Owners have filed 664 complaints
about the 2011 Toyota Prius with NHTSA between 2011 and 2026.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 12 of 25 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 53
Against the median year of the Toyota Prius. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 71
13.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 48
28% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
832.0%
Automatic Emergency Braking
520.0%
Inverter
312.0%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
312.0%
Instrument Cluster/Panel
28.0%
Power Window Devices AND Controls
28.0%
Speed Control
14.0%
Speedometer/Odometer
14.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
378.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
276.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
327.5%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
5011.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
5813.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
6114.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
9422.1%
150,000+ miles
6615.5%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Mar 2011peak 19Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2011 Toyota Prius
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
1
investigation is
still open.
DP23005Opened 22 Nov 2023Still openSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
Brake Actuator Valve Wear
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a petition dated September 19, 2023 from the owner of a 2012 Toyota Prius V requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP19-004. In the letter, the petitioner reported experiencing an unexpected and complete loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights. This petition is based on the petitioner's direct experience and assessment that ODI closed DP19-004 because its prompting petition was withdrawn by that petitioner. ODI will review the work conducted during DP19-004 and a review of any additi...
DP22005Opened 27 Jan 2023Closed 7 Aug 2023ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM
Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after Marc...
DP19004Opened 30 Sep 2019Closed 21 Jan 2021SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
Brake Actuator Valve Wear
On September 19, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a defect petition from Mr. Roger Hogan requesting that the Agency investigate and recall certain Toyota Prius, Prius PHV, Camry Hybrid and Avalon Hybrid vehicles for a brake actuator valve wear condition covered under Toyota Customer Support Programs ZJB and ZKK (subject CSP?s). In support of his request, the petitioner identified 117 NHTSA complaints allegedly related to the subject CSP condition, including 60 reporting crashes. On September 30, 2019, ODI opened Defect Petition DP19-004 to evaluate the petitioner?s requ...
Recalls on the 2011 Toyota Prius
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
18V684000
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V vehicles. Excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter may cause the hybrid system to shut down, causing the vehicle to stall while being driven.
Risk: If the hybrid system shuts down unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of a crash.
16V487000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus CT200h vehicles. A weld in the curtain shield air bag inflator may crack causing one or both portions of the inflator to eject into the passenger cabin.
Risk: 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.
16V396000
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
Risk: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
14V743000
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
Risk: 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.
14V053000
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.
Risk: 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.
13V014000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
Risk: 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.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202172355,683 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: This recall is for certain block heater kits installed on certain vehicles or sold as accessories at Toyota or Lexus dealerships. On certain vehicles, the engine block heater cable may not have enough heat protection and could be damaged by high temperatures. If this happens, the cable could short circuit while plugged in, and cause the wiring to overheat or melt. Note: This recall only affects the following block heater/cord part numbers: C014003034 PK5A408J09 PU14000904 C014003151 PK5A408J13 PU14000905 C014000885 PK5A489J11 PU14000907 C014000888 PK5A489J22 PU14000909 C014000907 PK5A410H00 PU14000911 C014100904 PU14000900 PU14000913 C014100907 PU14000901 PU14003571 C014100911 PU14000902 PK5A489J14 PK5A408J05 PU14000903 Safety Risk: Engine block heater wiring that overheats or melts could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: Toyota recommends that you should stop using the engine block heater immediately. Toyota will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to disable the engine block heater. For some vehicles, the corrective actions for this recall are under development. For others, a new engine block heater cannot be installed, and the owner will receive a refund of the purchase price of the engine block heater.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
Recall 201854623,125 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM), which is part of the hybrid drive system, could become damaged under certain driving conditions. This could cause various warning lights to illuminate on the instrument panel of the vehicle and cause a reduction or loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will update motor/generator and hybrid control ECU software and affect repairs as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2014-042 and 2015-312. Vehicles repaired under the previous recall(s) will require repair.
Recall 201633512,926 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, a defect in the curtain shield airbags could cause the inflator to fail, releasing pressurized gas into the airbag, partially inflating it. If this occurs, parts of the inflator could also separate from the vehicle structure, entering the interior of the vehicle. Should this occur when occupants are in the vehicle, unintended airbag deployment could startle the driver, and airbag inflator parts could come into contact with the occupants, increasing the risk of injury and a crash. Correction: Dealers will install a retention bracket which will prevent the inflator parts from entering the vehicle interior.
Recall 201404213,791 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM), which is part of the hybrid system inverter assembly, could become damaged under certain driving conditions. This could cause various warning lights to illuminate in the instrument panel of the vehicle and cause a reduction or loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will update motor/generator and hybrid control ECU software and affect repairs as necessary. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2018546. Please see <a href="http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/7/VRDB-BDRV/search-recherche/detail.aspx?lang=eng&&rn=2018546">recall 2018546</a> for more information.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 325,000 milesPleasant Grove, UTCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2011 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed in an intersection, a Ford F-150 vehicle crashed into the front driver's side of the vehicle. The contact stated he was pinned between the door and the infotainment system. The airbags failed to deploy. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was taken to the local hospital by a friend in a private vehicle, and the contact received medical assistance. The contact sustained internal bruising and external bruising and cuts. Additionally, the contact sustained a major injury was on the neck, on the laryngeal prominence area of the neck and on the collar bone. The medical Doctor informed the contact that the major injury could heal in 4 weeks, or in 7-8 months. The contact was also informed that the major injury could become a permanent condition, causing cramps and stiffness depending on the weather. The contact was experiencing trouble sleeping due to the injuries. The vehicle was towed to a local tow lot and was totaled. A Police report was filed. The leasing company the vehicle was purchased from was notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to an unknown air bag recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 325,000.
NHTSA complaint #11678773 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesSherman Oaks, CAFire
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the contact smelled an abnormal burning odor and then heard an abnormal explosion. The contact observed black smoke coming from under the hood. The contact pulled off the road and turned the vehicle off. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact lifted the hood and saw flames coming from under the engine. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. The contact had the vehicle towed to his residence. The contact called an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that when the engine was lifted out of the engine compartment, there was a hole in the engine block. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11524737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3,000 milesOlakcreek, WICrash
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:VEHICLE CONTROLS:SPEED CONTROL
The contact owned a 2011 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle accelerated at uncontrollable speed, and an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact depressed the brake pedal desperately and the vehicle would not stop. The contact swerved into the lane of the opposite direction causing the contact to strike the front passenger end of the vehicle traveling in the opposite direction, causing the other vehicle to drive into the woods, and the contact vehicle spun in a circle. The contact stated he pulled the emergency brake causing the vehicle to come to a complete stop. No air bags deployed. No one was injured but the contact was unaware if there were any injuries to the other driver. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed from the scene and later deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was contacted, and they stated that the accident was being investigated. The failure mileage was 3,000.
NHTSA complaint #11485677 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mckinney, TXCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
ON Sept 9th, 2022, I was involved in a collision, traveling approximately 30 - 40 MPH and struck a vehicle that pulled into my path. I struck the other vehicle perpendicularly (T-Boned). My vehicle impacted on the front, initially, and then on the driver's side at full force. The result of the accident caused the front bumper to be damaged and the entire left side of the car was crushed. The force of the accident caused the driver's window and port-hole to shatter. The AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. None of the air bags deployed. The vehicle is still in the auto repair lot and has yet to be inspected by anyone. There we NO prior indicators of any problems with the airbag system.
NHTSA complaint #11484210 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 117,000 milesKeaau, HICrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that she was hit by another vehicle while turning left onto a highway at 5 MPH. The contact was hit on her driver-side door at approximately 60 MPH and the airbags did not deploy upon impact. The contact stated that the driver seat had collapsed backward onto the rear driver seat which sent her over the steering wheel and into the windshield. The contact lost consciousness upon impact and when she came to, her hands were dangling over the steering wheel with her head pinned to the windshield glass. The contact was removed from her vehicle by authorities and was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The contact was treated for a broken sternum, four broken ribs, two on both the left and right side of her body, and severe bruising on both the left and right side of her entire body. The contact stated that five occupants inside the other vehicle were all transported to the hospital including a four-year-old child whose car seat broke upon impact. The whereabouts and injuries of the occupants are unknown. A police report was filed at the scene. The vehicle was towed to an independent tow yard but had yet to be destroyed. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 117,000. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11448873 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesHarbor Springs, MICrash
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP, THE PEDAL HAD EXTENDING TO THE FLOOR RESULTING THE BRAKING DISTANCE TO BE EXTENDED. THE CONTACT INDICATED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHILE THE FAILURE OCCURRED THE VEHICLE MADE CONTACT WITH AN OBJECT AND A POLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER FERNELIUS FORD LOCATED AT 10459 N STRAITS HWY, CHEBOYGAN, MI 49721 WHO WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
NHTSA complaint #11389770 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Clive, IA
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle Information: 2011 Toyota Prius, 144,000 miles. Component: Hydraulic Service Brakes, Electronic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System. Description of Incident: While driving at normal speeds, the vehicle suddenly experienced a severe reduction in braking capability. The dashboard simultaneously illuminated the Brake Warning Light, ABS Light, and Slip/Traction Control Indicator Light. The brake pedal immediately became soft, spongy, and squishy, requiring significantly increased physical foot pressure and a vastly extended distance to bring the vehicle to a stop. Upon inspection, the brake fluid reservoir remains completely full, but the brake booster pump under the hood cycles and buzzes rapidly every 10 seconds while stationary. A diagnostic scan confirmed trouble code C1391 (Brake Actuator Internal Leak). This indicates a severe internal hydraulic pressure bleed inside the braking module. [SEE ATTACHED] This is a known, widespread manufacturing defect previously documented under Toyota Customer Support Program ZJB. The manufacturer has refused to remedy this life-threatening safety defect because a 10-year calendar threshold has passed, despite the vehicle being well under the 150,000-mile limit established by the manufacturer. The vehicle currently poses an immediate safety risk to occupants and the public.
NHTSA complaint #11756097 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
Every time I'd press the brakes there'd be an audible "click" noise and then when taking my foot off the brake it'd sound like a manual tire pump being pressed... kind of like air filling / hydraulic sound. This worried me (I don't mess around with brakes). One other thing that would happen is if I pressed the brake hard enough, the automatic braking system would kick in. The Toyota dealership claimed they couldn't hear anything and there were no warning lights so I took it to a reputable local mechanic. They diagnosed it as a bad ABS Actuator / Brake Booster and said it's common with this year of Prius. They also said it was good I brought it in now because it was not severe enough to totally fail (which could have caused an accident) but there was evidence of degradation and they also said the issue was causing sufficient brake fluid to not get where it needs to be.
NHTSA complaint #11752939 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Pasadena, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle Information: Year: 2011 Make: Toyota Model: Prius Mileage at Failure: 58,769 miles Date of First Use: February 20, 2012 Complaint Description: As I was driving on the freeway, my 2011 Toyota Prius brakelights all came on. I pulled off, had it towed to nearest mechanic, who diagnosed a failure involving the brake booster, brake actuator, and ABS system at only 58,769 miles. The vehicle was diagnosed with Diagnostic Trouble Code C1391 (Abnormal Leak of Accumulator Pressure). According to my mechanic, the condition is caused by an internal brake fluid leak within the brake booster assembly with master cylinder. The recommended repair includes replacement of both the brake booster assembly with master cylinder and the brake booster pump assembly. The estimated cost of repair is approximately $4,100. This concerns me because the brake system is a critical safety component, and I believe such a failure at fewer than 60,000 miles is highly unusual and may pose a safety risk to drivers and passengers. Toyota previously issued a Warranty Enhancement Program for this issue, but my vehicle was denied coverage because the program expired on August 31, 2021, and the secondary coverage expired on February 20, 2022, ten years after the vehicle's first use date. Toyota declined any out-of-warranty assistance despite the vehicle's exceptionally low mileage. I am submitting this complaint so that this incident is documented as a potential safety concern involving premature failure of the brake booster and ABS system components on the 2011 Toyota Prius.
NHTSA complaint #11746722 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Angier, NC
SERVICE BRAKES
Shortly after purchasing used last year I had my brake, traction control, ABS, & TPMS lights come on when stopping at a stop light all at once. I went and had it scanned and no codes showed up. I hear a buzzing from the brake actuator/ brake pump every 15 seconds. This all has been going on for almost a year now. Over the weekend a loud buzzing warning alarm came on that will not turn off. I had it checked out and was quoted around 3500 to repair.
NHTSA complaint #11745016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cayce, SC
SERVICE BRAKES
The ABS actuator (brake booster) went out suddenly. It is 100% available for inspection. It is being towed to M&M Auto Repair in Gaston SC. I was not sure if the car was going to stop when I was trying to figure out what was wrong. The car was acting like it wasn't going to stop until a few seconds later. People online have had a similar problem as me with prius models around my year to 2015. And it was a problem confirmed by the dealership. The component has not been inspected. Only diagnostics were ran. The ABS system light came on. But it would disappear for a long time then come back. So I thought it was a computer error for the longest until it proved to not be one. Because the brakes were working just fine like normal. Other than that, the light itself was playing peekaboo with me, making me believe that it was a computer error since the brakes were working just fine. Then on monday, the car started beeping excessively and the brakes were not working suddenly after being fine over the weekend....with no issues.
NHTSA complaint #11744577 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Saint Louis, MO
SERVICE BRAKES
There is a known problem with the brake booster and skid control that was a part of an customer support extended recall program. Our Prius has very low miles (less that 60,000) so the issue didn't trigger for us until recently. Unfortunately, we are out of the extended recall program of 10 years or 150,000. This doesn't seem fair since it is a known and documented issue from Toyota. Unless we fix the issue, we are at risk of losing braking control. All brake lights on the dash are on and it is currently in the shop.
NHTSA complaint #11741498 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bellerose, NY
SERVICE BRAKES
2011 Prius. 80k miles. Brake booster buzz coming on every 15 seconds now. ABs, traction and brake lights on. I’ve heard of many Prius owners with the same issue. I also have another Prius with the same issue at 120k miles. Brake booster accumulator codes popping up with 80k miles. It is a safety concern as the abs brakes don’t work. Almost every Prius is effected by this.
NHTSA complaint #11736723 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2011 Prius. 80k miles. Brake booster buzz coming on every 15 seconds now. ABs, traction and brake lights on. I’ve heard of many Prius owners with the same issue. I also have another Prius with the same issue at 120k miles. Brake booster accumulator codes popping up with 80k miles. It is a safety concern as the abs brakes don’t work. Almost every Prius is effected by this.
NHTSA complaint #11736723 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Antonio, TX
POWER TRAIN
I was driving my car and suddenly the traction , hand brake and ABS sign started showing up. I usually apply only 10% of force on brake pedal but after this I have to apply almost 60% of force to even slow down the car. Almost 90% force to stop the car It has threatened safety of my family. When diagnosed at autozone they told cannot determine error code. When reading in internet this seems to be common problem in prius. Please help is fixing the issue as it is not at my fault. This seems to be manufacturing defect.
NHTSA complaint #11734183 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Antonio, TX
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I was driving my car and suddenly the traction , hand brake and ABS sign started showing up. I usually apply only 10% of force on brake pedal but after this I have to apply almost 60% of force to even slow down the car. Almost 90% force to stop the car It has threatened safety of my family. When diagnosed at autozone they told cannot determine error code. When reading in internet this seems to be common problem in prius. Please help is fixing the issue as it is not at my fault. This seems to be manufacturing defect.
NHTSA complaint #11734183 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Antonio, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
I was driving my car and suddenly the traction , hand brake and ABS sign started showing up. I usually apply only 10% of force on brake pedal but after this I have to apply almost 60% of force to even slow down the car. Almost 90% force to stop the car It has threatened safety of my family. When diagnosed at autozone they told cannot determine error code. When reading in internet this seems to be common problem in prius. Please help is fixing the issue as it is not at my fault. This seems to be manufacturing defect.
NHTSA complaint #11734183 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Birmingham, AL
SERVICE BRAKES
The brake cylinder assembly and the brake booster pump assembly failed while driving, which made braking very difficult, caused the regenerative braking to stop working, and caused multiple warning lights to come on. No warning lights, messages, or other symptoms were present prior to the sudden failure. This sudden failure could have easily resulted in a crash and/or death(s). I brought the vehicle to a Toyota dealership, and they confirmed the above issue and replaced the parts. I was told by the dealership, and also read online, that this is a known issue of Toyota for my vehicle and that Toyota extended a warranty years ago; however, the extended warranty is no longer valid for this known defect.
NHTSA complaint #11732836 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Maria, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake Booster went out right at 160000 miles. ABS, emergency parking light, tire pressure light, and others I'm not sure if went on. Brakes felt very mushy and scary to drive.
NHTSA complaint #11731718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Playa Del Rey, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
While driving, the Brake, ABS, traction light and other light lit up. The car lurched in an odd way. I can hear the oil pressure pump turn on every 5 seconds. Toyota shops told me the master cylinder and booster pump are failing and that the brakes will stop working while driving, causing an accident.
NHTSA complaint #11714885 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catonsville, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving my car at over 70 mph on a highway, no check engine, no issues, just had oil changed when check hybrid system alert came on with check engine light. I started to change lanes to get to shoulder when my car just died, completely. It died in the middle of the highway merging with another major road, so I was stuck between 2 lanes of 70mph traffic on either side. The time to react to the sudden warning to my car dying was less than 2 minutes. I quickly called 911 to ask for help and was told someone had already reported my breakdown as well because my car had died in a horribly dangerous area. I was very lucky that a state trooper came quickly and blocked off my car until it could be towed for repair. I was told that I need a new Hybrid Battery. The fact that I had no signs of failure before complete shut down makes for a very dangerous driving situation and makes me second guess ever buying a Prius again.
NHTSA complaint #11711067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catonsville, MD
ENGINE
I was driving my car at over 70 mph on a highway, no check engine, no issues, just had oil changed when check hybrid system alert came on with check engine light. I started to change lanes to get to shoulder when my car just died, completely. It died in the middle of the highway merging with another major road, so I was stuck between 2 lanes of 70mph traffic on either side. The time to react to the sudden warning to my car dying was less than 2 minutes. I quickly called 911 to ask for help and was told someone had already reported my breakdown as well because my car had died in a horribly dangerous area. I was very lucky that a state trooper came quickly and blocked off my car until it could be towed for repair. I was told that I need a new Hybrid Battery. The fact that I had no signs of failure before complete shut down makes for a very dangerous driving situation and makes me second guess ever buying a Prius again.
NHTSA complaint #11711067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catonsville, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I was driving my car at over 70 mph on a highway, no check engine, no issues, just had oil changed when check hybrid system alert came on with check engine light. I started to change lanes to get to shoulder when my car just died, completely. It died in the middle of the highway merging with another major road, so I was stuck between 2 lanes of 70mph traffic on either side. The time to react to the sudden warning to my car dying was less than 2 minutes. I quickly called 911 to ask for help and was told someone had already reported my breakdown as well because my car had died in a horribly dangerous area. I was very lucky that a state trooper came quickly and blocked off my car until it could be towed for repair. I was told that I need a new Hybrid Battery. The fact that I had no signs of failure before complete shut down makes for a very dangerous driving situation and makes me second guess ever buying a Prius again.
NHTSA complaint #11711067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
College Park, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
The abs, brake, and traction control are intermittently on and off recently. I thought that there was a visible leak in the brake fluid. But my mechanic said that there was no feasible leaks found upon inspection. The car has also been inspected in Maryland without any issues. I came across many forums that said that this is a common issue in Prius. My safety was at risk if this is due to internal failure or defect of the product, especially because I drive with my [XXX] almost everyday to take her to daycare. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11711037 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakton, VA
SERVICE BRAKES
ABS, Slip Indicator and Brake warning lights have appeared on the cars dashboard. DTC fault code C1391 has appeared indicating a failure of the Brake Booster and Brake Booster Pump assemblies per Toyota Customer Support Bulletin (ZJB) No.: POL18-03. Loss of regenerative braking, putting the safety off occupants at risk.
NHTSA complaint #11707419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Modesto, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
The Master Cylinder started failing while I was driving the car, the car only has 138k miles, the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree, all the warning lights were on, and when I went to step on the brake, I had to push it all the way to the floor for any braking to happen. I remember being scared for my life because I had almost no brakes which I could've got into a serious accident or been killed had it failed completely. I took the car to the dealer and they diagnosed it with code C139: Abnormal Leak at Accumulator Assembly, and recommended a new Brake Booster with Master Cylinder Assembly and Brake Booster Pump Assembly with Bracket. The car by age was not in Toyota's extended warranty on the parts but mileage-wise it still is, so I was footed with a $4-5k bill to replace both parts.
NHTSA complaint #11703999 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vancouver, WA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I purchased a 2011 Prius 4 years ago from a dealership. For the last 2 years, whenever I drive the car, the ABS, brake, and skid lights are on. also, there's a slightly whirring noise every few seconds from under the hood. Braking has been affected, and I've had to increase my stopping distance as a result. Also, the brake pads and rotors deteriorate faster. Apparently, this is a common problem with this type of car. I've called Toyota, and despite it being a known flaw with this car, they refuse to do anything about it.
NHTSA complaint #11700201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vancouver, WA
SERVICE BRAKES
I purchased a 2011 Prius 4 years ago from a dealership. For the last 2 years, whenever I drive the car, the ABS, brake, and skid lights are on. also, there's a slightly whirring noise every few seconds from under the hood. Braking has been affected, and I've had to increase my stopping distance as a result. Also, the brake pads and rotors deteriorate faster. Apparently, this is a common problem with this type of car. I've called Toyota, and despite it being a known flaw with this car, they refuse to do anything about it.
NHTSA complaint #11700201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Whittier, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
VIN: [XXX] Year/Make/Model: 2011 Toyota Prius Mileage: 87,433 Date: 11/4/2025 DESCRIPTION Sudden 80% brake loss. Loss of ABS Brake Light + ABS + Traction Control lights on dash (photo attached). Known failed brake actuator (C1391) — identical to 500+ complaints in PE19-004. Toyota corporate denied coverage (email attached). This is a SAFETY RECALL issue — please reopen investigation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11697479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harbor City, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
ABS Brake pump booster and actuator broke and got me almost into an accident. It's a known issue and it's a safety issue because car can still run but the brake is less sensitive. Please get Toyota to honor the repair.
NHTSA complaint #11697207 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Orleans, LA
SERVICE BRAKES
The ABS actuator on my 2011 Toyota Prius has failed, which is a known and common issue with this generation of Prius vehicles. The component causes abnormal brake pedal feel and inconsistent braking performance. The vehicle has been inspected and diagnosed by a Toyota dealership, who confirmed the ABS actuator assembly needs replacement. This failure poses a serious safety risk because it affects braking reliability and increases stopping distance, especially during sudden stops or wet road conditions. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the failure. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The problem has been confirmed by the dealership service department but has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives.
NHTSA complaint #11695108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.