Electrical system: softwareRecall 14V-053 · 2010–2014 Toyota Prius
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing recall 14V-053 covers 698,457 2010–2014 Toyota Prius for a electrical system: software problem, reported to NHTSA on February 12, 2014. The manufacturer's latest report (2015 Q2) shows 87% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 14V053000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.
The risk
The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will repair or replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall began on March 21, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How fast cars are being fixed
87%repaired
Share of affected vehicles repaired in each quarterly report the manufacturer filed with NHTSA.