The vehicle dossier US · 2001

2001 Toyota
PRIUSProblems & recalls

165 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Other components appears in 64 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 165 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Other components64 reports
Steering45 reports
Electrical system27 reports
Engine20 reports
Brakes16 reports
Fuel system12 reports
Suspension9 reports
Transmission & drivetrain5 reports
Body & structure3 reports
Visibility1 reports
Air bags1 reports
See original component labels
STEERING26
TIRES22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM19
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL18
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING12
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL7
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC7
STEERING:RACK AND PINION6
SUSPENSION:FRONT6
TIRES:TREAD/BELT5
STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK5
UNKNOWN OR OTHER5
STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)5
SERVICE BRAKES5
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY4
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE4
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY3
EQUIPMENT3
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM3
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE2
STRUCTURE2
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM2
SUSPENSION2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY2
WHEELS2
POWER TRAIN2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE2
ENGINE2
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM2
EXTERIOR LIGHTING1
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS1
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY1
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR1
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL1
CHILD SEAT1
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR1
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING1
STEERING:COLUMN1
POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR1
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS1
SUSPENSION:REAR1
AIR BAGS1
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY1
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM: INVERTER1

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 15 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Dec 12, 2019
Mileage, where supplied

60,574 miles is the median among 106 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 37,365–105,256 miles.

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

02 / Official safety campaigns

3 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.

Jun 1, 2011 Safety recallSTEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEMCampaign 11V304000

Reported concern

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001 THROUGH 2003 PRIUS PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 28, 2000, THROUGH MAY 30, 2003. THE STEERING LINKAGE MAY LOOSEN, RESULTING IN REDUCED ELECTRIC STEERING ASSISTANCE WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN.

Manufacturer’s stated response

TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE NUTS IN THE STEERING LINKAGE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 8, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.

Read campaign 11V304000 at NHTSA
Jul 19, 2006 Safety recallENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGCampaign 06V266000

Reported concern

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER MOLDING OF THE RESIN BODY OF THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENOR INSTALLED ON THE ENGINE BLOCK, ENGINE OIL MAY PENETRATE THE SEAL AND ENTER THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR. THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENTLY ATTACHED TO THE LOCKING TAB OF THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR.

Manufacturer’s stated response

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 26, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.

Manufacturer campaign: 60G

Read campaign 06V266000 at NHTSA
Sep 21, 2000 Safety recallSTEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)Campaign 00V285000

Reported concern

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INSUFFICIENT ELECTRICAL CONTACT CAN OCCUR IN THE TORQUE SENSOR THAT CONTROLS THE POWER ASSIST OPERATION OF THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING GEAR BOX. THE TORQUE SENSOR COULD SEND IMPROPER ELECTRICAL SIGNALS.

Manufacturer’s stated response

DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE ELECTRIC STEERING GEAR BOX.

Read campaign 00V285000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

154 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
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 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
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0035-24 Rev1Acid 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 11007443

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 Rev1

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

Source record 11007443 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 11006151

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 11006151 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 11006150

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 11006150 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 Jan 27, 2023 ClosedPedestrian alert soundsDP22005

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.

Recorded closure: Aug 7, 2023

Campaign reference in the source: 22V063000

Find investigation DP22005

Your next step

Take good questions
to the inspection.

Use these prompts with a qualified inspector. This page is research, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a hands-on inspection.