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VIN REPORT

JTDKBRFU6J30660222018 TOYOTA PriusOne/Two

Risk Score
23
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
1 Found
1 campaign
34
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
8 yrs
Made in JAPAN
C+
Score: 78/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2018 TOYOTA Prius was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There is 1 open recall on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 34 owner complaints include 2 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 1 open recall — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 2 injuries reported across 34 owner complaints
  • Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
23/100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
1 model-wide recall on record
+3
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
TOYOTA
Model
Prius
Year
2018
Trim / Series
One/Two
Body Style
Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 1.8L 96 hp
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Doors
5
Manufacturer
TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION
Assembly
TOYOTA CITY, AICHI, JAPAN
Curb Weight
3,075 lbs
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Base MSRP
$23,475
Electrification
Strong HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 TOYOTA CITY, AICHI

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
C+
Score: 78/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety28/30
Complaint History30/30
5/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

76/100
Comprehensive
14 of 20 safety features detected
None
  • Electric/hybrid vehicle — monitor for battery thermal events

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Electrical
1 recall6 complaints
Forward Collision WarningStandard
Automatic Emergency BrakingStandard
Pedestrian AEBStandard
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure WarningStandard
Lane Keep AssistStandard
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise ControlStandard
Adaptive HeadlightsStandard
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash NotificationStandard
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless IgnitionStandard
Recalls
70/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 3 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~96,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
DUE SOONCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~96,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Timing Chain Tensioner service before 120,000 mi
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 8 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
DUE SOONModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 120,000 mi · Est. ~96,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Fuel Injectors service before 120,000 mi
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
11 RECALL

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 1 recall below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 1 recall is ~69%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

69%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

TOYOTA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
95%Excellent

TOYOTA has an excellent recall completion rate (95%) — owners typically receive a remedy within 14 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~14 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
14mo
#18V579000
May 2018

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

SummaryToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles. A portion of the engine wire harness connected to the hybrid Power Control Unit (PCU), could contact the cover at this connection and wear, causing an electrical short circuit.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAn electrical short can increase the risk of a fire.
Est. Repair Completion~69%

~31% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

LONG-STANDING OPEN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
8yr open

⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.

8 yrs ago
05/09/2018
Electrical
0
Part Replacements
1
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
1 recall is over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.
RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

100% of complaints about "ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING" were filed AFTER recall campaign 18V579000 (2018-05-09) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
100% post-recall
Recall: 2018-05-090 before · 4 after#18V579000

Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.

3mo
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2018-02-22 · Recall issued: 2018-05-09

Recall was issued within 3 months of first complaints — relatively prompt response.

1 in 17

2 injuries reported across 34 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.

Complaints
Electrical
6
Visibility
6
Other
1 crash5
Body/Structure
1 crash4
Engine/Powertrain
4
Brakes
1 crash3
Safety Systems
1 crash1 inj3
Exterior/Other
1 crash1 inj2
2018
9
2019
9
2020
2
2021
2
2022
2
2023
3
2024
2
2025
4
2026
1
48% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Stable 0%
6
Last 24 months
6
Prior 24 months
PEAKS SPRING (MAR–MAY)

36% of complaints filed in Mar & Jul — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Fire/smoke2
Electrical failure2
Sudden acceleration2
Engine stalling1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (7)Parking/low-speed (4)Rain/wet (3)Startup (1)Cold weather (1)
34HIGH VOLUME
5
Crashes
2
Injuries
ODI #11724219EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Both taillamps holding moisture. Could cause electrical issues or fire. .. same year and model car have same reported issues and were fixed by manufacturer. This vehicle is the same but different level.

ODI #11683274ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Driver door lock actuator not working. This seems to be a common problem for Toyota over the last decade, but they yet to put more vehicles to their recall list. Actuator just stopped working. I have to use key out of FOB to manually open. This is a safety issue if I’m trying to get in my car quickly for safety reasons and it does not open.

ODI #11670706LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Prius. The contact stated the trunk opened at a slow speed and failed to remain open. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle needed to be taken in to be inspected. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not covered under recall. The manufacturer directed the contact back to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

ODI #11656375VISIBILITY

Was driving around 35 mph and my right side mirror blew up. The back blew off and the mirror was shattered and hanging. Nothing hit it. Contacted Toyota and the parts have been on a stop, but there is no recall. It has been 4 months.

ODI #11650717ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Prius. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed heat exchanger, catalytic converter, and exhaust system. The contact was informed that the heat exchanger, the catalytic converter, and the exhaust system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 89,682.

ODI #11629049SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCECRASH

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. The brake pedal was applied but failed to respond. The driver crashed into the front passenger side of the Lexus. The vehicle continuously moved forward. The contact was eventually able to pull over safely. The pre-collision malfunction warning light illuminated. The brake malfunction light was flashing. The air bags did not deploy. There was no reported fire or injury. A police report was filed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who could not determine the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was then towed to an autobody center where it remained. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 39,000.

ODI #11575061AIR BAGS

The Airbag lights were lit, the person sitting with seatbelt on (flashing) and the person sitting with an inflated airbag in front of them. I ran an OBD2 scan on SRS and got code B1656. Driver seat belt buckle Left Hand. I Investigated the latch and found one wire was snapped off and a couple of inches shorter that the wire that was still connected. I have included 2 pictures of the back end of the seat belt latch. You can see the broken wire and where it use to be connected.

ODI #11552860SEATSCRASH1 INJURY

Someone rear-ended my Prius and they were driving a Ford 250 truck pulling a large flatbed truck that had a huge box on it. My seat went forward and backwards - I slammed my knee under the dashboard and then slammed by head into the headrest and I could not reach the pedals after this. I have repeatedly asked the collision center to look at it because there is nothing about it on the report of the estimate of repairs. My adult son was a passenger in the front and his seat didn't move.

ODI #11521644AIR BAGS

AIRBAG LIGHT ON

ODI #11511131EXTERIOR LIGHTING

The automatic high beams will occasionally fail to operate and are stuck in low beams until about 2 minutes have passed, or until the automatic high beams switch is turned off to disable the system. This seems to be a software issue, as it seems to occur when an approaching vehicle passes by with bright lights. When this happens, all high beams are disabled for a couple of minutes, even if the high beam lever is switched to low beams and back to high.

ODI #11472644POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Stopped at red light, then the car didn't accelerate when hitting gas. Engine revs but the car does not accelerate. It happened multiple time when the car was out in sun with full ac on(100f). Happened once in intersection and almost got hit head on

ODI #11470356FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

UNKNOWN My car started stalling when it comes to a full stop. I.e. if I stop at a red light or stop sign, and I then press the gas, it stalls. It might inch forward, but it doesn’t really accelerate. This happened last year, and I took it to the dealer. They couldn’t reproduce the results, and they could only suggest changing my small 12V battery. Today, it stalled 8 times, between 2 short drives. Each at a stop sign only travelling ~5 miles total. I have an appointment at the dealer but this is exactly what happened last year with no diagnosis. No check engine light is on or anything.

ODI #11399109VISIBILITY/WIPER

MY WINDSHIELD HAS CRACKED TWICE WITHOUT BEING STRUCK BY AN OBJECT AND WITHOUT BEING NEAR ANOTHER VEHICLE. BOTH INCIDENTS OCCURRED DURING NORMAL HIGHWAY DRIVING. I WAS NOT SPEEDING OR DRIVING RECKLESSLY. BOTH TIMES REQUIRED THE REPLACEMENT OF THE WINDSHIELD AS THE CRACK QUICKLY SPREAD AND AFFECTED A GOOD PORTION OF THE WINDSHIELD. I AM REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE COST OF REPLACING THE WINDSHIELD (TWICE). THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED JUST A FEW DAYS AFTER PURCHASE. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED TODAY, MARCH 4, 2021.

ODI #11397301STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

ON DEC 2, 2020 WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 45-50 MPH OUR SUNROOF EXPLODED CAUSING US TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE SHADE WAS CLOSED WHICH SAVED US FROM EXPLODING GLASS. THERE WERE NO ROAD HAZARDS, NO ISSUES OTHER THAN A SPONTANEOUS EXPLODING OF OUR SUNROOF. THE ORLANDO POLICE DEPT WAS SUMMONED AND THE ROADRANGERS STOPPED TO ASSIST US. I TOOK THE CAR DIRECTLY TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN CLERMONT, FL AND THEY REPAIRED THE GLASS AT NO CHARGE BUT TOLD ME HAD THE CAR NOT BEEN UNDER MANUFACTURER WARRANTY I WOULD HAVE BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF REPLACEMENT. IF THE SHADE HAD NOT BEEN CLOSED THE ENTIRE PASSENGERS WITHIN THE CABIN WOULD HAVE BEEN SPLATTERED WITH SHATTERED GLASS.

ODI #11324401AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 65 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE PULLED INTO THE HIGHWAY, WITHOUT STOPPING, AND CRASHED INTO THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE FENDER OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION, INCLUDING BACK, NECK, ANKLE AND HEAD INJURIES. HE ALSO STATED THAT HE RIPPED THE TENDON ON THE RING FINGER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000. *LN*JB

ODI #11296751ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

ERROR CODES P0113 AND P0102 AND WARNING MESSAGES FOR CHECK ENGINE AND ICS MALFUNCTION* LAPPEARED WHEN STARTING THE GARAGED VEHICLE IN APPROXIMATELY 55F ROOM TEMPERATURE. TOYOTA OF ESCONDIDO AND TOYOTA'S CUSTOMER CARE TELEPHONE CENTER EXPLAINED THAT THEY WILL NOT INSPECT (ALTHOUGH UNDER THE 3-YEAR/36,000 MILES WARRANTY) WITHOUT A SERVICE FEE. ONLINE, REPORTS THAT A FAILING 12V BATTERY MAY CAUSE MULTIPLE CODES TO BE TRIGGERED WERE ALSO MET WITH A REQUEST FOR A $110 DIAGNOSTIC FEE. THE BATTERY IS ALSO UNDER THE 3-YEAR/36,000 MILE WARRANTY. ERROR CODES AND MESSAGES IMPLICATE FUEL EFFICIENCY, POLLUTION AND SAFETY ISSUES. *ICS IS THEIR COLLISION SENSOR SYSTEM.

ODI #11288235EXTERIOR LIGHTING

AUTO HIGH BEAM FEATURE INTERMITTENTLY CUTS OUT AND THEN RESUMES, ESPECIALLY FREQUENTLY IN RAINY WEATHER. WHILE OFF, I CANNOT ENGAGE THE HIGH BEAM WITHOUT FIRST SHUTTING OFF THE AHB FEATURE. MANY SIMILAR REPORTS REGARDING TOYOTA VEHICLES; SEE HTTPS://WWW.RAV4WORLD.COM/THREADS/AUTO-HIGH-BEAM-ISSUES.242329/

ODI #11278866EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER

THE CAR IS INADEQUATE IN THE WINTER. WHEN IT SNOWS I CAN'T KEEP THE WINDOWS CLEAN. THEY CHANGED THE FITTINGS AND I CAN'T EVEN PUT WINTER BLADES ON THE CAR. ALSO, AND THIS APPLIES TO ALMOST ALL NEW CARS AS WELL, THE LED LIGHTS FREEZE OVER. IT'S A SAFETY HAZARD NOT TO HAVE LIGHTS THAT WORK. AND IT'S A SAFETY HAZARD TO HAVE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR IN DANGEROUS CONDITIONS TO TRY AND SCRAPE ICE OFF THE WINDOWS AND LIGHTS. THE FRONT AND REAR LIGHTS GET CAKED WITH ICE AND SNOW. THIS PICTURE IS OF MY WINDSHIELD AFTER AN HOUR OF WARMING UP. THE WIPERS STAY CAKED WITH ICE. AND WHEN I TURN THEM ON, THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS. THEY SMEAR THE WINDSHIELD WITH ICE. THEY SMEAR IT WITH WATER TOO. I CAN'T SQUEEGEE WATER WITH ICE. I'D LOVE TO TRADE IT IN, BUT EVERYONE HAS LED LIGHTS. THEY'RE A SAFETY HAZARD. AND THESE ISSUES ARE KEEPING ME FROM BUYING A NEW CAR. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT IF YOU ADDRESSED THESE ISSUES. THE CAR COMPANIES WON'T LISTEN TO ME. THANK YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY

ODI #11278660EXTERIOR LIGHTING

AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAMS DIM AND THEN FAIL TO BRIGHTEN INTERMITTENTLY. WHEN DRIVING, AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAMS FUNCTION AS INTENDED THEN THE DASH INDICATOR SPONTANEOUSLY TURNS OFF AND THE HEADLIGHTS FAIL TO BRIGHTEN. VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT TWICE FOR THIS. THE SECOND TIME , THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM BOTH IN MY VEHICLE AND IN A 2019 PRIUS FROM THE INVENTORY. TOYOTA TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IS ADAMANT THAT THE PROBLEM IS NORMAL FUNCTIONALITY. I FAIL TO UNDERSTAND HOW THE HIGH BEAMS NOT BRIGHTENING WHEN THEY SHOULD DURING NIGHT DRIVING IS NORMAL FUNCTIONALITY.

ODI #11271167STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKESCRASH

I WAS DRIVING UP TO MY GARAGE ON THE SIDE OF MY HOUSE ON A CLEAR DAY, EARLY AFTERNOON. I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 3 MPH AND TRIED TO STOP TO PARK IN FRONT OF THE GARAGE DOOR. I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND IT DID NOT ENGAGE, BUT LURCHED FORWARD INTO THE GARAGE, CRASHING INTO THE GARAGE AND CAUSING DAMAGE TO BOTH THE GARAGE AND THE AUTO.

ODI #11267998STRUCTURE

THE HEAT SHIELD ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE CAR, BY THE STORAGE BATTERY CAME LOSE WHILE DRIVING AND WAS DAMAGED. IT IS HELD IN PLACE BY ONLY FOUR PLASTIC PINS. THE CAR IS SO LOW TO THE GROUND THAT IT IS HARD TO CLEAR NORMAL SPEED BUMPS LET ALONE OLDER LARGER ONES. WE WERE TRAVELING A HOUSING ADDITION LESS THAN 20 MPH AND JUST WENT OVER AN OLDER HIGH SPEED-BUMP AND PUDDLE WHEN IT OCCURRED. WE DROVE THE LAST 100 OR SO FEET HOME AND WIRED IT UP OUT OF THE WAY SO THE CAR COULD BE DRIVEN AT LOW SPEED TOO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP TOLD US THIS WAS DAMAGE DUE TO OUR DRIVING NEGLIGENCE IE: "WE HIT SOMETHING". WHEN THIS SHIELD COMES OFF IT FALLS STRAIGHT INTO THE VEHICLE EXHAUST PIPE AND GROUND, THERE IS NO SIMPLE WAY TO REMOVE THE PIECE UNTIL A FULL REPAIR CAN BE COMPLETED. IT MUST BE WIRED UP OFF THE GROUND OR PART OF THE WHEEL AND EXHAUST MUST BE DISCONNECTED. IT TOOK THE DEALERSHIP THREE TRIES AND OVER A MONTH TO GET THE CORRECT SHIELD IN AND PERFORM THE REPAIR. THE PART NUMBER IN THE TOYOTA PARTS SPECIFICATION AND THE REPAIR PARTS WAREHOUSE OR NOT THE SAME.

ODI #11252385VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLCRASH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE THE VEHICLE HAD EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION AND CRASHED INTO A SECOND PARKED VEHICLE. NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE LOCAL DEALER DCH TOYOTA (1504 US HWY 1 NORTH BRUNSWICK NJ) BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.

ODI #11230722ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILED AND EVERYTHING IN THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN. THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND LOST POWER. WHILE THE VEHICLE COASTED, THE ENGINE RESTARTED ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO TOYOTA VALLEJO (201 AUTO MALL PARKWAY, VALLEJO, CA 94591, 707-552-4545) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE REPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,600.

ODI #11220031VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

I STARTED MY CAR, PUT IT IN DRIVE AND BEGAN TO MAKE A U TURN OUT OF A PARKING LOT WHEN IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. I HAD THREE TURNS I HAD TO MAKE IN QUICK SUCCESSION (U TURN, LEFT ON PUBLIC DRIVEWAY, RIGHT ON MAIN ROAD) TO GET ON TO THE MAIN ROAD, AND I DID THIS AT BREAK NECK SPEED. BY THE SECOND TURN I WAS GIVING ALL MY STRENGTH TO TRYING TO GET THE BRAKE TO WORK, UNSUCCESSFULLY (LOCKED), AND WAS FULLY FOCUSSED ON TURNING THE CAR SAFELY TO SAVE MY LIFE AT SUCH HIGH SPEED. MY TIRES SQUEALED ON THE THIRD TURN AND MY CELL PHONE FLEW THROUGH THE AIR. I COULD NOT MAKE A TIGHT RIGHT TURN SO MADE MY TURN IN TO THE LEFT LANE (PROUD OF MY DRIVING SUCCESS GIVEN THE SPEED). ONCE I NAVIGATED THE TURNS THE CAR SLOWED DOWN AND BRAKES WORKED AS NORMAL. THIS ALL HAPPENED IN AROUND 20 SECONDS I'D GUESS, AND LESS THAN 1/4 MILE I THINK. JUST FORTUNATE THERE WERE NO CARS COMING IN EITHER DIRECTION. I AM ALIVE TO TELL THIS STORY. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A DEALER AND AM AWAITING TO HEAR WHAT THE HAVE TO SAY. I AM PETRIFIED AT THE THOUGHT OF GETTING BACK IN TO THAT CAR.

ODI #11202667VISIBILITY/WIPER

I OWNED A 2008 PRIUS WITH 273,453 MILES WHEN I TRADED IT FOR A 2018 PRIUS ON 3/15/18. MY 2008 NEVER HAD THE WINDSHIELD REPLACED; MEANWHILE, THE 2018 HAS BEEN REPLACED ONCE AND THE 2ND IS NOW CRACKED WITHIN 2 MONTHS OF REPLACEMENT. ON 8/7/18 I WAS DRIVING IN A SINGLE LANE ROAD WITH NO VEHICLES AHEAD OR IN THE ONCOMING DIRECTION WHEN I HEARD A POP. WITHIN 5 MINUTES A CRACK BEGAN AT THE BASE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND EXTENDED ABOUT 9' UPWARDS AND TOWARDS THE PASSENGER SIDE BY THE END OF THE DAY. NEXT MORNING THE CRACK WAS 17' LONG, AND BY THE 3RD DAY THE CRACK WAS 26'. AFTER THAT THE CRACK SEEMS TO STABILIZE. ON 10/9/18 I WAS DRIVING ON I-95N HEARD ANOTHER POP AND A 2ND CRACK BEGAN TO FORM. THERE WERE NO VEHICLES IN FRONT OF ME WHEN I HEARD A POP. AN ADDITIONAL CRACK STARTED THAT CURVED FROM THE DRIVER SIDE AND EXTENDED 14' FROM THE BASE OF THE WINDSHIELD 3' FROM THE OLD CRACK TOWARDS THE DRIVER SIDE. THE 2ND CRACK AFFECTED MY VISION SO I HAD HAVE IT REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. ON 11/2/18 I HAD THE OEM WINDSHIELD REPLACED FOR $250 (DEDUCTIBLE) PLUS $477 (TOYOTA CAMERA RECALIBRATION). ON 12/19/18 I HEARD A POP WHILE AT A STOP SIGN AND THE NEW WINDSHIELD DEVELOPED A CRACK FROM THE BASE OF THE GLASS EXTENDING UPWARDS 4' THEN CURVED TOWARDS THE PASSENGER SIDE FOR ANOTHER 7.5' BY THE END OF THE DAY. THE NEXT DAY THE CRACK CURVED UP AND TO THE RIGHT SIDE FOR ANOTHER 7.25'. BY THE 3RD DAY, IT GREW ANOTHER 12' UPWARDS. ON 1/29/19 A SECOND CRACK FORMED NEAR THE INITIAL CRACK AT 3' HIGHER FROM THE BASE. THIS CRACK EXTENDED FOR 12' TOWARDS THE DRIVER SIDE. SO NOW I AM FACED WITH REPLACING THE WINDSHIELD AGAIN; INCURRING THE COSTS AND INCONVENIENCE. GIVEN THE FACT THERE WERE NO VEHICLE AROUND WHEN THE CRACKS HAVE REPEATED APPEARED I FEEL THAT THIS IS A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT AND NOT A FACTOR OF MY DRIVING.

ODI #11161416WHEELS

NEW CAR JUST OVER 1000 MILES. REAR TIRE BLOWS ON FREEWAY, NO POTHOLE OR ANYTHING HIT. SINCE OWNING THE CAR I'VE HEARD A FAINT THUDDING WHEN GOING OVER 65 MILES AN HOUR. NO INDICATOR LIGHT AND THE TIRES FELT HARD, NOT DEFLATED WHEN I CHECKED. SO I THOUGHT IT MIGHT JUST BE AN UNEVEN ROAD MAKING THAT SOUND. NOW I BELIEVE IT WAS THE TIRE. I HAVE TONS OF PHOTOS IF NEEDED. I FISHTAILED ON THE FREEWAY AND WAS CLOSE ENOUGH TO AN EXIT THAT I GOT OFF ON IT. LUCKILY DID NOT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.

ODI #11138822VISIBILITY/WIPER

LAST YEAR,JUNE 2017, WHILE THE CAR WAS PARKED WE NOTICED THERE WAS A HAIRLINE CRACK ON THE WINDSHIELD. WE RECEIVED SOME QUOTES SAYING IT WOULD BE ABOUT $900 TO FIX. SO WE DECIDED TO GO WITH AN ADHESIVE INJECTION AND PAID ABOUT $50 FOR SOMEONE TO COME FIX IT. HOWEVER, AFTER A MONTH, IT SPREAD. WE HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD. LAST MONTH, SAME THING HAPPENED. CAR WAS PARKED, NOTHING HIT IT. SAME HAIRLINE CRACK. I HAVEN'T FIXED IT BECAUSE OF THE HEAVY EXPENSE. BUT IT HAS SPREAD. CHECKED ONLINE TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE HAS THE SAME ISSUE AND FOUND THERE'S A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT FOR THIS BUT IT'S FOR 2014-2016 TOYOTA PRIUS. APPARENTLY THEY HAVE NOT FIXED THIS PROBLEM FOR THE 2017 PRIUS. ALSO, THERE'S A RECALL FOR MY CAR FOR ANOTHER ISSUE.

ODI #11112886VISIBILITY/WIPER

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY IN THE RAIN AT 55MPH A VERY SMALL PEBBLE/BUG STRUCK THE LOWER RIGHT WINDSHIELD BELOW THE WIPER. IT WAS NOT VERY LOUD, BUT DID CREATE A CRACK IN THE WINDSHIELD WITH A FEW MINUTES. WITHIN A FEW DAYS THE CRACK HAS SPREAD ACROSS THE ENTIRE WINDSHIELD.

ODI #11112078SEATS

HORRIBLE BACK PAIN CAUSED BY THE PRIUS' DRIVER SEAT. CAR SEAT SHOULD NOT PASS STANDARDS. EXTREMELY UNHEALTHY.

ODI #11110559UNKNOWN OR OTHER

CONNECT THE PHONE TO STEREO, ACTIVATE DEVICE ASSISTANT, PHONE CALL OR PLAY AUDIO FROM THE DEVICE THROUGH STEREO. THE STEREO WILL REBOOT. THIS HAS OCCURRED A NUMBER OF TIMES DURING THE FIRST COUPLE WEEKS OF OWNERSHIP. DOESN'T MATTER IF VEHICLE IS IN MOTION OR NOT.

ODI #11103813SERVICE BRAKES

THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR I PURCHASED. THERE IS A HIGH-PITCHED NOISE THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL MAKES WHEN YOU DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL. I THOUGHT THIS WAS PART OF THE BEEPS THE CAR MAKES, BUT IT'S NOT. THE BRAKE BOOSTER WAS REPLACED, BUT THE BRAKE PEDAL CONTINUES TO MAKE A HIGH-PITCHED CHIRPING NOISE. I RETURNED TO TOYOTA SERVICE TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT, BUT THEY SAID THAT THIS IS A NORMAL SOUND THAT OTHER PRIUSES MAKE. THIS CONCERNS ME THAT THE BRAKES ARE DEFECTIVE SINCE I'VE NEVER HEARD OF BRAKES THAT SOUND LIKE THIS.

ODI #11103383UNKNOWN OR OTHER

BACK UP ALARM TOO LOUD, THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. FACT IT IS SO LOUD YOU CAN NOT HEAR THE REAR CROSS-TRAFFIC ALERT OR ANY PERSON OUTSIDE THE CAR YELLING. TOYOTA NEEDS TO EITHER DEVELOP A METHOD SO THE OWNER CAN ADJUST THE BACKUP ALARM VOLUME OR HAVE THE DEALER TURN DOWN THE VOLUME FREE OF CHARGE.

ODI #11078610UNKNOWN OR OTHER

WHEN USING IPHONE WITH BLUETOOTH RANDOM SONGS PLAY WHILE DIRECTIONAL NAVIGATION PROMPTS PLAY (SEE HTTP://OSXDAILY.COM/2017/07/29/STOP-AUTOPLAYING-MUSIC-IPHONE-CAR-BLUETOOTH/). THIS CREATES DRIVER DISTRACTION. THE PROBLEM IS MORE-SO WITH APPLE IOS RATHER THAN THE PRIUS IN PARTICULAR.

ODI #11074394POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE GEAR WOULD SHIFT EITHER FROM 'DRIVE TO NEUTRAL' OR 'REVERSE TO NEUTRAL' THIS HAPPENED MORE THAN 10 TIMES WHEN I HAD MY SISTER, MOTHER, AND FATHER IN THE CAR. 1) IT HAPPENED WHEN I WAS PULLING OUT OF THE GARAGE (ABOUT 20 DEGREE ANGEL) GOING UP THE HILL. I WENT TO PICK THEM UP, ALL 3 PF THEM WENT IN. I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND GEAR ON DRIVE, WHEN I LET GO OF THE BRAKE THE GEAR SHIFTED AUTOMATICALLY ON NEUTRAL. AFTER, 3 TRIES, THE CAR FINALLY WAS ABLE TO GO FORWARD WITHOUT STRUGGLE. 2) I WAS TRYING TO BACK IN ONE OF THE SPOT (FLAT GROUND), FOOT ON THE BRAKE, GEAR ON REVERSED. WHEN I LET GO OF THE BRAKE THE GEAR SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL AUTOMATICALLY. I STRUGGLED FOR 3-4 TIMES BEFORE THE WAS ABLE TO HOLD ON REVERSED AND PARK THE CAR SAFELY. 3) WHEN I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION (FLAT GROUND). I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE, WHEN I FINALLY WAS ABLE TO MAKE A TURN, MY FOOT ON THE FOOT AND GEAR ON DRIVE, WHEN I LET GO OF THE BRAKE THE GEAR SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL OF THE THE SUDDEN, I HAD TO TRY 3-4 TIMES BEFORE IT WAS ABLE TO MOVE FORWARD WITHOUT A STRUGGLE 5) I WAS ON A HILL (ABOUT 20-30 DEGREE ANGLE) FACING UP. MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE AND GEAR ON DRIVE, WHEN I LET GO OF THE BRAKE THE GEAR WAS SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL. I STRUGGLED FOR 5-10 MINUTES (GOING FROM DRIVE TO NEUTRAL BACK IN FORTH) AS MY CAR WAS NOT ABLE TO HOLD DRIVE MODE, I EVENTUALLY ASKED MY FAMILY TO GET OUT OF THE CAR AS I WAS GETTING WORRIED AND FRUSTRATED, MY FAMILY WAS OUT OF THE CAR BUT I WAS STILL STRUGGLING, IN THE PROCESS I HIT A CAR BEHIND ME. 6) I WAS FINALLY ABLE TO PARK THE CAR IN WITH ANY PASSENGERS AND SOMEWHERE FLAT GROUND. I LEFT MY CAR FOR 30 MINUTES AND CAME TO DRIVE MY CAR. I STARTED MY CAR, I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND GEAR ON DRIVE. I LET GO OF THE BRAKE THEN MY GEAR SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL AGAIN, I STRUGGLED FOR 3-4 TIMES BEFORE THE CAR WAS ABLE TO HOLD ON DRIVE

Annual complaints and reliability score for TOYOTA Prius — recall years marked in red
0590501002018201820192020202120222023202420252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 34 total NHTSA complaints filed over 9 years, with the worst year being 2018 (9 complaints).

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 79/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

The recall (red dashed line) were issued in the same year or before complaints peaked, suggesting the manufacturer identified and acted on the defect relatively quickly.

Red dots on the amber line flag 4 years (2019, 2020, 2023, 2024) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

ACTIVEEXTENDED WARRANTYFederal Emissions Warranty
Toyota/Lexus Hybrid Battery Extended Warranty
Hybrid Battery / HV Battery Pack
COVERAGE:10 years / 150,000 miles from original sale date (federal minimum for HV battery in ZEV states; 8 years / 100,000 miles in non-ZEV states)

Federal emissions regulations require Toyota and Lexus to warrant the hybrid battery system for a minimum of 8 years / 100,000 miles nationally, and 10 years / 150,000 miles in California and states that adopted California emissions standards. The HV battery, battery ECU, and hybrid control module are covered.

HOW TO CLAIM: Coverage is federally mandated. Visit any Toyota or Lexus dealer. If your HV battery warning light is on or fuel economy has degraded significantly, request a hybrid battery health check. No special program code needed — it is covered under the standard federal emissions warranty.

Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$0
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$1,800
Annual Maintenance
8-yr-old vehicle avg
$475
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$20,375

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

$38,727
~$645/mo over 5 yrs
$0.4/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$15,500
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$2,727

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $38,727 (~$645/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

$7,000
Low
$8,000
Est. Value
$9,000
High

Based on original MSRP of $23,475 with hybrid depreciation curve. Range reflects ±15% market variance. Actual value depends on condition, options, and local demand.

1 open recall (unverified repair status)−$500
1 recall over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$400
Total recommended deduction−$900
Suggested fair offer: ~$7,100
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING has been repaired
Recall on record for: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles. A portion of th
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,400–$1,780/yr
~$117–$148/mo
Liability Only
$510–$640/yr
~$43–$53/mo
Category: Economy/Hybrid
8-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

TOYOTA has been fined $1217M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2014: Criminal settlement — concealed unintended acceleration defects for years before recall.

2014$1200MCriminal settlement — concealed unintended acceleration defects for years before recall
2012$17MFailure to promptly notify NHTSA of power window defect

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINJTDKBRFU6J3066022
Model Year2018
MakeTOYOTA
ModelPrius
TrimOne/Two
SeriesZVW50L/ZVW51L
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleHatchback/Liftback/Notchback
Doors5
Seat Rows5
Drive Type4x2
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionContinuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)1.8
Horsepower96

Manufacturer

ManufacturerTOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION
Assembly CityTOYOTA CITY
Assembly CountryJAPAN

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)JTD
Check Digit (Char 9)6
Model Year Code (Char 10)J
Plant Code (Char 11)3
Sequence (Chars 12–17)066022

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count1
NHTSA Complaint Count34
J
1
T
2
D
3
K
4
B
5
R
6
F
7
U
8
6
9
J
10
3
11
0
12
6
13
6
14
0
15
2
16
2
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
J
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
T
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
D
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
KBRFU
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
6
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
J
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
3
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
066022
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Japan
From VIN position 1 (J)
Model Year Character
"J" → 2018
Could also be 1988
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/22/2026, 1:43:33 PM.