The vehicle dossier US · 2012

2012 Toyota
PRIUS VProblems & recalls

217 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Brakes appears in 132 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 217 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Brakes132 reports
Other components47 reports
Engine37 reports
Electrical system24 reports
Steering11 reports
Air bags8 reports
Transmission & drivetrain7 reports
Fuel system5 reports
Body & structure4 reports
Visibility3 reports
Suspension1 reports
See original component labels
SERVICE BRAKES124
ENGINE36
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM22
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL15
UNKNOWN OR OTHER15
STEERING11
AIR BAGS8
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)7
POWER TRAIN7
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC6
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM5
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING5
VISIBILITY/WIPER3
EXTERIOR LIGHTING3
STRUCTURE:BODY3
WHEELS2
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM2
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL2
SUSPENSION1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL1
STRUCTURE1
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER1
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:INVERTER1
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS1
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:ABS WARNING LIGHT1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM1
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS1
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC:SOLENOID/ACTUATOR1
SEAT BELTS1
SEATS1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 14 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Sep 16, 2026
Mileage, where supplied

68,700 miles is the median among 135 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 20,000–126,000 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

4 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

Oct 4, 2018 Safety recallHYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEMCampaign 18V684000

Reported concern

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V vehicles. Excessive voltage in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter may cause the hybrid system to shut down, causing the vehicle to stall while being driven.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0V. Note: The software updates in this recall are needed even if the vehicle had the software previously updated under recalls 14V-053 or 15V-449.

Manufacturer campaign: J0V

Read campaign 18V684000 at NHTSA
Jul 15, 2015 Safety recallHYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTERCampaign 15V449000

Reported concern

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Prius V vehicles manufactured August 22, 2011, to June 30, 2014. A component within the hybrid inverter assembly may overheat, causing the hybrid system to reduce output power allowing the vehicle to only drive a short distance. In some circumstances, the hybrid system may shut down causing the vehicle to stop while being driven.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the motor/generator control electronic control unti (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. The recall began on July 30, 2015. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.

Read campaign 15V449000 at NHTSA
Dec 12, 2013 Safety recallEXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTSCampaign 13E070000

Reported concern

Genera Corporation (Genera) is recalling certain aftermarket replacement tail lights, model 11-6468-00 (driver-side), and model 11-6467-00 (passenger-side), sold for use on 2012-2013 Toyota Prius V vehicles. The brake light and tail light circuits are switched causing the brake lights to be illuminated continuously until the brake pedal is pressed, when the brake lights will go out.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Genera will notify owners and provide replacement aftermarket tail lamps, free of charge. The recall began on January 23, 2014. Owners may contact Genera at 1-888-963-9888. This recall is being conducted by Genera Corporation, not by Toyota Motor Corporation.

Read campaign 13E070000 at NHTSA
Jan 16, 2013 Safety recallSEATSCampaign 13V014000

Reported concern

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.

Read campaign 13V014000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

496 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Feb 13, 2026 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0009-26This bulletin includes basic procedures for performing a rescue charge on Ni-MH high voltage (HV) batteries. This bulletin should be used in conjunction with the applicable model and model year Repair Manual while performing a …NHTSA ID 11029893

This bulletin includes basic procedures for performing a rescue charge on Ni-MH high voltage (HV) batteries. This bulletin should be used in conjunction with the applicable model and model year Repair Manual while performing a rescue charge. The GRX-5100 should be used wherever the Repair Manual references the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) charger.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0009-26

Components: ENGINE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11029893 at NHTSA
Feb 13, 2026 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0119-15 Rev2OBSOLETE NOTICE February 13, 2026: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0009-26.NHTSA ID 11029892

OBSOLETE NOTICE February 13, 2026: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0009-26.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0119-15 Rev2

Components: ENGINE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11029892 at NHTSA
Jan 7, 2026 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0055-24 Rev2Some 2005 – 2026 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose…NHTSA ID 11028712

Some 2005 – 2026 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures for odor remediation. This Service Bulletin provides a guide on how to prepare and treat the interior of the vehicle for odor remediation. Refer to the applicable model and model year Repair Manual and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website for the most up-to-date safety and precautionary guidelines.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0055-24 Rev2

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11028712 at NHTSA
Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0039-24 Rev2The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a p…NHTSA ID 11012744

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain, frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0039-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012744 at NHTSA
Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0038-24 Rev2To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather el…NHTSA ID 11012743

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0038-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012743 at NHTSA
Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0035-24 Rev2Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas suc…NHTSA ID 11012742

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: •Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. •Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. •Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0035-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012742 at NHTSA
Dec 5, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0061-23 Rev2Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Remova…NHTSA ID 11012735

Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0061-23 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012735 at NHTSA
Dec 3, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0062-23 Rev2Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be ident…NHTSA ID 11012727

Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0062-23 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012727 at NHTSA
Jul 29, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0055-24 Rev1Some 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose…NHTSA ID 11007455

Some 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures for odor remediation. This Service Bulletin provides a guide on how to prepare and treat the interior of the vehicle for odor remediation. Refer to the applicable model and model year Repair Manual and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website for the most up-to-date safety and precautionary guidelines. This Service Bulletin is to provide a general overview and direction for the odor remediation process.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0055-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007455 at NHTSA
Jul 29, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0055-24 Rev1Some 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose…NHTSA ID 11006161

Some 2005 – 2024 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures for odor remediation. This Service Bulletin provides a guide on how to prepare and treat the interior of the vehicle for odor remediation. Refer to the applicable model and model year Repair Manual and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website for the most up-to-date safety and precautionary guidelines. This Service Bulletin is to provide a general overview and direction for the odor remediation process.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0055-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11006161 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0039-24 Rev1The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a p…NHTSA ID 11007445

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0039-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007445 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0038-24 Rev1To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather el…NHTSA ID 11007444

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0038-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007444 at NHTSA
Browse all manufacturer records by page

Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

Opened Nov 22, 2023 No close date recordedBrake Actuator Valve WearDP23005

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received a petition dated September 19, 2023 from the owner of a 2012 Toyota Prius V requesting that ODI reevaluate its decision to deny DP19-004. In the letter, the petitioner reported experiencing an unexpected and complete loss of brake power while driving, accompanied by multiple dashboard warning lights. This petition is based on the petitioner's direct experience and assessment that ODI closed DP19-004 because its prompting petition was withdrawn by that petitioner. ODI will review the work conducted during DP19-004 and a review of any additional related complaints and crashes via a new defect petition The petition and related materials can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following ODI number:11553736.

Find investigation DP23005

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