toyota prius 2009 Complaints

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

we brought a new 2009 prius in september of this year, 2008. i was driving in the snow, and found that this car has a mind of its own; the traction control took total control of the car, and left me in the middle of the road in a curve as i was about to go up a hill. the car came to a stop; i could not accelerate at all! the sheriff, who was driving on the other side of the street had to go off the road to keep from hitting me head on, and the person behind me had to swerve to keep from hitting me. thank god i didn't have an accident! i contacted the two toyota dealers in our area, and i was told that the response from the prius was "normal." when i called the toyota 800 customer service number, i was again told that the car was designed that way. they also suggested that we try snow tires on the car. in spite of living where we are in johnson city, new york (near binghamton), we have always used all-season tires without any trouble. we had a 1995 intrepid which had traction control, and we had no trouble with it. it had a switch that you could use if you needed to turn the traction control off. i don't know why the prius has no way to turn the traction control off; i believe toyota's design is faulty and dangerous. it's a death trap, a serious safety hazard and needs to be changed! please help us in getting the attention of the toyota motor company to do a recall and make it so that this car has a way to turn off the traction control when it deems necessary. it should not be necessary for accidents to occur and people be hurt or killed to make it compulsory that a bad design be fixed. (please note: we wrote "camry" on your form under model selection because you did not have "prius" listed. we had to select some car model in order to proceed with the application). thank you.

Reported in: JOHNSON CITY NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

unable to properly fill the fuel tank. the fuel bladder collapses.

Reported in: LEXINGTON KY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

fuel tank capacity dangerously variable in toyota prius. our 2009 prius routinely is unable to fill to full capacity of 11.9 gallons. worse is cold temperatures. was not told of this issue at time of purchase. have since learned more about the fuel bladder from consumer chat forums, but toyota needs to disclose the range of fuel capacity in their manuals, or improve the design to

Reported in: ELKINS PARK PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 25 mph on a lightly snow covered road surface, the brakes did not respond when the pedal was depressed. the vehicle failed to slow down. there were no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact crashed onto the curb in order to stop the vehicle. the driver was uninjured, but the vehicle sustained severe damage. the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer for inspection, but they could not determine the cause of the failure. the vehicle is in the process of being repaired. the failure and current mileages were 480. four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the she must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. updated 04/15/10.*jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 25 mph on a lightly snow covered road surface, the brakes did not respond when the pedal was depressed. the vehicle failed to slow down. there were no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact crashed onto the curb in order to stop the vehicle. the driver was uninjured, but the vehicle sustained severe damage. the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer for inspection, but they could not determine the cause of the failure. the vehicle is in the process of being repaired. the failure and current mileages were 480. four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the she must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. updated 04/15/10.*jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

AIR BAGS

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota pruis. while driving between 30-40 mph on normal road conditons, the contact rear-ended the preceding vehicle. the air bags failed to deploy and there were no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. there were no injuries, but the vehicle sustained severe damage. the police department was called to the scene and a report was filed. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. the vehicle is currently under investigation and the cause of the failure has not yet been determined. the insurance company was notified. the vin was unknown. the failure and current mileages were 2,500.

Reported in: SEVERNA PARK MD || Crash: Y || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

2009 toyota prius ran out of gas when it "should" have had 3 gallons left (based on stated fuel capacity of 11.9 gallons, and on fuel gauge). apparently the fuel bladder does not contain a reliable amount of gas when filled, and the gas gauge warning (which the manual says goes on with about 3 gallons left) may not come on until less than a half a gallon remains. this is dangerous.

Reported in: FT COLLINS CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 5 mph into a parking space, the brakes did not work when the pedal was depressed. on two separate occasions, the vehicle struck a garage door and the contact rear-ended another vehicle due to the brake failure. there were no injuries. the dealer has not been notified. currently, the vehicle is in the repair shop for the body damage, not for the brakes. a police report was filed. the failure and current mileages were 1,200.

Reported in: SEDONA AZ || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

hi there, i have a new 2009 toyota prius. a couple of days ago as i was pulling into the parking spot at the garage my foot on the brake, the car started all of a sudden moving very smoothly without any resistance regardless of my attempts to stop it. it was hitting the wall in front of it a couple of times until i managed to power down the car. the front bumper of the car is completely destroyed and will need to be replaced. i took the car to a dealer to check brakes thoroughly. they did and told me that everything is fine with the brakes. personally i strongly believe that the brakes have mind of their own and i sincerely hope that they will not fail on me in traffic since i am a mother, i have a 1-year old boy. his safety is a top priority for me. right after my car was purchased it had to stay at a dealer for a week since there was some electrical problem, i believe with doors. both that fact and now the brake failure make me wonder if my car is a lemon. please help to sort this out. thank you!

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

hi there, i have a new 2009 toyota prius. a couple of days ago as i was pulling into the parking spot at the garage my foot on the brake, the car started all of a sudden moving very smoothly without any resistance regardless of my attempts to stop it. it was hitting the wall in front of it a couple of times until i managed to power down the car. the front bumper of the car is completely destroyed and will need to be replaced. i took the car to a dealer to check brakes thoroughly. they did and told me that everything is fine with the brakes. personally i strongly believe that the brakes have mind of their own and i sincerely hope that they will not fail on me in traffic since i am a mother, i have a 1-year old boy. his safety is a top priority for me. right after my car was purchased it had to stay at a dealer for a week since there was some electrical problem, i believe with doors. both that fact and now the brake failure make me wonder if my car is a lemon. please help to sort this out. thank you!

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

prius bladder tank is a bad and flawed design leaving the consumer with inaccurate tank and mileage readings.

Reported in: SAN MARCOS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my 2009 toyota prius was less than 4 months old. as i was parking in front of my apartment, i could feel the car still accelerating while i had already moved my foot to the brake. braking as hard as i can i realized my car wasn't responding at all. the car climbed on to the curb into the grass, hit a light pole, tilted to its right side (i was parking to my right) and fell down on its side. i tried to turn the car off, but wont turn off. the wheels were still accelerating as i was trying to get out of the seat belt, called out for help and got out through the driver side window. i called 911. police helped me turn off the vehicle; until that time, the car was still accelerating on its own. this seems to be a common issue with the toyota prius 2nd generation. this happens when the car is at very low speed (like in my case, while parking) or when its floored all the way. this should be thoroughly investigated. the car is with geico, my insurance company for further investigation.

Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

my 2009 toyota prius was less than 4 months old. as i was parking in front of my apartment, i could feel the car still accelerating while i had already moved my foot to the brake. braking as hard as i can i realized my car wasn't responding at all. the car climbed on to the curb into the grass, hit a light pole, tilted to its right side (i was parking to my right) and fell down on its side. i tried to turn the car off, but wont turn off. the wheels were still accelerating as i was trying to get out of the seat belt, called out for help and got out through the driver side window. i called 911. police helped me turn off the vehicle; until that time, the car was still accelerating on its own. this seems to be a common issue with the toyota prius 2nd generation. this happens when the car is at very low speed (like in my case, while parking) or when its floored all the way. this should be thoroughly investigated. the car is with geico, my insurance company for further investigation.

Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i am writing to let you know of a problem i am experiencing with a 2009 toyota prius that i purchased new just one week ago and which still has less than 500 miles on it. a couple of days ago i was approaching a stop at an intersection, in town where my speed had been only about 15 mph. while my foot was on the brake, just prior to a full stop, the car accelerated on its own. i kept my foot on the brake, pressing hard, and the brake eventually overrode the accelerator and stopped. looking at the dash i saw that the abs brake light flashed on briefly. it was a sunny day, no rain, no slick surface. no one was in front of me, so no damage to me or anyone else. another incident happened this morning in my garage. i got into the prius, foot on the brake, pushed the power button, and then a moment later, still in park, i felt a surge. the car did not lunge forward, but i strongly felt the revving and surge of power, and the car lifted from the power. these incidents caused me to search the web for similar experience of others, and i have found many, some with severe consequences. i would also like to add that in hindsight i realize that two other things i have noticed about the brakes might be important to relate. i sometimes hear a slight grinding disk sound when i brake, and i have on a few occasions noticed that the brakes are skipping and the abs engaging, as if i were on a slippery or graveled surface. yet that was never the case; the road conditions were dry and tar was in good condition. i know this because i looked back each time to see what might have caused the brakes to act strangely. there was no apparent cause. in retrospect, after having experienced the acceleration at the stop sign, i realize that these other odd braking issues might be symptoms of the bigger braking issue.

Reported in: ARROWSIC ME || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i am writing to let you know of a problem i am experiencing with a 2009 toyota prius that i purchased new just one week ago and which still has less than 500 miles on it. a couple of days ago i was approaching a stop at an intersection, in town where my speed had been only about 15 mph. while my foot was on the brake, just prior to a full stop, the car accelerated on its own. i kept my foot on the brake, pressing hard, and the brake eventually overrode the accelerator and stopped. looking at the dash i saw that the abs brake light flashed on briefly. it was a sunny day, no rain, no slick surface. no one was in front of me, so no damage to me or anyone else. another incident happened this morning in my garage. i got into the prius, foot on the brake, pushed the power button, and then a moment later, still in park, i felt a surge. the car did not lunge forward, but i strongly felt the revving and surge of power, and the car lifted from the power. these incidents caused me to search the web for similar experience of others, and i have found many, some with severe consequences. i would also like to add that in hindsight i realize that two other things i have noticed about the brakes might be important to relate. i sometimes hear a slight grinding disk sound when i brake, and i have on a few occasions noticed that the brakes are skipping and the abs engaging, as if i were on a slippery or graveled surface. yet that was never the case; the road conditions were dry and tar was in good condition. i know this because i looked back each time to see what might have caused the brakes to act strangely. there was no apparent cause. in retrospect, after having experienced the acceleration at the stop sign, i realize that these other odd braking issues might be symptoms of the bigger braking issue.

Reported in: ARROWSIC ME || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

while driving on several occasions either one head light will go out or on some occasions both headlights will go out. if i turn the lights off and then on they will come back on.

Reported in: GREEN ACRES FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U377

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

hi there, i rented a new 2009 toyota prius. a couple of days ago as i was driving in one of the inside streets in a neighborhood, i got into an accident even though i was driving with a low speed of 15-20 mph i rear ended a car that slammed on their brakes all of a sudden. i slammed hard on my brakes and it skidded a little and hit the van rear end bumper ahead of me. the accident did a quite a bit of damage to my rental prius. the front bumper of the car is completely destroyed and will need to be replaced. i took the car back to hertz and they swapped the car; i told hertz to check the brakes thoroughly; because there is a definitely a problem with the brakes at low speed. please help. even though my insurance company will take care of the damage; i am concerned about the safety of the other people in the same situation of low speed and brakes do not work.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

we own a 2009 toyota prius and we're experiencing problems with the prius's steering while operating the car over 60 mph. the car wants to shifts from side to side. we are continuously moving the wheel , attempting to steer the car straight . during any cross winds the problem is worst. we contacted the local dealer and toyota's customer service rep and both indicated, "the car is working as designed." investigating my car problem on the internet, i discovered priuschat.com . there i found many other owners of different year priuses with the same steering problem.

Reported in: CHANTILLY VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

EQUIPMENT

this is a request in order for the us department of transportation to begin safety and defect inspections for the following automotive dealers: toyota, honda, mitishibishi.

Reported in: ANONYMOUS TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. during the winter months, the vehicle became difficult to add fuel. the dealer has provided the contact with several options to avoid this problem which included turning the nozzle sideways and taking the nozzle out from time to time while adding fuel. the contact found that these techniques are difficult to perform. she also stated that the safety risk is higher since the limited amount of gas could cause the engine to shut off without warning. the current mileage was 9000 and the failure mileage was 320. updated 09/08/09 *bf updated 09/29/09.*jb

Reported in: MIDDLETON WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. when ever the contact wore polarized sunglasses the instrument panel displayed dim lighting. the manufacturer was notified and there has been no resolution. the contact is aware of the safety risk involved. the failure mileage was 2,000 and the current mileage was 7,400. updated 9/17/09 *cn updated 09/18/09.*jb

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. when ever the contact wore polarized sunglasses the instrument panel displayed dim lighting. the manufacturer was notified and there has been no resolution. the contact is aware of the safety risk involved. the failure mileage was 2,000 and the current mileage was 7,400. updated 9/17/09 *cn

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i own a toyota prius. on june 22, the fuel gauge started to act up. i took it to the dealership after having my car for almost 2 weeks they claimed it was fixed. they replaced almost everything to do with the fuel. i then took it back less than a month later with the same problem. they told me there was nothing they could do and just to never let my tank go below 1/4. to me, this is a danger. i never know how much gas is in my gas tank or when i may run out of gas. i then took it to another dealership and they explained to me this is a problem with the prius, yet toyota does nothing to fix this. every few days i have to stop and get gas because my gas gauge does not work properly. i am driving around an accident waiting to happen.

Reported in: NEW CASTLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

passenger side headlight goes off intermittently. i noticed it around may 2009, and reported it during my may pre-paid toyota scheduled maintenance., which was the last one for my plan. toyota said they found no problem. the incident is noted on my toyota paperwork.

Reported in: NORTH BEND WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U377

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i have noticed for some time now allot of toyota prius cars driving in dark conditions with no headlights on. the tail lights are on but no headlights. this would suggest to me that there is a manual headlight switch or else different parameters for the head and tail lights. as for the reason, i believe to conserve power on the electric batteries. if the driver is in control of the headlights this control should be taken away. it is rare in this day and age for a manual headlamp switch even on the most basic cars, so i believe toyota was fully aware of what they were doing and what the drivers were likely to do. but yet toyota made sure they were legally covered with the tail lights. after all if the driver hits a car or pedestrian its the drivers fault but if toyota prius cars suddenly start getting rear ended, its toyota's fault. if the headlamp is not in control of the driver why the difference in timing when they come on? i would suggest again to conserve power and make their cars go farther on electric power at the expense of public safety. i am writing this primarily from a pedestrian point of view because i am a runner and have had a couple of semi close calls because of the headlight issue and one closer call because they are so quiet.

Reported in: MICHIGAN MI || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was first in line at a red light. the light turned green. i accelerated aggressively in order to change lanes as i pulled away. when i was across the intersection i lifted my foot off the gas pedal and it continued to accelerate. shocked i depressed the brake, but it had no effect on the acceleration. there was nothing in front of me so i pulled to the right side of the road and hit the power button and the car stopped. i got out and immediately checked the mat. they were not near the gas pedal. i started the car again and it seemed fine. i took all side streets to get home and stayed away from all cars and people. i brought the car to toyota the following morning. they could not duplicate the event and said there was nothing wrong with the car. my car was a prius 2009 package #3 with 7500 miles on it. until that day, it drove perfectly and i was very happy with it. i won't drive the car again.

Reported in: CLARK NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

noxious fumes inside vehicle. smells like burning plastic / metal. fumes burn eyes and permeate clothing, cause light-headedness. dlr has tried 3x to repair, can not identify source. dlr's svc mgr confirms it is not a normal odor for this vehicle, agrees fumes give headache. mfr's tech dept claims it is normal, despite not having examined vehicle. (mfr is willing to send field svc tech in appx 1 month, will not provide loaner or otherwise accommodate me in the interim.) mfr suggested it is a personal health issue and that i "should consider if vehicle is right for me."

Reported in: CHANDLER AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

on our 2007 toyota prius the drivers headlight will go out shortly after turning it on i have replaced the bulbs with the same problem recurring currently trying to get toyota to resolve problem at no cost to me.

Reported in: ROUND LAKE IL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U873

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while applying pressure to the brake pedal at 10-15 mph, the vehicle forcefully surged forward. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. the technician was unable to duplicate the failure. the vehicle was taken to the authorized dealer on a separate occasion for the identical failure which there was no resolution. the failure mileage was 5,000. the current mileage was 10,000. the vehicle identification number was unavailable. updated 2/26/10 *cn the consumer stated the vehicle would surge at times upon starting the engine. it would also lurch while in park. the consumer stated there were 2 incidents where her foot was still on the brake and the vehicle accelerated which caused 2 minor accidents. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for electrical and brake work. however the vehicle continued to surge when started intermittently. updated 08/24/10*jb

Reported in: BONDURANT ID || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while making a turn at 25 mph, the vehicle accelerated without intention. after repeated brake application the vehicle would not stop. he struck a curb which damaged the front driver side tire. the vehicle has not been inspected. the current and failure mileages were 4000.

Reported in: ALEXANDRIA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlamp failure on 2006 hid toyota prius.

Reported in: PHOENIX AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U063

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

i have written toyota on several occasions and they have failed to respond. i own a 2009 prius. first,navigation system is very poor and sends you to wrong addresses. on aug 17,2009,the fuel gauge was at one bar and a red triangle came on dash and car started pulling and dragging. i pulled off of the road on the shoulder and tried to restart car. it started again and then it pulled and dragged and i got back on the shoulder. it would not move.i tried to place the vehicle in neutral but it would only stay in park. this created a dangerous problem especially not being able to move the car and then the tow truck had to make arrangements because car would not leave park. as i waited for 2 hours for the tow truck,the hazard warning lights i turned on and then they only would blink on the right side of the vehicle. this is very dangerous since it was my left side that was exposed to traffic. i was later told that the car ran out of gas. this does not explain the nonfunctional hazard light system,the vehicle being frozen in park and the pulling and dragging on the highway. was the gas gauge malfunctioning? i have written toyota many times and completed surveys explaining these concerns and they fail to acknowledge or respond. i think a safety issue is raised.

Reported in: CORPUS CHRISTI TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i have written toyota on several occasions and they have failed to respond. i own a 2009 prius. first,navigation system is very poor and sends you to wrong addresses. on aug 17,2009,the fuel gauge was at one bar and a red triangle came on dash and car started pulling and dragging. i pulled off of the road on the shoulder and tried to restart car. it started again and then it pulled and dragged and i got back on the shoulder. it would not move.i tried to place the vehicle in neutral but it would only stay in park. this created a dangerous problem especially not being able to move the car and then the tow truck had to make arrangements because car would not leave park. as i waited for 2 hours for the tow truck,the hazard warning lights i turned on and then they only would blink on the right side of the vehicle. this is very dangerous since it was my left side that was exposed to traffic. i was later told that the car ran out of gas. this does not explain the nonfunctional hazard light system,the vehicle being frozen in park and the pulling and dragging on the highway. was the gas gauge malfunctioning? i have written toyota many times and completed surveys explaining these concerns and they fail to acknowledge or respond. i think a safety issue is raised.

Reported in: CORPUS CHRISTI TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

hi. i have a 2009 prius that has had 5 separate episodes of accelerator sticking. since i bought the car 11-09. the last incident was oct 09. no floor mats in the car. it has only occurred when, at 55+ mph, i accelerate rapidly to pass another car. the accelerator felt like it had remained depressed with continued speed acceleration. this did not respond to pushing down on or pulling up on the accelerator, or to depression of the brake pedal. the episodes lasted less than 10 seconds and resolved spontaneously. i was unable to identify why the acceleration suddenly stopped, but when it finally did stop, the speedometer indicated over 70+ mph. i pushed continuously on the brake pedal to slow the car during the episodes, with only minimal slowing of the vehicle. i have not taken the car to the dealer yet, as everything in the media indicates that they deny any problems with the care and have had no explanation for the events except the car mats.

Reported in: FLAGSTAFF AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 55 mph on normal road conditions. the cruise control selector was activated. the driver's hand slightly hit the gear shifter in which the shifter moved out of gear. the contact had concern of the safety risk regarding the poor manufacturer design. immediately, the gear shifter was moved into the proper gear. the failure mileage was 7,000. the current mileage was 8,000.

Reported in: BAYFIELD WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while attempting to approach an intersection at 20 mph the vehicle would not decelerate. consequently the driver rear-ended another vehicle, which caused that vehicle to rear-end another vehicle. a police report was filed. there were no personal injuries. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and the front bumper was replaced. the failure mileage was 2,485. the current mileage was 5,023. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: LIVERPOOL NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

i purchased a new 2009 toyota prius hybrid (gas/electric) on march 31, 2009. the car worked great, but with only 490 miles on the odometer, i did a routine shut down of the car on may 20, 2009 which turned out to be anything but routine. during this event, i shut the car off using the procedure taught to me by the dealership salesman, which was the same procedure outlined in the user manual. however, at this shut down, a very dramatic power surge went through the system, jolting the engines in their motor mounts (i heard an extremely loud squeal when the engines, both gas and electric, jolted to a stop, which i assume was the motor mounts taking the force of the power surge), and moving the car violently forward stopping with the transmission lock and brake which i had set). this was a very unpleasant and un-natural event. following this event, the car did start and operate through its functions, but the driving characteristics changed dramatically. what had been a smooth operating synergy drive system was now slightly grabby both in acceleration and deceleration, and i experienced hard ¿clunk¿ shifts when driving. approximately every 15th gas engine shut down, the gas engine would ¿diesel¿ and have a disturbing long cycling shut down vibrating and jolting the car in an alarming fashion which is not safe. on june 2, 2009, i brought the car into my toyota dealer service department, was told the car "can't do that" and was told the computer showed nothing wrong. on july 8, 2009, i went to another toyota dealer service department, they said the car was rough, and tried to re-seat the engines in the mounts, which temporarily corrected the problem until a major gas engine jolting shut down occurred again. i took it in again on 24 september, 2009, and asked to have the engine mounts replaced. they tried to reseat the engines again, with no success, and the random jolting gas shutdowns on the hybrid system continue, which are a safety hazard during operation.

Reported in: VIENNA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

i purchased a new 2009 toyota prius hybrid (gas/electric) on march 31, 2009. the car worked great, but with only 490 miles on the odometer, i did a routine shut down of the car on may 20, 2009 which turned out to be anything but routine. during this event, i shut the car off using the procedure taught to me by the dealership salesman, which was the same procedure outlined in the user manual. however, at this shut down, a very dramatic power surge went through the system, jolting the engines in their motor mounts (i heard an extremely loud squeal when the engines, both gas and electric, jolted to a stop, which i assume was the motor mounts taking the force of the power surge), and moving the car violently forward stopping with the transmission lock and brake which i had set). this was a very unpleasant and un-natural event. following this event, the car did start and operate through its functions, but the driving characteristics changed dramatically. what had been a smooth operating synergy drive system was now slightly grabby both in acceleration and deceleration, and i experienced hard ¿clunk¿ shifts when driving. approximately every 15th gas engine shut down, the gas engine would ¿diesel¿ and have a disturbing long cycling shut down vibrating and jolting the car in an alarming fashion which is not safe. on june 2, 2009, i brought the car into my toyota dealer service department, was told the car "can't do that" and was told the computer showed nothing wrong. on july 8, 2009, i went to another toyota dealer service department, they said the car was rough, and tried to re-seat the engines in the mounts, which temporarily corrected the problem until a major gas engine jolting shut down occurred again. i took it in again on 24 september, 2009, and asked to have the engine mounts replaced. they tried to reseat the engines again, with no success, and the random jolting gas shutdowns on the hybrid system continue, which are a safety hazard during operation.

Reported in: VIENNA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

on dec 11, 2009, i was driving down a street in cambridge, ma (i had a coworker in the car) and we were in stop and go traffic at a stop light. the car in front of me crawled up to approach the light after several cars had gone through-then stopped @ the red light. i proceeded to do the same. when i applied my brakes to stop there was no response, so i pressed down harder-still no response. i then began to pump my brakes to avoid the accident but there was still no response from the braking system. if the braking system had not failed i would have more than enough response time and distance to stop but my car kept @ a steady speed and ended up rear ending the car in front of me. no one was injured but there was minor damage to the car in front of me and $1800 damage to my car. i've had other instance where i've hit potholes in the past while slowing down- and the brake system would stop momentarily from working. i work in the boston area- where i'm constantly in stop and go traffic. i've experienced 2 previous times slight brake delay-which i've compensated for and give myself more room between my car and the car in front of me. in addition there was one instance 4months ago where i was coming to a stop- and i heard one of the motors (i'm assuming the electric b/c it charges as you stop) rev up and my car jilted forward- as if i had stepped on the gas but i had my foot on the brake the whole time. that was the only instance of that. i've had my car since april 2009 and when the two instances of brake delay occurred, i had the toyota service center check my brakes and they came back stating they were fine. after the accident i did report the failure to toyota and have yet to hear from them about it. i would like to note that there are several sites online with customers complaining about brake failing/delaying at speeds less than 20mph.

Reported in: WORCESTER MA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2009 prius purchased may 15, 2009 has 4,675 miles on it. acceleration/surging forward or not properly accelerating at other times. i do not have the floor mats mentioned in the recent recall. i am concerned about other possible issues with sudden engine acceleration and problems controlling vehicle . have taken car to dealer several times and they told me it is "bad gas" or my driving habits. called toyota and they told me to take car to dealer for them to try and repair it. dealer still claims they cannot "replicate the problem" therefore there is no problem. car mileage now down to less than 17 mpg. lacks heat or heat does not properly function. have had 5 instances of surge /acceleration "incidents. some when going up hill and had trouble gaining power then when i put foot on brake it suddenly lurched forward rapidly;maybe to 60 or more mile per hour at an exit ramp. had to keep braking in order to stop. other times only leaving driveway..went from reverse to drive and car hesitated then "surged" forward rapidly before i was able to brake approximately 20 ft ahead. this had happened three times like this & twice when going up hills where i lost power and then the car suddenly surged forward and i had trouble stopping it. very frightening, especially when dealer tells me nothing is wrong with my car and won't do anything about it..even when i have contacted them numerous times and have driven there to speak with them about this. something is wrong with this car. now the mileage has dropped right off to 17 mpgs. what is going ?

Reported in: ITHACA NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

fuel bladder seems to have collapsed. when i am showing 1/4 tank left i can only put 6 gallons in the tank.

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

november of 2008 i bought a 2009 toyota prius. since then i have experienced 4 incidents where the accelerator became partially depressed causing an unprovoked acceleration, the most recent being on sunday, january 24, 2010. i contacted the toyota dealership where i bought my car the very next day (1/25/10) and reported all 4 incidents. i was told by the toyota representative that there was nothing that they could do. i was given an 800 number to call to report my concerns. i received an automated reply telling me to call back at another time. i have been calling back but to no avail. i live in the high desert where it sometimes snows and the highway can get icy during the winter. i fear for my safety and the safety of other motorists if i continue to drive my prius due to the unpredictability of the accelerator sticking. i am retired and live on a modest income and cannot afford to pay for the repair of the accelerator problem. in the incidents that i have described the sticking of the accelerator was not caused by the floor mat or any other accessories.

Reported in: MORONGO VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 45 mph on normal road conditions when the "engine" warning light indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. there were numerous failures with various components within the vehicle. the consumption mpg screen on the instrument panel displayed inaccurate information. the engine exhibited a reduction of engine power. when depressing the accelerator pedal an excessive decrease in acceleration occurred. the fm and am radio selector failed to function properly. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostic testing on two separate occasions. the technician was unable to duplicate the failures. there were no resolutions. the vehicle has not been repaired for the malfunctions. the failure mileage was 2,000. the vin was rejected and will be updated upon receipt of the safety complaint form.

Reported in: DAVIE FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 45 mph on normal road conditions when the "engine" warning light indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. there were numerous failures with various components within the vehicle. the consumption mpg screen on the instrument panel displayed inaccurate information. the engine exhibited a reduction of engine power. when depressing the accelerator pedal an excessive decrease in acceleration occurred. the fm and am radio selector failed to function properly. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostic testing on two separate occasions. the technician was unable to duplicate the failures. there were no resolutions. the vehicle has not been repaired for the malfunctions. the failure mileage was 2,000. the vin was rejected and will be updated upon receipt of the safety complaint form.

Reported in: DAVIE FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 45 mph on normal road conditions when the "engine" warning light indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. there were numerous failures with various components within the vehicle. the consumption mpg screen on the instrument panel displayed inaccurate information. the engine exhibited a reduction of engine power. when depressing the accelerator pedal an excessive decrease in acceleration occurred. the fm and am radio selector failed to function properly. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostic testing on two separate occasions. the technician was unable to duplicate the failures. there were no resolutions. the vehicle has not been repaired for the malfunctions. the failure mileage was 2,000. the vin was rejected and will be updated upon receipt of the safety complaint form.

Reported in: DAVIE FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

toyota prius yr/mdl 2009/1224 a i have attempted to have the following checked with toyota of hickory where i purchased the prius and was told that i needed to allow the battery to heat up before trying to place it into reverse or drive. my prius will go into n, it will lock all doors and windows and not go into gear or start. i have been locked in the car during this past summer without air and i attempted several times to cut the car on and off before it would go into gear. this is very horrific to say the least. i was at lake norman toyota yesterday and was told this was a common complaint. yet no one offered to take this car in and check for problems. from the day i drove off the lot until now this hybrid gas/elec sedan has given me nothing but trouble. *tw

Reported in: MOORESVILLE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated she was pulling into a parking space and the vehicle accelerated into a parking ramp and damaged the bumper of her vehicle.there were no injuries. vehicle was driven to the dealer and they could not duplicate the problem they told contact if the failure happen again to bring the vehicle back to the dealer. the failure mileage 5,000 the current mileage is 13,000.

Reported in: BONDURANT IA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

while crossing a small bridge over an expressway, applying brakes at the point of bumpy transition caused the vehicle to lurch forward for approximately one second. this caused a sudden panic, but no other effects. this is the second occurrence at the exact same bridge transition and bump over the course of 8 months. there are no recognizable side effects. this has not been reported to the dealer, nor to the company.

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while crossing a small bridge over an expressway, applying brakes at the point of bumpy transition caused the vehicle to lurch forward for approximately one second. this caused a sudden panic, but no other effects. this is the second occurrence at the exact same bridge transition and bump over the course of 8 months. there are no recognizable side effects. this has not been reported to the dealer, nor to the company.

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

while crossing a small bridge over an expressway, applying brakes at the point of bumpy transition caused the vehicle to lurch forward for approximately one second. this caused a sudden panic, but no other effects. this is the second occurrence at the exact same bridge transition and bump over the course of 8 months. there are no recognizable side effects. this has not been reported to the dealer, nor to the company.

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i recently read the following article http://money.cnn.com/2010/02/03/autos/prius_complaints/index.htm and would like to report that this problem occurs in my 2009 prius. i have had it since 4/09 and it occurs consistently when i am exiting my workplace. i descend a fairly steep paved road and when i hit a specific bump in the pavement, my car accelerates for a split second. this is a regularly repeatable occurrence.

Reported in: DURANGO CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i recently read the following article http://money.cnn.com/2010/02/03/autos/prius_complaints/index.htm and would like to report that this problem occurs in my 2009 prius. i have had it since 4/09 and it occurs consistently when i am exiting my workplace. i descend a fairly steep paved road and when i hit a specific bump in the pavement, my car accelerates for a split second. this is a regularly repeatable occurrence.

Reported in: DURANGO CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving the vehicle at approx 10 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated as the driver's foot was on the brake trying to slow down. the vehicle in front was rear ended but the vehicle still did not stop accelerating so the driver swerved and hit a sign. there were no injuries reported at the scene, but after 3 people in the other vehicle reported injuries. a police report was taken at the scene. the contact took the vehicle to the dealership after the body repairs were done and the dealer inspected the vehicle. he was informed that they could find nothing wrong with the vehicle. he called the manufacturer and reported the problem. he was still awaiting a response at the time of the complaint. the current mileage was approximately 14,000. the failure mileage was approximately 5,000. updated 03/12/10. *lj updated 09/30/10

Reported in: FOUNTAIN VALLEY CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

at all speeds below 15mph, the prius' electrical braking system "pulses" the brakes resulting in a deceleration that is not smooth. the effect is similar to that you might expect as the transmission downshifts. but...the transmission effect can be eliminated since the brake pulsing effect remains after the vehicle's transmission was placed in neutral and the brakes were applied. the local albuquerque prius dealership indicated this pulsing is "normal" for the prius. on slippery pavement, this effect could be deadly. the braking should be smooth throughout the braking cycle. it is not. disregard date - this is an ongoing problem.

Reported in: ALBUQUERQUE NM || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have a 2009 toyota prius, and the brakes do not always engage. there have been several instances where i felt that the car would not stop, one time i even engaged the emergency brake to stop it from going into my garage wall. i have had it into my dealer about 4 times, and each time they haven't found any problem and that "it is just the way the car works" .

Reported in: BEAVERTON OR || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

driving car on los angeles freeway during a gentle rain. i was going slow and a car cut in front of me and when i went to brake, the car began to accelerate. took car to hamer toyota in mission hills and they tested the car and said the brakes were fine. today's headlines that i am not the only person that is experiencing this problem makes me all the more concerned.

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

2009 prius brake failure in less than 1" snow covered road. car slid to stop with no brake control. pedestrian in road uninjured because they moved out of car path!! second time no brake control in snow. car had been recently inspected with no brake findings. will no longer drive car in snow until remedied.

Reported in: COLD SPRING HARBOR NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

brigham physician killed in car crash top internist was loved by patients, hospital's staff she was a mother, wife, doctor, and supervisor. globe staff / april 23, 2009 email| print| single page| yahoo! buzz| sharethistext size ¿ + the popular medical director of a major physicians' group at brigham and women's hospital died tuesday after she was involved in a head-on car crash near her home in needham. police and relatives said it appeared that an internist who for the past 27 years served as medical director of brigham internal medicine associates, crossed into oncoming traffic shortly before 6 p.m. as she was driving home from work in her 2007 toyota prius on greendale avenue. the 60-year-old relatively small hybrid car collided with a toyota sequoia. the woman who was driving the sport utility vehicle and her two passengers suffered injuries that were not life-threatening, police said. their names were not released. investigators said it does not appear that speed or alcohol played a role in the crash, but police said they are investigating whether she was using her blackberry at the time. the speed limit on the road is 40 miles per hour. they also said it does not appear that she was wearing a seat belt. the three in the sequoia were wearing seat belts.

Reported in: CCCCCC MA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

acceleration of 2009 prius when braking and hit a pothole.

Reported in: ITHACA NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

my company provides for me a 2009 toyota prius and it has been my primary vehicle for the past 36,000 miles. i've noticed braking issues ever since i got it brand new at the dealership. the brakes normally work exceptionally well. this car stops extremely well under normal conditions. however, if while braking, i hit any type of bump or hole or any rumble strips or anything like that, the car feels like the brakes just go away. sometimes it even feels like the car begins to accelerate for a brief moment! again, this only happens if i hit a pothole, bump, etc. it happens enough that i've thought of setting up an experiment of running over a whole row of rumble strips just to see if the car would stop at all. it's almost like the car won't begin to stop until it's on smooth pavement again after the bumpy part. it's unfortunate because under normal conditions the prius has excellent stopping power, in my opinion. anyway, that's about it. i can't explain it much better than that.

Reported in: VIRGINIA BEACH VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

waiting for my husband at his mother's assisted living residence, i put my 2009 prius in park mode. deciding to return to the bldg entrance, i put the car in reverse (out of parking mode) and let it go at its own speed. my foot never touched the accelerator. i was about to turn the wheel to reenter the entrance area, when the car started to accelerate. i quickly put my foot on the brake but the brakes didn¿t work. i then saw a woman in the rear view mirror, about a foot from me standing on the curb in front of the bldg's glass faÇade. i turned the wheel just missing her as well as the bldg. frantically pressing the brakes while the car continued accelerating more, i almost went on to a busy st. across from a mall. somehow i saved myself & others by turning the steering wheel to the rt, reentering the property via a curb cut for wheelchairs, etc. i missed hitting a pole but ran over 2 trees, which the car severed & which abruptly stopped the car, just before hitting a brick wall. this all happened at night, in the dark, in reverse.the policeman & the tow truck operator were incredulous how the car got into that space. it was towed to a nearby toyota dealer, where the brakes were pronounced "perfect". so my husband insisted i be checked out. while relating the incident to the doctor, the dr. googled "prius brake/acceleration problems" & found many & printed 1 of a 2009 prius where the driver encountered 3 such occurrences "due to a combination of mysterious acceleration and loss of brakes". the dr. was certain i was the ¿victim", but suggested i have an mri "to be sure"--which i did & i'm fine. that i was in control in a totally uncontrollable situation at night with a car in reverse, where i almost killed someone & possibly killed or hurt others, including myself, and done considerable damage along the way is a miracle and the culprit, i'm convinced, is/was a "glitch" in the car's computer.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC DC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i have a 2009 toyota prius hybrid . occasionally when i step on the brake the car does not stop immediately even at slow speeds when braking. i now hit the brakes about 10 feet before a stop sign or light, so i wont go into the oncoming lane. i have not taken it in to get looked at yet.

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

any time the "slippery condition" light comes on (for instance, when going over a pothole or a patch of water on the road), my 2009 prius jumps forward. i told the dealership about this in the fall and was told that the car was working properly. now, it appears that there are others with 2010 priuses with the same problem, but mine is a 2009. i have a young daughter and i won't put her in this car anymore because it's winter now and it happens on slippery roads nearly every time i drive.

Reported in: BERKELEY SPRINGS WV || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i purchased a 2009 toyota prius in april 2009. on at least four separate occasions i have had issues of my vehicle surging forward or being hard to stop after driving over a potholeand when driving on a washboard roads (1 time on the pot hole the other times were while on the dirt road). i just figured the vehicle didn't handle well dirt roads and pot holes so i am just extra careful in those conditions which is why i did not think to report this until now when i heard the report on brake issues with the prius. i do not know if my problem is significant of not, i thought i would report it just in case. i do not have approximate dates, just between april and september 2009.

Reported in: BILLINGS MT || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that in slippery weather, when he depressed the brake pedal, he did not notice an immediate response in the braking system. it seemed to "lag" so he would continue pressing down until it kicked in. he noticed the issue everytime it was raining or there was slippery weather. he took the vehicle to the dealership but the dealer could find nothing wrong with the vehicle. he had not called the manufacturer to-date. the vehicle had not been repaired at the time of the complaint. the current mileage was 11,248. the failure mileage was approximately 50.

Reported in: PORT WASHINGTON NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

my 2009 model toyota prius is having similar braking problems being reported on 2010 model prius. car loses braking power when driving over uneven surfaces.

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated while driving at 45 mph he had to brake hard and fast. the vehicle slowed down but crashed into a truck. the contact stated the vehicle was totaled. updated 04/28/10.*jb the consumer stated he never felt the abs activate. updated 02/24/10.*jb updated 3/8/10 *cn the consumer stated he did not hear the anti-lock system sound or feel the usual brake pedal vibration. the vehicle slowed initially, then deceleration began with no lock up of tires and no apparent anti-lock system engagement. the accident was due to the vehicles failure to stop as expected. updated 05/11/10. *jb

Reported in: TRUMANSBURG NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

prius braking failure. i have experienced several instances (four or five) of a braking failure on my 2009, second generation toyota prius. it has occurred during relatively slow speed braking, such as approaching a stop sign, coincident with hitting a severe bump, such as a pot hole or crossing rough railroad tracks. there appears to be a surge where the brakes are ineffective for a short period of time---less than a second. i describe it as a surge but it may well be just a total release of the brakes. it seems to be most severe the greater the bump. i have only experienced this at speeds less than 30 mph or so. there has been no loss of control of the vehicle. normal braking returns immediately. i have owned the vehicle since november, 2008. this problem was reported to my dealer who suggested that it was normal anti-lock braking action and expressed little interest in trying to determine the cause. i've been driving for over 50 years and at least 10 years with anti-lock brakes and have never felt this type of action from any other vehicle.

Reported in: TOPSHAM ME || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i own a 2009 toyota prius and notice a delay in braking specially over bumpy roads or ice, also at higher speeds. when you apply the brake the vsc light comes on in the dashboard and the car travels freely for a couple of meters sometimes even accelerating a bit before the brakes actually engage. this is observed very often.

Reported in: WESTBURY NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while the contact was driving 50 mph he attempted to stop the vehicle and noticed that the brakes were taking longer than usual to stop the vehicle. the contact also noticed that the vehicle lunged forward before coming to a complete stop. the vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer who stated that the failure could not be reproduced. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 9500.

Reported in: COLUMBIA MO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

toyota prius - are you guys paying attention to this?

Reported in: BENONI 00 || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i noticed on my toyota prius 2009 takes about a second or two to actually brake. i noticed that even when i start braking slightly the car does slow down but i have to press harder (more than half way in) for the car to respond on braking.

Reported in: LONG BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i noticed on my toyota prius 2009 takes about a second or two to actually brake. i noticed that even when i start braking slightly the car does slow down but i have to press harder (more than half way in) for the car to respond on braking.

Reported in: LONG BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

in may 2009 i purchased a 2009 toyota prius my prius has had similar braking problems as those described as affecting the 2010 prius models. in august 2009 i brought my prius in to the toyota service department because i had experienced a significant lag in braking (more than 1 second) while slowing to a stop. since then i have experienced the same problem on several other occasions. unlike the first time i experienced the problem, the recent occurrences have happened when i was trying to brake and hit a small pothole and when braking and hit a lane divider. although the media reports do not indicate that this problem affects prius models other than the new 2010 models sold prior to january 2010 i would like toyota and the nhtsa to be aware of the fact that my 2009 prius is having similar problems.

Reported in: RANCHO CORDOVA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

continual problem whenever we try to brake, the car will begin to accelerate. this problem has been apparent since we purchased the car and each time we mention it at the servicing, we are told the brakes are working fine.

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius also suffers from temporary loss of braking after hitting potholes or other rough road surface. this problem has existed since the car was new. this is an ongoing problem.

Reported in: LEXINGTON KY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

on my 2009 toyota prius, i consistently experience braking difficulties on rough or uneven surfaces. if i am pressing on the brake and pass thru a hole or hump in the road, the car flashes the stability control warning lights and i have no brakes what-so-ever for what feels like a few seconds. if i release the brake and press down again, i then have brake control back. i reported this to my dealership several times in the past year and continue to receive the same response 'that is the way the brakes are on the prius.'

Reported in: BUSHKILL PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

on the morning of june 9, 2009 i was traveling south on i-93 near the town of medford, ma. i was on my way to logan airport to return the 2009 toyota prius i had rented that previous wednesday. it was approximately 9:30 am; the freeway was still bumper-to-bumper with rush hour traffic. i was in the left-hand lane of the highway and traffic was stop and go. a gap opened up in traffic and i accelerated. the car in front of me (approximately 60¿) suddenly stopped. i slammed on the brakes but my car kept going. there was nothing i could do as my car plowed into the car in front of me, at the speed of approximately 10 mph. the impact was sufficient to dislodge my front license plate. there was no apparent damage to the car in front of me, however the two passengers were extremely shaken up. there was a massachusetts state trooper on the scene who took all the information but did not file a report. as soon as i could, at about 11:00 am, i called my insurance company, usaa to report the accident, and i explained all of the details to them.

Reported in: EUGENE OR || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

braking over uneven road surface such as manholes, railroad crossings and broken pavement, the car's rate of deceleration is briefly halted (giving a sensation of acceleration).

Reported in: CHARLOTTE NC || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i am experiencing momentary loss of braking capability while driving over an uneven road surface, pothole or bump. this happens frequently in my car. sometimes even on a stop sign and making a right turn into a state high way it feels like jumping off with no control of the car.

Reported in: SHREWSBURY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i purchased a 2009 toyota prius from dunning toyota in ann arbor, michigan in october 2008. unfortunately i, as well, have absolutely experienced sudden brake loss when hitting my brakes "hard and suddenly". it feels like you are sliding on ice and the vehicle is "locked" - you have no control. as others have stated recently, this suddenly locked brake loss occurs for approximately a second to second and a half. this has occurred to me 4 or 5 times in the past year. i didn't think too much about it until the news reports, and my wife indicated that it too has occurred to her 3 times in the past year. i noticed that when it does occur that if i take my foot off the brake and then slowly depress down i regain my brakes again. although the service has been good through the dealership, i had to be honest in filing this complaint for myself and the publics safety.

Reported in: SOUTH LYON MI || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

2009 toyota prius hit pothole and car lurches forward. brake light comes on for a second.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i drive a leased 2009 prius. this is my family's first hybrid vehicle. enroute home after work each weekday (a drive totalling 5 miles), i drive down a typical los angeles main street, that has numerous potholes. if braking when riding over the potholes, the car surges forward for a second, and seems uncontrollable. because it has done this since our lease of the prius (we got it last march, new), i attributed it to my needing to get used to the difference between a hybrid and the 2008 camry we own, and try to refrain from braking over potholes when possible. now that i know this is a defect, i am concerned about continuing to drive either car with my 3 year old in it..... please expand the research on toyota's braking system for prius beyond 2010 models.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

the braking problem that has been reported in the 2010 prius is not limited to that model year. i have a 2009 (2nd generation) prius and i have at times experienced the same slight braking problem when going over a bump or a railroad track.

Reported in: BATON ROUGE LA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

in march 2009, we purchased a toyota prius at the toyota of northwest arkansas toyota dealership of rogers, ar. on july 29, 2009, i pulled up to the curb to park at a strip mall. upon applying the brake, the car lunged forward. i turned right on the sidewalk and the right side of the car ran into a post/upright that holds up the roof over the sidewalk, damaging the right side of the car (both doors, etc) and the post/upright. the cost to repair the car and the post/upright was approximately $5,300. there were no personal injuries (thank heavens no one was on the sidewalk). the police were called and the policeman said it was a non-reportable accident since it did not occur on a street and no personal injuries were involved. we saw press releases concerning floor mat problems and removed the floor mat. we also stopped at the dealership to inquire if there was something more we should do and were given a telephone number to call. the person we spoke with assured us that the problems did not pertain to the 2009 car we have. however, with the washington post saying "toyota said it had corrected problems with the antilock brake system in prius models sold since late last month. but the company was still deciding what steps to take to fix the problem in prius cars sold . . . . before late january. our question: what is the best course of action for us?

Reported in: BELLA VISTA AR || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i purchased a 2009 toyota prius from my local dealer and have had the brakes do the same skipping as the 2010 model. when brought to the local dealers attention they stated that is the way the brakes work in anti lock mode. this has happened several times to her and just recently to me at night. so far there has been no accidents but i am concerned that it is only a matter of time. thank you.

Reported in: JANESVILLE WI || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i own a 2009 prius, purchased april 2009. i have more than once, if braking in a section of bumpy road or on slick surfaces (such as in snow or ice), experienced the car jerking forward/accelerating for a split second. it almost seems to stutter as if the abs brakes are engaging, but doesn't feel like they are working. i thought it was my inexperience with the braking system and computer software in the prius, but i am realizing now that it could possibly be a potential safety issue for me.

Reported in: CHELMSFORD MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

my 2009 prius, which i leased in november of 2008, has had brake problems since the day i drove it home. occasionally the brake will catch (when applied), then release, then catch again. i've reported it to toyota 3 times and told each time by the service dept that they can't find anything. it happened as recently as 3 weeks ago, while traveling 70 mph on a highway in arizona in 22 degree weather. it was a little scary to say the least. i can't get toyota to respond to my inquiry - and haven't driven the car since.

Reported in: BEVERLY HILLS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that whenever the brake pedal was engaged while decreasing the speed driven, the vehicle lunged forward and accelerated. the dealer advised the contact that when the electrical engine switched to the gasoline engine it was normal for the vehicle to lunge forward. the contact stated that the malfunction occurs frequently when the brake pedal was engaged. the dealer has not diagnosed the failure. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 26,500.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

the brakes on my 2009 prius are dangerous. when i go over a bump or rough part in the road, i can feel the pedal roll under my foot and it feels like i momentarily lose control of the brakes.

Reported in: NATCHITOCHES LA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i bought a 2009 toyota prius in march 2009. on several occasions, while braking over rough roadways, the brakes have seemed to skip (and the abs dashboard light comes on). my wife has also experienced the same issue several times. while we initially thought it was due to the road conditions, after the announcements regarding the brake issue with the 2010 model, i had to report that this issue is also present in my 2009 model.

Reported in: NORTH QUINCY MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

when braking on rough road, like when you hit a small pothole, our 2009 toyota prius handles improperly. the "slip indicator" light flashes. it briefly feels like there is a loss of control.

Reported in: HONOLULU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

when braking on rough road, like when you hit a small pothole, our 2009 toyota prius handles improperly. the "slip indicator" light flashes. it briefly feels like there is a loss of control.

Reported in: HONOLULU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i own a 2009 prius and anytime that i apply the brakes and hit a pothole or any raised object on the roadway the vehicle skids or accelerates forward. the prius was purchased in february of 2009. this failure occurs everytime i hit a pothole, manhole cover or any raised object in the road while braking. when the failure occurs the yellow skid warning light in the dashboard illuminates. i have no control over the automobile while this failure is occurring.

Reported in: SEEKONK MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

my 2009 prius consistently experiences locking brakes when small bumps are hit. i can recreate this issue consistently on specific roads.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

applying light to moderate pressure on the braking pedal of my 2009 prius while simultaneously going over a pothole at low to moderate speed (such as in traffic) causes the braking system to release and the car will fail to stop. removing pressure from the pedal and reapplying pressure to the brake pedal usually regains braking function but causes a few seconds of lost braking. this is easily repeatable and frequently occurs in the same spots on a daily commute for the past year i have owned this car. on two occasions soon after purchasing the car in october 2008 i was still unfamiliar with this braking "quirk" and rear ended two separate cars on different occasions. there was minor damage to both bumpers of the vehicles. both occasions were in heavy traffic traveling under 10 miles per hour, attempting to brake with unwittingly hitting a pothole at the same moment.

Reported in: SHIRLEY MA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

applying light to moderate pressure on the braking pedal of my 2009 prius while simultaneously going over a pothole at low to moderate speed (such as in traffic) causes the braking system to release and the car will fail to stop. removing pressure from the pedal and reapplying pressure to the brake pedal usually regains braking function but causes a few seconds of lost braking. this is easily repeatable and frequently occurs in the same spots on a daily commute for the past year i have owned this car. on two occasions soon after purchasing the car in october 2008 i was still unfamiliar with this braking "quirk" and rear ended two separate cars on different occasions. there was minor damage to both bumpers of the vehicles. both occasions were in heavy traffic traveling under 10 miles per hour, attempting to brake with unwittingly hitting a pothole at the same moment.

Reported in: SHIRLEY MA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

the problem is that our 2009 prius at times seems to accelerate momentarily when the brakes are applied. my wife and i drove this car for eleven months and didn't realize we had a problem until i had to drive the car during the start of the snow storm with 2" of snow. i was going down a hill that i have driven on in different cars a number of times in the snow. with the prius, everytime i applied brakes to keep the car at slow speed , it seemed to accelerate a bit before the brakes would work, thereby causing the rear of the car to slide sideways. the loss of control was of great concern to me (i had my wife and granddaughter in the car). so i inched down the hill. a considerable number of cars backed up behind our car. since then i have noticed the momentary acceleration before breaking on a number of occasions in dry weather as well.. today, i took the car into newark toyota world in delaware and explained the problem to them, including the service manager. they drove the car and said they ran the diagnostics but couldn't find the problem. i am sorry but, to me, that's not satisfactory because neither my wife nor i trust this car in inclement weather. someone should look into this problem before something serious happens. *jb

Reported in: AVONDALE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

the problem is that our 2009 prius at times seems to accelerate momentarily when the brakes are applied. my wife and i drove this car for eleven months and didn't realize we had a problem until i had to drive the car during the start of the snow storm with 2" of snow. i was going down a hill that i have driven on in different cars a number of times in the snow. with the prius, everytime i applied brakes to keep the car at slow speed , it seemed to accelerate a bit before the brakes would work, thereby causing the rear of the car to slide sideways. the loss of control was of great concern to me (i had my wife and granddaughter in the car). so i inched down the hill. a considerable number of cars backed up behind our car. since then i have noticed the momentary acceleration before breaking on a number of occasions in dry weather as well.. today, i took the car into newark toyota world in delaware and explained the problem to them, including the service manager. they drove the car and said they ran the diagnostics but couldn't find the problem. i am sorry but, to me, that's not satisfactory because neither my wife nor i trust this car in inclement weather. someone should look into this problem before something serious happens. *jb

Reported in: AVONDALE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

my 2009 pruis had a braking problem i took it back to dealer i told them i thought it was a software problem and it caused my car to spin out on a wet road it is fixed now and has not done it again. *jb

Reported in: STONE MOUNTAIN GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

my 2009 pruis had a braking problem i took it back to dealer i told them i thought it was a software problem and it caused my car to spin out on a wet road it is fixed now and has not done it again. *jb

Reported in: STONE MOUNTAIN GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i own a 2009 toyota prius and am experiencing the same problem with braking that the 2010 prius' are having. when braking on an uneven or bumpy surface, it seems like there is a momentary pause or hesitation. *jb

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

i own a 2009 toyota prius and am experiencing the same problem with braking that the 2010 prius' are having. when braking on an uneven or bumpy surface, it seems like there is a momentary pause or hesitation. *jb

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

2009 prius - i've had what felt like the car was recovering from a skid but there was no skid. during this time i sometimes see the skid warning light on and hear one wheel spinning fast. it occurs very rarely but when it does occur the road is wet or bumpy. an easy way to see this problem is to drive down the fdr north of the triboro bridge. if you want a test track of bumps this is it. it has occurred randomly since i got the car. a friend with a 2004 prius reports the same problem. i guess we just thought it was something the prius did. i haven't thought of it as a safety problem. *jb

Reported in: MAHWAH NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have read about the brake issues with the gen 3 2010 toyota prius. my gen 2 2009 prius has the exact same issues with brakes releasing after driving over a pothole. i can demonstrate this issue to anyone at will any day of the week. it is quite easy to reproduce. there is a pothole near my work that i drive over often and there is a traffic light shortly after the pothole. if the light changes and the car in front of me brakes for the light, i have come very close to crashing into the car in front of me several times. i have learned to leave an extra amount of space between me and the car in front to allow for this situation. but that only works for potholes that i know are there. a new or unknown pothole is still a danger. this really needs to be fixed as i said, i can demonstrate this issue at will to anyone who doesn't believe it. *jb

Reported in: HUDSON NH || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SUSPENSION

purchased a 2009 toyota prius. after a week, i started to notice serious issues in keeping the vehicle tracking straight, especially at highway speeds. brought vehicle to dealer twice and was told there was no issue. decided to bring vehicle to another toyota dealer and was told that alignment was definitely off. issue was fixed, but has come back. *jb

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius - delayed braking has been experienced several times. seems to be related to hard braking. it only last about a second but is very unlike any other car i have driven. i had passed it off as just something weird but then i heard others describe it on the tv and i said that happened to me too!" as a safety engineer in the aerospace industry, it does seem to be related to the delay from switching from regular braking to hydraulic braking...sometimes it seems to switch in a weird way. *jb

Reported in: SOUTH WINDSOR CT || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 20 mph and engaging the brake pedal and making contact with a pothole the vehicle would accelerate. the dealer has not diagnosed the failure and it continues to occur. the failure mileage was 16,000.

Reported in: LUTZ FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i own a 2009 toyota prius and i have experienced the same issue as the reported 2010 brakes. when i drive over pot holes or street covers, my vehicle feels like it's out of control. what is the difference between the braking system in the 2010 with the 2009 models?

Reported in: MIDLAND PARK NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i have a 2009 prius, purchased in march 2009. several times my brakes have stopped working on rough surfaces and the surged forward. each time i was attempting to stop for a traffic light. i would brake, the brakes would work, and then i would hit a rough patch in the road, the brakes would stop working, and the car would surge forward. the most recent incident was in january of this year. each time i was able to stop the car by letting up on the brakes and then braking again. luckily i have never had a car in front of me when this happened. one time though i almost went into the intersection before being able to stop.

Reported in: ST. LOUIS MO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

the unintended speeding also happens on 2009 toyota prius when driving on a bumpy road, this happens every time when i hit a pot hole on one tire, car pulls to the opposite side at an increased speed and brake seems too slow to react.

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius. strange behavior of antilock brakes/traction control system when hitting a single pothole or small patch of ice on otherwise clear road surface. vehicle significantly dampens brake response and does not recognize that the tires are now on a good contact surface and continues to be in tc mode for excessive time period. only way to assure you will stop within reasonable distance is to lift up on brake pedal and redepress (now out of tc mode car will stop quickly). this problem presents itself regularly when road conditions are right. the problem is the most noticeable at moderately low speeds i would estimate 5-25 mph but likely occurs at higher speeds which is less noticeable. it seems to be a factor of distance or the fact that the car does not realize the wheel is getting traction again.

Reported in: MILWAUKEE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

2009 toyota prius. strange behavior of antilock brakes/traction control system when hitting a single pothole or small patch of ice on otherwise clear road surface. vehicle significantly dampens brake response and does not recognize that the tires are now on a good contact surface and continues to be in tc mode for excessive time period. only way to assure you will stop within reasonable distance is to lift up on brake pedal and redepress (now out of tc mode car will stop quickly). this problem presents itself regularly when road conditions are right. the problem is the most noticeable at moderately low speeds i would estimate 5-25 mph but likely occurs at higher speeds which is less noticeable. it seems to be a factor of distance or the fact that the car does not realize the wheel is getting traction again.

Reported in: MILWAUKEE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was positioned in the vehicle without the engine turned off when there was forceful pressure applied to the accelerator pedal, followed by the sticking of the pedal; however, the accelerator pedal released within a few seconds. whenever the vehicle was in operation the driver applied partial force to the accelerator pedal to avoid the pedal sticking. the authorized dealer was been notified of the malfunction. the failure mileage was unknown.

Reported in: WICHITA KS || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

2009 prius displays erratic braking behavior when brakes are applied on irregular surfaces...rr tracks, gravel etc.

Reported in: HENDERSONVILLE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

2009 prius displays erratic braking behavior when brakes are applied on irregular surfaces...rr tracks, gravel etc.

Reported in: HENDERSONVILLE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i have a 2009 toyota prius. the problem i describe has been happening since i first purchased the car, it is not a new problem. occasionally, when i step on the brake to slow down when approaching a stop sign, stopped car or red light, the car does not stop immediately it seems to be delayed in it's response and then i have to step down harder on the break to make it stop and then it becomes a "hard" stop. this happens usually at slow speeds. 20-55mph. i've notice this problem occurs many times during the week, today i already experienced it once and i am becoming afraid to drive this car. i never know when the problem will occur, there is no forewarning. i have been concerned for a long time and fear that it's just a matter of time before this breaking problem results in an accident. i took my car in yesterday to my local toyota dealer and they said everything checked out fine and they could not find/recreate the problem. i have mentioned it to them in the past and they told me it was just a different feel because of the brake "vacuum" design.

Reported in: GREER SC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i was driving home from work in my 2009 prius. when coming to a traffic light (icy conditions) i took my foot off of the accelerator, started to coast and then began to brake. i had total brake failure. the car kept going and i heard a thumping like the anti-lock brakes were trying to engage. i finally had to throw the car into neutral.

Reported in: MEDINA OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 30 to 40 mph, the driver encountered a bump whenever she drove over a bump or a pothole. the vehicle resumed normal operation; however, the failure occurred whenever encountering a bump or pothole in the road. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. the technician stated that the occurrence was normal contributing to the anti-lock brake system. the failure mileage was 500. updated 4/27/10 *cn the consumer stated while braking, there was a momentary lapse in the brakes. updated 05/17/10

Reported in: SILVER SPRING MD || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

snow covered road, was braking for stop sign, went over manhole cover, abs (electronic stability control) kicked in, lost braking for about three feet.

Reported in: NEW YORK MILLS NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

snow covered road, was braking for stop sign, went over manhole cover, abs (electronic stability control) kicked in, lost braking for about three feet.

Reported in: NEW YORK MILLS NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

every day i encounter a large pot hole on my way to work. it is about 20 feet from a stop sign, so at this point i am already driving slow and braking. however, when the one wheel dips into the hole, the yellow traction system light comes on, and i feel what could be a slight loss in braking, as if the car is coasting for a split second (versus braking/slowing) or perhaps accelerating forward. the car/system recovers as soon as all wheels pass the pothole. not having had a traction control system prior to this car, i didn't know what was normal so i didn't pursue it, but i know i don't like how it feels! this has been happening every time i drive over that pothole since i bought the car. luckily they just paved the hole last month finally. otherwise i try to avoid rough roads as a matter of course. perhaps a related problem is when trying to go up an icy/slushy slope and the traction control shuts off the wheels to keep them from slipping/spinning. since i live on a hill, this makes winter especially stressful and makes me fearful of driving to from work and encountering even a slight incline that is not plowed or salted --what if the car stopped and i got hit? toyota says this is "normal" to keep the electric engine from being over stressed or some such thing.

Reported in: MUKILTEO WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

every day i encounter a large pot hole on my way to work. it is about 20 feet from a stop sign, so at this point i am already driving slow and braking. however, when the one wheel dips into the hole, the yellow traction system light comes on, and i feel what could be a slight loss in braking, as if the car is coasting for a split second (versus braking/slowing) or perhaps accelerating forward. the car/system recovers as soon as all wheels pass the pothole. not having had a traction control system prior to this car, i didn't know what was normal so i didn't pursue it, but i know i don't like how it feels! this has been happening every time i drive over that pothole since i bought the car. luckily they just paved the hole last month finally. otherwise i try to avoid rough roads as a matter of course. perhaps a related problem is when trying to go up an icy/slushy slope and the traction control shuts off the wheels to keep them from slipping/spinning. since i live on a hill, this makes winter especially stressful and makes me fearful of driving to from work and encountering even a slight incline that is not plowed or salted --what if the car stopped and i got hit? toyota says this is "normal" to keep the electric engine from being over stressed or some such thing.

Reported in: MUKILTEO WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

toyota prius ii brake issues. i have a 2009 prius that exhibit similar braking problems as the recalled 2010 prius. when i'm coming to a stop and hit a bumpy patch, the brakes will release momentarily. the release is for a second resulting in the car traveling 3 feet before i have to apply additional pressure to the brakes. this could easily mean a fender bender if i'm a bit closer to the vehicle in front of me. it is especially an issue when stopping down hill which is not uncommon here in seattle. i bought my car (brand new) in spring of 2009. i've always noticed the problem but thought it was just the nature of the hybrid drive. my concern is that this may worsen with the age of the car. please advise. i would hate to see this issue disregarded.

Reported in: SHORELINE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

i have a 2009 prius. i've been complaining to friends and family, since i got it about six months ago, about its instability when i go over small bumps and ruts in the road. the car seems to surge ahead, swerve a bit, and lose contact with the ground. the other major problem is the car's horrible traction on wet highways. if i'm traveling over 45 m.p.h., my car begins to hydroplane. the experience is unnerving. i've never driven a car that feels so unsafe and that makes me feel such a lack of confidence, and i've been driving for 35 years. plus, during the last snowstorm, when i put my prius in park on a slight incline on the road in front of my home, the car slid about 20 feet, in park. i had to put on the emergency brake to stop. it slides all over the road, in snow. i hate this car and wish i'd never bought it. i believe that its merits were misrepresented. despite the chosen date that you've required me to enter, unfortunately these problems are ongoing.

Reported in: SWAMPSCOTT MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have a 2009 prius. i've been complaining to friends and family, since i got it about six months ago, about its instability when i go over small bumps and ruts in the road. the car seems to surge ahead, swerve a bit, and lose contact with the ground. the other major problem is the car's horrible traction on wet highways. if i'm traveling over 45 m.p.h., my car begins to hydroplane. the experience is unnerving. i've never driven a car that feels so unsafe and that makes me feel such a lack of confidence, and i've been driving for 35 years. plus, during the last snowstorm, when i put my prius in park on a slight incline on the road in front of my home, the car slid about 20 feet, in park. i had to put on the emergency brake to stop. it slides all over the road, in snow. i hate this car and wish i'd never bought it. i believe that its merits were misrepresented. despite the chosen date that you've required me to enter, unfortunately these problems are ongoing.

Reported in: SWAMPSCOTT MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

1. brakes fail to work properly 2. occurs at least once or twice weekly; consequences -- emotional duress and concern; no accidents yet, thank god. 3. nothing has been done to correct this yet. i went to my toyota dealer, toyota cavender in san antonio, tx 48 hrs ago to get usual oil change and to get the brakes checked for this problem. i was told by the service dept. that they were closing in an hour and the toyota prius technician was not there. i had to call for an appointment with him -- even though my brakes had nearly failed to stop when i pulled into the dealership service area. *cn

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

brake failure when going over rough pavement or pothole in both 2005 and 2009 toyota prius. we have owned two prius, a 2005 and now a 2009, and both have exhibited the braking anomoly that is being described in the press as only occuring with the 2010 prius. i experience this failure frequently. the failure occurs only briefly -about one or two seconds and we have never had an accident because of this. however, it is disconcerting and if this is a malfunction, it should be taken care of for all prius, not just 2010. *cn

Reported in: AIRMONT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: YS3FB56Y281

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i own a 2009 prius and i have noticed numerous times when i am driving at a slow rate of speed and i hit a bump, i lose control of the car for a split second. it seems the brakes lose traction. when this happens, i notice a orange light on the dash lights up for a second. *cn

Reported in: PORT ORANGE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX83

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

i own a 2009 toyota prius and when the vehicle encounters a pot hole or any rough road service, it jumps ahead and there is a delay when i attempt to brake. on the dashboard the icy roadway indicataor appears at these times. this siituation has been ongoing since i purchased the vehicle in april 2009 *cn

Reported in: STATEN ISLAND, NEW YORK NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i have the brake problem being reported for the prius, but mine is a 2009 model. when braking on rough surfaces, the brakes quit for a moment. since i don't tailgate, i've never felt in danger. but it is a slightly out of control feeling. i've filled in the date below as may 2009, when i purchased (leased) the car. but the situation has been continuous. *tw

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

my 2009 toyota prius is exhibiting the same braking behavior as previously identified in the 2010 models. there is a manhole cover on a street i frequently drive near a stop light. on numerous occasions when i apply the brakes to stop i have hit the manhole cover and at which point the car seems to loose control. while most days this is not an issue because there is no one in front of me, on occasion i have come close to rear-ending the car in front of me because of this issue. at first i thought it was due to the design of the hybrid, but the recent articles about the 2010 models have pushed me to bring this issue to the forefront. it might not be simply the 2010 models. *tw

Reported in: ROCHESTER MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U083

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

accelerator sticking on 2009 toyota prius

Reported in: LEXINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i own a 2009 prius, purchase dec 2008. i have experienced similar brake problems as 2010. when i hit a rough or bumpy road, the brakes get squishy & less effective. i note the anti-skid caution flashes, brakes do become slightly less effective. i am an engineer. i reported this to toyota 2/8/2010.

Reported in: SPRINGFIELD VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i am an owner of a 2009 prius. i have experienced from day one, an issue when braking over a bump or pothole in the road. the brakes do not grasp. a picture of a swirving car appears on the monitor of the car showing out of control vehicle. this appears to be the same problem as the 2010 recall. please recall all affected prius' which now include 2009.

Reported in: ENCINO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1. driving normally under normal conditions 2. 2009 prius purchased in april of '09 loses traction over potholes, bumps in the road. this happens almost every time i drive, since i live in a city and go over potholes and uneven roads often. it is not a particular issue in the snow- in fact it happens more often on clear roads. 3. nothing has been done to correct the issue, because my prius was bought one month before the recall covers (april of '09, versus the new recall that goes back to may of '09). my car without a doubt has the same issue. *cn

Reported in: BOSTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i own a 2009 toyota prius. i was pulling into a parking spot in a shopping center when my car suddenly accelerated. i hit a small tree and the car beside me. the car is being towed to camelback toyota in phoenix az. the car seemed to accelerate even though i stepped on the brake. i did not step on the breake hard but the car just pulled ahead *cn

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

i own a 2009 toyota prius. i was pulling into a parking spot in a shopping center when my car suddenly accelerated. i hit a small tree and the car beside me. the car is being towed to camelback toyota in phoenix az. the car seemed to accelerate even though i stepped on the brake. i did not step on the breake hard but the car just pulled ahead *cn

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i wish to report a breaking problem with my 1999 toyota prius. this occured in about sept. 2009. i have a 2009 toyota prius that had about 18,000 miles on it at the time of this failure. i had just pulled out of a gas station (for gas only) when i got a number of warning lights on the dash board. (about 4 as i recall) all the warnings were either tire of break related warnings. i immediately noticed a big problem with the breaks. only maximum foot presure would actuate the breaks and then they would grab very hard. fortunately, the local toyota dealer was just around the corner, so i carefully limpped the car in. no damage or accident was caused by this failure. toyota did fix the problem the next day and reported that the front breaks had stopped working and only the rear beaks were stopping the car. if i recall the fix correctly, they replaced some part called the "break actuator" since then, no problem has been noted *cn

Reported in: SAN RAFAEL CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius vehicle slid into intersection, no collision occurred. approx 3 ft past stop point. during moderate to hard braking, if a wheel hits sand or a pothole, the "traction control" system engages, causing the brakes to release for approx .25 to .75 second. it is very unnerving (to say the least) to be out of control of my vehicle. it is also repeatable when accelerating on a short entrance ramp around a corner. this ramp is very uneven. the traction control engages and the car seems to steer straight, towards the outside of the curve. i spoke to the dealer about the issue, and was told that the vehicle is behaving normally, and there is no way for an operator to disable the traction control. i thought i would have to live with this, and assumed it was something about this vehicle... but now with the investigation on 2010 i am wondering if my report is similar and if the investigation should be expanded to include 2009.

Reported in: LINCOLN RI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX83

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

2009 toyota prius vehicle slid into intersection, no collision occurred. approx 3 ft past stop point. during moderate to hard braking, if a wheel hits sand or a pothole, the "traction control" system engages, causing the brakes to release for approx .25 to .75 second. it is very unnerving (to say the least) to be out of control of my vehicle. it is also repeatable when accelerating on a short entrance ramp around a corner. this ramp is very uneven. the traction control engages and the car seems to steer straight, towards the outside of the curve. i spoke to the dealer about the issue, and was told that the vehicle is behaving normally, and there is no way for an operator to disable the traction control. i thought i would have to live with this, and assumed it was something about this vehicle... but now with the investigation on 2010 i am wondering if my report is similar and if the investigation should be expanded to include 2009.

Reported in: LINCOLN RI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX83

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that when driving approximately 15 mph over an uneven surface and trying to depress the brake pedal, the abs light illuminated and seemed to hydroplane for a short time. the failure never occurred on smooth surfaces. she called the dealer and was told that the brake system was "too perfect" which was why she experienced the failure. she had not spoken with the manufacturer to-date. the current mileage was approximately 10,000. the failure mileage was approximately 10.

Reported in: HULL MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have a 2009 prius, and the brakes seem to disengage when going over a bump or pothole. i notice it everytime, in particular when exiting the freeway, if there are bumps on the off ramp.

Reported in: WOODLAND HILLS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

when i go over a railroad track or large bumps the braking system of my prius stops operating for a moment.

Reported in: SAVANNAH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

the problem with the prius is the enhanced vsc, not the brakes! i have been reading about the braking problem in the toyota prius and they all seem to occur under rough or slippery driving conditions. i own a 2009 prius and the same thing happens but it seems to be a problem with the enhanced vehicle stability control (vsc). please look into the enhanced vsc for the problem because i don't think it's the brakes.

Reported in: PASADENA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 30 mph going down hill on a wet road the vehicle surged forward when she engaged the brake pedal and crashed into a vehicle. the brakes fully engaged after she crashed. the failure only occurred whenever she drove over a pothole. the dealer advised the contact to have the vehicle diagnosed and stated that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the failure has occurred 5 to 6 times. no repairs have been made to date. a police report was unavailable. the failure mileage was 12000. the current mileage was 15500.

Reported in: SNOQUALMIE WA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius while driving on uneven pavement or icy roads, when depressing the brake pedal the car slides and it feels as if you are losing control over the car. this happens on any uneven surface like speed bumps and or wash board roads, and during the winter months for icy roads. i have an appointment with toyota in colorado to fix since it is still under warranty but they say no recall has been initiated on the 2009 model.

Reported in: PARKER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

last may, i purchased a 2009 toyota prius. for some time now, i have been aware of braking issues that sound eerily similar to what is being described with the 2010 prius recalls. i have not reported anything until now because i was able to identify when the problem occurred, and adjust my driving accordingly. whenever i hit the brake pedal, while simultaneously going over rough, bumpy, or potholed areas of road...my "slippery road conditions" light flashes momentarily on my dashboard. additionally, it almost feels as though the car accelerates in that split second, but as long as i keep my foot on the brake pedal, i have always been able to stop the car. i make sure to keep adequate space between my car and the cards in front of me, but if i ever had to stop too quickly on road conditions such as i have described above i am certain that i would crash into the other car before my brakes actually took over. i am simply reporting this issue because i wonder if, despite toyota's claim that only the 2010 model is being affected, other year models of the prius are having issues as well. i am entering an approximate incident date below, however, i really can't pick just one. this has happened on a multitude of occasions since i purchased the car in may of 2009.

Reported in: LEBANON PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

toyota 2009 prius brake problem 15 jan. 2010 i took my 2009 prius to lakeland toyota (my dealer), lakeland florida, usa 33880. the brakes had gone all the way to the floor. they have a maintenance record of the event. at the time they could not find any mechanical problems in the brake. i was driving on a rough road on a cold day just prior to the brake failure. please expand the prius recall to include the 2009 year.

Reported in: AUBURNDALE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2009 toyota prius issue: dealership: there has been no response/recommendation despite multiple voicemails and email dated 2/6/10 to toyota-service@daytontoyota.com. toyota: awaiting response from toyota case manager after two phone calls, once on 2/9/10 and one on 2/10/10. summary: 1. i want to bring to your notice that i experienced a sticking accelerator problem several weeks back, while pulling out of the driveway, when the car was moving in reverse and would not stop despite the brake being pumped a few times. the car was finally brought to a stop by pressing the power button for an extended period. i do not have any additional floor mats in the car, besides whatever was available with the basic package. 2. when braking on puddles/pot-holes the car seems to stall and the orange light turns on.

Reported in: EAST WINDSOR NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

when driving my 2009 prius in either wet or snowy conditions, i've noticed that the car "skips"/doesn't hold the braking when i apply my foot steadily to the brake pedal. i've noticed this in wet conditions from the time of purchase, in june 2009, and again more recently in snow. i've wound up not driving the prius when the roads are either wet or snowy now, but obviously have been caught in these conditions when rain or snow started while i was on the road. it is not a safe feeling to feel the car slipping.

Reported in: MADISON CT || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i bought my 2009 prius in april 2009. i have been having the same brake slipping problem that the 2010's are being recalled for. i have had my car to the dealership three times to have this problem addressed. each time it was no fault found and "gosh these brakes are complicated and you would have an idiot light go off if there was a problem". i am feeling very unsafe with this vehicle and want to know when my software will be updated.

Reported in: GRANTVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving a 2009 toyota prius and came to a stop at a friend's garage. all of a sudden the car accelerated forward, it hit an old fir tree and a brick wall. i checked and the floor mat was in the same position it always was. a friend pushed the fender back into place and the toyota dealer buffed out the scratches. i have contacted the dealer several times about checking out the accelerator. but they always tell me that i have to wait for a letter. i am very nervous about driving this vehicle and am having nightmares about this incident.

Reported in: SOUTHINGTON CT || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

on a daily basis, my 2009 toyota prius loses control, skids, (the traction light goes on), fishtails and has brake failures on ice and snow. when i hit potholes or big bumps, the car accelerates and i have to quickly brake. the northbrook toyota service manager drove it today. the car lost control, skidded, the traction light went on, it fishtailed, and the brakes failed on the ice and snow. his comment was "that's the way the car is. it doesn't drive well on ice and snow". we couldn't find a good pothole for the car to demonstrate the acceleration today. i was told by an automechanic that works on our other cars that the 2009 and 2010 prius have problems with their brakes. presently there is no recall for the 2009 prius. i am afraid i am going to kill someone at an intersection when i can't stop. yesterday i had 2 catholic nuns in the car and the car failed to turn left at an intersection, almost fishtailing into an embankment before it righted itself. a lexus suv behind me almost hit me while trying to avoid me. i am hoping that no lives will be lost, or severe injuries occur, before these problems are acknowledged by toyota and fixed.

Reported in: NORTHFIELD IL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

on a daily basis, my 2009 toyota prius loses control, skids, (the traction light goes on), fishtails and has brake failures on ice and snow. when i hit potholes or big bumps, the car accelerates and i have to quickly brake. the northbrook toyota service manager drove it today. the car lost control, skidded, the traction light went on, it fishtailed, and the brakes failed on the ice and snow. his comment was "that's the way the car is. it doesn't drive well on ice and snow". we couldn't find a good pothole for the car to demonstrate the acceleration today. i was told by an automechanic that works on our other cars that the 2009 and 2010 prius have problems with their brakes. presently there is no recall for the 2009 prius. i am afraid i am going to kill someone at an intersection when i can't stop. yesterday i had 2 catholic nuns in the car and the car failed to turn left at an intersection, almost fishtailing into an embankment before it righted itself. a lexus suv behind me almost hit me while trying to avoid me. i am hoping that no lives will be lost, or severe injuries occur, before these problems are acknowledged by toyota and fixed.

Reported in: NORTHFIELD IL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

i was sitting on a road in traffic with my car running but in park because i was waiting for a train to pass before proceeding. the car jumped forward when the vehicle changed fuel modes from the electric engine to the gas engine. i almost hit the person in front of me. when i contacted the dealership service department and had them check the car they told me this was normal. no one ever informed me of this when i bought the car. this is a hazard in the above situation as well as if people have their cars in their garage and running or in a number of other situations.

Reported in: SUFFOLK VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have a 2009 prius and on at least 4 occasions in cruise control my car has accelerated without my doing so. all of the times i was able to brake and bring down my speed. we tried to report this to toyota but they were not concerned. we then reported this to the dealership and the mechanic told my husband that " that sometimes happens". no report was filed or action taken.

Reported in: NORTH OAKS MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

while driving on a wet city road, the car in front of me stopped abruptly. when i applied my brakes, my car was over railroad tracks. initially the brakes didn't respond and my car didn't slow down. i didn't hear anti-lock or other brake noises. after a 2-3 second delay, the brakes began to work normally. had the brakes delayed much longer, i may have collided with car in front of me. i have about 6,000 miles on the car, and this is the only incident when the brakes didn't respond as expected.

Reported in: ANN ARBOR MI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius, brakes do not hold on uneven pavement or icy roads. you lose contact with the road which is very dangerous. the first time i noticed the icy road problem was november 2008, and the uneven lane/washboard road problem was in the summer of 2009. it was mentioned to the dealership but since they could not duplicate the problem no repairs were made.

Reported in: PARKER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

POWER TRAIN

when putting the prius into park and shutting off the car, it rolls back every time. putting on the emergency brake helps but it still rolls. also putting the car into neutral (ie going through a automated car wash) the car does not stay in neutral, it pops out and is very hard to put back into neutral.

Reported in: PARKER CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

momentary brake failure when driving over potholes. also, brakes are "grabby" at very low speeds. both conditions have existed for several months. nothing has been done to correct the problems.

Reported in: AURORA CO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i live on a dirt road 2 miles long with 1 mile uphill. i bought my new 2009 prius on march 10th 2009 and on march 12th could not drive out. going up the hill when ever the drive wheel slipped the traction control would brake the wheel until, with many brief braking, the prius came to a stop. i was unable to go forward and had to back down the hill till i could find a place to turn around. this created a very dangerous situation. i had the car towed out and toyota checked it and said all systems were working properly. i asked for an off switch and they said impossible. when i came home the same thing happened again and was towed out and again toyota refused to deal with it. i went to arbitration and presented my information along with articles i found on the consumer affairs website about this same problem affecting people all over the nation, some with bad results, especially on ice, stranding them, in intersections. toyota said this was not covered in the warranty so all my information and my case were totally disregarded. this is the same thing that has happened to others with the same problem. toyota refuses to acknowledge the problem or add an off switch. i also called the manufactures of all other hybrid or electric cars with traction control and they either have an off switch or offer one just for this reason. i was lucky that my road association spent $16,000 on the road shortly after this happened but as the road is deteriorating and there wont be enough money for several years i may be stuck again in the future. every other car can get up the road, even at its worst, including a 2003 prius without traction control. this happened again on another dirt road but i was able to get out thru the use of ropes and rocks and a shovel. is there anything you can do to help as i don't want to hire an attorney to follow through . thank you

Reported in: CHICO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

i live on a dirt road 2 miles long with 1 mile uphill. i bought my new 2009 prius on march 10th 2009 and on march 12th could not drive out. going up the hill when ever the drive wheel slipped the traction control would brake the wheel until, with many brief braking, the prius came to a stop. i was unable to go forward and had to back down the hill till i could find a place to turn around. this created a very dangerous situation. i had the car towed out and toyota checked it and said all systems were working properly. i asked for an off switch and they said impossible. when i came home the same thing happened again and was towed out and again toyota refused to deal with it. i went to arbitration and presented my information along with articles i found on the consumer affairs website about this same problem affecting people all over the nation, some with bad results, especially on ice, stranding them, in intersections. toyota said this was not covered in the warranty so all my information and my case were totally disregarded. this is the same thing that has happened to others with the same problem. toyota refuses to acknowledge the problem or add an off switch. i also called the manufactures of all other hybrid or electric cars with traction control and they either have an off switch or offer one just for this reason. i was lucky that my road association spent $16,000 on the road shortly after this happened but as the road is deteriorating and there wont be enough money for several years i may be stuck again in the future. every other car can get up the road, even at its worst, including a 2003 prius without traction control. this happened again on another dirt road but i was able to get out thru the use of ropes and rocks and a shovel. is there anything you can do to help as i don't want to hire an attorney to follow through . thank you

Reported in: CHICO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

the car in front of me slammed on the brakes and i followed suite. however, as had happened in many occasions before the brakes were delayed for a second or two and the light showing that the care is slipping came on. as usual it felt as if i was sliding on ice although there was none. i don't know if i could have stopped in time but the delay was definitely a factor.

Reported in: CHICAGO IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

we bought a 2009 prius on 2/14/09. on 2/18/09 while driving 25mph on a local road during light snowfall, the brakes failed. to avoid hitting the car in front of her, my wife steered into the curb sustaining extensive damage to the wheel, axle, and undercarriage. the car was towed to our local toyota dealership. they found nothing wrong with the braking system and maintained the accident was her fault. a few months later we experienced another brake failure incident, this time without any accident as we were traveling at a slow speed and were able to decelerate by turning up an empty incline. again the dealership maintains there is no problem. since they can't find anything wrong with the brakes when they test them, they say there is nothing to fix. we speculate that there is a computer software problem, but toyota is not yet acknowledging that this is the case for the 2009 model. updated 04/19/10

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i keep hearing about the momentary loss of braking on the 2010 toyota prius. however, i have encountered the same problem on my 2009 prius. when passing over a slick, bumpy, or icy surface, i experience a momentary loss of braking, and a warning light that looks like a car skidding comes on for less than a second. this generally occurs at slow speeds, but has occurred at speeds up to 25-30 mph.

Reported in: HURST TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

2009 toyota prius my 2009 exhibits similar braking issues to those being recalled on the 2010. at least weakly during slow braking over a bump, pothole, or damp surface, the "slip" indicator comes on and the car lurches forward for approximately one second.

Reported in: WELLESLEY HILLS MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius my 2009 exhibits similar braking issues to those being recalled on the 2010. at least weakly during slow braking over a bump, pothole, or damp surface, the "slip" indicator comes on and the car lurches forward for approximately one second.

Reported in: WELLESLEY HILLS MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

POWER TRAIN

loss of engine power in 2009 toyota prius. when accelerating into traffic in wet or low traction conditions every time one of the front wheels looses traction, the engine abruptly goes to idle for 3 seconds and the car severely decelerates. only by removing your foot completely from the gas pedal and reapplying throttle will the car start going again. this extreme over-reaction of the traction control system is very dangerous in traffic. this over-reaction is most pronounced if turning to the right when a front wheel starts to slip. there should be a way to turn off the traction control system manually.

Reported in: ELGIN IL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

loss of engine power in 2009 toyota prius. when accelerating into traffic in wet or low traction conditions every time one of the front wheels looses traction, the engine abruptly goes to idle for 3 seconds and the car severely decelerates. only by removing your foot completely from the gas pedal and reapplying throttle will the car start going again. this extreme over-reaction of the traction control system is very dangerous in traffic. this over-reaction is most pronounced if turning to the right when a front wheel starts to slip. there should be a way to turn off the traction control system manually.

Reported in: ELGIN IL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

STEERING

in addition to the traction control, abs, gas pedal/floor mat problems with the toyota prius there is also a safety issue with the power button. in an emergency situation, like the door coming open, throttle getting stuck, etc. you can't power off the vehicle quickly. you must hold the power button for some amount of time before the car will shut off. unlike the toyota camry example where they suggested turning off the ignition, you can't do that on the prius. you also can't remove the key/fob to turn the vehicle off or power it off. there is also an extreme under steer problem with the vehicle which is a safety concern. in wet conditions it is exacerbated. it can be observed on clover leaf overpasses and general cornering.

Reported in: THE WOODLANDS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

in addition to the traction control, abs, gas pedal/floor mat problems with the toyota prius there is also a safety issue with the power button. in an emergency situation, like the door coming open, throttle getting stuck, etc. you can't power off the vehicle quickly. you must hold the power button for some amount of time before the car will shut off. unlike the toyota camry example where they suggested turning off the ignition, you can't do that on the prius. you also can't remove the key/fob to turn the vehicle off or power it off. there is also an extreme under steer problem with the vehicle which is a safety concern. in wet conditions it is exacerbated. it can be observed on clover leaf overpasses and general cornering.

Reported in: THE WOODLANDS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

in addition to the traction control, abs, gas pedal/floor mat problems with the toyota prius there is also a safety issue with the power button. in an emergency situation, like the door coming open, throttle getting stuck, etc. you can't power off the vehicle quickly. you must hold the power button for some amount of time before the car will shut off. unlike the toyota camry example where they suggested turning off the ignition, you can't do that on the prius. you also can't remove the key/fob to turn the vehicle off or power it off. there is also an extreme under steer problem with the vehicle which is a safety concern. in wet conditions it is exacerbated. it can be observed on clover leaf overpasses and general cornering.

Reported in: THE WOODLANDS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 prius (not 2010). when applying brakes on bumpy surface, brakes will momentarily stop working. occurs all the time.

Reported in: BROOKLINE MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while approaching an intersection the contact tried to apply the brakes and stop the vehicle. the contact stated that he was driving approximately 15 miles per hour when the brakes did not engage. the contact crashed into a vehicle in front of him. the vin was not available. the failure mileages were 7,000. the current mileages were 21,000.

Reported in: MINNEAPOLIS MN || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 20 mph. whenever encountering a bump or pothole in the road the vehicle began to operate uncontrollably with an illumination of the warning light indicator. also, the failure occurred while making a sharp turn. the vehicle was taken to a dealer regarding the failure. the contact stated that the malfunction could cause a potential crash. the failure mileage was 20,000. updated 3/8/10 *cn the consumer stated the yellow brake system warning light illuminated and the vehicle lost traction momentarily. updated 05/11/10.*jb

Reported in: VAN NUYS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

three events describe safety incidents concerning the brakes in my 2009 prius; 1) descending a ramp onto rock creek pkwy at calvert street, washington, dc, where road flattened out, car in front stopped abruptly on a dry surface. i responded quickly, applying the brake with hard, lasting pressure.the car slowed but not to match the pressure on the brakes i was applying--i had the pedal to the floor. the car coasted smoothly, seemingly slowly to a stop, terrifyingly about 1 inch from the stopped car. the brakes did not grip sufficiently but miraculously i avoided a crash. 2) at times when i go over a bump in my prius and hit the brakes, the car "kicks" and jumps to the right or to the left or a bit ahead. this is not an unusual occurrence and happens mostly on dry road surfaces 3) i was descening a very slight incline on a city street--reno road. the road was partially damp from a shower an hour or two before, but not puddle. i was going about 28 mph. the car ahead stopped abruptly because the traffic light at tilden turned yellow. i hit the brakes and the rear of the car bucked a bit and then slid into the left lane. luckily there was no one in that lane and i was able to regain my position in the lane in which i'd been traveling. 15 seconds earlier and i would have hit someone in the left lane. nb--on this form i am not sure i chose the right type of brakes. i have regular prius 2009 brakes in my car and i do not know if they are known as hydraulic brakes.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

STEERING

i have the exact same problem with my 2009 prius as described below. i have had it into the dealer 3 times and have gotten no satisfaction. i have had 4 friends with prius cars drive mine and they all agree that my car's steering is bad. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2010/02/17/financial/f012558s46.dtl smaller, less-expensive vehicles such as the 2009 and 2010 corolla use electric-assist power steering. they are usually equipped with power steering systems that are aided by a small electric motor, a system known as electric-assist steering. the motor essentially helps align the steering wheel with the movement of the tires. the system is cheaper to install than steering systems that rely on hydraulics. problems can arise if the motor is out of sync with the steering wheel, which could potentially cause the vehicle to wander without any turning of the wheel, he said. "car companies work on it a lot," said jim de clerck, a professor in the michigan technological university's mechanical engineering department and a former general motors engineer. "it is a pretty well-known customer-satisfaction issue."

Reported in: LIVERMORE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

automatic prius 2009 sometimes even though i shift to a new gear it sticks. so if i went in reverse and shifted out so that i should now go forward, the car goes in reverse. this happened the opposite way too. it has happened at least once a month.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have had more than 10 occasions of braking problems with my 2009 prius. most recently, in january 2010, but also prior to that. after the last problem, i called the local dealership to see if a brake recall existed but was told "no" only recall for floormats on my model. the issue has occurred on pavement and gravel road, in school zone, traveling at less than 20 mph. when slowly pulling up to stop sign and applying even break pressure the car will suddenly come to a jolting stop before the anticipated stop. all the kids in the car look at me like i'm crazy for making their heads suddenly hit the back of the seat. fortunately, no one has been driving closely behind me during these abrupt stops. i am very familiar with the feel of this vehicle, as this is my 3rd prius and i drive many miles.

Reported in: LIVINGSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

braking issues with a 2009 toyota prius model. under rough road condition the brake system does not seem to engage immediately causing a overrun of the distance needed for the vehicle to stop.

Reported in: FREMONT CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 25 mph on an uneven road. suddenly, when pressure was applied to the brake pedal there was a temporary delay of braking power. the vehicle was able to continue in normal operation. the failure occurred whenever encountering an uneven road surface. the vehicle has not been inspected for the malfunction. the failure mileage was 28,000.

Reported in: LEAWOOD KS || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. he stated that while driving at low speeds less then 5 mph when braking and going over a slight bump on the road the brakes disengaged momentarily. the failure occurred frequently and continued to do so whenever he drove on an uneven road. the dealer has not been notified. no repairs were made to the vehicle. he also stated that he does own another vehicle experiencing the same brake failure. the failure mileage was 2 and the current mileage was 27000.

Reported in: ADALAC MI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 5 mph toward a stop sign and applying the brakes, the vehicle failed to stop. the traction control light illuminated as soon as she removed her foot from the brake pedal. when the light was not illuminated, the brakes functioned normally. the failure mileage was 50. the current mileage was 33,000.

Reported in: SHAPLEIGH ME || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U583

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

multiple issues with 2009 prius. first: loss of air pressure in front left tire from time i picked up the vehicle to present. i continually need to put air in the tire, usually on a weekly/bi-weekly basis. the other tires are fine. second: for the same tire, the tire pressure light would not be triggered until ~23 pounds, should have been triggered in same tire at 33 lbs. third: vehicle would not stop when applying pressure on brakes at slow speed. this has occurred about 6 times in a 6 month period. simultaneously, the vsc light went on and the slid indicator went on. the terrain was on either asphalt or concrete roads, slightly downhill (concrete) and one street is a bit rough (filled in pot holes). also, both areas are within a quarter mile of each other and near the ocean. with each occurrence the vsc went into effect. on 11/21/09 it jolted hard much more than the other occasions; this date was the incident on the bridge when the car was going in a slight downward direction. i lost control of the vehicle for several seconds and was afraid that i would hit the car in front of me; i beeped my horn to warn the driver in front of me. my vehicle did stop in time but it took alot longer than it should have taken. on a later occasion, i was going about 5-10 mph faster on a nearby street and attempted to stop for a stop sign and it did the same thing, however the vsc did not jolt back as hard. the vehicle was not angled down as much as the 11/21/09 incident. on 11/21/09 i took the vehicle to cabe toyota dealership and they looked at the car but found nothing wrong with it. i also had the car looked at by toyota corp today and was told that the driver feels that i felt the abs brakes only. this is not the case. when i stepped on the brakes each occasion it was as though there was nothing there and i had no control in stopping it. this was especially true when the vsc kicked in (the jerking). each time it lasted many, several or more seconds.

Reported in: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

TIRES

multiple issues with 2009 prius. first: loss of air pressure in front left tire from time i picked up the vehicle to present. i continually need to put air in the tire, usually on a weekly/bi-weekly basis. the other tires are fine. second: for the same tire, the tire pressure light would not be triggered until ~23 pounds, should have been triggered in same tire at 33 lbs. third: vehicle would not stop when applying pressure on brakes at slow speed. this has occurred about 6 times in a 6 month period. simultaneously, the vsc light went on and the slid indicator went on. the terrain was on either asphalt or concrete roads, slightly downhill (concrete) and one street is a bit rough (filled in pot holes). also, both areas are within a quarter mile of each other and near the ocean. with each occurrence the vsc went into effect. on 11/21/09 it jolted hard much more than the other occasions; this date was the incident on the bridge when the car was going in a slight downward direction. i lost control of the vehicle for several seconds and was afraid that i would hit the car in front of me; i beeped my horn to warn the driver in front of me. my vehicle did stop in time but it took alot longer than it should have taken. on a later occasion, i was going about 5-10 mph faster on a nearby street and attempted to stop for a stop sign and it did the same thing, however the vsc did not jolt back as hard. the vehicle was not angled down as much as the 11/21/09 incident. on 11/21/09 i took the vehicle to cabe toyota dealership and they looked at the car but found nothing wrong with it. i also had the car looked at by toyota corp today and was told that the driver feels that i felt the abs brakes only. this is not the case. when i stepped on the brakes each occasion it was as though there was nothing there and i had no control in stopping it. this was especially true when the vsc kicked in (the jerking). each time it lasted many, several or more seconds.

Reported in: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

multiple issues with 2009 prius. first: loss of air pressure in front left tire from time i picked up the vehicle to present. i continually need to put air in the tire, usually on a weekly/bi-weekly basis. the other tires are fine. second: for the same tire, the tire pressure light would not be triggered until ~23 pounds, should have been triggered in same tire at 33 lbs. third: vehicle would not stop when applying pressure on brakes at slow speed. this has occurred about 6 times in a 6 month period. simultaneously, the vsc light went on and the slid indicator went on. the terrain was on either asphalt or concrete roads, slightly downhill (concrete) and one street is a bit rough (filled in pot holes). also, both areas are within a quarter mile of each other and near the ocean. with each occurrence the vsc went into effect. on 11/21/09 it jolted hard much more than the other occasions; this date was the incident on the bridge when the car was going in a slight downward direction. i lost control of the vehicle for several seconds and was afraid that i would hit the car in front of me; i beeped my horn to warn the driver in front of me. my vehicle did stop in time but it took alot longer than it should have taken. on a later occasion, i was going about 5-10 mph faster on a nearby street and attempted to stop for a stop sign and it did the same thing, however the vsc did not jolt back as hard. the vehicle was not angled down as much as the 11/21/09 incident. on 11/21/09 i took the vehicle to cabe toyota dealership and they looked at the car but found nothing wrong with it. i also had the car looked at by toyota corp today and was told that the driver feels that i felt the abs brakes only. this is not the case. when i stepped on the brakes each occasion it was as though there was nothing there and i had no control in stopping it. this was especially true when the vsc kicked in (the jerking). each time it lasted many, several or more seconds.

Reported in: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

multiple issues with 2009 prius. first: loss of air pressure in front left tire from time i picked up the vehicle to present. i continually need to put air in the tire, usually on a weekly/bi-weekly basis. the other tires are fine. second: for the same tire, the tire pressure light would not be triggered until ~23 pounds, should have been triggered in same tire at 33 lbs. third: vehicle would not stop when applying pressure on brakes at slow speed. this has occurred about 6 times in a 6 month period. simultaneously, the vsc light went on and the slid indicator went on. the terrain was on either asphalt or concrete roads, slightly downhill (concrete) and one street is a bit rough (filled in pot holes). also, both areas are within a quarter mile of each other and near the ocean. with each occurrence the vsc went into effect. on 11/21/09 it jolted hard much more than the other occasions; this date was the incident on the bridge when the car was going in a slight downward direction. i lost control of the vehicle for several seconds and was afraid that i would hit the car in front of me; i beeped my horn to warn the driver in front of me. my vehicle did stop in time but it took alot longer than it should have taken. on a later occasion, i was going about 5-10 mph faster on a nearby street and attempted to stop for a stop sign and it did the same thing, however the vsc did not jolt back as hard. the vehicle was not angled down as much as the 11/21/09 incident. on 11/21/09 i took the vehicle to cabe toyota dealership and they looked at the car but found nothing wrong with it. i also had the car looked at by toyota corp today and was told that the driver feels that i felt the abs brakes only. this is not the case. when i stepped on the brakes each occasion it was as though there was nothing there and i had no control in stopping it. this was especially true when the vsc kicked in (the jerking). each time it lasted many, several or more seconds.

Reported in: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U993

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i keep hearing about prius brake problems on 2010 models but my 2009 has the same problem. i read this in an article online and realized that my 2009 model has the braking problem as the 2010 model. article: "going downhill and approaching a stop sign. my foot is steady on the brake and i am gradually coming to a stop. then, i inadvertently go over a bump in the road and the prius lunges forward. i had to immediately slam hard on the brakes in order to keep the car from going into the intersection. fortunately, there was no car or person in front of me as i was stopping."

Reported in: ARMONK NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U283

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 65 mph on a cold day, the vehicle accelerated up to 108 mph. the contact stated that the accelerator pedal was stuck. the vehicle was placed in neutral gear in order to stop it from accelerating. the vehicle did not crash and there were no injuries. the failure mileage was approximately 10,000 miles and the current mileage was 11,000. updated 03/24/10 *bf upated 07/07/10.*jb

Reported in: LOCKHART TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns 2010 toyota prius. while driving 25 mph in the rain or turning a corner the tire warning light illuminated and the brakes would not engage. she will take the vehicle to the dealer to be diagnosed. the failure mileage was 250. the current mileage was 900.

Reported in: FAIRBURN GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKN3DU1A0

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1. after turning off cruise control, vehicle accelerated on its own up to 95m.p.h. until i was finally able to get it stopped by pressing the brakes to the floor. after getting the vehicle pulled over to the side of the interstate, there was a lot of smoke coming from the front brake pads. i restarted the vehicle in an attempt to get it off the interstate for further inspection. as i exited the highway, i turned the vehicle onto the off ramp but the vehicle did not turn and drove us directly into the guard rail. i contacted toyota and they have denied there was anything wrong with the vehicle and dismissed my complaint.

Reported in: POWELL OH || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius: when driving over pot-holes, bumps, or uneven patches of road at all different speeds, the car's "traction light" will flash and the car will momentarily surge forward. it seems at this time that the brakes also temporarily lose power. this happens several times a week. this worries me as i feel this could lead to car accidents or put pedestrians in danger. spoke with many other prius owners and they report the same problem. contacted the dealership where i bought the car and the service manager told me this was a "normal function" of the abs. i still feel this is a safety issue that is not being properly addressed. i've driven many other cars with abs and none of them behaved this erratically.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

2009 toyota prius: when driving over pot-holes, bumps, or uneven patches of road at all different speeds, the car's "traction light" will flash and the car will momentarily surge forward. it seems at this time that the brakes also temporarily lose power. this happens several times a week. this worries me as i feel this could lead to car accidents or put pedestrians in danger. spoke with many other prius owners and they report the same problem. contacted the dealership where i bought the car and the service manager told me this was a "normal function" of the abs. i still feel this is a safety issue that is not being properly addressed. i've driven many other cars with abs and none of them behaved this erratically.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

collapse of fuel bladder cause the prius to run out of fuel with 2 gallons of gas in the vehicle while on freeway. caused towing to dealership. when fuel was added to car only 8.9 gallons could be added to a reported 10.9 gallon tank capacity.

Reported in: AUBURN WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6) several electronic malfunctions, all occurring when my blue tooth is connected. some inadequately shielded wiring or connector(s) could account for this. i saw in the congressional testimony by a lady in a lexus used her blue tooth connection to call her husband during the 6 minutes of struggle to stop her car's out of control acceleration by various methods including both feet onn the brake. i have a 2009 toyota prius that the dealer says is working "normal." these events have not been normal, and on one occasion my energy screen that was doing wierd things actually changed to the speed dial screen. in another incident, (smart key feature is disabled because it drains the battery) i locked the car with my key fob as usual, and when i returned could not unlock it that way and had to dig out the "key" to open the door so i could start the car. my battery has died 3 times and was finally replaced. i bought this prius touring march 26, 2009. the dealer has no idea of what's going on, only tells me the car is "normal." i suspect something so simple as shielding from the weak blue tooth signal could well be causing a variety of problems, probably depending on where the faulty wiring is located. if nobody is investigating this, iit is a mistake!. [xxx]

Reported in: SAN ANGELO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated as she was driving there was unintended acceleration which happen twice. to stop the vehicle she had to pull to the side of the road or run the vehicle into the curb. the dealer was called and stated she can bring the vehicle in for them to take a look but there is no fix for the failure. the toyota manufacturer was called and they stated there is no fix and gave her a claim number. the failure mileage was 25,000.

Reported in: SWANEE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

my 2009 toyota prius has had occasional bursts of energy and jolts forward on is own. luckily i was in "park" each time it happened. i wasn't even pushing the gas pedal. it was a very sudden thing, i had no warning. it's definitely not a floor mat issue. now i'm afraid to drive it. the last time this happened was approximately a month ago, i asked if there was recall for my car, and the dealer said no. what's making me worry now is the story on the news about a "runaway" prius. i thank you in advance for anything you can do to help.

Reported in: SANFORD FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my 2009 toyota prius has had occasional bursts of energy and jolts forward on is own. luckily i was in "park" each time it happened. i wasn't even pushing the gas pedal. it was a very sudden thing, i had no warning. it's definitely not a floor mat issue. now i'm afraid to drive it. the last time this happened was approximately a month ago, i asked if there was recall for my car, and the dealer said no. what's making me worry now is the story on the news about a "runaway" prius. i thank you in advance for anything you can do to help.

Reported in: SANFORD FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving my 2009 toyota prius, exiting the staten island expressway and as i approached the intersection the light began to turn yellow and i tried to stop (the road surface was uneven). when i put my foot on the brake the car lurched forward into the intersection so i had to go though the red light and i was lucky that the oncoming traffic hadn't begun to move yet.

Reported in: STATEN ISLAND NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i was driving my 2009 toyota prius, exiting the staten island expressway and as i approached the intersection the light began to turn yellow and i tried to stop (the road surface was uneven). when i put my foot on the brake the car lurched forward into the intersection so i had to go though the red light and i was lucky that the oncoming traffic hadn't begun to move yet.

Reported in: STATEN ISLAND NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while the contact was driving 75 mph the vehicle suddenly accelerated. in order to stop the acceleration the contact had to apply the brakes and shift the vehicle into neutral gear. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that the cause of the failure could not be determined. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 15000 and the current mileage was 18000.

Reported in: JENSEN BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while the vehicle was traveling at a speed of 60 mph the vehicle suddenly shut off without warning and would not restart. the vehicle was towed to the dealership who stated that the failure could not be reproduced. the failure occurred twice prior to the recent failure. the vin was unavailable. the current and failure mileages were 20,000.

Reported in: NARRAGANSETTE RI || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have a 2009 prius. the issue that i experience which is giving me concern is that when i'm pressing on the brake and i pass over a bump or rough terrain or something, all of a sudden, i feel the braking to stop and the car seemingly accelerate or lurch forward and the slippery road indicator signal (sorry i don't know what it's called) will pop up for a second.

Reported in: EASTCHESTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

i have a 2009 prius that is not a part of the "braking/traction" recall, however i've experienced the same exact problem from day one of driving the vehicle. on wet or uneven surface the traction control kicks in and car seems to lose power in the brake and accelerator for a few seconds and it is not possible to control the vehicle. in other words, you should be able to either brake and prevent a bad situation or accelerate your way out, and neither are possible for a few seconds. this happens nearly every day on the 2009 prius. looking at consumer blogs, it is obvious this has been a consistent problem with the prius, and not just the 2010 model.

Reported in: CHESTER NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i have a 2009 prius that is not a part of the "braking/traction" recall, however i've experienced the same exact problem from day one of driving the vehicle. on wet or uneven surface the traction control kicks in and car seems to lose power in the brake and accelerator for a few seconds and it is not possible to control the vehicle. in other words, you should be able to either brake and prevent a bad situation or accelerate your way out, and neither are possible for a few seconds. this happens nearly every day on the 2009 prius. looking at consumer blogs, it is obvious this has been a consistent problem with the prius, and not just the 2010 model.

Reported in: CHESTER NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 70 mph with the cruise control engaged the contact applied the brakes and noticed that the cruise control would not disengage.the contact had to apply the brakes three times in order for the cruise control to disengage. the manufacturer was called and informed the contact to take the vehicle to the dealership. the contact stated that the failure with the cruise control was directly related to the sudden acceleration with his toyota vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 6,200.

Reported in: ST. AUGUSTINE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

POWER TRAIN

2009 toyota goes forward when i put it in reverse. i apply brakes, try again, and it goes into reverse, sometimes after two tries. toyota service here claims they can't reproduce this. i don't believe them. it doesn't do this every time, but most times. afraid to parallel park. have you heard this one?

Reported in: YUMA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

we rented a 2009 prius when we were in las vegas. we almost got into a collision in the parking lot of a casino when someone pulled out in front of me all of a sudden. i pressed on the brake pedal as hard as a could and the car did not want to stop. i t was if the pedal was pushing on air. it did not go down as expected and the car barely came to a stop. this happened well before all the recalls with gas pedals sticking and such. i think that the sudden application of the brake pedal might of locked up the cylinder. the effect was similar to trying to push on a shock absorber really fast. they lock up and don't move very much. i am no small person 6'-2" and 285 lbs. and i was stomping on it !

Reported in: SALINAS CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while in 'cruise control' with no use of the gas pedal, the car started to increase speed beyond the set speed. when i realized what was happening, i stepped on the brake which overrode speed control and began slowing down as it normally would if the car was not accelerating but at steady speed, note: date below is approximate. event happened twice during summer of 2009 at high speed (setting at 70mph).

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i have a 2009 toyota prius and the brakes sporadically don't work/respond when i got uneven road, hit a pot hole, or corner. it doesn't last long.

Reported in: NEW YORK NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

previous to the accident at the 5,000 mile check up i had reported to the toyota dealer that the car would sometimes jump forward when the engine transitioned from electric to gas mode. they assured me that this was normal. on february 4th at 1035 i was stopped at an intersection behind a large van. the car was in the electric mode when the gas mode kicked in and the engine raced up and the car lunged forward striking the van in front of me. there was no damage the van, the front of my car was damaged. i called the police. the van driver had a disabled passenger and left as there was no damage to his vehicle. the police arrived and i explained that my car had for some reason lunged forward striking the other vehicle. since no one was injured he wasn't required to take a statement from me the next day february 5th i took my car to the toyota dealership for my 10,000 mile check up and again explained about the car lunging forward during the transition from electric to gas mode. no action taken other than assuring me that this normal. on march 4th while sitting at another intersection the car again lunged forward for about 6 feet before the full depression of the brake caused the engine rpm to come down and the car to stop. at this time i called and spoke to the general manager of the toyota dealership and he said to bring the vehicle out to the dealership and they would run a full set of tests. on march 10 i returned the vehicle to the toyota dealership and they kept the vehicle overnight and returned to me the next day march 11, 2010. according to the maintenance chief there was nothing in the tests that indicated any problems. unsatisfactory answers each time i have complained about the problem, now my car is damaged and toyota says everything is fine, i think not.

Reported in: FORT WORTH TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i just bought a 2009 prius & there are so many issues with unexpected acceleration & vehicle not going into park or reverse just stops in neutral, i was at a heb sore trying to park, all of a sudden my car sped up an hit a pole in front of me, i was trying to park, with my foot on break, so as to slow down, yesterday i had my wife drive the prius & the car suddenly stopped would not go into reverse or drive, that was very dangerous then they pull into a target parking lot i had to drive out there to meet them, it took almost 1hr & 3mins to get the car in reverse, off course i called my toyota sales guy this being the third time i have reported this incident & the keep down playing it saying there is nothing wrong, not really looking into it.

Reported in: RICHMOND TX || Crash: Y || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i just bought a 2009 prius & there are so many issues with unexpected acceleration & vehicle not going into park or reverse just stops in neutral, i was at a heb sore trying to park, all of a sudden my car sped up an hit a pole in front of me, i was trying to park, with my foot on break, so as to slow down, yesterday i had my wife drive the prius & the car suddenly stopped would not go into reverse or drive, that was very dangerous then they pull into a target parking lot i had to drive out there to meet them, it took almost 1hr & 3mins to get the car in reverse, off course i called my toyota sales guy this being the third time i have reported this incident & the keep down playing it saying there is nothing wrong, not really looking into it.

Reported in: RICHMOND TX || Crash: Y || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 2 mph into a parking space with pressure applied to the brake pedal. the vehicle slowed down, followed by an unexpected acceleration. the vehicle crashed into a handicap parking pole. there were no injuries. there was a separate occasion when the gear selector failed to shift into reverse gear or park position. the failure occurred intermittently vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer. the technician stated that the vehicle was functioning properly. the vehicle has not been repaired at this time. the failure mileage was 36,000.

Reported in: RICHMOND TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact was driving approximately 2 mph into a parking space with pressure applied to the brake pedal. the vehicle slowed down, followed by an unexpected acceleration. the vehicle crashed into a handicap parking pole. there were no injuries. there was a separate occasion when the gear selector failed to shift into reverse gear or park position. the failure occurred intermittently vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer. the technician stated that the vehicle was functioning properly. the vehicle has not been repaired at this time. the failure mileage was 36,000.

Reported in: RICHMOND TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my 2009 toyota prius was stopped at a traffic light when it suddenly lurched forward. my foot was on the brake at the time. i brought my car to my toyota dealer, where they inspected it and told me that they couldn't tell me why it happened.

Reported in: GOLETA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

this is extremely urgent! i own a 2009 toyota prius with no floor mats in it at all and the gas pedal stuck once a few days before the driver in california(2008 prius)was stuck speeding on highway and stopped by police. after seeing that story, i was compelled to share my story. toyota refused to help me saying my year wasn't in recall list. it happen the same way it happen to him in calif. i was accelerating on highway to pass driver and it stuck for 20 seconds then unstuck. i slammed on brakes which didn't help much. i started going upwards to 70 mphs with braked to the floor. there were no floor mats in car at the time. i'm afraid i will be the next prius that may cause accident or even kill someone. please help! toyota refuses to see my car! i don't know what to do...maybe i should go to the news. i'm scared!

Reported in: CLEVELAND OH || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 2 mph in reverse, the contact shifted the vehicle into drive and noticed that the vehicle was still reversing. the vehicle was then shifted back into reverse and then back into drive before the vehicle would drive forward. the failure has occurred on three different occasions the vehicle had not been diagnosed by the dealer. he contact also stated that when pressing the start button the vehicle would not start. the brake light also illuminates on the instrument panel even though the brakes are not engaged. the failure mileage was 5000 and the current mileage was 10000.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 2 mph in reverse, the contact shifted the vehicle into drive and noticed that the vehicle was still reversing. the vehicle was then shifted back into reverse and then back into drive before the vehicle would drive forward. the failure has occurred on three different occasions the vehicle had not been diagnosed by the dealer. he contact also stated that when pressing the start button the vehicle would not start. the brake light also illuminates on the instrument panel even though the brakes are not engaged. the failure mileage was 5000 and the current mileage was 10000.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving 2 mph in reverse, the contact shifted the vehicle into drive and noticed that the vehicle was still reversing. the vehicle was then shifted back into reverse and then back into drive before the vehicle would drive forward. the failure has occurred on three different occasions the vehicle had not been diagnosed by the dealer. he contact also stated that when pressing the start button the vehicle would not start. the brake light also illuminates on the instrument panel even though the brakes are not engaged. the failure mileage was 5000 and the current mileage was 10000.

Reported in: SAN FRANCISCO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact rented a 2009 toyota prius. while driving at speeds of 40 mph up hill, the vehicle abnormally accelerated and crashed into an 18-wheel truck. the driver sustained a broken leg and was transported to the hospital via helicopter. the front end of the vehicle was severely damaged and was towed back to the rental car company. the contact secured legal council to handle the matter. the failure mileage was 12,299 and the current was unknown.

Reported in: KENNER LA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while approaching a traffic light at approximately 5 mph, the vehicle abnormally accelerated. the vehicle proceeded to crash into another vehicle before coming to a stop. there were two injuries. a police report was filed. the vehicle was destroyed. the vehicle had not been tested or investigated by the dealer. the failure mileage and vin were not available at the time of the complaint.

Reported in: HOLLADAY UT || Crash: Y || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

we purchased a 2009 prius, 11/08. in 3/16/09 it accelerated unexpectedly on the nj turnpike near newark airport, a speed judged at 85 miles/hour. i was the driver, there were 4 passengers. clearly unattended acceleration not caused by a floor mat. scenario: traveling in right lane, came up behind cement mixer traveling at 45-50 mi/hour; accelerated quickly to get into middle lane; middle lane traffic constant, traveling min. 70 mi/hour; once in middle lane, de-accelerated; instead of de-accelerating, the car engine roared, taking off at an unbelievable speed; turned on flashers, put foot on brake; able to control speed of car, breaking all the time, engine roaring. no place to pull over. only thought: get to toll booth, hope i could stop it completely with brake; suddenly, after about 5 min., there was a sound in the engine (?) like a thud; car resumed normal operations. follow-up: went into nyc, drove car home that evening, 3 hour drive; husband took car to vineland toyota dealer where bought; they said black box showed that, in addition to most recent acceleration, there were prior accelerations; we never noticed them; they could find nothing wrong with it; said mat had been the problem; husband, former ceo/amer. lung assoc., contacted toyota regional, saying that he was not satisfied with diagnosis of problem - we were afraid to drive the car. knew management because of toyota's support of ala. in fact, after his retirement, endorsed '02 prius in toyota brochure, and was featured in 2 toyota videos; management sent techs from reg. office; reps concurred with dealer: problem was floor mat. outcome: no work we know of was done to rectify acceleration; mat removed, but couldn't see how it interfered with pedal. couldn't replicate the event by moving mat around. no explanation for thud; little likelihood that the mat could slip back in place. don't trust car! please advise us of your intent on this matter. thank you.

Reported in: SHILOH NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

2009 toyota prius. consumer expresses discontent due to a break in of his vehicle. consumer questions the smart key keyless/wireless entry design. *tgw

Reported in: LONG BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2009 toyota prius. consumer expresses discontent due to a break in of his vehicle. consumer questions the smart key keyless/wireless entry design. *tgw

Reported in: LONG BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2009 toyota prius. consumer states extraordinary experience with brake/acceleration problems. *tgw the consumer stated while waiting for her husband, she put the vehicle in park mode. she then decided to return to the front entrance of the building. she put the gear into reverse and let the vehicle go at its own speed. she stated she never touched the accelerator, but as she was about to turn the wheel to go through the front entrance, the vehicle then accelerated quickly. the consumer quickly put her foot on the brake, but they didn't work. she quickly turned the steering wheel to the right to avoid hitting a pedestrian. she ran over 2 trees, which brought the vehicle to a stop. *jb

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that on eight different occasions, the vehicle suddenly lost power. when the contact depressed the accelerator pedal, the vehicle did not respond and speed up. at times, it would eventually increase in speed and then immediately stall thereafter. the failure mileage was approximately 17,000. the current mileage was approximately 20,000.

Reported in: FORT LAUDERDALE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

when braking on the prius if you hit a pothole the car loses traction and skips ove the pothole. loss of feeling for the control of the vehicle of a second or two. it happens every time when braking and hiting a pothole or manhole

Reported in: EAST AMHERST NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

fax on behalf of re a safety concern related to their 2009 toyota prius; respond attn caroline/nyc office. *tgw four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers wife was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the consumers wife must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. *jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

fax on behalf of re a safety concern related to their 2009 toyota prius; respond attn caroline/nyc office. *tgw four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers wife was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the consumers wife must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. *jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving my newly purchased 2009 toyota prius (vin# [xxx]) on rt 66 in arlington virginia on march 31, 2010. i was driving approximately 50-60 miles per hour and accelerating. i took my foot off the accelerator to slow the car and the car kept accelerating. i then depressed the brake, but the car did not slow, and in fact i heard what sounded like the engine ¿gunning¿ and it continued to accelerate. i pressed the brake down as far as it would go and while the car slowed its acceleration, it did not slow or stop the car. as soon as i lifted my foot from the brake, the car began to accelerate again and i could hear the engine racing. i pressed the brake again, and the same thing happened ¿ the car slowed its acceleration, but did not slow its overall speed. as soon as i lifted my foot from the brake, the car accelerated. i did this three times, becoming increasingly afraid. i then jammed my foot hard on the brake and pulled off onto the side of the highway. i turned the car off, and it finally stopped. i sat there for a few moments, then turned the car back on and got back onto the highway. as soon as i got up to highway speeds, the same thing happened again ¿ the car accelerated on its own and the brake would not stop the car. i pulled over a second time and turned the car off as the only was i could find to stop it. i turned the car on again, and this time was able to reach my destination with no more incidents. i reported the problem to the carmax dealer from whom it was purchased and have been on hold to report this directly to toyota for over 30 minutes, but have been unable to get through. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: VIENNA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the vehicle suddenly accelerated to 60 mph after he applied pressure to the accelerator pedal at a traffic light. the driver was able to stop the vehicle and drive onto the emergency lane where the vehicle was left overnight. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer but no repairs were made when the complaint was filed. the failure mileage was approximately 18,000. the current mileage was 18,224.

Reported in: MASSAPEQUA PARK NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 55 mph across the railroad tracks, the brakes would release momentarily before being reapplied. the contact also experienced the identical failure after driving over a pothole. the failure occurred about two hundred times. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer and the contact had not called the manufacturer when the complaint was filed. the current mileage was approximately 33,000. the failure mileage was approximately 10.

Reported in: EDINA MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

re: 2009 prius > upon arrival at church, engine would not shut off. returned home, engine would not shut off. could not remove 'key' from slot. about 2 hours later, car could be shut off. > called dealer and explained. dealer said 'this has never happened, we will get back to you' which did not happen. since then, there have been several times that the power switch had to be pressed several times to make the car shut off. > this is a very dangerous situation in the event of a crash or stuck accelerator. dot should require manufacturers to use a conventional key switch to allow the driver to shut off the engine.

Reported in: BLAIRSTOWN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDBK20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius with 15000 miles. when i step on the brake (going less thank 30 mph) they slip for no reason. it was a nice sunny day, temps in the high 70s. i was in the process of making a right turn and the brakes slipped for a few seconds. the yellow light comes on the dash board showing traction control coming on. this happened coming down a small hill to a intersection , it happens with out warning and for no reason, the brakes were just checked and i was told they are ok from the local dealer. it seems to be happening more often.

Reported in: CARY NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2009 toyota prius - unintended acceleration. on this vehicle, uncontrolled acceleration can be reproduced at will. i called toyota and they are treating it as yet another crank call, service manager advised to remove floor mat and bring in later in week. i would hate to see it swept under the carpet like other recent complaints.

Reported in: LEXINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB200597

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

on 4/05/2010 as i was driving west on galbraith road i was headed downhill to a red light and applying my brake to slow down for the light. as i was slowing the road became extremely bumpy and my brakes all of a sudden felt like i was sliding or floating even though i had the pedal depressed. with my stomach in my throat i lifted my foot off the pedal and reapplied. it then began to slow again. i thought i was mistaken. on 4/12 at 9:30 am as i was leaving my house i was headed down the hill. i was braking to maintain my speed. i hit some bumps in the road and all of a sudden it felt like car was not slowing although i had the brake depressed. with my stomach in my throat, i removed my foot and re depressed the brake and it was fine. i decided i needed to call toyota. however when i got to the bottom of my condo complex and was making the right turn out i had my foot on my brake to control my turn, the same thing happened when i hit the bump out of here and i over corrected my turn with my heart in my throat and i hit a small retaining wall gashing the passenger side of my car and ripping open my rear tire. my car is currently on a toyota lot awaiting my insurance adjuster before toyota will repair or inspect the vehicle.

Reported in: WEST CHESTER OH || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

s10 appropriate handling re toyota brake problem fm owner of a 2009 toyota prius. *kb four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers wife was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the consumers wife must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. *jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

s10 appropriate handling re toyota brake problem fm owner of a 2009 toyota prius. *kb four days after purchasing the vehicle, the consumers wife was heading down a gentle incline toward a traffic light at an intersection shortly after a light snowfall, the street was wet, but there was no ice on the road. as she braked to slow down, she noticed there was no deceleration and continued to press down on the brake pedal to no avail. to avoid crashing into other cars, she veered sharply to the right into a curb and came to a stop. the vehicle sustained extensive damage to the wheel, axle and undercarriage. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and after the inspection, the consumer was informed there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the dealer implied the consumers wife must have applied the brakes incorrectly and was not accustomed to abs. a few months later on another wet rainy day, there was a similar incident of brake failure. *jb

Reported in: LARCHMONT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i was moving toward a stop sign and slowing as usual. the road is level and it was dry. suddenly there seemed to be no braking and the next thing i knew i had been hit by a truck traveling at right angles from my left. i apparently went through the stop sign. i brought the car to a stop safely at the side of the road to check on the truck which had swerved into a fence. the driver of the truck was cut by glass. my car had the bumper and grill torn off and unibody bent. this was a brake failure. unlike some reports, the road was not rough. this was a low speed failure. another few feet and my driver's door would have been hit and i could have been seriously injured.

Reported in: WEST VANCOUVER 00 || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

2009 toyota prius. consumer states unintended acceleration. *tgw the consumer stated as she made a u-turn to park, she moved the gear shifter from reverse to drive when the accelerator became stuck and the vehicle went forward despite the fact she was pressing on the brake and the vehicle did not stop until she ended up in a ditch. *jb updated 05/05/10.*jb

Reported in: LOS ALTOS CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

STEERING

2009 prius - on two occasion recently when i went to make a right turn my steering froze and the engine died. i almost hit a car. i have had it into piercy toyota on two occasion and they still have not found anything. i am afraid to drive the car. it only ha 3000 miles on it. they have been nice, but no results. if the car is doing this now and they cannot find it what happens next. not satisfied with there answer. i need your help.

Reported in: MILPITAS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2009 prius - on two occasion recently when i went to make a right turn my steering froze and the engine died. i almost hit a car. i have had it into piercy toyota on two occasion and they still have not found anything. i am afraid to drive the car. it only ha 3000 miles on it. they have been nice, but no results. if the car is doing this now and they cannot find it what happens next. not satisfied with there answer. i need your help.

Reported in: MILPITAS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

2009 prius - on two occasion recently when i went to make a right turn my steering froze and the engine died. i almost hit a car. i have had it into piercy toyota on two occasion and they still have not found anything. i am afraid to drive the car. it only ha 3000 miles on it. they have been nice, but no results. if the car is doing this now and they cannot find it what happens next. not satisfied with there answer. i need your help.

Reported in: MILPITAS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i depressed the brake pedal suddenly going about 35 mph to avoid a car stopped in front of me. the brake didn't "catch" immediately, delaying stopping time and forcing me to swerve off the road to avoid a collision. the brake problem has occurred before, approx. once a week. the dealer told me its due to the transition between battery and gas engine and there's no remedy.

Reported in: ANN ARBOR MI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

petition for safety recall of any vehicle without a single function, directly acting, fail -safe, off switch or button. *tgw document added and scanned into the system ref: petition for investigation of dtcs and missing dtcs (toyota) *tgw

Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

rust in the bottom frame of prius.

Reported in: PULLMAN WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 prius, on three occasions i experienced a slight hesitation in the braking of this car. i emailed toyota about the problem on 2/15/2010, and bib not receive a answer until 5/10/2010. i made an appointment with the local dealership before i received their answer on 5/10. the local dealer said they did not find a problem or any brake error on the computer. why should it take so long to answer my email and i still have no solution to my braking troubles.

Reported in: SAINT GABRIEL LA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

toyota 2009 prius loses brakes temporarily when going over bumps in the road.

Reported in: SANDY HOOK CT || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i own and drive a 2009 toyota prius, and i have noticed a lapse in braking while braking on rough roads. this goes back to dec. 2009, shortly after i purchased the vehicle. on my current commute, i'm noticing this lapse in braking almost daily.

Reported in: DOUSMAN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

when braking on a bumpy surface, the car brakes seem to disengage for a second and the car shoots forward. the last time this happened i was going down a hill at an intersection and the car went around the corner much faster than i would have liked.

Reported in: EAST HADDAM CT || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB204293

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

it is a recurring incident/problem with my 2009 toyota prius. braking at the same time one is going over a bump in the road or during intermittent slippery conditions. when braking at the same time the car is going over a moderately abrupt bump or parkinglot driveway entrance the anti-lock braking engages but there appears to be delay - possibly in connection with the switching from the regenerative brake mechanism - causing the sensation that the brakes have failed for about 1 second or 2 - quite a disconcerting feeling and concern that is potentially dangerous if the same road conditions were present during a panic stop. during intermittent slippery conditions - e.g. snow over the road, partially plowed snow or icy conditions - the anti-lock braking/traction control is over-active, cutting power abruptly to one wheel then the other causing a whipping action from side-to-side. this ranges from annoying to terrifying including one incident that the car spun out 3 times on one section of a rural snowy road - fortunately no on-coming traffic was present and the car did not go into the ditch. when the dealer was asked about these tendencies they stated that this was normal - so no adjustment to a part or software has been able to be made.

Reported in: REEDSBURG WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 prius model1220 a 2 experiences where car seemed to "surge" when brakes applied in traffic. only lasted seconds but disconcerting. abs did engage initially (felt pulsing). took car to dealership 5/17 after first episode. nothing found wrong; tech could not duplicate problem. had second experience 5/21.

Reported in: GREER SC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

going over pot holes it feels like the brakes skip. it occurs almost every time i go over a hole of some sort and apply the brake. i asked toyota to double check that the abs brakes were working correctly. toyota says its normal and that the abs system works by momentarily interrupting the braking force to prevent a skit and the resulting loss of control.

Reported in: SYRACUSE NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

inconsistent brake feel on rough or wet surfaces. though brake pedal is depressed, brakes don't feel like they are engaging properly, it feels like a violent shudder. recently, on wet pavement i narrowly avoided hitting the car in front of me when i had to stop suddenly and the brakes took much too long to stop the vehicle.

Reported in: WADESVILLE IN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving at 35 mph approaching an intersection, the contact depressed the brake pedal but when the vehicle went over a bump in the road, it did not slow down. the contact had to apply more pressure to the brakes to slow the vehicle down. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership but the dealer could not duplicate the failure. the failure occurred again after the contact picked up the vehicle from the dealership. the failure mileage was approximately 11,400. the current mileage was 11,634.

Reported in: MILWAUKEE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

two unaccounted acceleration single vehicle accidents with 2009 toyota prius. after accident of april 30, 2010 per my request, vehicle was inspected by a consultant from toyota.[may 26, 2010]. toyota is saying car is safe. car was returned to me on may 28, 2010. first accident occurred august, 31, 2009. both accidents occurred under similar circumstances; driving at slow acceleration while making a right turn. accident #1 turning a corner, accident #2 pulling into a parking slot in a parking lot. both times engine revved and car lurched forward. in first accident car crashed into a tree, in second accident car ran over a landscaping boulder which stopped it from crashing into the street. the boulder was stuck under the middle of the car. two wheels on each side of it and front wheels were off of the ground. the front wheels were still turning after i got out of the car. i got back in the car and turned off the engine. i am requesting toyota replace this vehicle with a like value vehicle. i have pictures taken at the time of the accident of april 30, 2010 and detailed explanations of both accidents. damages from both accidents was approximately 20,000 dollars . my insurance company found me at fault for the accident of august 31, 2009 because all of the car's warning lights came on and i glanced at the dash. the insurance company has found me not at fault for the accident of april 30, 2010. i received a recall notice from toyota after the accident of april 30th. however, i was told that this had nothing to do with the accidents. my car has had a number of unusual issues since its purchase. this is documented with toyota service. this car was purchased new and has 11,000 miles on it. updated ivoq 09/08/10*jb

Reported in: PLEASANTON CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was involved in 2 identical accidents over the past 6 months with the same car, a 2009 toyota prius. in december '09 i was making a right turn to pull into a parking spot. i was completely in the spot and went to come to a full stop when my 2009 toyota prius suddenly accelerated and crashed into a car. then again on june 21, 2010, i was making a right turn into a parking spot and the same car suddenly accelerated as i went to come to a full stop in the parking spot. this time the car jumped the curb and went through a chain link fence. both times i was making a right turn into the spot, both times i was braking and both times the car accelerated as i went to come to a full stop. the dec '09 accident was reported to the police, the june'10 accident was not.

Reported in: BLUE POINT NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

when at a complete stop at a stop light our 2009 prius tried to accelerate on its own and my husband had to stand on the brakes to keep it from moving forward. toyota was able to get info off their black box showing both the accelerator and brakes were applied at the same time. we keep hoping they are researching this problem but their call this week (after reporting this about 90 days ago and 2 black box downloads at the dealership) says it was driver error since they couldn't duplicate it and their engineers say it is within normal operating range. toyota rep "l" says toyota is not releasing how many unintentional acceleration issues they have had since it is proprietary information and that they will not discuss other trends or cases they are not looking for trends between reports only downloading each individual car's info not looking at what is written in the complaint. she says toyota and your government can't find anything which means it must be safe. safe? we have not let our kids ride in this car for over 6 months as we hoped a solution would come up from toyota but now we just really need info to know what is really going on with these vehicles and how many accidents there really are. the toyota rep on the phone says they have never duplicated a customer concern and that ours is unusual because people usually report right away and after an accident. i had asked how busy they are since it took so loooong to respond and she stated she takes about 2-5 calls a day, but previously had been taking 10-15 per day and there are about 40 people in her position. how many issues are there and is this a big deal about nothing or a big coverup? we just want to make a good decision for our family please help!

Reported in: AURORA CO || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

while driving a 2009 toyota prius at 50-55 mph on a single lane highway outside of prescott az, the drive system suddenly shut down and no response was felt when depressing the accelerator pedal. lots of indicators came on and my wife was able to steer the car to the side of the road where there was just sufficient room for following traffic to go past. after spending a few minutes going through the owner's manual and finding no easy answer to explain this condition, we tried and were able to re-start the car. it must be noted that the fuel gauge when recently checked had indicated slightly less than 1/4 full and that we were proceeding up hill when the event happened. no add fuel indicator light nor low fuel alarm had occurred prior to this event. when the car was restarted it was on a more level but not flat surface. we proceeded on our travel with the flashers on and at a speed no higher than 30-35 mph. soon thereafter we did observe both an add fuel indicator light and then a flashing light on the fuel gauge itself. we stopped at the nearest gas station and added fuel. the next day we took the car in to the toyota dealer to have them look at the fuel gauge and electronically recorded history. the report showed that the car responded to an empty fuel tank by shutting if the engine and then the battery drive when its charge went too low (to protect the battery). we were told the this car has a bladder type fuel storage device and that it can act funny when it gets low. the car was checked out fine and returned to us with the words no wisdom to not let the car get too low on fuel. my concern is that the engine and drive systems shut down under high speed driving conditions without any low fuel warning indicators being activated.

Reported in: PRESCOTT AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

POWER TRAIN

while driving a 2009 toyota prius at 50-55 mph on a single lane highway outside of prescott az, the drive system suddenly shut down and no response was felt when depressing the accelerator pedal. lots of indicators came on and my wife was able to steer the car to the side of the road where there was just sufficient room for following traffic to go past. after spending a few minutes going through the owner's manual and finding no easy answer to explain this condition, we tried and were able to re-start the car. it must be noted that the fuel gauge when recently checked had indicated slightly less than 1/4 full and that we were proceeding up hill when the event happened. no add fuel indicator light nor low fuel alarm had occurred prior to this event. when the car was restarted it was on a more level but not flat surface. we proceeded on our travel with the flashers on and at a speed no higher than 30-35 mph. soon thereafter we did observe both an add fuel indicator light and then a flashing light on the fuel gauge itself. we stopped at the nearest gas station and added fuel. the next day we took the car in to the toyota dealer to have them look at the fuel gauge and electronically recorded history. the report showed that the car responded to an empty fuel tank by shutting if the engine and then the battery drive when its charge went too low (to protect the battery). we were told the this car has a bladder type fuel storage device and that it can act funny when it gets low. the car was checked out fine and returned to us with the words no wisdom to not let the car get too low on fuel. my concern is that the engine and drive systems shut down under high speed driving conditions without any low fuel warning indicators being activated.

Reported in: PRESCOTT AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

my 2009 toyota prius, since i first purchased it april 2009, the anti-lock brakes seem to fail. when i brake and hit a bump in the road the anti-lock brakes engage and release the brakes. it feels as if i am sliding on ice. i discussed this with the toyota dealer last month, who dismissed this as normal anti-lock brake activity. i feel these cars need to be recalled and repaired.

Reported in: MOHRSVILLE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

2009 toyota prius. consumer states problem with braking system *tgw the consumer stated when he applied the brakes to stop, he realized they did not engage and neither did the abs. the vehicle continued at the same slow speed finally coming to stop only after a truck sheared off the front license plate on the consumers vehicle. there was no other damage to the vehicle. *jb

Reported in: MORRISTOWN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

2009 toyota prius was hit from behind and pushed into the vehicle in front. at no time did the seat belts catch nor did the airbags deploy. my daughter's face collided with the dashboard due to the seat belts not working and no airbag deployment. so far toyota says that there is nothing to fix, the car performed as it was designed to.

Reported in: JAMESTOWN NC || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

SEAT BELTS

2009 toyota prius was hit from behind and pushed into the vehicle in front. at no time did the seat belts catch nor did the airbags deploy. my daughter's face collided with the dashboard due to the seat belts not working and no airbag deployment. so far toyota says that there is nothing to fix, the car performed as it was designed to.

Reported in: JAMESTOWN NC || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owned a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while attempting to park, the vehicle abnormally accelerated at a rapid rate of speed. the contact was unable to stop the vehicle and crashed into a brick wall. the contact was uninjured. a police report was available. the vehicle was repaired by the dealer however, the contact did not feel safe driving the vehicle and traded the vehicle for another. she stated she had experienced numerous unintended acceleration incidents prior to the crash. the contact called the manufacturer who inspected the vehicle but offered no further assistance. the failure mileage was 20,001 and the current mileage was approximately 20,045.

Reported in: PRINCETON KY || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

event: incomplete brake feel, during slow and steady application of brakes on slick or rough road surfaces, when the anti-lock brake system (abs) is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction. the system engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to the tire slippage. if the same brake force is applied under these conditions, in the worst case, this may lead to an increase of vehicle stopping distance and thus raise the possibility of a crash. toyota says that the older priuses, like mine, use a different abs system, and so are not subject to recall. but it seems like a similar issue. failure: whenever there is a slick, wet road. correction: i checked with the dealer, all systems were checked safe, tires' psi were adjusted, it was felt that there was some tire noise. incident continues intermittently.

Reported in: FAIRVIEW PARK OH || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that after putting his foot on the brake pedal the vehicle accelerated and crashed into the rear of the vehicle in front of him. there were no injuries and the police were not called. nhtsa campaign id number: 09v388000 vehicle speed control, accelerator pedal was issued after this incident and the recall repair was performed. the failure had not occurred since the recall repair. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 31,000 and the current mileage was 36,000.

Reported in: ALBANY NY || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

2009 toyota prius. when braking the brakes would disengage temporarily causing the car to go faster. i have come real close to rear ending the car in front of me during adverse road conditions. i have driven for 35 years in snow and slick conditions and i know when a car isn't braking right. i always maintain a save distance and this is the only car that has done this. this scarier part is that this happens every time when braking if the road is at all slick. i took it to my local dealer to get it checked. after treating me like a total moron accusing me of not knowing how to drive they said they did do a thorough run through and didn't find any problems.

Reported in: BILLINGS MT || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2009 toyota prius. consumer states problem with brakes *tgw the consumer stated on four occasions, when he applied the brakes, the vehicle would continue to accelerate. the vehicle was taken to the dealer after the third incident. however, the dealer was unable to diagnose a problem. *jb

Reported in: SAINT PETERS MO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

AIR BAGS

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the vehicle was at a complete stop when it suddenly accelerated. the vehicle crashed into the brick wall although the driver was attempting to apply the brakes. the driver experienced severe whiplash, swelling in her chest, bruising on her ribs and shoulder. the air bags did not deploy. a police report was filed. there was no mention of the vehicle being destroyed. a few months prior to the failure the dealer performed an complete vehicle inspection and dealer stated that there was nothing wrong it. the manufacturer was not notified. the current and failure mileages were approximately 8,000.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the vehicle was at a complete stop when it suddenly accelerated. the vehicle crashed into the brick wall although the driver was attempting to apply the brakes. the driver experienced severe whiplash, swelling in her chest, bruising on her ribs and shoulder. the air bags did not deploy. a police report was filed. there was no mention of the vehicle being destroyed. a few months prior to the failure the dealer performed an complete vehicle inspection and dealer stated that there was nothing wrong it. the manufacturer was not notified. the current and failure mileages were approximately 8,000.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that when the vehicle stopped it suddenly accelerated. the contact attempted to apply the brakes but the vehicle would not slow down causing the vehicle to crash into a wall. the crash the air bags did not deploy and the contact suffered injuries to the neck, knee, and chest. the contact called the manufacturer regarding the crash and the manufacturer stated that they wanted to inspect the vehicle. the contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe and does not want it repaired. the failure mileage was 9,000.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2009 toyota prius. s10 appropriate handling- letter from regarding toyota problems* tgw the consumer stated while driving at night, she noticed the dashboard lights glared in the windshield. *jb

Reported in: WAUSEON OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

braking ability decreases temporarily what appears to be a second or so while driving when applying brakes and going over a bump or small pothole. decreased braking ability while going over bumps/potholes appears to occur every time. the last time of occurrence it appeared that the car may have accelerated momentarily when initially braking and going over a very shallow small pothole.

Reported in: BURKE VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

i own a prius 2009. i was involved in an accident in which a truck run a red light, broadsided a vehicle at the intersection. this vehicle spun and hit the right front part of my car. the problem is that the driver airbag deployed about 2 min after the hit, but the airbag was torn and the inflation gas leaked into the cabin. the passenger bag was not deployed. i was alone in the car and was not injured. i have reported the incident to toyota.

Reported in: DENVER CO || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have a 2009 prius base with 42k miles. after placing the vehicle in park and waiting in the vehicle, it suddenly lurched forward about 1 or 2 inches and with enough force to shatter a light post. this seems a dangerous flaw. it happens frequently; after speaking with a repair shop, i was told this is normal for a prius and is part of the recharging design of the hybrid system. i was advised to use the parking brake whenever possible. this seems dangerous.

Reported in: LANSING MI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

2009 toyota prius, car has had a bad fuel gauge , drove off the lot new and have had fuel tank replaced once. fuel gauge failed again this is the second time. dealer unable to repair, told me it was a design flaw and it could not be repaired, i am running out of gas and i can not use this new car on a long trip. i do not know and i am guessing on how much fuel i have. this is unsafe and uncalled for. running out of glass on freeway and it is dangerous.

Reported in: SIERRA VISTA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4F4YR12U13T

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

2009 toyota prius, car has had a bad fuel gauge , drove off the lot new and have had fuel tank replaced once. fuel gauge failed again this is the second time. dealer unable to repair, told me it was a design flaw and it could not be repaired, i am running out of gas and i can not use this new car on a long trip. i do not know and i am guessing on how much fuel i have. this is unsafe and uncalled for. running out of glass on freeway and it is dangerous.

Reported in: SIERRA VISTA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4F4YR12U13T

AIR BAGS

good day, i am a 19 year police veteran for a medium size police department in alaska. i wanted to pass along on observation that myself and other officers are seeing in the field. specifically, we have noted that with the increase in icy conditions and increased vehicle collisions, that many of the smaller vehicles such as subaru's and toyota prius are not having their airbags activated. we have seen about a half dozen wrecks where the collision has caused the car to slam into a vehicle in front of it at a stop light or similar and the bumper doesn't touch the rear of the standing vehicle causing the airbag to deploy, however, the hood/engine compartment is crumpled. additionally, side curtain airbags are also not deploying on angled impacts. i do not know if you have had other observations of this but wanted awareness in case there is a trend in design or sensors.

Reported in: JUNEAU AK || Crash: Y || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

tl*the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving approximately 5 mph, the vehicle stalled and all warning lights illuminated. the contact was able to restart the vehicle but it stalled again. the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer who replaced the short engine block. the dealer stated that the piston rod was bent due to bad fuel in the vehicle. the failure mileage was approximately 19,800 and the current mileage was 20,500.

Reported in: SCARBOROUGH ME || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

while driving at night, the passenger headlamp assembly (every bulb, not just the main high-intensity bulb) went out. wiggling the connector at the back of the headlamp assembly when the headlamp gets in this condition does not fix the problem. i can get the assembly back in working condition by turning off the lights and turning them back on again. this is dangerous! when the light came back on again, it was slightly flickering at first and now seems dimmer than the driver side light. i have also had connector-related issues on the rear brake lights, where they go out at random times. turning the lights on and off does not work to get the brake light working again. i have to manually tighten the connector at the back of the brake light assembly to get the light working again.

Reported in: QUEEN CREEK AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius hybrid equipped with an aftermarket 10kw kit. the contact was driving 10 mph with the 10kw plugged in when it caught on fire causing the standard hybrid vehicle to become an electric vehicle. the electrical wiring caught on fire which was located in the rear passenger side of the vehicle near the tail light. the fire was extinguished by the contact and there were no injuries. the fire department was called but the fire had been extinguished by the time they arrived. a fire report was not filed and the vehicle was towed to a mechanic shop who was unable to repair the vehicle. an authorized dealer was then contacted and they stated that because the 10kw was an after market part, they would not provide any assistance. the manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 33,126.

Reported in: HUNTINGTON BEACH CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

STRUCTURE

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that squirrels were able chew through the wiring and the fuse box from under the vehicle. in addition, the squirrels had also chewed through the plastic radiator cover and support panel for the fan and the abs warning light was illuminated as a result of the damages. the contact was concerned because there was no cover for the under the vehicle to prevent the squirrels or rodents from entering and damaging the vehicle. the contact stated that the failure was recurring. the failure mileage was 2,091 and the current mileage was 2,373.

Reported in: BILOXI MS || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

STEERING

while driving my 2009 toyota prius i hit a curb and then lost all steering. steering wheel turned completely 360 degrees without turning the wheels. we were about to drive on a mountain road with numerous turns and steep grades. i had the car towed to a toyota dealer who replaced the intermediate shaft and spiral cable sub assembly. i was researching the issue and found that toyota had a recall for this exact item in 2004,2005, and 2006. it seems that 2009 still has the problem. if i was travelling at any higher speed and lost all steering it would have been deadly.

Reported in: SIMI VALLEY CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the fuel gauge would provide inaccurate readings of fuel levels. while driving 20 mph, the vehicle completely shut down without warning due to a bladder fuel tank problem. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who replaced the bladder fuel tank under warranty. the manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 43,000. the consumer stated toyota paid for the repair. however, the gas gauge continues to be inaccurate and the consumer is unable to put no more than six gallons of gas in the vehicle. also, at times, the vehicle would not shift into gear. updated 06/30/11

Reported in: PORT ORANGE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the fuel gauge would provide inaccurate readings of fuel levels. while driving 20 mph, the vehicle completely shut down without warning due to a bladder fuel tank problem. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who replaced the bladder fuel tank under warranty. the manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 43,000. the consumer stated toyota paid for the repair. however, the gas gauge continues to be inaccurate and the consumer is unable to put no more than six gallons of gas in the vehicle. also, at times, the vehicle would not shift into gear. updated 06/30/11

Reported in: PORT ORANGE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the fuel gauge would provide inaccurate readings of fuel levels. while driving 20 mph, the vehicle completely shut down without warning due to a bladder fuel tank problem. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who replaced the bladder fuel tank under warranty. the manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 43,000. the consumer stated toyota paid for the repair. however, the gas gauge continues to be inaccurate and the consumer is unable to put no more than six gallons of gas in the vehicle. also, at times, the vehicle would not shift into gear. updated 06/30/11

Reported in: PORT ORANGE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving my 6-month old 2009 prius one summer day on a dry, paved, slightly downward incline when the following problem occurred. as i approached a traffic circle at about 5 mph and then applied the brakes, my car jumped forward for about a second and a gold light on the dash was briefly visible through my peripheral vision. because i was familiar with anti-lock braking systems, i think that i kept my foot on the brake pedal, though i may have reflexively released it in my startle. at any rate the car stopped a few feet later. thankfully there was no collision, largely due, i believe, to my habit of coasting to a stop when practical. however, this was a bit unnerving, and also since it was during the period of concern about toyota prius' unintended acceleration, i made a point of reporting it to my car dealer. i could not identify which dash light had flashed for a second. the dealer's response was that there was probably an uneven surface on the road that caused the problem. sure enough, there had been both a shallow pothole and a bit of gravel where the stopping problem occurred. however, i take issue with toyota's blaming road conditions for this problem when clearly the problem is that the car cannot respond appropriately even during very slow speeds. the problem hasn't recurred because i avoided the pothole afterward and never have to stop on a dime, pothole or no. i have had cars with anti-lock braking systems (abs) and never encountered this problem with them. therefore, imo toyota needs to improve the abs or the (then new) stability control feature on priuses, both of which my car has. in all of the hype about toyota cars' sustained unintended acceleration, i do not remember that this other event that i have described was also being addressed. how come? where are nhtsa, nasa, and toyota on this?

Reported in: DURHAM NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

POWER TRAIN

i was driving my 6-month old 2009 prius one summer day on a dry, paved, slightly downward incline when the following problem occurred. as i approached a traffic circle at about 5 mph and then applied the brakes, my car jumped forward for about a second and a gold light on the dash was briefly visible through my peripheral vision. because i was familiar with anti-lock braking systems, i think that i kept my foot on the brake pedal, though i may have reflexively released it in my startle. at any rate the car stopped a few feet later. thankfully there was no collision, largely due, i believe, to my habit of coasting to a stop when practical. however, this was a bit unnerving, and also since it was during the period of concern about toyota prius' unintended acceleration, i made a point of reporting it to my car dealer. i could not identify which dash light had flashed for a second. the dealer's response was that there was probably an uneven surface on the road that caused the problem. sure enough, there had been both a shallow pothole and a bit of gravel where the stopping problem occurred. however, i take issue with toyota's blaming road conditions for this problem when clearly the problem is that the car cannot respond appropriately even during very slow speeds. the problem hasn't recurred because i avoided the pothole afterward and never have to stop on a dime, pothole or no. i have had cars with anti-lock braking systems (abs) and never encountered this problem with them. therefore, imo toyota needs to improve the abs or the (then new) stability control feature on priuses, both of which my car has. in all of the hype about toyota cars' sustained unintended acceleration, i do not remember that this other event that i have described was also being addressed. how come? where are nhtsa, nasa, and toyota on this?

Reported in: DURHAM NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

my 2009 toyota prius brakes are faulty. the brakes do not respond properly, especially on slippery roads and on a decline. i took the car into the dealer in 10/2010 and they didn't find anything. i changed all 4 tires on the car in 2/2011 and still experienced the problem. i took the car into the dealer on 5/24/11 and again they did not find anything. they mentioned "abs system" and implied that i was experiencing the abs system kicking in. the problem is intermittent, and thus difficult to identify. but, i do notice the problem more frequently when it rains.

Reported in: HONOLULU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

this was the second time that the car would not start after a sitting for approximately seven days. it had to be towed to the dealer where purchased where checked and jumped. i was told to not let the car sit idle. today i contacted toyota directly at 800-331-4221. i was given case # 1108121588. representatives were very professional and checked with toyota technicians for the 2009 prius. apparently, the car should not set for 4 to 5 days, (7 days at the outside) without being driven. concern: dealer and toyota do not mention this serious flaw. as a sole female driver in the household, i would no have purchased this car given this very pertinent information. it means that something as simple as taking this car to the airport for a trip is not a prudent possibility. trying to do a personal part to use less gas and lessen emissions comes with a serious and not stated safety issue.

Reported in: SANTA CLARA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

re: 2009 toyota prius. approx. 23k miles. on sunday, august 14, 2011 we were driving at about 40 mph when without warning, the car completely shut down - all systems and all information displays. in spite of compromised steering and braking we were able to stop car. car was completely unresponsive other than being able to turn on hazard signal. vehicle was towed to a toyota dealer. dealer just informed us that the cause was a water pump failure which caused the car to go into a "safe" mode shutting down the car without any warning or time for the driver to find a safe response. upon questioning, the dealer also said this would also happen at higher speeds which in our opinion, could pose a life threatening situation not only for the operator but for those vehicles around him. further when asked, the dealer said it did not know if the failure of any other components would cause a similar shut-down. obviously, toyota's definition of "safe" mode is 180 degrees off and this is a system design flaw that needs to be addressed before it results in a tragedy (if it hasn't already done so).

Reported in: BOCA RATON FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

2009 toyota prius. consumer states steering wheel air bag did not deploy during a fatal car accident *tgw according to the police report, the driver rear ended another vehicle. *jb

Reported in: NASHUA NH || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

one week after being at the dealership for its routine oil/vehicle check-up (55,000-60,000), my red brake light, the yellow warning sign and the abs lights come up on my dashboard. towed it back to dealership since the brakes didn't work. they found i needed to change my brake actuator and the solenoid that is stuck. according to what i've read, this should not happen period paragraph but if it does it would be on a much older vehicle with a lot more miles with a stop and go history. according to the customer service representative at the dealership this is a malfunction of the part. when i called toyota they gave me the go around about being out of warranty. i need help. also there is a reflective line of light that shines on the driver side of the window from my dashboard.

Reported in: LOCKHART TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

one week after being at the dealership for its routine oil/vehicle check-up (55,000-60,000), my red brake light, the yellow warning sign and the abs lights come up on my dashboard. towed it back to dealership since the brakes didn't work. they found i needed to change my brake actuator and the solenoid that is stuck. according to what i've read, this should not happen period paragraph but if it does it would be on a much older vehicle with a lot more miles with a stop and go history. according to the customer service representative at the dealership this is a malfunction of the part. when i called toyota they gave me the go around about being out of warranty. i need help. also there is a reflective line of light that shines on the driver side of the window from my dashboard.

Reported in: LOCKHART TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

i was gliding into a commercial parking space with my foot off the accelerator in the second before i moved my foot onto the brake. suddenly, the accelerator pushed down by itself, the car surged forward towards the truck in the space in front of mine. i slammed on the brake. end of incident. no mat was in the way. i had taken part in the recall.

Reported in: MESA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

POWER TRAIN

i was gliding into a commercial parking space with my foot off the accelerator in the second before i moved my foot onto the brake. suddenly, the accelerator pushed down by itself, the car surged forward towards the truck in the space in front of mine. i slammed on the brake. end of incident. no mat was in the way. i had taken part in the recall.

Reported in: MESA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was gliding into a commercial parking space with my foot off the accelerator in the second before i moved my foot onto the brake. suddenly, the accelerator pushed down by itself, the car surged forward towards the truck in the space in front of mine. i slammed on the brake. end of incident. no mat was in the way. i had taken part in the recall.

Reported in: MESA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlight and tail lights failed to work at start up, after a while the highbeams did work so car could be driving home. later that evening everything worked fine at startup.

Reported in: MINNEAPOLIS MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius hybrid. the contact stated that while attempting to brake, the traction warning light illuminated and the brake failed to respond with a reduction in engine power. the contact stated that the failure only lasted for a moment before returning to normal function. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 67,000. the current mileage was not available.

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

SERVICE BRAKES

i was approximately 8 or 9 car lengths from a vehicle that slammed on her brakes before hitting the car in front of her, so i stood up on my brakes at about 30 -35 mph. the cars brakes did not grab for about a second, then started to grab right before impacting the car in front of me. *js

Reported in: CONROE TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

SERVICE BRAKES

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while exiting a parking space, the brakes were applied and the vehicle did not respond. the vehicle instead accelerated while the contact had the brake depressed. the contact crashed into a truck. the contact did not sustain injuries. the passenger did sustain some minor cuts and a minor hit to the head. the vehicle was towed to a repair shop. the vehicle was not inspected or repaired. the police department was present and a police report was available. the vehicle had previously been repaired under the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number: 09v388000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal). the failure and current mileages were under 15,000.

Reported in: AMBLER PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that an extremely strong battery acid odor emitted inside of the vehicle through the vents. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. the technician was unable to determine the cause of failure and cleaned the entire upholstery in the vehicle; however the odor persisted. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the contact planned to take the vehicle back to the dealer. the approximate failure mileage was 29,000.

Reported in: WENATCHEE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U497

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated while the brakes were depressed the vehicle accelerated abnormally. the contact crashed into a post office building as a result. the contact sustained injuries to the head, shoulder, neck and back. the police were contacted and a report was taken. the vehicle was towed to a local repair shop. the manufacturer was contacted but the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 32,000.

Reported in: SARASOTA FL || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the vehicle stalled out while i was driving, four times in about a mile - including once on a very busy road with no shoulder. the electrical error board lit up, the transmission reverted to neutral or park and i could not put the car back into drive. after i turned the car off, and then turned it back on, it went into drive but only for a short while before lights started flashing and it stalled again.

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

ENGINE

the vehicle stalled out while i was driving, four times in about a mile - including once on a very busy road with no shoulder. the electrical error board lit up, the transmission reverted to neutral or park and i could not put the car back into drive. after i turned the car off, and then turned it back on, it went into drive but only for a short while before lights started flashing and it stalled again.

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

SUSPENSION

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. while driving various speeds, the contact drove over a slight road bump and the vehicle suddenly lifted into the air. the failure recurred whenever the contact traveled over a road bump. the vehicle taken to an authorized dealer numerous times for the failure and they were unable to locate a problem. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 5. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: CLEVELAND OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlights go off by themselves. when i start the car both headlights go on, but after driving a little while the left or right, or sometimes both headlights will shut off.

Reported in: OAK PARK CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

POWER TRAIN

while engine running and in parked mode, engine suddenly raced as if gas pedal was depressed and vehicle lunged forward a few inches.

Reported in: PEPPER PIKE OH || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

i pulled up to the gas pump and could not put gas in my car. it had a little gas in it, but the pump cut off before i could get started. the car has had a problem with the bladder since its inception. i can never fill up the tank. the dealer wants me to pay an elaborate amount to get it fixed. i went out on the internet and other people are having the same problem with not being able to fill up their tank.

Reported in: LITTLE ROCK AR || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the headlights have been going out randomly for the last few months but only one at a time. this evening while driving home from a late meeting, both headlights went out while driving at 55mph. i pulled off the highway and tried turning the car off and on again. headlights went on when i turned the car back on, so i resumed driving only to have the lights go out again! this time i flicked on the high beams and the lights came on. i stopped to grab a bite to eat figuring i could do the high beam trick again. when i started the car, the lights went on and high beams turned on when i engaged the lever. while driving home, less than 2 miles from where i started the car, headlights went out and the high beams did not work either when i attempted to turn them on. i pulled over to turn the car off and on again but with no luck this time. very slowly drove the last mile home on the less traveled road with my flashers on...this situation is incredibly dangerous.

Reported in: REHOBOTH BEACH DE || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

VISIBILITY/WIPER

the headlights have been going out randomly for the last few months but only one at a time. this evening while driving home from a late meeting, both headlights went out while driving at 55mph. i pulled off the highway and tried turning the car off and on again. headlights went on when i turned the car back on, so i resumed driving only to have the lights go out again! this time i flicked on the high beams and the lights came on. i stopped to grab a bite to eat figuring i could do the high beam trick again. when i started the car, the lights went on and high beams turned on when i engaged the lever. while driving home, less than 2 miles from where i started the car, headlights went out and the high beams did not work either when i attempted to turn them on. i pulled over to turn the car off and on again but with no luck this time. very slowly drove the last mile home on the less traveled road with my flashers on...this situation is incredibly dangerous.

Reported in: REHOBOTH BEACH DE || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the headlights have been going out randomly for the last few months but only one at a time. this evening while driving home from a late meeting, both headlights went out while driving at 55mph. i pulled off the highway and tried turning the car off and on again. headlights went on when i turned the car back on, so i resumed driving only to have the lights go out again! this time i flicked on the high beams and the lights came on. i stopped to grab a bite to eat figuring i could do the high beam trick again. when i started the car, the lights went on and high beams turned on when i engaged the lever. while driving home, less than 2 miles from where i started the car, headlights went out and the high beams did not work either when i attempted to turn them on. i pulled over to turn the car off and on again but with no luck this time. very slowly drove the last mile home on the less traveled road with my flashers on...this situation is incredibly dangerous.

Reported in: REHOBOTH BEACH DE || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U593

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that water penetrated the headlight's plastic covering due to improper sealing and caused the light bulb to fail. the dealer replaced the light bulb housing but the failure was not corrected. the passenger light bulb failed numerous times. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 100,000.

Reported in: ATWATER CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

2009 toyota prius. consumer write regards to vehicle brake problems. consumer also sent revised toyota document. *smd the consumer stated the same braking problem existed for models before and after the 2010 models. however, only the 2010 models were recalled.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK

2009 toyota prius. consumer write regards to vehicle brake problems. consumer also sent revised toyota document. *smd the consumer stated the same braking problem existed for models before and after the 2010 models. however, only the 2010 models were recalled.

Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

car exhibits symptoms consistent with fuel tank bladder collapse. have observed widely erratic fuel gauge indications and difficulty adding fuel - particularly in colder weather, (temperatures below approximately 45 degrees f). on occasion it has almost impossible to add gas to a nearly empty tank even at a trickle as the fuel filler auto shutoff keeps tripping. attempts to add even small amounts of gas can result in gas spewing back out the filling accompanied by belching sounds coming from the tank. often the tank cannot be filled to the advertised capacity even in warmer weather. toyota dealer service denies ever having heard of this problem and has offered no credible solution. on an extended trip this could easily result in being stalled with little warning as there is no reliable indication of how much usable fuel is in the tank or when the fuel gauge is going to quickly drop to near zero. this is also an environmental concern due to emission of gasoline fumes and spurting of raw gas during refueling.

Reported in: WALLA WALLA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

SERVICE BRAKES

i purchased my 2009 prius 3 years 4 months ago. i noticed a strange new sound coming from the engine. it was a rattling noise every 15 seconds or so lasting approximately 3-4 seconds then starting over 15 seconds later constantly repeating this cycle. it continued when the car was off or on. i brought it in to my toyota dealership. they called me the next day with very unsettling news saying it was the "brake accumulator" as it was losing brake pressure and the noise was it trying to build the brake pressure back up but it wasn't holding. he said it would cost $2,700 to repair. my service representative said this is a part that should not fail and has never been replaced before at this dealership. it was a first for them. i was very upset as this shouldn't be happening in a 3.5 year old car with only 66,500 miles on it that has been impeccably maintained. the more research i did, i saw this was occurring quite often in camry hybrids along with the prius. this is a part that should not be failing at all especially in newer cars. if this part is not replaced it can lead to catastrophic break failure. this should be investigated and added to toyota prius's never ending recall list! this is the last toyota i will own.

Reported in: MEDFORD NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

both low beams have gone out without any warning, but replacing bulbs and fuses doesn't fix the issue.

Reported in: FAIRFAX CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

when i turned on the car, the headlights would not turn on. both lights had been fully operational the day before. both high and low beams on both sides did not work, so it is definitely not the case that four separate bulbs or fuses all blew independently. i tried turning the headlight switch on and off several times, but this did not correct the problem. the fog lights do illuminate, but that is not enough illumination for safe driving in my area.

Reported in: ARLINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

when i turned on the car, the headlights would not turn on. both lights had been fully operational the day before. both high and low beams on both sides did not work, so it is definitely not the case that four separate bulbs or fuses all blew independently. i tried turning the headlight switch on and off several times, but this did not correct the problem. the fog lights do illuminate, but that is not enough illumination for safe driving in my area.

Reported in: ARLINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE:BODY

in an attempt to avoid oncoming calves on a county dirt road driver inadvertantly pulled steering wheel to the right and hit a tree at road side. tree is twelve inched from road surface. before seat belt restrained driver, driver's forward momentum broke the steering wheel. driver was not injured. went to local hospital er. sheriff investigated. with the extensive damage to the front end of the vehicle the air bag should have deployed. it did not. photos taken. your organization is being notified as we feel the air bag should have deployed. we will also contact toyota. thank you. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: CLARKSVILLE AR || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

STEERING

in an attempt to avoid oncoming calves on a county dirt road driver inadvertantly pulled steering wheel to the right and hit a tree at road side. tree is twelve inched from road surface. before seat belt restrained driver, driver's forward momentum broke the steering wheel. driver was not injured. went to local hospital er. sheriff investigated. with the extensive damage to the front end of the vehicle the air bag should have deployed. it did not. photos taken. your organization is being notified as we feel the air bag should have deployed. we will also contact toyota. thank you. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: CLARKSVILLE AR || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

ENGINE

in an attempt to avoid oncoming calves on a county dirt road driver inadvertantly pulled steering wheel to the right and hit a tree at road side. tree is twelve inched from road surface. before seat belt restrained driver, driver's forward momentum broke the steering wheel. driver was not injured. went to local hospital er. sheriff investigated. with the extensive damage to the front end of the vehicle the air bag should have deployed. it did not. photos taken. your organization is being notified as we feel the air bag should have deployed. we will also contact toyota. thank you. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: CLARKSVILLE AR || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

AIR BAGS

in an attempt to avoid oncoming calves on a county dirt road driver inadvertantly pulled steering wheel to the right and hit a tree at road side. tree is twelve inched from road surface. before seat belt restrained driver, driver's forward momentum broke the steering wheel. driver was not injured. went to local hospital er. sheriff investigated. with the extensive damage to the front end of the vehicle the air bag should have deployed. it did not. photos taken. your organization is being notified as we feel the air bag should have deployed. we will also contact toyota. thank you. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: CLARKSVILLE AR || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i pulled my toyota prius into my driveway, stepped on the brake, opened the garage door and waited for my husband to get out of the car.  he opened the passenger side door and started to move his foot out the door but before he even got one foot out, the car surged ahead and ran into the garage, pretty much destroying all the storage units on the right side of the garage.  my husband thinks the car was going between 35 and 40 mph. since my accident there have been two other incidents of toyotas accelerating independently in palo alto. one ran into a house on park avenue, destroying the front wall and front door of the house. a few days later, a toyota ran over a curb, across a lawn and into a corner of a house on north california ave. both of these incidents were reported to the police unfortunately, i cannot get the name and contact of the other two drivers because my name is not on the police reports.  my questions are these:  is there any legal way to get the information about these other 2 drivers? also, someone told me they thought there is a class action suit out against toyota because of acceleration problems.  is there any way to find out about that? i am aware that this is probably just a problem i will have to deal with but i always try everything.

Reported in: PALO ALTO CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i noticed some condensation in both front headlamps some time ago but just thought it was a cosmetic problem. about three days ago both my headlights went out. i took my car to the dealership and they informed me that the water inside the headlamps caused my hid lights to short out. i am out of the 36 month 36,000 mile warranty, but still within my extended warranty's limits. toyota is not going to cover the replacement of the light bulbs or change out the headlights since i'm past the original warranty coverage limit. i was quoted by my toyota dealership over $1,500 to repair this problem. i also found a memo from toyota (memo # t-sb-0188-11) that talks about this problem and states that under the oem warranty, it should be replaced at no charge to the customer.

Reported in: MIAMI FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

SERVICE BRAKES

since i purchased the prius in early 2012 with less than 60,000 miles, i always noticed that when braking over rough surfaces, the abs would kick in and would delay the braking by at least 1/2 second per abs/stability control event. while i had never had an incident initially, there were many close calls. after talking with the local toyota dealership, they said it was performing as expected and that i was not used to the car's handling characteristics. however, on 6/4/2013, the braking system performed its usual delay and did not allow me to stop in time, thereby rear-ending another person in a construction zone over a rough roadway. this needs to be something that nhtsa looks into for a recall situation. there are too many complaints already for them just to ignore this when there already has been a recall of the 2010 prius for the same issue.

Reported in: MOUNT GILEAD OH || Crash: Y || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

we were driving on the interstate at 70 mph, when the headlights suddenly went out. it was dark and raining, and were unable to see the road edge. we pushed the emergency flashers and were able to see how close to the road edge we were. about two minutes later, the lights both came back on and we continued to drive to seek a safer area. every 15 minutes the lights would flicker.

Reported in: MAZEPPA MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

SUSPENSION

i noticed a strange noise on the right side of the car, which was getting louder every day. took to a dealer, and i was told that my right strut and strut mount crashed and needed a replacement. they also told me that the other front strut needed a replacement. i am only driving normal roads.

Reported in: NORTH BETHESDA MD || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U097

STRUCTURE

the rubber cover on my touring model prius's hatch locking assembly - the hidden area you grab to open the hatch - has deteriorated to the point that it is gummy like tar. there are dozens of online complaints about this happening to 2007 and 2008 models, which like my prius, were manufactured in japan. i've owned several hatchbacks and never seen this problem on much older hatch locks. from all of the online complaints it's clear to me that toyota is aware of this defect but when contacted, they first told me they had never heard of this being a problem, and now tell me it advises customers it's "normal wear." from a safety perspective the melting rubber makes it difficult to open the rear hatch (a life safety access point), and the sticky black tar-like material from the cover is also potentially dangerous. i ask your agency to take a look at these instances and also to inquire why toyota is not recalling these handles that are melting, which has to be the result of defective rubber. i think a door handle or hatch handle should be made to last more than three years.

Reported in: TAMPA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U597

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

for some months now i have been having trouble with the right front headlight in my prius which is an hid lamp. the lights goes out and then when i turn the light switch off then back on again the lamp lights again. i have to do this numerous times while driving. it either eventually stay's lit or i just give up and anticipate a ticket. on occasion when i try to get the light to come back on the drivers side light goes out, and then i am without headlights until i repeat the process. it is not only dangerous while driving in the dark, but when you try to get the lamp to turn back on, people think your flashing them from behind which causes them to become aggressive. it is very stressful and i knew if i looked this up online i'd probably find that there was a recall. i was not surprised to find out that there were complaint identical to mine, but no recall has been issued against toyota to fix the apparent design problem. i am a 28 year volunteer firefighter and also a senior safety specialist for my company. why do we have to wait for a serious incident to occur before toyota is forced to fix the issue. i will not replace this expensive bulb since it appears that it only remediates the problem for a short period the of time before it happens again. i am entrusting in your organization to do something about the issue to ensure the well being of me, my family and those around us who either drive these models and/or become additional victims from our vehicles due to having to "completely" shut down the headlights in an attempt to get them back up. again this sometimes creates both headlights to go out until repeated. can that really be a bulb issue? i think not. please force this large company to do something about the issue before statistics climb on accidents and or injuries resulting from these headlight failures. thank you for your time and anticipated actions.

Reported in: MEDFORD NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U193

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

driving and my left headlight spontaneously turned off. if is not burned out, as it was working when i left, and stopping and restarting the car turned it back on. very dangerous as the road was dark, not to mention i don't want a traffic ticket. please stop ignoring this problem. *tt

Reported in: SHERMAN OAKS CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

STRUCTURE

the back door/hatch switch rubber is melting/very sticky. the problem was first reported in the 2007 prius and other model toyota models. i expect that this switch will become defective and it is the only means to enter the hatch area of the prius.the hatch area is the location of the spare tire, flares and other safety products carried in the automobile. this is a very common problem of toyota models and is definitely a factory defective part.

Reported in: AMHERST VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB2U8935

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the back door/hatch switch rubber is melting/very sticky. the problem was first reported in the 2007 prius and other model toyota models. i expect that this switch will become defective and it is the only means to enter the hatch area of the prius.the hatch area is the location of the spare tire, flares and other safety products carried in the automobile. this is a very common problem of toyota models and is definitely a factory defective part.

Reported in: AMHERST VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB2U8935

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my wife and i were driving down a residential street approaching a stop sign. there were two cars stopped at the sign. several hundred feet from the stop, i took my foot off the accelerator. the car did not slow down. i stepped on the brake. the car did not slow down. i stood on the brake as hard as i could. the car did not slow down. i said to my understandably alarmed wife, we're not stopping. and we didn't until we smashed into the back of a tahoe stopped at the stop sign, doing major damage to the prius that rendered it undriveable and perhaps totaled. my wife has a very sore back that i am hoping starts to feel better today or we will have to schedule a doctor's appointment.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

STRUCTURE:BODY

my wife and i were driving down a residential street approaching a stop sign. there were two cars stopped at the sign. several hundred feet from the stop, i took my foot off the accelerator. the car did not slow down. i stepped on the brake. the car did not slow down. i stood on the brake as hard as i could. the car did not slow down. i said to my understandably alarmed wife, we're not stopping. and we didn't until we smashed into the back of a tahoe stopped at the stop sign, doing major damage to the prius that rendered it undriveable and perhaps totaled. my wife has a very sore back that i am hoping starts to feel better today or we will have to schedule a doctor's appointment.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

AIR BAGS

i was turning left into the gas station located on us 22 and e. john st. a speeding car struck me on the passenger side near the door and front fender. the speeding car continued so hard that the driver's side lower frame rail was ripped from the car. no air bags deployed. i suffered left knee and left shoulder injuries necessitating several surgeries. the car was equipped with driver's side and front right air bags. also, dr and fr side and curtain air bags. no air bags deployed. the car was totaled by the insurance company.

Reported in: MCVEYTOWN PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

STRUCTURE:BODY

i was turning left into the gas station located on us 22 and e. john st. a speeding car struck me on the passenger side near the door and front fender. the speeding car continued so hard that the driver's side lower frame rail was ripped from the car. no air bags deployed. i suffered left knee and left shoulder injuries necessitating several surgeries. the car was equipped with driver's side and front right air bags. also, dr and fr side and curtain air bags. no air bags deployed. the car was totaled by the insurance company.

Reported in: MCVEYTOWN PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U197

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i narrowly missed hitting a pedestrian in a crossing walk at 5am in the morning. the reason-both of my headlights had turned themselves off. i have had a problem with the right one going off and am able to turn it back on by turning the light s off, then back on. but now they both are turning off at different times and it is hard to tell until something like this happens.(it's hard to tell as this car has 2 foglights that i normally keep on, and they give the illusion that the headlights are on). the problem is not in the headlight itself. i know as i had the problem prior to a front end collision about 6 months ago in which they replaced both headlights.the problem has to be in whatever computer controls the headlights. this is a serious defect and should be manufacturer recall issue before someone gets killed.

Reported in: COSTA MESA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U487

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the passenger headlight comes on initially but during the drive will go off. i can turn the lights off and back on and the light comes back on. this is an ongoing problem and i don't know it has happened unless i pull up behind someone and see the reflection of my headlights on the car in front of me.

Reported in: FUQUAY VARINA NC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

same basic complaint as in other similar 'safety complaints'; for about the last year, headlights go dim, flicker, one or the other will go out for no apparent reason, and more distressing and importantly, in the last couple months, they will both just turn off completely and at the same time while driving down the road at any speed. i have to turn the headlight switch off and on to 'reset' the lights and get them back on. i took the vehicle to the official toyota repair shop; they would not acknowledge that it is a widespread problem. blamed the bulbs, which is in conflict with the owners manual instructions, and wanted to charge me $ 550 to replace only the two bulbs. this needs to be a recall item as it is very dangerous to have all lights suddenly go off without any warning, then having to fumble around in the pitch black to turn the light switch off and on again to 'reset' this failure.

Reported in: EAGLE ID || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

we are having an issue with the left headlight going out after about 15 minutes of driving. we've taken it into the shop multiple times and have not been able to get the issue fixed. we took this to the shop the latest time and they told us it is a known issue with the toyota prius hybrid.

Reported in: WEST VALLEY CITY UT || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

STRUCTURE:BODY

the rubber cover to the hatchback trunk latch has melted. it is now sticky and gooey and literally immovable. this presents a safety hazard, because sometimes i can't open the hatchback which contains the spare tire and other tools. i have no other way to access anything in the "trunk" when i'm unable to open the latch. the toyota dealer said this defective part is not covered by warranty and quoted an exorbitant price to replace it. i feel toyota should replace this defective part at no cost to owners.

Reported in: SAVANNAH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while starting the ignition, a strong odor of fuel emitted inside and outside of the vehicle. the contact did not detect a fuel leak. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis. the technician was unable to duplicate the problem. the manufacturer was not notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 77,771.

Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

2009 toyota prius. consumer writes in regards to hybrid electric water pump recall notice. *smd the consumer stated two weeks after the hybrid water pump was fixed, a red triangle lamp appeared on the dashboard and the vehicle began to overheat. the consumer went back to the dealer and was charged 4202/16 for the diagnosis and informed him the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. the consumer went to his personal mechanic, where the hybrid electric pump was replaced and the codes were cleared.

Reported in: SEATAC WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: BATTERY: PROPULSION SYSTEM

2009 toyota prius. consumer writes in regards to hybrid electric water pump recall notice. *smd the consumer stated two weeks after the hybrid water pump was fixed, a red triangle lamp appeared on the dashboard and the vehicle began to overheat. the consumer went back to the dealer and was charged 4202/16 for the diagnosis and informed him the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. the consumer went to his personal mechanic, where the hybrid electric pump was replaced and the codes were cleared.

Reported in: SEATAC WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2009 toyota prius. consumer writes in regards to hybrid electric water pump recall notice. *smd the consumer stated two weeks after the hybrid water pump was fixed, a red triangle lamp appeared on the dashboard and the vehicle began to overheat. the consumer went back to the dealer and was charged 4202/16 for the diagnosis and informed him the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. the consumer went to his personal mechanic, where the hybrid electric pump was replaced and the codes were cleared.

Reported in: SEATAC WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

SERVICE BRAKES

the vehicle braking lost braking momentarily when i was driving over small bumps and vehicle slip sign illuminated.

Reported in: FLANDERS NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

the vehicle braking lost braking momentarily when i was driving over small bumps and vehicle slip sign illuminated.

Reported in: FLANDERS NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

the rear hatch release on my 2009 toyota prius has begun to decompose and turn into a rubbery, gooey mess. it interferes with the use of the hatch as the goo not only gets on the fingers but appears to be blocking the release mechanism.

Reported in: KANEOHE HI || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U293

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

left headlight went out while driving. then both headlights went out a minute later. turned lights off and back on and they were ok for a minute. then the left headlight went out again. this keeps on recurring .

Reported in: VANCOUVER WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i noticed that the driver side headlight appeared to be out, so i checked it and it was. when i turned the lights off and back on the headlight came on for a period of time and went off. i had the headlamps changed with oem part and the lights worked for a day and now it is out again, which might be ballast or something else. i have read many complaints online for the 2006-2009 models have premature headlight failure and great expense to fix. it is dangerous when i have to drive at night and i like to leave the lights on during the day for safety.

Reported in: PALMDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB2OU797

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the headlight(s) go off while driving without warning and it becomes hazardous and frightening.

Reported in: BOWIE MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

as i was driving my 2009 toyota prius on the service road of i-30 in dallas around 25 mph after previously taking off from a red light, my vehicle's warning lights all turned on and started to beep and i could not brake or really steer. my vehicle...i almost hit the vehicle in front of me. somehow i was able to turn right into a parking lot and somehow press on the brakes strong in enough to make the car stop. i feared for safety and the safety others as well. it was a very scary situation to be in a car that was not responding when you are trying to break and there's nothing you can do about it. once i was in the parking lot, i turned the vehicle on and off and the lights were still on and beeping, did it again and it stopped. i took the car to the toyota dealership and they are telling me it's an issue with the accelerator and brake system and that i have to pay to have it fixed, but i am wondering how can toyota not be at fault for this safety issue? i'm glad i didn't injure myself or another person this time, but i think toyota really needs to look into this issue with their prius vehicles. i do not feel safe driving mine at all now.....they can not get away with not being responsible and liable for their faulty and defective vehicle's safety mechanisms.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

SERVICE BRAKES

as i was driving my 2009 toyota prius on the service road of i-30 in dallas around 25 mph after previously taking off from a red light, my vehicle's warning lights all turned on and started to beep and i could not brake or really steer. my vehicle...i almost hit the vehicle in front of me. somehow i was able to turn right into a parking lot and somehow press on the brakes strong in enough to make the car stop. i feared for safety and the safety others as well. it was a very scary situation to be in a car that was not responding when you are trying to break and there's nothing you can do about it. once i was in the parking lot, i turned the vehicle on and off and the lights were still on and beeping, did it again and it stopped. i took the car to the toyota dealership and they are telling me it's an issue with the accelerator and brake system and that i have to pay to have it fixed, but i am wondering how can toyota not be at fault for this safety issue? i'm glad i didn't injure myself or another person this time, but i think toyota really needs to look into this issue with their prius vehicles. i do not feel safe driving mine at all now.....they can not get away with not being responsible and liable for their faulty and defective vehicle's safety mechanisms.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

as i was driving my 2009 toyota prius on the service road of i-30 in dallas around 25 mph after previously taking off from a red light, my vehicle's warning lights all turned on and started to beep and i could not brake or really steer. my vehicle...i almost hit the vehicle in front of me. somehow i was able to turn right into a parking lot and somehow press on the brakes strong in enough to make the car stop. i feared for safety and the safety others as well. it was a very scary situation to be in a car that was not responding when you are trying to break and there's nothing you can do about it. once i was in the parking lot, i turned the vehicle on and off and the lights were still on and beeping, did it again and it stopped. i took the car to the toyota dealership and they are telling me it's an issue with the accelerator and brake system and that i have to pay to have it fixed, but i am wondering how can toyota not be at fault for this safety issue? i'm glad i didn't injure myself or another person this time, but i think toyota really needs to look into this issue with their prius vehicles. i do not feel safe driving mine at all now.....they can not get away with not being responsible and liable for their faulty and defective vehicle's safety mechanisms.

Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U393

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

beginning in july 2013, the headlights on my 2009 toyota prius started flickering while driving at night and then both lights went off. the headlights continue to turn off while driving. sometimes it is one light and sometimes it is both lights. when it is one light, it is never the same light that goes out.

Reported in: ATLANTIC BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

my right headlight goes off without warning. i have to turn the head lights on and off for it to come back on; it is dangerous when i have to drive at night, and the headlight goes out,. this is a continuous problem, it make if difficult to concentrate on the road, and it becomes hazardous and freighting. it is also bothersome to others when i have to turn my lights on and off.

Reported in: YUMA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

my driver side head light goes out at least once every time i drive with them on. it may go out several times before i arrive at my destination. i have to turn my lights off and then on again to have the light come on. it is very hard to see when the light is out and i have even been stopped by the police because i have only one headlight. as you can see by all the complaints from the people that have taken the time to file this form, it is not just a headlight bulb. every time i drive at night i'm worried that both lights will go out as some of the complaints have recorded. this is a safety hazard. toyota should be held responsible to find an answer and be forced to issue a recall before there is a death.

Reported in: PORT ARANSAS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

STRUCTURE:BODY

hatchback rubber part of latch melted and became a sticky mess. electronics on latch are now exposed to moisture and dirt.

Reported in: ALACHUA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

my right headlight started going off without warning, now both lights are going off without warning. scary scary scary and dangerous. i have to turn the head lights on and off for them to come back on; it is dangerous when i have to drive at night. it makes if difficult to concentrate on the road, and it becomes hazardous and freighting.

Reported in: YUMA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the right headlight sporadically shuts off while driving. i have had this happen nearly every time i drive with my headlights on. i have been pulled over twice by a police officer because of this issue. i find that if i turn the headlights off and on again, the issue corrects itself, but then occurs again, sometimes during the same driving trip. not only do i have to incorporate extra time during my night commutes because i may be pulled over by a police officer, but this is dangerous and is a known issue. please correct this issue by having toyota recall the prius.

Reported in: EPPING NH || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U493

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

driver intentionally accelerated to avoid collision, then prius unintentionally accelerated after impact with the other vehicle, crossing the median and crossing the opposite direction street lanes then up on to the sidewalk and hit the concrete bridge rail and finally stopped. have contacted toyota, they want up to a month to pull the crash data from the car. i asked if they could pull the data in a week, they said up to 30 days the car will have to sit at the dealership. a month is unreasonable to go without a car. they refused to send the investigator to pull the data at the body shop, said it must be done at the dealership. i gave them the name & address of the body shop.

Reported in: ROUND ROCK TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: JTDKB20U997

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that the headlights would stop working sporadically. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician diagnosed that the bulbs needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 94,000.

Reported in: GLOVERSVILLE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U297

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while driving at night, the driver's side head light failed. the contact turned the switch back on and then the passenger's side headlight failed. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection where they stated that the hid headlights needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 65,000.

Reported in: NORTH HAVEN CT || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U397

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

unable to add any gas to the fuel tank even when tank is near empty. gas just spurts back out of the filler neck. over time we have learned that this is temperature related. at or near freezing temperatures and colder it becomes impossible at times to add any gas to the tank. the only way to add fuel is to get the car to a warmer location and let it sit for a few hours. we have detailed records documenting several instances where we could add no fuel and many instances where a near empty tank will take only 1-2 gallons. the car has been seen by two different toyota service centers but they claim they can find nothing wrong. toyota usa has stopped responding to our requests for help. we are unable to trust the car for extended trips in the winter due to fears of getting stuck with an empty gas tank. a (related?) problem is that the fuel level indications are not consistent and thus cannot be trusted.

Reported in: WALLA WALLA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U797

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

on multiple occasions prior to the most recent incident date listed, the previously mentioned 2009 toyota prius has had intermittent complete or partial headlight failure. on multiple occasions that seem to be random in nature either the drivers side or passenger side headlight will fail individual while the counterpart (opposite headlight) will continue to operate. also, as random as one individual headlight failing both headlights have gone out or failed simultaneously. the operator has been able to rectify the immediate hazard by simply turning the main activation switch for the headlight from "on" to "off" and then to "on" again. this procedure will, on most occasions temporarily rectify the immediate hazard but the intermittent failure has and will continue. operator conducted research on the issue and discovered this is a common problem the 2005-2009 toyota prius is displaying. toyota corporate was contacted by the operator and stated that a customer care initiative was directed to all toyota service departments to reduce the cost of replacement bulbs. however, what is unique about this situation is a headlamp hid bulb on the drivers side was replaced approximately one year ago and is the more frequent headlamp failure occurring. this seems to invalidate the remedy that toyota corporate has devised which is to replace the bulbs.

Reported in: ADRIAN MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

on multiple occasions prior to the most recent incident date listed, the previously mentioned 2009 toyota prius has had intermittent complete or partial headlight failure. on multiple occasions that seem to be random in nature either the drivers side or passenger side headlight will fail individual while the counterpart (opposite headlight) will continue to operate. also, as random as one individual headlight failing both headlights have gone out or failed simultaneously. the operator has been able to rectify the immediate hazard by simply turning the main activation switch for the headlight from "on" to "off" and then to "on" again. this procedure will, on most occasions temporarily rectify the immediate hazard but the intermittent failure has and will continue. operator conducted research on the issue and discovered this is a common problem the 2005-2009 toyota prius is displaying. toyota corporate was contacted by the operator and stated that a customer care initiative was directed to all toyota service departments to reduce the cost of replacement bulbs. however, what is unique about this situation is a headlamp hid bulb on the drivers side was replaced approximately one year ago and is the more frequent headlamp failure occurring. this seems to invalidate the remedy that toyota corporate has devised which is to replace the bulbs.

Reported in: ADRIAN MN || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U093

ENGINE

when my 2009 toyota prius reached approximately 65,000 miles, the check engine light came on, and the error code was p1121, indicating a problem with the coolant control valve. i took the car to my local toyota dealership, and their charge for replacing the part was $400. the mechanic who inspected the valve said it was not closing securely. he said making the repair would not improve the car's performance or affect its value, and therefore he did not recommend making the repair. unfortunately, i have realized that opting out of this repair does affect the car's safety. the check engine light is constantly on. even if i manually turn it off, it comes right back on, so it is unlikely that i will be aware if other mechanical issues ever arise. my mother drives a 2008 toyota prius which just hit 65,000 miles, and her car produced the exact same error code. it is statistically impossible that two cars of the same make and model, only a year apart in age, in the same household, would produce identical error codes after reaching roughly the same mileage for any reason other than defective manufacturing. i believe this error code is the result of a manufacturing error that toyota should address through a safety recall. toyota's own mechanic admitted that the repair is financially impractical for customers, yet if the repair is not made, drivers are left without a functional check engine light which is a safety hazard.

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

i had just bought my car on february 19, 2014 and noticed a headlight out on the way home. i called the dealership and they said they would replace it. i took it in on february 26, 2014 but they didn't have a replacement bulb. they were going to call me when it came in. the driver's side headlight would randomly shut off. on march 10, 2014 on the way home just after dusk the car in front of me slammed on their brakes to avoid a deer. i slammed on my brakes to avoid hitting them and my lights just went off. i could not tell how close i was to the car in front of me and had no clue if all my lights were off and whether the car following me could see me. i was scared. i mean i was really scared. i turned the lights off and back on and they worked. the dealership changed the driver's side headlight on march 13, 2014 and told me that a short in it had caused the headlights to shut off. i am scared to drive at night. on may 14, 2014 the passenger side headlight shut off for the first time since the incident. i am afraid a short in it will shut off both lights so i only drive at night when i absolutely can't keep from it. this car is going to get me killed if i drive at night.

Reported in: ANTLERS OK || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U697

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

a year ago, upon taking off from a stop my car began to stall. i drive two blocks it continues to putt along and stall, then after less than a mile it starts to run as normal. i take my car in to be told it is out of gas, which it did not indicate low fuel, it had over a quarter of a tank. i insist they continue to check my car over days of them driving it, after a week they experience something similar and replace my junction box. since then i've replace the water pump, taken my car in for a steering recall. also, there are instances where my car upon take off stalls, but nothing severe, just something you feel when accelerating. recently, 6/5/14, i experienced the same issue, but this time i immediately put gas into my car even though my indicator panel shows i have fuel. only this time i start my car and the air conditioner is not working and it continues to stall, after turning my car on and off several times and driving a few blocks the ac cuts on and my car begins to run fine. i have been told by toyota that bc there is no indicator light and it's running fine there is nothing they can do. there was a recent recall in february of 2014 with similar issues i am experiencing but my car was not apart of the recall. not sure what else i can do. numerous toyota dealerships have been of no help and i fear that my safety is at risk.

Reported in: KEMAH TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

a year ago, upon taking off from a stop my car began to stall. i drive two blocks it continues to putt along and stall, then after less than a mile it starts to run as normal. i take my car in to be told it is out of gas, which it did not indicate low fuel, it had over a quarter of a tank. i insist they continue to check my car over days of them driving it, after a week they experience something similar and replace my junction box. since then i've replace the water pump, taken my car in for a steering recall. also, there are instances where my car upon take off stalls, but nothing severe, just something you feel when accelerating. recently, 6/5/14, i experienced the same issue, but this time i immediately put gas into my car even though my indicator panel shows i have fuel. only this time i start my car and the air conditioner is not working and it continues to stall, after turning my car on and off several times and driving a few blocks the ac cuts on and my car begins to run fine. i have been told by toyota that bc there is no indicator light and it's running fine there is nothing they can do. there was a recent recall in february of 2014 with similar issues i am experiencing but my car was not apart of the recall. not sure what else i can do. numerous toyota dealerships have been of no help and i fear that my safety is at risk.

Reported in: KEMAH TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX97

SERVICE BRAKES

coming out of the grocery store i started my 2009 toyota prius and i notice that it lost braking power and the abs,vsc,(!),and emergency brake lights stay on. i did some research and there is a recall for 2009 prius concerning this problem, but only on vehicles manufactured between 3/2009-10/2009 mine was manufacture on 10/2008. i think the recall should be on all 2009 models regardless of manufacturing date. there are many owners online complaining about this issue. my wife and children where scared, and i could of easily hurt someone walking in front of my car at the grocery's store parking lot. i can't drive this car anymore please extend the recall to all 2009 models regardless of manufacturing date. thank you.

Reported in: HARRISONVILLE MO || Crash: N || VIN #: JDTKB20U393

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlights at first seemed to only flicker then i had a headlight go out then i noticed that i could flip the lights on and off get it to come on. now its to the point we can not use this car at night. its become a safety hazard and i do t think its something i should pay to repair and think toiyota is stupid for not recalling

Reported in: FLORISSANT MO || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U893

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlights either passenger or driver side will go out for no reason. turning the lights off and on will relight both headlamps, but only for a short period of time.

Reported in: MARIETTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB204193

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

headlight on right side (passenger) fades out randomly - getting worse over past 6 months. now both lights go out. turning off/on *usually* fixes, but doesn't last.

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

while driving at night, both headlights, without warning went out. immediately, i pulled to the side of the road and turned the headlight switch to off. then, paused a moment before relighting them, unfortunately relighting them normally failed. so again, i worked with the switch, only to discover that these would relight if and on if i held the lights on using the 'dimmer mode' to bright the road. unfortunately, mine like others, is unpredictable at best - so reproducing this incident 'on demand' is difficult at best. in reading other consumer complaints, this seems to be an ongoing and costly problem. after further review, i have discovered that this headlight challenge has been part of a class action lawsuit. shame on toyota for not issuing a recall on this matter - prius owners, as well as fellow drivers whom we share the road with are at high risk.

Reported in: TRAVELERS REST SC || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20UX93

POWER TRAIN

tl* the contact owns a 2009 toyota prius. the contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, the vehicle shifted out of gear and stalled. the vehicle could be restarted. the vehicle was towed to the dealer, who could not duplicate the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 66,000. the vin was not available.

Reported in: BAY VILLAGE OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

left front headlight began to flicker, then failed completely on highway while driving at night. taken in for repair on 8/2/14. was told that entire hid assembly unit and computer sub-assy had to be replace.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U693

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

on june 22, 2010, pursuant to toyota floor mat recall #90l regarding potential interference with the accelerator pedal, my existing toyota front floor mats were replaced with new toyota all weather mats. after about 2 years, the replacement mats failed and were replaced on 8/25/2012. the failure was with the rubber material which frayed at contact of my right foot with the mat and at the 2 holes through which the retainer clips are attached. both floor mat holes tore linearly allowing the floor mat to eventually creep under the accelerator pedal. on august 4, 2014 i had to purchase another set of front floor mats because of floor mat failure identical to the above description. current mileage around 81,000 miles. the replacement floor mats that toyota provides are of inferior quality and not able to withstand 2 years worth of routine driving. toyota will not guarantee their mats beyond 1 year, it is of concern that the failing floor mats set up a safety situation exactly comparable to the safety concern they were meant to alleviate. there is no warning provided by toyota that their mats will fail after about 2 years of average driving and that they should be inspected and if damaged, replaced. how many unsuspecting motorists who have replaced their floor mats 2 or more years ago are at risk?

Reported in: GREEN VALLEY AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U793

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

there has been no injuries or vehicle damage. i left off total repair cost because the repair shop has not finished solving the problem. in 2013 i started have having headlight problems and have it about three months since. i have replaced the headlight bulbs several times on both sides. one time the headlights would operate opposite( one side would be high beam only and the other would be low beam only and when switching the switch inside to high beam the headlights would switch as to what they did only. on wed 8/20/14 the low beam quit working. i earlier purchased a new plug and 2 new bulbs in case i had a problem. i took the car to an independent repair shop( my only toyota dealer in my town can not be trusted) where i live. he installed the new plug and we tried each of the two new bulbs and they exhibited the same problem - the low beam was just a spec of light; not enough for the low beam. he tested the voltage in the ground side of the plug and the fuse position in the fuse assembly and it lit up his voltage tester with a spec of light. he had no idea what system sent the voltage to the low beam side for the passenger side headlight. i am taking the car back on wed 8/27/14 to finish the job.

Reported in: WICHITA FALLS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

there has been no injuries or vehicle damage. i left off total repair cost because the repair shop has not finished solving the problem. in 2013 i started have having headlight problems and have it about three months since. i have replaced the headlight bulbs several times on both sides. one time the headlights would operate opposite( one side would be high beam only and the other would be low beam only and when switching the switch inside to high beam the headlights would switch as to what they did only. on wed 8/20/14 the low beam quit working. i earlier purchased a new plug and 2 new bulbs in case i had a problem. i took the car to an independent repair shop( my only toyota dealer in my town can not be trusted) where i live. he installed the new plug and we tried each of the two new bulbs and they exhibited the same problem - the low beam was just a spec of light; not enough for the low beam. he tested the voltage in the ground side of the plug and the fuse position in the fuse assembly and it lit up his voltage tester with a spec of light. he had no idea what system sent the voltage to the low beam side for the passenger side headlight. i am taking the car back on wed 8/27/14 to finish the job.

Reported in: WICHITA FALLS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

there has been no injuries or vehicle damage. i left off total repair cost because the repair shop has not finished solving the problem. in 2013 i started have having headlight problems and have it about three months since. i have replaced the headlight bulbs several times on both sides. one time the headlights would operate opposite( one side would be high beam only and the other would be low beam only and when switching the switch inside to high beam the headlights would switch as to what they did only. on wed 8/20/14 the low beam quit working. i earlier purchased a new plug and 2 new bulbs in case i had a problem. i took the car to an independent repair shop( my only toyota dealer in my town can not be trusted) where i live. he installed the new plug and we tried each of the two new bulbs and they exhibited the same problem - the low beam was just a spec of light; not enough for the low beam. he tested the voltage in the ground side of the plug and the fuse position in the fuse assembly and it lit up his voltage tester with a spec of light. he had no idea what system sent the voltage to the low beam side for the passenger side headlight. i am taking the car back on wed 8/27/14 to finish the job.

Reported in: WICHITA FALLS TX || Crash: N || VIN #: JTDKB20U897

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

the rubber cover to the outside truck latch has melted completely in hot florida weather and has become gooey to the point of dripping onto my license plate. the truck is very difficult to open and sometimes i am unable to lock or open the car because the trunk is not all the way closed. this is a safety issue because if i needed to get into the trunk to get a spare tire i may not be able to. given many other reports of this issue dating back to 2007 models, toyota should stop using this type of component and should recall this item and fix it with a different material so this does not keep happening. i am also concerned the exposed latch will cause electrical damage to the trunk or lighting because of severe rain that often occurs in florida where this problem seems prevalent.

Reported in: PEMBROKE PINES FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE

the rubber cover to the outside truck latch has melted completely in hot florida weather and has become gooey to the point of dripping onto my license plate. the truck is very difficult to open and sometimes i am unable to lock or open the car because the trunk is not all the way closed. this is a safety issue because if i needed to get into the trunk to get a spare tire i may not be able to. given many other reports of this issue dating back to 2007 models, toyota should stop using this type of component and should recall this item and fix it with a different material so this does not keep happening. i am also concerned the exposed latch will cause electrical damage to the trunk or lighting because of severe rain that often occurs in florida where this problem seems prevalent.

Reported in: PEMBROKE PINES FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

the rubber cover to the outside truck latch has melted completely in hot florida weather and has become gooey to the point of dripping onto my license plate. the truck is very difficult to open and sometimes i am unable to lock or open the car because the trunk is not all the way closed. this is a safety issue because if i needed to get into the trunk to get a spare tire i may not be able to. given many other reports of this issue dating back to 2007 models, toyota should stop using this type of component and should recall this item and fix it with a different material so this does not keep happening. i am also concerned the exposed latch will cause electrical damage to the trunk or lighting because of severe rain that often occurs in florida where this problem seems prevalent.

Reported in: PEMBROKE PINES FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the hid headlights started to flicker and went off. repeatedly happened. first the passenger side then the driver side. i had the hid headlights replaced two days ago. the passenger headlight was still dimmed, the driver's side seemed fine. today, the driver's side went off again and won't turn back on. the passenger side is still working, but dimmed.

Reported in: MALIBU CA || Crash: N || VIN #: