The Toyota Prius has long been a popular choice for eco-conscious drivers, but like any vehicle, it’s not without its issues. In recent years, several common problems have emerged, leading to recalls and frustration for some Prius owners. This article will explore the most frequent issues reported by Toyota Prius drivers, including main display malfunctions, vehicle stability control system deactivation, braking assistance failures, and illegible load capacity labels.
Toyota has issued recalls for certain Prius models to address these concerns, acknowledging the need for improvements in these areas. As we delve into these problems, we’ll also discuss how affected owners can seek resolution, including potential remedies under lemon law protection.
Main Display Malfunction
One of the most reported issues with Toyota Prius vehicles is the malfunction of the main display. This problem affects the 2019 Prius model, where the main display, which shows crucial information such as vehicle speed and fuel level, may suddenly go blank or become unreadable.
The root cause of this issue stems from a potential short circuit in the combination meter’s flash ROM chip. When this occurs, the speed indicator and fuel gauge, along with their identifying symbols, may disappear from the main display while the vehicle is in motion. This not only violates federal safety standards but also poses a significant safety risk by diverting the driver’s attention from the road.
Toyota has acknowledged this problem and issued a recall for affected vehicles. Owners of 2019 Prius models should check if their vehicle is included in the recall and, if so, have their combination meter circuit board replaced at a Toyota dealership at no cost.
Vehicle Stability Control System Deactivation
Another serious issue affecting some Toyota Prius models is the unexpected deactivation of the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system. This problem has been linked to a defect in the brake booster pump, specifically in the plastic brush holder within the pump motor.
When the VSC system deactivates, it compromises the vehicle’s ability to maintain stability during challenging driving conditions. This malfunction not only increases the risk of accidents but also means the vehicle no longer meets federal safety standards for electronic stability control systems.
The issue affects various Toyota and Lexus hybrid models, including certain 2019-2020 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles. Toyota has initiated a recall to replace the faulty brake booster pumps in affected vehicles.
Braking Assistance Failure
Closely related to the VSC system issue is the potential for complete loss of braking assistance. This alarming problem stems from the same defect in the brake booster pump that causes VSC system deactivation.
If the brake booster pump fails, drivers may experience a sudden and complete loss of braking assist. This dramatically increases the vehicle’s stopping distance and significantly raises the risk of a crash. Before complete failure, drivers might notice multiple warning lights and messages on their dashboard, accompanied by audible chimes.
This issue affects various Toyota and Lexus hybrid models produced within specific date ranges in 2019. Toyota has included this problem in the same recall addressing the VSC system deactivation.
Illegible Load Capacity Label
While perhaps less dramatic than braking or display issues, the problem of illegible load capacity labels is still a significant concern. This issue affects a wide range of 2019 Toyota models, including the Prius.
The load capacity labels, which provide crucial information about the vehicle’s weight limits, may become illegible over time. This is due to a manufacturing defect where the yellow ink used on the labels doesn’t properly bond to the label substrate.
An illegible load capacity label might lead drivers to unknowingly overload their vehicles, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Gulf States Toyota has issued a recall for affected vehicles, offering replacement labels to owners.
Complaints from Toyota Prius Owners
From NHTSA:
“On Saturday, while shifting to reverse in a back alley to back up slowly, the car engine suddenly and loudly revved and shot backwards at accelerating speed. I slammed on brakes which did not respond at all, thus forcing me to attempt to shift gears which also failed to stop the acceleration. Car only stopped because it went up a curb and hit the corner of a parked vehicle in a neighbors driveway. If I had been on busier street and not a back alley this could have resulted in numerous vehicle collisions and unimagined fatalities. Car is being towed on to Advanced Collision Repair on 4511 Central Ave, Columbia Heights, for diagnostic assessment. There were no warning lamps, messages or other indicators prior to this terrifying lack of vehicle control . This was first episode since purchasing car approx one year ago. Incident was captured on neighbor’s home camera. Other neighbor heard the revving and ran out due to spontaneously loud revving of an engine.”
From NHTSA:
“I was traveling at about 55 mph on highway 66 when the instrument panel began flashing the following warnings: “braking power low, phsb malfunction, parking brake low, pre-collision malfunction, anti-lock malfunction, lane deparrure malfunction, brake overide” . the only obvious symptom was that there was no brake boost – the brakes continued to function, but without power assist. i am a former auto mechanic, so i would have noticed if there were any other symptons. the dealership had the car for 3 weeks and ultimately replaced both the brake booster and the master cylinder. they initially replaced the booster and discovered that that did not fix whatever was causing the warnings and dtcs. toyota instructed them to replace the master cylinder and that apparently fixed the problem. they could not explain why a fault in the master cylider would have caused the array of symotoms observed by both myself and the mechanics. i was surprized that the master cylinder was the cause as the the loss of boost seemed to be a brake boost problem. i was told that toyota is aware of the problem and that it is widespread.”
How Lemon Law Can Help Toyota Prius Owners
If you’re a Toyota Prius owner experiencing recurring issues with your vehicle, you may have protection under lemon law. Lemon laws are designed to help consumers who have purchased defective vehicles that the manufacturer or dealer has been unable to repair after a reasonable number of attempts.
Under lemon law, if your Prius has a substantial defect that impairs its use, value, or safety, and it hasn’t been fixed after several repair attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund. The specific criteria can vary by state, but generally, if your vehicle has been in the shop for an extended period or has had multiple repair attempts for the same issue, you may have a lemon law claim.
The problems discussed in this article, such as display malfunctions, stability control issues, and brake assist failures, could all potentially qualify under lemon law if they persist despite repair attempts. It’s important to keep detailed records of all repair attempts and communications with the dealer or manufacturer if you believe you may have a lemon law claim.
Get Help from Consumer Action Law Group
If you’re a Toyota Prius owner dealing with persistent issues like those discussed in this article, don’t hesitate to seek help. The complexities of lemon law and the process of filing a claim can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a problematic vehicle.
Consumer Action Law Group is here to help. Our team is well-versed in lemon law and has experience helping Toyota Prius owners and other consumers get the resolution they deserve. We can review your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation or a replacement vehicle.
Don’t let recurring vehicle problems put your safety at risk or diminish your enjoyment of your Prius. Contact Consumer Action Law Group today for a consultation. Let us help you turn your lemon into lemonade and get back on the road with confidence.
