED TO STOP AND ACCELERATED AND TURNED AND FOUND MYSELF FLIPPED ON THE SIDE AS YOU CAN SEE ON PICTURE.”
NHTSA complaint #11052847, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A BUILDING AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,700. UPDATED 01/20/16*LJ *CN”
NHTSA complaint #10762201, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Electrical System 39 2 crash 1 fire

“ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2018 I FOUNT THE CAR SEAT SEVERELY SMOLDERING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE CARE WAS FILLED WITH BROWN SMOKE AND TOXIC FUMES. THE SEAT WAS COMPLETELY BURNED AND MELTED AND TOXIC RESIDUE. FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE WITH WATER. CAR SEAT HEATER APPARENTLY DID NOT TURN OFF AND SMOLDERED ALL NIGHT. TOYOTA GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND, DELAYING INVESTIGATION AT LEAST 5 WEEKS OR MORE. THE CAR WAS PARKED IN GARAGE, LAST DRIVEN BRIEF DISTANCE EVENING BEFORE. GARAGE NOW WITH TOXIC FUMES AND RESIDUE. CAR LIKELY TOTALED, AND TOYOTA TRYING TO GET OUT OF ANY ASSISTANCE/RESPONSIBILIT…”
NHTSA complaint #11063809, 2018 · fire

“THE CAR BRAKES FAILED AT LOW SPEEDS (10-15 MPH) AND BUMPED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT IN A STOP-AND-GO TRAFFIC ON THE WET FREEWAY AFTER A RECENT RAIN. THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO TOUCH THE FLOOR, AS IF THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DISENGAGED FROM THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND THE ABS LIGHT DID NOT TURN ON AT THE TIME OF BRAKING. THE CAR WAS DRIVING IN THE STRAIGHT LINE AND IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THIS I WAS ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY BRAKE THE CAR ON THE VERY SAME TRIP. SO THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME WITH THIS CAR, AS MY SPOUSE ALSO EXPERIENCED THE SIMILAR BRAKE FAILURE AT EVEN LOWER SPE…”
NHTSA complaint #11151142, 2018 · crash

“I WAS IN A PARKING LOT AND PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE. THEN I HEARD A "BOOM" AND I THOUGHT THAT I BACKED INTO SOMETHING, SO I QUICKLY PUT THE CAR INTO DRIVE. I THEN FELT THE CAR EXCELERATING FAST AND I WAS PUSHING THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND COULD NOT STOP THE CAR FROM MOVING FORWARD. THE CAR PROCEEDED TO EXCELLERATE AND WHEN OVER A CURB UP ONTO PAVEMENT AND THROUGH A METAL FENCE AND BENT A 5 INCH ROUND METAL FENCING DOWN TO THE GROUND AND THE CAR KEPT GOING ANOTHER 30 FEET TILL IT FINALLY STOPPED. YOU CAN SEE THE SKID MARKS IN THE THE PARKING LOT.”
NHTSA complaint #10715324, 2015 · crash

Unknown Or Other 33 1 crash

“THE EDR REPORT CLEARLY SHOWED THAT THE BRAKE OIL PRESSURE CHANGES DID NOT CORRELATE WITH THE PROGRESSIVELY INCREASING VEHICLE DECELERATION. THE ISSUE IS OCCASIONAL, RARE AND CANNOT BE REPRODUCED EVERY SINGLE TIME. THIS LEADS TO DISPARITY IN ASSUMED BRAKING DISTANCE FROM ROUTINE EXPERIENCE BY DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND ACTUAL BRAKING DISTANCE AT THE TIME OF FAILED BRAKING WHICH SUPPOSEDLY MAY BE AS A RESULT OF INVERTER ISSUES THAT ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR EXCLUSIVELY REGENERATIVE BRAKING AT LOW (<50 MPH) SPEEDS.”
NHTSA complaint #11173353, 2018 · crash

“The traction control, abs, and emergency brake light came on. We checked and the code produced was C1391. There’s a humming noise every 10 or so seconds when idle. The humming noise is also present when braking. We did some research and this appears to be an issue with Toyota Prius. We called the dealership and were informed that this was not a known issue. Thank you.”
NHTSA complaint #11748069, 2026

“On Jan 5, 2026 I was driving locally at about 40-45 mph. All of a sudden 3 indicator lights came on ABS, Brake, and Brake System Warning Light. There were no noises, but the brakes felt different. They did stop when needed. I left space between myself and others just in case, did not want an accident. Called my regular mechanic. They advised to not drive the car, but to bring it into the shop at 8am the following day. On Jan 6th, the mechanic stated it was beyond their expertise. It was towed to the local Toyota Dealer for repairs. It ended up being the Brake Booster and Pump. Upon investigati…”
NHTSA complaint #11713896, 2026

Engine 24 1 crash 1 injury

“I WAS DRIVING IN SAN FRANCISCO I HAD THREE PASSENGER WITH ME IN THE CAR AND WHEN I WAS GOING UP TO THE HILL THE CAR POWER STARTS GETTING WEAKER AND I WAS HEARING THAT CARES IN THE CAR I DON'T WANT TO GO UP THE HILL NOW I'M LIKE IT'S KEEPS GOING WEAKER AND WEAKER AND WEAKER AND ALL THE SUDDEN THE CAR STARTED ROLLING BACK ON ME I THINK THE CANNOT TAKE MORE THAN FOUR PEOPLE IN THE CAR AND I THINK YOU CANNOT DRIVE THE SCORE IN SAN FRANCISCO AND THIS HAPPENED TO ME TWICE AND THE FIRST TIME I HAD AN ACCIDENT AT THE CORNER BEHIND ME BECAUSE THE CAR COULDN'T GO UP THE HILL AND IT'S NOT EVEN BIG HI…”
NHTSA complaint #10970913, 2016 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“the cylinder head gasket blew because of the poor design of the intake manifold and the EGR system. There are updated parts to fix this issue, but there was no recall. This poor design led to the vehicle having "the Death Knock." It started doing this knock on my trip driving my daughter to college. The engine could have seized in traffic on the way to [XXX] from [XXX] . No warning lights came on telling me there was an issue. The vehicle is being taken apart now to see if my connecting rods were bent from the coolant entering the combustion chamber. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREED…”
NHTSA complaint #11724395, 2026

“Head gasket failure. No check, engine, light or warning. My car was very well maintained regularly. After research, I found this to be a very common problem. Yes it is available for inspection. Upon request. The problem was confirmed by chemical test, ignition vapors going into engine coolant. Other symptoms were misfiring on cylinder two and cylinder four. Severe engine knocking.”
NHTSA complaint #11721338, 2026

Vehicle Speed Control 18 8 crash 6 injury

“BRAKES COMPLETELY FAILED AND I REAR ENDED A CAR. I WAS STOPPING NORMALLY ON A CITY STREET. ACCORDING TO DASHCAM I WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 25MPH. THE CAR SLOWED TO ABOUT 12MPH WHEN THE BRAKES WENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR ACCELERATED.”
NHTSA complaint #11154835, 2018 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A BUILDING AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,700. UPDATED 01/20/16*LJ *CN”
NHTSA complaint #10762201, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I WAS PULLING INTO A CONVENIENCE STORE IN MY 2014 PRIUS. AS I WAS GLIDING IN, I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE CAR KEPT GOING. I CONTINUED TO PRESS IT AND THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE, I COULD FEEL THE SURGE OF POWER. I WAS COMPLETELY UNABLE TO STOP THE CAR AND RAN INTO PARKING POSTS AT THE FRONT OF THE STORE. ALL AIRBAGS WERE DEPLOYED. I GOT A CUT ON MY FOREHEAD, AN AMBULANCE CAME BUT I DECLINED AND MY HUSBAND DROVE ME TO THE ER LATER WHERE I RECEIVED TREATMENT. I WAS COMING HOME FROM THE GYM AT 9 AM I HAVE NEVER BEEN AT FAULT IN AN ACCIDENT BEFORE. I HAVE A WITNESS THAT SAID HE HEARD A C…”
NHTSA complaint #10627821, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Air Bags 17 12 crash 9 injury

“My 2014 Toyota Prius was in a T-bone accident, directly on the driver door and the side air bags did not deploy.”
NHTSA complaint #11465834, 2022 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Airbags did not deploy when I got into an accident on I-91. The car has been totaled and is in Allstate's possession, and I believe it is available for inspection. My safety was put at risk because the airbags didn't deploy in a head-on collision with multiple objects (reflector pole, trees). The vehicle is in the process of being inspected by Allstate insurance representatives. There were no warning messages or symptoms prior to this incident.”
NHTSA complaint #11458765, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“HEAD ON COLLISION HITTING A TREE, AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, VEHICLE TOTALED DRIVER IN THE HOSPITAL. ACCIDENT ON SEPTEMBER 1, 2020 IN TALLAHASSEE, FL”
NHTSA complaint #11359778, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Steering 11

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds and turning from the left lane, the steering wheel popped out. The vehicle was able to reverse however, tires were pushed inward. The vehicle was pushed out of the roadway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The hazard light was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. The VIN was not available.”
NHTSA complaint #11586549, 2024

“I was dropping my daughter off at school and the car completely shut down on me and turned off in the middle of an intersection. I have just had brakes and oil changed but ever since I got the car codes keep popping up and when checked it’s all good. Front lights keep glitching and even with new brakes there is still a bad sound. My dash computer thing keeps going in and out. It happens a lot more when it rains and makes a sizzling sound I’m afraid to drive it in the rain. I’m besides myself how the car turned off on me and my child we couldn’t move I could accelerate and we almost got hit the…”
NHTSA complaint #11569995, 2024

“Good Evening, I'm writing to request a callback in regards to my 2014 Toyota Prius which is subject to a recall. "The involved vehicles were designed to enter a failsafe driving mode in response to certain hybrid system faults. Toyota has found that in rare situations, the vehicle may not enter a failsafe driving mode as intended. If this occurs, the vehicle could lose power and stall. While power steering and braking would remain operational, a vehicle stall while driving at higher speeds could increase the risk of a crash." I recently just moved back to South Florida, I was living in NJ…”
NHTSA complaint #11520152, 2023

Structure 11 4 crash 3 injury

“OTHER CAR DRIVER JUMP RED LIGHT AND T-ZONE HIT MY CAR FROM FRONT PASSENGER SIDE ,EVERYTHING FROM PASSENGER SIDE WAS BROKEN AND WHOLE INTERIOR WAS BROKEN TILL DRIVER SEAT. LATER ON THE CAR WAS DECLARED TOTAL LOSS. IN THIS BIG CRASH ALSO NONE OF THE AIR BAG WAS DEPLOYED TO SUPPORT DRIVER.......UPDATED 12/10/15 *BF *CN”
NHTSA complaint #10750068, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR ABOVE, WHEN A LARGE VEHICLE PASSED, IT WOULD PULL THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE INTO ITS PATHWAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ALSO OCCURRED IN HIGH WIND CONDITIONS. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO SLOW DOWN TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. ON MAY 15, 2017, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION WITH AN 18-WHEELER. THE CONTACT BELIEVED HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE AIR BAGS…”
NHTSA complaint #11208117, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE PARKED, THE STRUTS THAT HOLD OPEN THE REAR LIFT HATCH FAILED SUDDENLY, CAUSING THE HATCH TO FALL ON THE HEAD OF PERSON LOADING THE CAR. THE HATCH WAS CAUGHT BY A SECOND PERSON, PREVENTING SERIOUS INJURY. ON INSPECTION, THE STRUTS WERE LEAKING OIL.”
NHTSA complaint #10992976, 2017 · 1 injury(ies)

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 9 3 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR ABOVE, WHEN A LARGE VEHICLE PASSED, IT WOULD PULL THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE INTO ITS PATHWAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ALSO OCCURRED IN HIGH WIND CONDITIONS. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO SLOW DOWN TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. ON MAY 15, 2017, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION WITH AN 18-WHEELER. THE CONTACT BELIEVED HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE AIR BAGS…”
NHTSA complaint #11208117, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“THE EDR REPORT CLEARLY SHOWED THAT THE BRAKE OIL PRESSURE CHANGES DID NOT CORRELATE WITH THE PROGRESSIVELY INCREASING VEHICLE DECELERATION. THE ISSUE IS OCCASIONAL, RARE AND CANNOT BE REPRODUCED EVERY SINGLE TIME. THIS LEADS TO DISPARITY IN ASSUMED BRAKING DISTANCE FROM ROUTINE EXPERIENCE BY DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND ACTUAL BRAKING DISTANCE AT THE TIME OF FAILED BRAKING WHICH SUPPOSEDLY MAY BE AS A RESULT OF INVERTER ISSUES THAT ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR EXCLUSIVELY REGENERATIVE BRAKING AT LOW (<50 MPH) SPEEDS.”
NHTSA complaint #11173353, 2018 · crash

“THE CAR BRAKES FAILED AT LOW SPEEDS (10-15 MPH) AND BUMPED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT IN A STOP-AND-GO TRAFFIC ON THE WET FREEWAY AFTER A RECENT RAIN. THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO TOUCH THE FLOOR, AS IF THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DISENGAGED FROM THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND THE ABS LIGHT DID NOT TURN ON AT THE TIME OF BRAKING. THE CAR WAS DRIVING IN THE STRAIGHT LINE AND IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THIS I WAS ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY BRAKE THE CAR ON THE VERY SAME TRIP. SO THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME WITH THIS CAR, AS MY SPOUSE ALSO EXPERIENCED THE SIMILAR BRAKE FAILURE AT EVEN LOWER SPE…”
NHTSA complaint #11151142, 2018 · crash

Exterior Lighting 9

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds and turning from the left lane, the steering wheel popped out. The vehicle was able to reverse however, tires were pushed inward. The vehicle was pushed out of the roadway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The hazard light was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. The VIN was not available.”
NHTSA complaint #11586549, 2024

“I was dropping my daughter off at school and the car completely shut down on me and turned off in the middle of an intersection. I have just had brakes and oil changed but ever since I got the car codes keep popping up and when checked it’s all good. Front lights keep glitching and even with new brakes there is still a bad sound. My dash computer thing keeps going in and out. It happens a lot more when it rains and makes a sizzling sound I’m afraid to drive it in the rain. I’m besides myself how the car turned off on me and my child we couldn’t move I could accelerate and we almost got hit the…”
NHTSA complaint #11569995, 2024

“The seal of the rear lamp assembly becomes unsealed and lets water in. Burns our bulbs and short out electrical system because of this. Second right rear assembly was replaced today and now front units are also foggy so I know that the seal on the lamp unit is also wearing. I read about this with other Prius and other c models. I had to buy actual Toyota parts as there are no aftermarket units.”
NHTSA complaint #11432288, 2021

Visibility/Wiper 9

“WINDSHIELD CRACKED FROM THE SIDE WITHOUT PROVOCATION. ITS POSSIBLE A PEBBLE CAUSED IT, BUT A VERY SMALL PEBBLE AS I NEVER HEARD ANY ROCKS HIT THE WINDOW.”
NHTSA complaint #11279107, 2019

“PRIUS WINDSHIELD IS PRONE TO CRACK WHEN TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY. I WAS TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY WHEN A TINY ROCK HIT THE LOWER RIGHT SIDE OF MY WINDSHIELD. THEN I COULD SEE THE TINY CRACK GETTING LONGER UNTIL IT NEARLY REACHED THE MIDDLE IN A MATTER OF TWO MINUTES. PRIUS OWNER SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PUT UP WITH THIS EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS DEFECT.”
NHTSA complaint #11098503, 2018

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. WITHOUT WARNING, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE GLASS WINDOW FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE PART DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THIS WAS NOT A KNOWN ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.”
NHTSA complaint #11056896, 2017

Power Train 8

“Brake failure / Unintended Acceleration / Unknown cause Driving at approx 25mph on urban street (road in good condition no potholes, ramps, etc) I began to slowly brake as I approached a red traffic light. Instead of braking, the car began to accelerate quickly. I pressed the brake pedal again - no response. Pressed down hard for a third time which executed an emergency stop. This all happened within 1 or 2 secs. There were no injuries or involvement of other cars on this occasion. However, had I been any closer to the car in front, I believe I would have rear-ended it. Had this occurred…”
NHTSA complaint #11429735, 2021

“CITY STREET ...PRESSED ON GAS AFTER THE LIGHT CHANGED AND IT DID NOT GO FORWARD AND THEN WAIVERED FOR AWHILE. I WAS VERY CLOSE TO HOME. I DO NOT KNOW HOW IT WILL WORK TOMORROW . NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ON. IT HAS ACTED FUNNY BEFORE LIKE THIS ON HIGHWAY TRIPS AND THEN IT WOULDN'T DO IT. TOYOTA DEALERS DO NOT EVEN KNOW ABOUT THEM AND IT IS ANNOYING. IT FEELS LIKE A TRANSMISSION SLIPPING BUT HAS LESS THAN 70,000 MILES. I THOUGHT MAYBE HEAT IS DOING IT BUT NOW THAT IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY IE OVER 5 YEARS OLD, I DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I AM UNSURE WHAT CAUSES THIS SINCE NO LIGHTS WARN ANYTHING IS WR…”
NHTSA complaint #11240225, 2019

“VEHICLE STALL . SHOW 'CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM ' STOP THE VEHICLE IN A SAFE PLACE' DEALER SAID PROBABLY INVERTER IPM FAILED.”
NHTSA complaint #11083178, 2018

Fuel/Propulsion System 6 2 crash

“WHILE I WAS DOING A SLOW TURN IN A DRIVEWAY, MY BRAKE FAILED AND THE CAR CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE IN A FORWARD MOTION. WHEN I SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, THE CAR REVVED AND ROARED ACCELERATING AT FULL TILT. IT RACED ACROSS A ROAD INTO ANOTHER DRIVEWAY ONLY STOPPING WHEN WEDGED BETWEEN A GARAGE DOOR AND A TREE. TOYOTA TOOK THE TOTALED CAR AND HAD IT INSPECTED BY ENGINEERING ASSOCIATES AND INSURANCE AUTO AUCTIONS. THEIR RESPONSE IS THAT "THERE WAS NO SERIOUS DEFECTS IDENTIFIED." OBVIOUSLY, THE MOMENTARY MECHANICAL OR ELECTRONIC FAILURE OF MY CAR COULD NEVER BE DETECTED, SO ACCORDING TO TOYOTA, TH…”
NHTSA complaint #10935859, 2016 · crash

“I WAS IN A PARKING LOT AND PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE. THEN I HEARD A "BOOM" AND I THOUGHT THAT I BACKED INTO SOMETHING, SO I QUICKLY PUT THE CAR INTO DRIVE. I THEN FELT THE CAR EXCELERATING FAST AND I WAS PUSHING THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND COULD NOT STOP THE CAR FROM MOVING FORWARD. THE CAR PROCEEDED TO EXCELLERATE AND WHEN OVER A CURB UP ONTO PAVEMENT AND THROUGH A METAL FENCE AND BENT A 5 INCH ROUND METAL FENCING DOWN TO THE GROUND AND THE CAR KEPT GOING ANOTHER 30 FEET TILL IT FINALLY STOPPED. YOU CAN SEE THE SKID MARKS IN THE THE PARKING LOT.”
NHTSA complaint #10715324, 2015 · crash

“misfire code along with rough starts/light load. T-SB-0116-15”
NHTSA complaint #11706254, 2025

Forward Collision Avoidance 5

“The traction control, abs, and emergency brake light came on. We checked and the code produced was C1391. There’s a humming noise every 10 or so seconds when idle. The humming noise is also present when braking. We did some research and this appears to be an issue with Toyota Prius. We called the dealership and were informed that this was not a known issue. Thank you.”
NHTSA complaint #11748069, 2026

“ABS, traction control, brake system, and brake lights turned on while driving. Took the car to the mechanic and pulled the code C1391. It seems from other complaints to NHTSA that it is a common issue and quite dangerous, meaning the brake system is failing.”
NHTSA complaint #11741205, 2026

“The brake system malfunctioned suddenly. While driving and while stopped, the brake pedal became very hard and braking behavior became unpredictable. The vehicle sometimes brakes aggressively and other times requires excessive pedal force to stop. The ABS and BRAKE warning lights illuminated. The vehicle no longer provides normal braking assistance. This issue is related to a failure of the brake actuator / brake booster, which is a known issue affecting Toyota Prius models from 2010 to 2015. This defect creates a serious safety risk, as braking performance is inconsistent and may increase…”
NHTSA complaint #11707101, 2025

Hybrid Propulsion System 5

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius. The contact stated was unable to start the vehicle. Additionally, the hybrid system warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the inverter assembly to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System). The manufacturer was informed of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall repair had been performed on August 20, 2020. The f…”
NHTSA complaint #11525969, 2023

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE CONTACT RELEASED HER FOOT OFF OF THE BRAKE PEDAL AND DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATE PEDAL HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. AN UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND WAS FLASHING ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROADWAY AND STOPPED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TURNED OFF. AFTER WAITING FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL FUNCTIONALITY. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO TOYOTA TOWN OF STOCKTON (2150 E HAMMER LN, STOCKTON, CA 95210, (209) 751-4077)…”
NHTSA complaint #11414427, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER WITH THE CHECK ENGINE AND HYBRID BATTERY WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LITHIA TOYOTA OF MEDFORD (1420 N RIVERSIDE AVE, MEDFORD, OR 97501) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE HYBRID BATTERY INTAKE FAILED AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. TWO WEEKS LATER FAILURE AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE BRAKES. THE VEHICLE THEN WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER HOWEVER, A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS STILL PENDING. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA ACTION NUMB…”
NHTSA complaint #11362052, 2020

Seats 4 1 fire

“ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2018 I FOUNT THE CAR SEAT SEVERELY SMOLDERING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE CARE WAS FILLED WITH BROWN SMOKE AND TOXIC FUMES. THE SEAT WAS COMPLETELY BURNED AND MELTED AND TOXIC RESIDUE. FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE WITH WATER. CAR SEAT HEATER APPARENTLY DID NOT TURN OFF AND SMOLDERED ALL NIGHT. TOYOTA GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND, DELAYING INVESTIGATION AT LEAST 5 WEEKS OR MORE. THE CAR WAS PARKED IN GARAGE, LAST DRIVEN BRIEF DISTANCE EVENING BEFORE. GARAGE NOW WITH TOXIC FUMES AND RESIDUE. CAR LIKELY TOTALED, AND TOYOTA TRYING TO GET OUT OF ANY ASSISTANCE/RESPONSIBILIT…”
NHTSA complaint #11063809, 2018 · fire

“Originally, Toyota issued a safety recall in 2014 to address the inverter defect in model years 2010 to 2014, an attempt to fix the problem on about 800,000 cars in the U.S. by modifying software that controls the hybrid electrical system. It was intended to fix the overheating problems. The inverter controls the power flowing between the battery and electrical motors. The inverter boosts the battery from 200 - 500 volts. They inspected my car saying it was in excellent condition. After, the software upgrade i had major problems. My original Prius battery with around 65,000 miles stopped holdi…”
NHTSA complaint #11426958, 2020

“PURCHASED 'LEATHER' PACKAGE UPGRADE. SEATS STARTING SEPARATING A YEAR AGO. GOT TIRED OF RUN AROUND WITH DEALER TO MAKE REPAIRS. TOOK IT TO ANOTHER DEALER TO BE TOLD SEATS WERE SIMULATED VINYL LEATHER. GOT SEATS REPAIRED OUT OF MY OWN POCKET. NO MORE TOYOTA'S FOR US!”
NHTSA complaint #11066736, 2016

Visibility 4

“I started noticing the ghosting or tripling of light issue in my windshield. I mostly noticed this during night times, I initially thought I was just tired and my eyes were tired, but I’ve been able to photograph it and verify my experience with other people. This effect is horrible for my eyesight and makes all lights at night so blurry I cannot drive safely.”
NHTSA complaint #11631087, 2024

“PRIUS WINDSHIELD IS PRONE TO CRACK WHEN TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY. I WAS TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY WHEN A TINY ROCK HIT THE LOWER RIGHT SIDE OF MY WINDSHIELD. THEN I COULD SEE THE TINY CRACK GETTING LONGER UNTIL IT NEARLY REACHED THE MIDDLE IN A MATTER OF TWO MINUTES. PRIUS OWNER SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PUT UP WITH THIS EXPENSIVE AND DANGEROUS DEFECT.”
NHTSA complaint #11098503, 2018

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE SUN VISORS WERE FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED BECAUSE THE MILEAGE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000. UPDATED 09/22/16*LJ *CN”
NHTSA complaint #10862592, 2016

Wheels 4

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds and turning from the left lane, the steering wheel popped out. The vehicle was able to reverse however, tires were pushed inward. The vehicle was pushed out of the roadway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The hazard light was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. The VIN was not available.”
NHTSA complaint #11586549, 2024

“I BOUGHT A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C 10-07-2017 FROM CARVANA WITH LESS THAN 30,000 MILES. WITH 2 NEW TIRES IN THE FRONT BRIDGESTONE ECOPIA 175/65 R15. IT WOBBLES AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH AND SLOPPY STEERING THE ROAD WAS DRY. WELL AT THAT TIME THE THE CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANT WITH CARVANA SO IF I CHANGE MY MIND ABOUT IT I COULD GET ANOTHER CAR. SEARCHED THE WEB FOR SIMILAR COMPLAINTS AND FOUND A FEW. SO WE TOOK THE CAR TO A PLACE THAT SOLD BRIDGESTONE TIRES TO REPLACE THE REAR TIRES THAT WERE ORIGINAL BUT GOODYEAR BRAND SAME SIZE. SO NOW WE HAVE 4 TIRES THE SAME AND QUESS WHAT HAPPEN THE SAME WOBB…”
NHTSA complaint #11075738, 2017

“I LIVE IN DURANGO COLORADO. THE TRACTION CONTROL FUNCTION DEEMED TO BE DANGEROUS LAST WINTER. MY VEHICLE WAS SPINNING OUT ON ICE COVERED HIGHWAYS AND I COULD NOT TURN THIS FUNCTION OFF. NEWER VEHICLES HAVE THE ABILITY TO TURN THIS FUNCTION OFF IN ORDER TO AVOID THIS ISSUE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS. I ALMOST GOT HIT BY SEMI TRUCK.”
NHTSA complaint #10927342, 2015

Seat Belts 3 2 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE SIDE AND FRONT DRIVER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, BUT NEITHER STOPPED THE DRIVER FROM MAKING CONTACT WITH THE WINDSHIELD. IN ADDITION, THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN THE DRIVER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED FACIAL LACERATIONS, CONTUSIONS TO THE LEFT ARM, SHOULDER, AND HIP, AND SEVERE HEADACHES THE REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW LOT AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE VEHIC…”
NHTSA complaint #11114182, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TRAVELING ON A HIGHWAY, CHANGED LANES TO AVOID IN ACCIDENT, CAR BEHIND ME CHANGED LANES TOO. CAR BEHIND FAILED TO SLOW DOWN AND SMASHED TRUNK AND PUSHED ME INTO A STEEL GUARD RAIL. SIDE, FRONT, AND KNEE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. SEAT BELT PRETENSIONERS DID NOT ENGAGE. NOR DID HEAD RESTRAINTS.”
NHTSA complaint #11361547, 2020 · crash

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that the seat belts would not lock properly. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where it was diagnosed with needing the buckles replaced. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11441377, 2021

Suspension 2

“Lost steering on car while driving. Shop noted right control arm completely corroded through and broken axle. Entire undercarriage rusted and corroded. Available for inspection. Sudden loss of steering is a risk factor for serious injury or death. Problem has been looked at by two independent service centers who have agreed on problem. Has not been inspected by manufacturer, whom I have contacted over 8 times regarding this issue, or by any other party. There were no warning signs or symptoms prior to failure.”
NHTSA complaint #11473058, 2022

“I BOUGHT A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C 10-07-2017 FROM CARVANA WITH LESS THAN 30,000 MILES. WITH 2 NEW TIRES IN THE FRONT BRIDGESTONE ECOPIA 175/65 R15. IT WOBBLES AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH AND SLOPPY STEERING THE ROAD WAS DRY. WELL AT THAT TIME THE THE CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANT WITH CARVANA SO IF I CHANGE MY MIND ABOUT IT I COULD GET ANOTHER CAR. SEARCHED THE WEB FOR SIMILAR COMPLAINTS AND FOUND A FEW. SO WE TOOK THE CAR TO A PLACE THAT SOLD BRIDGESTONE TIRES TO REPLACE THE REAR TIRES THAT WERE ORIGINAL BUT GOODYEAR BRAND SAME SIZE. SO NOW WE HAVE 4 TIRES THE SAME AND QUESS WHAT HAPPEN THE SAME WOBB…”
NHTSA complaint #11075738, 2017

Tires 2

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS EQUIPPED WITH TOYO PROXES A20 (NA) TIRES, SIZE: P215/50/R17 (NA). WHILE THE TIRES WERE BEING REPAIRED AT GATEWAY TIRE (8115 MACON ROAD, CORDOVA, TN 38018; 901-624-0911), THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF A SLIGHT TEAR THAT CIRCLED THE INSIDE OF ALL FOUR TIRES, CAUSING THE TREAD TO SLIGHTLY SEPARATE. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT ALL FOUR TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRES WERE REPLACED. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND OFFERED TO PAY A PORTION OF THE REPLACEMENT COST. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE VEHICLE AND TIRE FAILURE…”
NHTSA complaint #11021694, 2017

“WE PURCHASED A NEW TOYOTA PRIUS THAT CAME WITH YOKOHAMA ALL SEASON RADIALS. BECAUSE THE TIRE LIGHT CAME ON, I CHECKED THE AIR PRESSURE IN THE TIRES AND SET THEM TO THE PSI AS RECOMMENDED AT ABOUT 1000 MILES. THERE WAS A MINOR IMBALANCE OF 3-4 PSI IN SOME TIRES, BUT NO SERIOUS UNDER INFLATION. WE NOTICED SOME MINOR ROAD NOISE AND VIBRATION. WE HAD A MECHANIC INSTALL MUD FLAPS AND INSPECT THE TIRES, WHEELS, AND BRAKES AT ABOUT 1500 MILES TO SEE IF THERE WAS A VISIBLE REASON FOR VIBRATION. THERE WAS NOTHING OBVIOUS. WE WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THE ROAD NOISE AND ABOUT 2000 MILES WE TOOK THE CAR…”
NHTSA complaint #10664218, 2014

Equipment 1

“TOYOTA'S ENTUNE NAVIGATION SYSTEM RANDOMLY FREEZES AND RESETS. WHEN THIS HAPPENS AT HIGH SPEEDS ON A HIGHWAY WHERE A PERSON IS DEPENDING ON THE SYSTEM TO GET SOMEWHERE, IT CAUSES A MASSIVE DISTRACTION AND A RISK TO LIFE AND LIMB. TOYOTA IS OFFERING NO RESOLUTION TO THIS ISSUE AND IT'S DEALERSHIPS ARE REFUSING TO EVEN REGISTER USER COMPLAINTS - "UNLESS THEY CAN REPLICATE THE ISSUE" WHICH IS RATHER DIFFICULT SINCE THE PROBLEM IS RANDOM AND THE DEALERSHIPS WILL NOT TAKE USER REPORTS OF THE ISSUE AS CREDIBLE. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10644101, 2014

Traction Control System 1

“The contact owns a 2014 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that the ABS and the traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the brake master cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic and was diagnosed, and it was determined that the brake booster had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, one day later, both warning lights returned. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic and air was blown into the hydraulic…”
NHTSA complaint #11680048, 2025