2016 Toyota Prius Problems & Owner Complaints

Visibility/Wiper 42

“The original windshield has a “rippling distortion” where the windshield has ripple/bubble from defective glass or installation mistakes, making seeing traffic signs or streets very hard. I just bought this vehicle and noticed the problem. It created poor road vision, especially at night. Toyota needs to recall and replace all these windshields before it causes more accidents due to poor visibility looking through the glass.”
NHTSA complaint #11490244, 2022

“At the beginning of this week, I was checking fluid levels and upon dropping my hood, I watched a crack in the windshield extend up from the base of the windshield. Then, while I was driving, I watched the crack extend and branch into a second crack. Upon further inspection, it appears cracking started under the windshield wiper and arched downward to the base of the windshield and another a new crack extend upward. I am the only person who drives this car. I do not park under a tree or anything that might fall on the windshield. I have not experienced any rocks hitting the windshield recentl…”
NHTSA complaint #11475445, 2022

“Moments ago, I entered my 2016 Toyota Prius to find that my windshield had mysteriously cracked while parked over night. The crack was not present when I last drove the car last night. Based on some online research for windshield replacement cost, I've learned that Toyota was faced with a class action lawsuit regarding 2016-17 Toyota Prius containing defective windshields; in which these windshields are known to unexpectedly crack while parked or under ordinary driving conditions. Furthermore, my Toyota Prius is equipped with safety features (such as pre-collision system, lane departure alert…”
NHTSA complaint #11437574, 2021

Unknown Or Other 37

“Found coolant leak from heat exchanger into exhaust pipe. Looks like, T-SB-0135-19.”
NHTSA complaint #11678347, 2025

“Coolant is leaking. There were no indicator that coolant is low. Suddenly while trying to get on the freeway the car would not get up to speed regardless how much pressure was put on the pedals. On the way back home, all of a sudden the engine temperature light flashed on then off twice. The car operated like normal but it was still concerning and we had it checked out. Coolant was leaking but no where to be found? It seems Toyota had previous recalls where coolant was leaking into the engine. I think my model is also affected.”
NHTSA complaint #11571403, 2024

“Our car has approximately 65K miles on it. THREE of the door lock actuators have failed already. This is terrifying that we might not be able to lock or unlock doors in an emergency particularly with our kids in the back seat. We have had our Prius serviced regularly by an independent well regarded local hybrid car mechanic and they think it is very odd that these have all failed so quickly.”
NHTSA complaint #11457984, 2022

Electrical System 26 1 crash 1 injury

“WHILE PARKING MY VEHICLE AND SLOWING DOWN TO ENTER A PARKING SPACE, I EASED OFF THE BRAKE TO PULL INTO THE SPACE WHEN I HEARD THE ENGINE REV LOUDLY AND THEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO PUMP THE BRAKES, RELEASE THE BRAKES WITHOUT TOUCHING ANY PEDAL AND ALSO TRYING TO PUT THE TRANSMISSION INTO PARK. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AT ALL. I WAS AFRAID FOR MY LIFE AND TRIED EVERYTHING TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS AS THE CAR ACCELERATED GREATLY. I STEERED THE CAR TO TRY AND AVOID A SLIGHT EMBANKMENT AND CURVE BUT WITH THE RAPID SPEED OF THE CAR, IT BEC…”
NHTSA complaint #11154115, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Car was driving fine one day and then while driving down the interstate I had the Pre collision system malfunction error, Brake light came on, Cruise will not operate, ABS light is on. After much research it seems Prius V has a common issue with brake booster faulting.”
NHTSA complaint #11657666, 2025

“While driving vehicle on the freeway it stated braking power low, stop in a safe place, antilock brake system malfunction, pre-collision system malfunction, lane departure alert malfunction. I was almost in a major scary accident.”
NHTSA complaint #11585005, 2024

Service Brakes 23 2 crash 3 injury

“FEBRUARY 7, 2018 !01 FRWY NORTH APPROACHING SANTA ROSA/ PLEASANT VALLEY OFF RAMP ON THE DOWNGRADE OUT OF NEWBURY PARK AT 25 MPH IN THE RIGHT LANE. A.BRAKE LIGHTS ARE SEEN IN CAR AHEAD. B.THE DASH BOARD LIGHTS UP RED WITH THE WORD BRAKE IN RED C.A LOUD PULSATING AUDIO NOISE CAN BE HEARD COMING FROM THE SPEAKERS. D.THE DRIVER TOUCHES THE BRAKES AND THE CAR GOES INTO FULL ABS EMERGENCY BRAKING REDUCING SPEED FROM 25 MPH TO 12 MPH IN LESS THAN 1/2 SECOND E.THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGERS EXPERIENCE A VIOLENT LURCH WHICH PRODUCES WHIP LASH. F.THE SEAT BELTS ENGAGE CAUSING PAIN TO THE SHOULD…”
NHTSA complaint #11072993, 2018 · 2 injury(ies)

“WHILE PARKING MY VEHICLE AND SLOWING DOWN TO ENTER A PARKING SPACE, I EASED OFF THE BRAKE TO PULL INTO THE SPACE WHEN I HEARD THE ENGINE REV LOUDLY AND THEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO PUMP THE BRAKES, RELEASE THE BRAKES WITHOUT TOUCHING ANY PEDAL AND ALSO TRYING TO PUT THE TRANSMISSION INTO PARK. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AT ALL. I WAS AFRAID FOR MY LIFE AND TRIED EVERYTHING TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS AS THE CAR ACCELERATED GREATLY. I STEERED THE CAR TO TRY AND AVOID A SLIGHT EMBANKMENT AND CURVE BUT WITH THE RAPID SPEED OF THE CAR, IT BEC…”
NHTSA complaint #11154115, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“AS I TOOK A HIGHWAY EXIT, FOLLOWING BEHIND OTHER CARS DOING THE SAME, MY PRIUS REFUSED TO BRAKE EFFICIENTLY WHEN ANOTHER CAR ABRUPTLY INVADED OUR LINE. IT FELT AS IF THE BRAKES MADE A SLIGHT RELEASE OR COULDN'T REACH A FULL STOP. I HAD ENOUGH SPACE TO STOP, AND I PRESSED THE BRAKES ON TIME BUT THERE WAS ALMOST NO BRAKE REACTION AND I CRASHED INTO THE TRUCK IN FRONT OF ME. I WAS PROBABLY GOING 20-30 MPH, SOMEWHERE IN THE MIDDLE... SO NOT EVEN THAT FAST. BEST PART IS THAT THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T INFLATE, EVEN THOUGH THE CAR WAS ALMOST TOTALED. THIS FEELS EXPLAINABLE TO ME... I HAD IT FOR ONLY TWO MON…”
NHTSA complaint #10915494, 2016 · crash

Engine 19 1 crash 1 injury

“WHILE PARKING MY VEHICLE AND SLOWING DOWN TO ENTER A PARKING SPACE, I EASED OFF THE BRAKE TO PULL INTO THE SPACE WHEN I HEARD THE ENGINE REV LOUDLY AND THEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO PUMP THE BRAKES, RELEASE THE BRAKES WITHOUT TOUCHING ANY PEDAL AND ALSO TRYING TO PUT THE TRANSMISSION INTO PARK. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AT ALL. I WAS AFRAID FOR MY LIFE AND TRIED EVERYTHING TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS AS THE CAR ACCELERATED GREATLY. I STEERED THE CAR TO TRY AND AVOID A SLIGHT EMBANKMENT AND CURVE BUT WITH THE RAPID SPEED OF THE CAR, IT BEC…”
NHTSA complaint #11154115, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Water pump failed without warning and caused irreparable damage to the engine ("blown" engine requiring replacement). Vehicle began to stall and not respond to attempted acceleration while traveling on 4 lane divided highway, 55 mph speed limit. One "Maintenance Required" message was received the previous week, but disappeared. This is the same message that appears for routine oil changes. No other warning messages were noted at the time of the incident, no unusual noises, and no smoke or other sign of overheating. Driver was able to steer vehicle to safety, but this failure could result…”
NHTSA complaint #11648235, 2025

“Refer to TSB 0135-19 dealer denied repairing under the California emissions defect and performance warranty.”
NHTSA complaint #11638452, 2025

Vehicle Speed Control 17 5 crash 1 injury

“WHILE PARKING MY VEHICLE AND SLOWING DOWN TO ENTER A PARKING SPACE, I EASED OFF THE BRAKE TO PULL INTO THE SPACE WHEN I HEARD THE ENGINE REV LOUDLY AND THEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE DESPITE ATTEMPTS TO PUMP THE BRAKES, RELEASE THE BRAKES WITHOUT TOUCHING ANY PEDAL AND ALSO TRYING TO PUT THE TRANSMISSION INTO PARK. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP AT ALL. I WAS AFRAID FOR MY LIFE AND TRIED EVERYTHING TO AVOID OTHER VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS AS THE CAR ACCELERATED GREATLY. I STEERED THE CAR TO TRY AND AVOID A SLIGHT EMBANKMENT AND CURVE BUT WITH THE RAPID SPEED OF THE CAR, IT BEC…”
NHTSA complaint #11154115, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE SLOWING AND PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, IN FRONT OF THE DENTIST OFFICE WHERE MY WIFE HAD AN APPOINTMENT, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. IT JUMPED THE CURB, AND SHE STEERED HARD RIGHT TO AVOID THE BUILDING DIRECTLY IN FRONT OH THE PARKING SPACE. SHE SIDESWIPED THE FRONT OF 2 VEHICLES PARKED NEXT TO THE SPACE SHE WAS MOVING INTO, AND THE CAR CONTINUED TOWARD THE STREET. IT HIT THE CURB GOING OUT OF THE PARKING LOT AND THE CAR FINALLY STOPPED. A PERSON CAME TO THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE CAR AND ASKED MY WIFE IF SHE WAS OK, AND SAID SHE SHOULD TURN THE CAR OFF - WHICH SHE DID.”
NHTSA complaint #11413018, 2021 · crash

“SPONTANEOUS ACCELERATION INCIDENT. I WAS SLOWLY PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE IN A PARKING GARAGE. AS I STRAIGHTENED IT OUT TO COMPLETE THE MANEUVER, THE CAR TOOK OFF ON ITS OWN AND HIT THE WALL OF THE PARKING GARAGE THERE WAS SOME DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END. A SIMILAR INCIDENT OCCURRED ONCE BEFORE WITH NO DAMAGE. TOYOTA HAS HAD RECALLS IN PRIOR YEARS FOR THIS PROBLEM - BROKEN THROTTLE RETURN SWITCH - BUT THEY INSIST THIS ISN'T THE PROBLEM HERE. ESSENTIALLY THEY ARE CLAIMING THIS DIDN'T HAPPEN, THAT WHAT I EXPERIENCED WITH THE CAR JUST TAKING OFF ON ITS OWN DIDN'T HAPPEN. THE CAR ISN'T SAFE TO DRI…”
NHTSA complaint #11372683, 2020 · crash

Power Train 15

“My car suddenly stopped in the middle of the road with message "Hybrid system stopped steering power low". Safety concern to this happen on the middle of road during rain or cold.”
NHTSA complaint #11636396, 2025

“Driving on freeway my prius V started shaking violently from what appeared to be overheating of water pump failure or the coolant invertor pump. I believe this to be a known issue Toyota is aware of when I took my Prius into Camelback Toyota in Phoenix they said they could not recreate the issues. I know this was powertrain failure that could have caused me to crash on the freeway.”
NHTSA complaint #11515500, 2023

“When the battery cooling fan is running, the car is slow to accelerate or will not accelerate at all. The incident has happened multiple times over the past year when the temperatures are above 90. If at a complete stop, the car will not accelerate, it will only jerk forward. The car has to be turned off and restarted to be able to accelerate. If braking or reducing speed, the car will be sluggish, and I have not been able to get the speed over 40 mph. I have taken it to the dealership, but they said they could not recreate the issue, though I do not believe that they followed the direction…”
NHTSA complaint #11469085, 2022

Structure 12

“Paint is starting to peel around trunk, clear coat has peeled off of black triangle areas by rear passenger windows on both sides of vehicle. Other 2016 Prius have had a paint recall. My vehicle needs to be included in the recall.”
NHTSA complaint #11592674, 2024

“While traveling on NHS CA 99 about 80 miles before taking exit 97, there were pieces of tire debri on the center lane. It couldn’t be spotted and my vehicle drove over it making a big thud sound. It shaked my vehicle and left my family scared. It could have been really dangerous if there was a vehicle right ahead or behind my car. This incident broke the front bumper and caused big dent on my right door. This is a big monetary hole in my pocket. This is big concern and should be immediately addressed to avoid incidents further. Kindly let me know if there is a way to file a claim with NHST”
NHTSA complaint #11590827, 2024

“Starting in about 2019, the exterior black panel behind the rear right mirror began peeling. Soon, the blue exterior paint on the car began to show damaged spots, lining up with the parts of the car most exposed to the sun: the roof most of all, but the top panel behind the rear window and the top of the trunk showing signs of damage as well. The beginnings of this damage are also appearing on a couple of parts of the side doors, making it clear that the underlying problem applies to all of the blue exterior paint. It seems as if the exterior layer - some sort of sealant or finish - is not hol…”
NHTSA complaint #11586268, 2024

Air Bags 11 7 crash 4 injury

“WE WERE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 70MILES AN HOUR ON A DIVIDED HIGHWAY. THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ACTIVATED. MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING, I WAS THE PASSENGER. WE BOTH WERE WEARING OUR SEAT BELTS. MY HUSBAND SUFFERED SOME SORT OF MEDICAL INCIDENT CAUSING HIM TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. WE CROSSED THROUGH THE MEDIAN, BECAME AIRBORNE, CROSSED TWO LANES OF OPPOSING TRAFFIC AND HEADED UP A STEEP INCLINE. THE CAR CAME TO REST ON A PILE OF DEBRIS AND HUNG UP ON A WIRE FENCE. MY HUSBAND SUFFERED A SUBARACHNOID HEMORRHAGE FROM STRIKING SOMETHING ON THE DASH OF THE CAR. WHEN THE CAR STOPPED HE WA…”
NHTSA complaint #10911046, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT A VERY LOW SPEED A SECOND VEHICLE SUDDENLY CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE PUSHING IT INTO THE REAR END OF A THIRD VEHICLE POSITIONED AHEAD. DURING THE INCIDENT THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND WAS DESTROYED BUT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN AT THE SCENE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AWAY. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILE…”
NHTSA complaint #11385206, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED AND TOWED TO A BODY SHOP WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 37,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11154354, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Tires 9

“Prinx HiCITY HH2 175/65R15 84H Bought this tire in November 2022. About 15000 miles into it, on Aug 6, 2024, the passenger front tire just busted. After swapping with the spare tire, and upon inspection, there was no nail nor it hit the curb, but the side wall is busted. This is a manufacturing quality issue.”
NHTSA complaint #11607627, 2024

“The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Prius equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: Mastercraft, Tire Size: 195/65/15, DOT Number: (Not Available). The contacted stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle began to violently shake and vibrated. After stopping to inspect the vehicle, it was discovered that the passenger’s side rear tire had experienced sidewall steel belt separation. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11515151, 2023

“2015 TOYOTA PRIUS. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUE WITH VEHICLE TIRES. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRES HAD A BROWN SUBSTANCE ON THEM. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE TIRES WERE NOT NEW LIKE THE DOCUMENT FROM THE DEALER STATED THEY WERE. THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. *JS”
NHTSA complaint #11123748, 2018

Fuel/Propulsion System 6

“Found coolant leak from heat exchanger into exhaust pipe. Looks like, T-SB-0135-19.”
NHTSA complaint #11678347, 2025

“Driving on the freeway the car stalled and was unable to accelerate. The issue seems identical to the 2020 recall. 2020-06-23 Recall no. 20V369000 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 vehicle to stall while being driven. I was told by the service center that my car is not on the recall list so they are unable to work it as a recall.”
NHTSA complaint #11618479, 2024

“The car has a very strong gas smell, especially when full.”
NHTSA complaint #11732860, 2020

Suspension 5

“REAR SHOCK NUT COMES LOOSE AND TOYOTA HAS ISSUED TSB 0144-16, TO TIGHTEN THE NUT. THIS IS COMMON AMONG PRIUS. THIS MUST BE A RECALL OTHERWISE IT IS DANGEROUS IF THE SHOCK BECOME LOOSE. INITIALLY THE DEALER TOLD ME TO REPLACE SHOCKS BUT FORTUNATELY I FOUND OUT ABOUT TSB AND THE DELEAR FIXED IT FREE.”
NHTSA complaint #11255204, 2019

“2016 TOYOTA PRIUS VIN#[XXX] I PURCHASED THIS CAR IN JULY, 2017 AND I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH A CLICKING OR POPPING SOUND UNDER THE VEHICLE ON BOTH THE RIGHT AND LEFT, REAR AND FRONT. I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR IN FOR REPAIRS 3 TIMES AND THE TOYOTA REPAIR SHOP CAN FIND NOTHING WRONG. THE CLICKING AND POPPING NOISE IS GETTING WORSE AND I AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THIS CAR. I HOPE FOR THE SAFETY OF THE TOYOTA CUSTOMERS THAT THE TOYOTA CORPORATION IS TAKING THESE COMPLAINTS SERIOUSLY. I ALSO HAVE A COMPLAINT REGARDING THE WINDSHIELD. WHILE DRIVING A PEBBLE HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND IN A AND WI…”
NHTSA complaint #11139280, 2018

“REAR SUSPENSION CREAKING AND FEELS SOFT IN THE REAR. WHILE DRIVING OR GOING ONTO A DRIVEWAY THE REAR SUSPENSION CREAKS AND POPS. DRIVING NORMALLY THE REAR END SEEMS TO BOB AROUND OFTEN AND FEELS SUPER SOFT.”
NHTSA complaint #11096940, 2018

Exterior Lighting 4

“The headlights are either too bright or aimed poorly that it blinds oncoming traffic, who frequently flash their high beams at me. This occurs without any load in back and without me using the high beams. Can Toyota either adjust the bulbs or place a film on the headlights to prevent blinding oncoming traffic? Thank you!”
NHTSA complaint #11654206, 2025

“CONDENSATION BUILDING UP IN PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT. THE CAR HAS ONLY 31,200 MILES. NOT CRACKS VISIBLE FROM OUTSIDE ON HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. CONDENSATION DISTORTS THE LIGHT BEAM AND DIMMING THE LIGHT INTENSITY.”
NHTSA complaint #11413148, 2021

“WHEN DRIVING WITH A HEAVY LOAD IN THE BACK OR WITH LARGE ADULTS IN THE BACK SEAT IT CAUSES THE HEADLIGHTS TO POINT UPWARD BLINDING ON COMING CARS. YES YOU CAN MANUALLY LOWER THE LIGHTS VIA THE SCREW UNDER THE HOOD BUT THAT'S AN INCONVENIENCE AS I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SEE FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD. SOMETIMES THE HEADLIGHT BLINDS ONCOMING CARS EVEN WITHOUT A HEAVY LOAD CAUSING ONCOMING CARS TO FLASH ME AND I HAVE TO FLASH THEM BACK TO PROVE TO THEM I HAVE MY LOWS ON. AT TIMES WHEN I GET TOO MANY FLASHES I END UP DRIVING WITH JUST THE DIM DAY RUNNING LIGHTS TO MAKE SURE I DON'T BLIND ONCOMING CARS CAU…”
NHTSA complaint #11042841, 2017

Wheels 4

“MY 2016 PRIUS FOUR TOURING WITH 25,202 MILES IS CHEWING UP ITS TIRES. SPECIFICALLY, IT IS CHEWING THEM UP ON THE "INSIDE" OF THE REAR TIRES (THAT IS, THE TREAD OF THE REAR TIRES CLOSEST TO THE CENTER OF THE CAR IS BEING WORN OFF FASTER THAN THE TREAD ON THE "OUTSIDE" OF THE TIRES). THE REAR WHEELS ARE OUT OF ALIGNMENT IN THE CAMBER BY A NEGATIVE 1.7 DEGREES "OUT" OF WHERE IT SHOULD BE (THE TOP OF THE TIRE IS "TILTED IN" TOWARD THE MIDDLE OF THE CAR 1.7 DEGREES FROM WHERE IT SHOULD BE). THE TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE WRITER REFUSES TO TAKE OWNERSHIP AND IS SAYING THAT THERE IS NO KIT/REPAIR TO…”
NHTSA complaint #11316777, 2020

“I HAD A BLOW OUT ON THE DRIVER REAR TIRE GOING DOWN THE INTERSTATE GOING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH. THE TREAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE SIDEWALL. THE TIRES WERE TOYO NANOENERGY A29.”
NHTSA complaint #11101280, 2018

“VEHICLE WAS SOLD WITHOUT A SPARE TIRE OR JACK. WHY DOES THE GOVERNMENT ALLOW A CAR COMPANY TO SELL A VEHICLE WITHOUT A SPARE TIRE AND JACK?”
NHTSA complaint #11123885, 2016

Seats 3 1 crash 1 injury

“The contact owned a 2016 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while switching lanes, the vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle driving at 30 MPH. The contact's front driver's side seat backrest inadvertently moved backward, which caused her shins to hit the dashboard under the steering wheel during impact. None of the air bags deploy upon impact. The contact later received medical attention at the hospital for injuries to her shins. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure…”
NHTSA complaint #11442846, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“THERE IS AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE HEAD RESTS ON THIS VEHICLE. THE DEFAULT SETTING IS MUCH TOO FAR FORWARD, CAUSING A FORWARD HEAD AND NECK POSTURE, RESULTING IN HEADACHES, NECK PAIN, ETC., AND MAKE IT VERY UNCOMFORTABLE TO DRIVE, AND DIFFICULT TO CHECK BLIND SPOTS. IT ALSO FORCES THE DRIVER'S HEAD VERY CLOSE THE AIRBAG, WHICH IS SUPPOSEDLY VERY DANGEROUS. IF YOU MOVE THE SEAT BACK, THEN YOU ARE TOO RECLINED TO DRIVE ATTENTIVELY. ONLINE SEARCHES AND COMPLAINTS TO THE DEALER TELL ME I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS, AND IT IS SUPPOSEDLY THE RESULT OF NHTSA REGULATIONS. THIS IS TERRIB…”
NHTSA complaint #10864390, 2016

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S HEAD REST POSITIONING IN THE VEHICLE WAS TOO FORWARD MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME WITHOUT SEVERE DISCOMFORT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 04/20/16*LJ *JS”
NHTSA complaint #10824770, 2015

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 2

“OVER THE PAST YEAR AND OVER 15,000 MILES OUR 2016 TOYOTA PRIUS FOUR TOURING HAS EXPERIENCED SUDDEN DISPLAYS OF WARNING MESSAGES AND LIGHTS REPORTING BRAKING POWER LOW - VISIT YOUR DEALER; BRAKING POWER LOW - STOP IN A SAFE PLACE - SEE OWNER'S MANUAL; PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM MALFUNCTION - VISIT YOUR DEALER; ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM MALFUNCTION - VISIT YOUR DEALER; LANE DEPARTURE ALERT MALFUNCTION - VISIT YOUR DEALER; ICS MALFUNCTION - VISIT YOUR DEALER; CHECK CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM - VISIT YOUR DEALER. THE FOLLOWING CODES/FAULTS HAVE BEEN DETECTED: ABS - C1403, C1407, C1415; PARKING SENSORS - C16…”
NHTSA complaint #11072880, 2018

“WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE FROM UNDERNEATH FIERCELY, I CALLED MY MOTHER WHO CAME AND PICKED UP THE CAR SHE TURNED AROUND AND WENT BACK TO MY RESIDENCE, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK IN THE GARAGE THE CAR STARTED TO ROLL DOWN THE DRIVEWAY AND THE BRAKES WOULDN'T WORK, THE CAR LANDED ON THE STREET. CITY OF LANCASTER CA”
NHTSA complaint #10953980, 2017

Forward Collision Avoidance 2

“THIS ISSUE HAPPENS RANDOMLY. WHEN POWERING THE CAR ON, AND WHILE THE CAR IS DOING ITS ROUTINE DASHBOARD LIGHT-UPS AND THE DINGING SOUNDS, SOMETIMES THE FORWARD SONARS WOULD BEEP AND DETECT THE OBJECT IN FRONT OF THE CAR. THE FORWARD WARNING INDICATOR SHOWS UP ON THE MULTI-INFORMATION SCREEN EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS STILL IN PARK AND WHILE THE NORMAL SYSTEM STARTUP IS TAKING PLACE. IT IS NOT SUPPOSE TO DO THAT, AS THE TRANSMISSION IS STILL IN PARK AND RUNNING THE SYSTEM STARTUP TESTS.”
NHTSA complaint #11413150, 2021

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED AND THE CRUISE CONTROL FAILED TO WORK. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GATES TOYOTA (640 W IRELAND RD, SOUTH BEND, IN 46614), BUT IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11291277, 2019

Hybrid Propulsion System 2

“The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the steering wheel stopped operating and the vehicle began to shut down. The contact stated that a yellow blinking light and a hybrid system malfunction warning light illuminated the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the hybrid battery was low and there was a failure of the engine wiring harness. The hybrid battery was able to recharge but the dealer stated that the electric wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaire…”
NHTSA complaint #11582151, 2024

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A RUBBER ODOR EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT NO FAILURE WAS DETERMINED. SEVERAL DAYS LATER, THE "HYBRID COOLANT SYSTEM NEEDS SERVICE" WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A SAFETY HAZARD. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN AND THAT THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT FILTER SYSTEM NEEDED CLEANING TO PREVENT THE BATTERIES FROM OVERHEATING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE.…”
NHTSA complaint #10935533, 2016

Seat Belts 2 1 crash

“I was hit when someone ran a stop sign. Pushed into oncoming traffic and hit a truck. My Toyota Prius was totaled. No air bags deployed. Seatbelt did not tighten either. I have contacted Toyota. Someone retrieved the data from recorder. I have a copy but it was to long to send with pics. Toyota claim # [XXX] (sorry for one pic I couldn’t delete) INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).””
NHTSA complaint #11425866, 2021 · crash

“SEATBELT ON DRIVERS SIDE DOES NOT RETRACT, GETS CAUGHT IN DOOR WHEN EXITING THE CAR. DEALER WON'T FIX IT. IT'S A SAFETY ISSUE IN THAT THE DRIVER WHEN EXITING HAS TO STOP DEAL WITH EXTENDED SEAT BELT CAUGHT IN DOOR, COULD BE HIT BY ANOTHER CAR IN A PARKING LOT OR THE STREET. IT'S BEEN LIKE THIS FOR MONTHS. VERY ANNOYING.A GOOGLE SEARCH SHOWS THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM FOR TOYOTA CARS.”
NHTSA complaint #11155879, 2018

Steering 2

“My car suddenly stopped in the middle of the road with message "Hybrid system stopped steering power low". Safety concern to this happen on the middle of road during rain or cold.”
NHTSA complaint #11636396, 2025

“I bought my 2016 Prius brand new in November of 2016. Over the past 2 years or so my OEM leather like steering wheel wrap started to wrinkle. it is now cracking and starting to peel. it hasn't caused any stealing control issues, it is just ugly an slight distracting on the palm of the hand. I do worry that if might start causing gripping issues on that side of the steering wheel if the wrap becomes loose.”
NHTSA complaint #11435515, 2021

Visibility 2

“2016 TOYOTA PRIUS VIN#[XXX] I PURCHASED THIS CAR IN JULY, 2017 AND I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WITH A CLICKING OR POPPING SOUND UNDER THE VEHICLE ON BOTH THE RIGHT AND LEFT, REAR AND FRONT. I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR IN FOR REPAIRS 3 TIMES AND THE TOYOTA REPAIR SHOP CAN FIND NOTHING WRONG. THE CLICKING AND POPPING NOISE IS GETTING WORSE AND I AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THIS CAR. I HOPE FOR THE SAFETY OF THE TOYOTA CUSTOMERS THAT THE TOYOTA CORPORATION IS TAKING THESE COMPLAINTS SERIOUSLY. I ALSO HAVE A COMPLAINT REGARDING THE WINDSHIELD. WHILE DRIVING A PEBBLE HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND IN A AND WI…”
NHTSA complaint #11139280, 2018

“WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, REAR VIEW INTERIOR MIRROR DOES NOT DIM AS TRAFFIC APPROACHES FROM REAR. WHEN TAKEN TO DEALER, TECHNICIAN SHINED LIGHT FROM IPHONE ONTO MIRROR AND IT DIMMED PROPERLY. HOWEVER, UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS IT DOES NOT! ON A RECENT 2 HOUR NIGHTTIME DRIVE, AS CAR LIGHTS APPROACHED FROM BEHIND, I ALTERNATELY TURNED THE DIMMING FEATURE ON AND THEN OFF AND NOTICED ABSOLUTELY NO DIFFERENCE. I EVEN TRIED IT WHEN STOPPED AT RED LIGHT WITH HEADLIGHTS FROM SEVERAL CARS BEHIND ME, WITH THE SAME RESULT. SINCE THERE IS NO LEVER TO USE TO DIM THE TRAFFIC AS THERE MIGHT BE WITH A NON…”
NHTSA complaint #10928387, 2016

Back Over Prevention 1

“THIS ISSUE HAPPENS RANDOMLY. WHEN POWERING THE CAR ON, AND WHILE THE CAR IS DOING ITS ROUTINE DASHBOARD LIGHT-UPS AND THE DINGING SOUNDS, SOMETIMES THE FORWARD SONARS WOULD BEEP AND DETECT THE OBJECT IN FRONT OF THE CAR. THE FORWARD WARNING INDICATOR SHOWS UP ON THE MULTI-INFORMATION SCREEN EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS STILL IN PARK AND WHILE THE NORMAL SYSTEM STARTUP IS TAKING PLACE. IT IS NOT SUPPOSE TO DO THAT, AS THE TRANSMISSION IS STILL IN PARK AND RUNNING THE SYSTEM STARTUP TESTS.”
NHTSA complaint #11413150, 2021

Engine And Engine Cooling 1

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 66 MPH, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND LOST POWER IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PLACE THE VEHICLE INTO NEUTRAL, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND THEN TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT A FUSE WAS BLOWN AND A NEW WATER PUMP NEEDED TO BE INSTALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 223,601. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.”
NHTSA complaint #11209662, 2019

Equipment 1

“WHILE DRIVING ON HWY 14 AT APPROXIMATELY 1100 AM, MY SON'S VEHICLE LEFT REAR TIRE BLEW OFF. HE SUMMONED ASSISTANCE TO AAA WHO CAME AND PUT THE SPARE TIRE IN, HE SUBSEQUENTLY DROVE THE CAR TO SIERRA TOYOTA IN LANCASTER CA AND CHANIN YESCAS SERVICE DEPT MGR ASSISTED WITH HAVING THE CAR CHECK. I AM CONCERNED WITH THIS VEHICLE IT IS THE 2ND INCIDENT WITH HAVE HAD WITH THE VEHICLE WITHIN A WEEK. PLEASE ASSIST ASAP.”
NHTSA complaint #10955451, 2017

Parking Brake 1

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V741000 (PARKING BRAKE). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.”
NHTSA complaint #10938499, 2016

Traction Control System 1

“The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while the vehicle was on and running, the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated, and the messages "Braking Power Low - Stop in a Safe Place”, “See Owner's Manual", "Braking Power Low - Visit the Dealer", and "ABS Malfunction - See Dealer" were displayed. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was firm. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and DTC: C14B6 was retrieved, indicating that the brake booster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired;…”
NHTSA complaint #11747244, 2026