The Toyota Prius V Years To Avoid
We've identified three Toyota Prius V years to avoid based on commonly-reported issues. See which ones (and which Prius V are most reliable instead).
The Toyota Prius V is a spacious hybrid wagon designed for families. It offers a roomy back seat and plenty of cargo space, and it is the size of a Mazda5, and it comfortably seats five. Although it’s a bit heavier and bigger than the standard Prius, it still delivers excellent fuel efficiency of 41 mpg on average.
The extra weight means the engine and electric motor work harder, especially when the car is loaded, and the handling isn’t particularly sporty. However, the high seating position, low window sills, and large windows make the interior feel open and airy. Standard features like a backup camera add convenience, and you can opt for a lightweight plastic moonroof.
While this wagon has much to offer, knowing which Toyota Prius V years to avoid can help improve your ownership experience down the line.
Which Toyota Prius V Years to Avoid?
If you’re in the market for a reliable and cost-effective midsize car, the Toyota Prius V is definitely worth considering. With a stellar 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from Repairpal, this hybrid wagon is rated the 4th most reliable compared to other brands. Not only will you enjoy peace of mind knowing that major issues are rare, but you’ll also be pleasantly surprised by the Prius V’s affordable average annual repair cost of just $437.
Having said that, not all Prius V years are created equal. Sadly, some model years are simply less reliable than others. Below are the Toyota Prius V years to avoid when buying used:
- 2012 Toyota Prius V
- 2013 Toyota Prius V
- 2014 Toyota Prius V
2012 Toyota Prius V
While generally considered reliable, the first production of the Prius V received many reports of serious mechanical and electrical issues.
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Excessive Oil Consumption
The 2012 Toyota Prius V, though appreciated for its spaciousness and fuel efficiency, has struggled with excessive oil consumption issues. Many owners have reported that their vehicles began burning oil between regular maintenance intervals, leading to low oil levels and even blown head gaskets. This problem is commonly linked to defective piston rings, which Toyota has not formally acknowledged.
Owners have shared their experiences of needing frequent oil top-ups, with some cars consuming a quart of oil every 600-700 miles. These issues often arise after the vehicle surpasses 60,000 miles, unfortunately beyond the coverage of Toyota’s technical service bulletin T-SB-0169-16.
Service Brake Faults
The brake system was a major pain point for Prius V owners. People have reported that their brake pedals require excessive pressure and extend to the floorboard before stopping the vehicle. Diagnostic codes, such as DTC Code 1391, frequently reveal a failure in the brake booster assembly. Despite regular maintenance, many drivers have experienced brake failures while driving, leading to expensive repairs that Toyota has not consistently covered under warranty.
This persistent issue, often linked to the brake booster and actuator, has made for some frustrating dealership experiences. Many have reported the need for excessive force on the brake pedal and brake lights illuminating the dashboard. Plus, the brake booster pump and master cylinder frequently fail, which can result in repair jobs north of $4,000.
TOYOTA PRIUS PROS & CONS
Are you considering buying a new or used Prius? Then, you’re likely looking for the Toyota Prius’ pros and cons.
Electrical System Glitches
Electrical gremlins have also reared their ugly heads on the 2012 Prius V. One common problem is the sudden loss of power, often linked to inverter or hybrid system failures. This issue can cause the car to stall unexpectedly, posing serious safety risks, especially when driving at high speeds. For instance, one owner reported their vehicle losing power in the middle of traffic after a software update.
Another frequent issue involves the car’s electronics, such as the navigation, Bluetooth, and audio systems. These components can become corrupted during software updates, rendering them inoperable and necessitating expensive repairs. Additionally, some owners have experienced headlight failures, so they can’t use their vehicles at night.
2013 Toyota Prius V
While the 2013 Prius V has received fewer complaints than the 2012 version, it inherited some major reliability woes from the debut model.
Serious Engine Issues
The 2013 Toyota Prius V has continued to struggle with several engine problems that have been carried over from the 2012 model. Many owners report issues like sudden power loss and engine rattling at startup, often due to a compromised head gasket. Despite regular maintenance, these problems persist, primarily because of a faulty EGR system that Toyota hasn’t adequately addressed or informed owners about.
Drivers have experienced frightening moments on highways when the engine stalls or fails to accelerate, creating significant safety risks. Additionally, excessive oil consumption and engine misfires are common, leading to expensive repairs and reducing the car’s reliability. These ongoing engine issues highlight the need for Toyota to provide better solutions and support for Prius V owners.
Brake System Woes
The 2013 Toyota Prius V has inherited significant brake problems from its 2012 predecessor. Many owners have experienced multiple warning lights, including ABS, brake, and master warning lights, indicating severe brake issues. These problems often result in a hard brake pedal and diminished braking power, making the car unsafe to drive. Diagnoses frequently point to a faulty brake booster and assembly, with repair costs reaching up to $4,000. Despite numerous reports and the serious safety risks involved, Toyota has not issued a recall.
2015 Toyota Prius V
Coming off the heels of the excellent 2014 Prius V is the 2015 version, with some familiar problems and new ones.
THE TOYOTA PRIUS YEARS TO AVOID
We’ve compiled the Toyota Prius years to avoid so you can make an informed used car shopping decision.
Interior Accessory Issues
If you own a 2015 Toyota Prius V, you may encounter some annoying issues with the interior accessories, particularly the touchscreen and radio system. Many drivers have reported that their touch screen can become unresponsive or erratic, making it difficult to use. Additionally, the radio has been known to randomly turn off and on or produce poor sound quality, which can be incredibly frustrating during your commute.
Brake Problems
The dreaded brake system problems have unfortunately been retained in the 2015 Prius V. The 2015 Toyota Prius V has been troubled by several brake-related issues that seem to have carried over from earlier models. Some owners have experienced their vehicles unexpectedly shifting to neutral after stopping at traffic lights, often accompanied by multiple warning lights indicating a failure in the master cylinder’s pressure control chip. Additionally, there have been reports of brakes feeling stuck after being applied, resulting in a delay when trying to accelerate again.
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