2001 Toyota Prius problems
The Toyota Prius (/ˈpriːəs/ PREE-əss) (Japanese: トヨタ・プリウス, Hepburn: Toyota Puriusu) is a compact/small family liftback (supermini/subcompact sedan until 2003) produced by Toyota. The Prius has a hybrid drivetrain, combined with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Initially offered as a four-door sedan, it has been produced only as a five-door liftback since 2003.
The Prius was developed by Toyota to be the "car for the 21st century"; it was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, first going on sale in Japan in 1997 at all four Toyota Japan dealership chains, and subsequently introduced worldwide in 2000.
In 2011, Toyota expanded the Prius family to include the Prius v, an MPV, and the Prius c, a subcompact hatchback. The production version of the Prius plug-in hybrid was released in 2012. The second generation of the plug-in variant, the Prius Prime, was released in the U.S. in November 2016. The Prius family totaled global cumulative sales of 6.1 million units in January 2017, representing 61% of the 10 million hybrids sold worldwide by Toyota since 1997. Toyota sells the Prius in over 90 markets, with Japan and the United States being its largest markets.
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Common 2001 Toyota Prius problems
The 2001 Toyota Prius is known to have several common problems, with electrical issues being the most prevalent. According to the data, the HV battery is defective in 4 complaints, and there are 6 electrical complaints, which together account for the majority of the issues reported.
The HV battery is a critical component of the hybrid system, and its failure can lead to reduced fuel efficiency or even complete power loss. This can be a significant concern for Prius owners, as the battery can be expensive to replace. However, some owners have reported that refurbished batteries can be a more cost-effective option, with longer warranties than new ones.
In addition to the HV battery, the 2001 Prius has also had reports of engine failure, with 1 complaint recorded. This can be a serious issue, as it can leave the driver stranded and in need of expensive repairs. The engine failure may be related to the crack in the engine, which is another problem reported in the 2003 Prius. This issue can lead to reduced engine performance and increased wear and tear on other components.
The 2001 Prius has also had reports of steering problems, with 2 complaints recorded. This includes issues with the steering gear box, which can affect the power assist operation of the electric power steering system. This can lead to reduced steering control and increased driver effort, which can be a safety concern.
Another issue reported in the 2001 Prius is catalytic converter failure, with 1 complaint recorded. This can lead to reduced engine performance and increased emissions, which can be a significant concern for owners. The catalytic converter is a critical component of the exhaust system, and its failure can lead to expensive repairs.
In addition to these issues, the 2001 Prius has also had reports of bad transaxle assembly and wheels problems, with 1 complaint each. These issues can affect the overall drivability and safety of the vehicle, and can lead to expensive repairs.
Despite these issues, the 2001 Toyota Prius has also received positive feedback from owners, with many reporting high levels of satisfaction with the vehicle's fuel efficiency, cabin and trunk space, and overall value. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
In summary, the 2001 Toyota Prius has several common problems, with electrical issues being the most prevalent. These include defective HV batteries, engine failure, steering problems, catalytic converter failure, bad transaxle assembly, and wheels issues. While these issues can be expensive to repair, the Prius has also received positive feedback from owners, with many reporting high levels of satisfaction with the vehicle's fuel efficiency, cabin and trunk space, and overall value.
Is a 2001 Toyota Prius a good car?
This generation Prius established the hybrid as a dependable automobile. Toyota, and its dealers in general, provided excellent service throughout the warranty period. While other auto manufacturers are finially building hybrids, Toyota now has a 10-year headstart.
How many miles does a 2001 Prius last?
How Long Does a Toyota Prius Last? With regular maintenance, a Toyota Prius owner can expect to get between 200,000 and 250,000 miles out of their Prius, with some owners topping the 300,000-mile mark and going strong.
What is the most common problem of Toyota Prius?
A list of some of the most common issues Prius owners have to deal with.
- Bluetooth Echos During Calls. ...
- Musty and Moldy A/C. ...
- Unintended Acceleration. ...
- Rodents Chew Soy-Coated Wires. ...
- Prius Headlight Problems. ...
- Prius Brake Defects. ...
- Toyota Excessive Oil Consumption.
Is 300000 miles on a Prius bad?
With its reliability score of 88 and regular maintenance, the Prius can keep running well past 300,000 miles.
Is a 2001 Toyota Prius a good car?
This generation Prius established the hybrid as a dependable automobile. Toyota, and its dealers in general, provided excellent service throughout the warranty period. While other auto manufacturers are finially building hybrids, Toyota now has a 10-year headstart.
What is the common problem with Toyota Prius?
The most commonly reported issues for different Toyota Prius model years include cracked windshields, excessive engine oil consumption, and engine issues. Depending on the model year, the Toyota Prius can also develop problems with its headlights, interior accessories, fuel gauge, transistors, and parking brake.
How many miles does a 2001 Prius last?
How Long Does a Toyota Prius Last? With regular maintenance, a Toyota Prius owner can expect to get between 200,000 and 250,000 miles out of their Prius, with some owners topping the 300,000-mile mark and going strong.
Is Prius high maintenance?
It's important to note that while the maintenance costs for a Prius are generally lower, there are some maintenance tasks specific to hybrid vehicles that can be more costly. These include servicing the electric motors and battery, which may require specialized knowledge and equipment.
2001 Toyota Prius car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Prius problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Toyota Prius vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Toyota Prius
The NHTSA has received 174 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Toyota Prius. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Toyota Prius vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2BK12U710
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS GETTING OFF THE FREEWAY AND DRIVING 40 MPH ON THE OFF RAMP, WHEN THE 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS DID A UNWANTED LEFT TURN OF THE STEERING WHEEL, I TRIED TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL BACK TO CORRECT THE CAR ANGLE, BUT HE STEERING FORCE WAS TOO STRONG FOR ME TO CORRECT BACK TO STRAIGHT AHEAD, THE LEFT FRONT CAR THE CONCRETE BARRIER, AND THE CAR TURN 360 DEGREE AROUND. THE REAR RIGHT BUMPER HIT THE CONCRETE BARRIER. LUCKY THERE WAS NO OTHER CARS AROUND ME.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-09
- VIN: JT2BK12U910
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING RECALL I CALLED TOYOTA THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T DO IT AND IT SAYS ONLINE IT'S GOOD FOR 10 YEARS AFTER RECALL DATE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-04
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2BK12U610
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CAR ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AT HIGH SPEED ON IT'S OWN IN A PARKING LOT AND RAMMED ITSELF INTO THE WALL DEPLOYING AIRBAGS. MY MOTHER WAS DRIVING AND WAS SENT TO THE E.R. SHE WAS SLOWLY BACKING UP WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED FIRST IN REVERSE HITTING A WALL AND THEN SWITCHED IN DRIVE ON IT'S OWN WITH HIGH ACCELERATION RUNNING INTO THE OPPOSITE WALL WHICH DEPLOYED THE BAGS. AFTER READING ONLINE ABOUT THESE VEHICLES, THE ACCELERATION SURGING IS A COMMON PROBLEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-01
- VIN: JT2BK12U510
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR IS EXPERIENCING WHAT IS KNOWN ONLLINE AS "THE BIG HAND SYNDROM". WHILE DRIVING, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CHANGES RESISTANCE AND IT FEELS LIKE SOMEONE GRABS THE CAR AND IT DRAMATICALLY SLOWS. YOU THEN HAVE TO PRESS HARDER ON THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO MAINTAIN SPEED. WELL ONE DAY, THE CAR STOPPED WORKING, NO MATTER HOW HARD I PRESSED ON THE PEDAL IT WOULD NO ACCELERATE. I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY. I TOOK MY CAR IN TO THE LOCAL AUTHORIZED TOYOTA DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS BAD AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. WE REPLACED THE PEDAL AND EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUES, AND REPLACED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AGAIN. I'M STILL EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUSES AND THE TOYOTA DEALER SAID THERES NOTHING THEY CAN DO EXCEPT KEEP REPLACING THE PEDAL CAUSE THATS THE CODE IT IS THROWING UP. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE FOR MY VEHICLE AS I CAN AND DO LOSE ACCELERATION AT ANY GIVEN TIME. IT DOESNT SEEM TO MATTER HOW FAST IM GOING OR THE DRIVING CONDITIONS. IT IS COMPLETELY RANDOM, AND CANNOT BE REPLICATED ON COMAND. THE DATE LISTED IS THE FIRST INSTANCE, AND IT HAS HAPPENED TOO MANY TIMES TO COUNT OR MAKE RECORD.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-16
- Crash: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST COMPLETE POWER AND BRAKING ABILITY WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT DROVE OVER THE MEDIAN AAND CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE LOCAL DEALER (TITUS-WILL TOYOTA, 3506 S SPRAGUE AVE, TACOMA, WA 98409). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DECLARED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNKNOWN.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-10
- VIN: JT2BK12U010
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK VIOLENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-22
- VIN: JT2BK12U710
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: PS WARNING LIGHT DISPLAY, CAR WILL NOT START. PARKED IN HOME DRIVE WAY.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-14
- VIN: JT2BK12U710
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME STIFF WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AND THE POWER STEERING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V304000 (STEERING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 13,620.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-19
- VIN: JT2BK12U710
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR SUDDENLY LOST POWER WITHOUT ANY WARNING WHILE DRIVING 65+ MPH ON THE FREEWAY. THE CHECK HYBRID WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR BECAME DANGEROUSLY UNRESPONSIVE, LUCKILY WE WERE NEAR AN EXIT AND WERE ABLE TO COAST TO SAFETY. THE HYBRID SYSTEM WAS EXPECTING INFORMATION FROM THE ACCELERATOR, AND WHEN IT DOESN'T RECEIVE IT, EITHER THE GAS ENGINE, OR THE ELECTRIC ENGINE, OR BOTH ENGINES FAIL TO OPERATE. TOYOTA HAS SERVICE BULLETIN 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS UNKNOWN OR OTHER SERVICE BULLETIN 117006 ACTION NUMBER: 635861 SERVICE BULLETIN NUMBER: 117006... REPORT DATE: SEP 12, 2002 COMPONENT: UNKNOWN OR OTHER.... SUMMARY: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A MASTER, HYBRID AND MALFUNCTION INDICATOR WARNING LIGHT ON WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1120. ,,, P1120 TOYOTA DESCRIPTION ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR IS MOUNTED ON THE THROTTLE BODY AND IT HAS THE 2 SENSORS TO DETECTS THE ACCELERATOR POSITION AND A MALFUNCTION OF THE ACCELERATOR POSITION. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR IS CONNECTED WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BY THE ACCELERATOR WIRE. THE ECM JUDGES THE CURRENT OPENING ANGLE OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FROM THESE SENSOR SIGNAL INPUTS AND IT CONTROLS THE THROTTLE MOTOR BASED ON THESE SIGNALS. IF THE THE P1120 CODE IS STORED, THE ECM SHUTS DOWN THE POWER FOR THE THROTTLE MOTOR AND THE MAGNETIC CLUTCH, AND THE THROTTLE VALVE IS FULLY CLOSED BY THE RETURN SPRING. HOWEVER, THE OPENING ANGLE OF THE THROTTLE VALVE CAN BE CONTROLLED BY THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL THROUGH THE THROTTLE CABLE. I HAVE SINCE LEARNED THAT THE ACCELERATOR SENSOR ASSEMBLY IS PROBABLY AT FAULT, WHICH IS A HIGH COST ITEM $300 DOLLARS OR MORE WHICH TOYOTA WOULD BALK AT REPLACING IN A RECALL. THIS HAPPENED ONCE BEFORE, BUT I DON'T RECALL THE DATE.....UPDATED 08/24/15 *BF
STEERING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-12
- VIN: JT2BK12UX10
- Components: STEERING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: I HAVE STARTED HAVING AN INTERMITTENT POWER STEERING ISSUE. AS I AM DRIVING THE STEERING WHEEL BEGINS TO SHAKE AND I RECEIVE AN ERROR MESSAGE THAT THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM. THEN THE ERROR CLEARS AND SAYS THE PROBLEM IS SOLVED. THIS ISSUE HAPPENS INTERMITTENT AND SOMETIMES LASTS LONGER. I KNOW IN THE PAST THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE POWER STEERING UNIT IN THE PAST. I BELIEVE THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD THE RECALL SERVICE DONE, BUT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND THAT IF THE SERVICE WAS PERFORMED WHY MY VEHICLE IS HAVING THIS ISSUE WITH MY PRIUS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-20
- VIN: JT2BK12U110
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE, SHOP SAID IT WAS THE TURBO BRAKE BOOSTER. *TR
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTDKN3DU5B5
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE BREAKS FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE BREAKS PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WITH NO RESPONSE. THE CONTACT THEN CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SALVAGE LOT FOR FURTHER INSPECTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 84,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JT2BK12U910
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2001 PRIUS WAS PARKED IN GARAGE ~6HRS, FIRE STARTED AND SMOLDERED, APPARENTLY USING UP OXYGEN INSIDE THE CAR. I WENT IN THE GARAGE FOR SOMETHING ELSE, NOTICED THE HEADLIGHTS WERE ON AND OPENED THE CAR DOOR TO TURN THEM OFF. WHEN THE DOOR WAS OPENED, ACRID SMOKE POURED OUT, AND THE FIRE WAS GIVEN FRESH OXYGEN, AND IT TOOK OFF. WINDSHIELD CRACKED FROM HEAT, LEFT FRONT DASH MELTED. FIRE DEPT PUT OUT THE FIRE QUICKLY, BUT THE CAR IS RUINED AND THE CAUSE UNKNOWN. THANKFULLY NO DAMAGE TO GARAGE, HOUSE OR PEOPLE. I HAD SMELLED A FUNNY SMELL HOURS BEFORE, BUT THOUGHT IT WAS SOMETHING OUTSIDE, SO THE FIRE HAD BEEN SMOLDERING FOR SOME TIME. LIGHTS APPARENTLY WENT ON BECAUSE THE FIRE/HEAT HAD SHORTED SOMETHING. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-18
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: A RENTER FROM RELAYRIDES.COM WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND THE ABS, TRACTION CONTROL AND BRAKE LIGHTS CAME ON. LUCKILY HE DIDN'T HAVE TO STOP IMMEDIATELY AND WAS ABLE TO SLOWLY GET THE CAR TO STOP WITH THE BARE LITTLE BRAKES LEFT. THERE WAS VERY LITTLE BRAKING POWER LEFT, EVEN WITH PUMPING. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-15
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR RAPIDLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT MY FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL AND DID NOT SLOW DOWN UNTIL MY FOOT HIT THE BRAKE. BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO MCGEE TOYOTA AND THEY REPLACED THE GAS PEDAL. IT WAS A $600.+ REPAIR. WITHIN THE YEAR THE NEWS REPORTED ABNORMAL ACCELERATION WITH THE PRIUS LINE AND I QUICKLY CONTACTED TOYOTA MANAGEMENT. THEY DENIED MY CLAIM SAYING THAT THESE INCIDENCES WERE AS A RESULT OF FLOOR MATS? I REPORTED IT TO [XXX](MA) REPRESENTATIVE FOR CONSUMER PROTECTION AND HAVE NOT RECEIVED A RESPONSE (THIS WAS OVER TWO YEARS AGO). I RECENTLY HEARD ABOUT YOUR AGENCY AND DECIDED TO FILE A REPORT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-31
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: IF THE PRIUS ENGINE DOES NOT START IMMEDIATELY WHEN THE COMPUTER TELLS IT TO, THE COMPUTER STOPS TRYING TO START IT AND LEAVES YOU WITH ONLY THE BATTERY POWER...VERY DANGEROUS WHEN THIS HAPPENS IN FAST TRAFFIC OR ON AN ON-RAMP. IT CAN BE RESTARTED IF ONE PULLS OFF THE ROAD AND SHUTS OFF THE CAR AND RESTARTS IT. AFTER NUMEROUS INCIDENTS AND ATTEMPTS TO DETERMINE THE REASON FOR THE OCCASIONAL NON-STARTS, IT TURNED OUT THAT THE AIR INTAKE FLAP IN THE ENGINE CAN GET DIRTY AND STICK, WHICH CAUSES THE ENGINE TO SOMETIMES TAKE SEVERAL TRIES TO RESTART. (THIS WAS INITIALLY MISDIAGNOSED AS A COMPUTER PROBLEM, HOWEVER THAT WAS NOT THE CAUSE.) BESIDES MAKING THE FLAP CLEANING PART OF MAINTENANCE, THE COMPUTER SHOULD ALSO BE FIXED SO THAT IT WILL ATTEMPT TO RESTART THE ENGINE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, SINCE THINGS COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO NOT START ON THE FIRST TRY (SUCH AS SLOSHING FROM LOW GAS.) I DON'T KNOW IF THIS IS STILL A PROBLEM ON NEWER PRIUSES, HOWEVER AS MORE OF THEM HAVE HIGH MILEAGE, THIS CAN BE EXPECTED TO BE MORE OF A PROBLEM. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-08
- VIN: JT2BK12U210
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH THE RACK AND PINION *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED NOT LONG AFTER SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. SHE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE RACK AND PINION STEERING SYSTEM, INCLUDING STEERING WHEEL SHAKING AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE AND WAS INFORMED THE ENTIRE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE REPAIR MAY BE RELATED TO THE PINION SHAFT PROBLEM THAT WAS JUST RECENTLY IDENTIFIED UNDER A RECALL. THE CONSUMER IS SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PREVIOUS REPAIR. *JB UPDATED 12/28/11. *JB THE CONSUMER STATED SHE BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE THE SAME PROBLEM, AS SHE DID IN 2006 WITH THE VEHICLE LOOSING POWER STEERING INTERMITTENTLY. THE DEALER ADJUSTED THE TORQUE SENSOR AND RECOMMENDED A REPLACEMENT OF THE SENSOR AND THE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY, IF THE PROBLEM RETURNED AGAIN. A FEW DAYS AFTER THE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT, THE POWER STEERING PROBLEM DID RESUME AGAIN, AND IT CONTINUES TO GO OUT INTERMITTENTLY. UPDATED 04/16/14*JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-03
- VIN: JT2BK12U810
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 11V304000 (STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM). AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THEY WOULD INSPECT THE VEHICLE BEFORE PERFORMING REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ACCORDING TO THE RECALL NOTICE, THE DEALER WAS SUPPOSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE IF IT WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOTIFIED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO FIND OUT WHETHER OR NOT REPAIRS WERE NEEDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-08
- VIN: JT2BK12U610
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: PRIUS, 2001 BOTH REAR AXLE HUB ASSEMBLIES REPLACED AFTER BEARING FAILURES WITH UNDER 90K MILES ON MY CAR, OWNED NEW SINCE JUNE 2001. THERE ARE NOT OPTIONS TO REPLACE THE FAILED BEARINGS, JUST THE COMPLETE REAR HUB ASSEMBLY THAT INCLUDES THE ATTACHED ABS SENSOR. FAILED ASSEMBLIES HAVE BEEN RETAINED AND ARE AVAILABLE. I AM NOW CONCERNED ABOUT MY 2002 PRIUS, AS WELL. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-25
- VIN: JT2BK12U310
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING INTO A FREEWAY OUR 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS EXPERIENCED A VIOLENT SHAKING OF THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE PS AND EXCLAMATION WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. MY WIFE PULLED OVER AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF AND THE ERROR CLEARED. I DECIDED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER THE PREVIOUS OWNER DONE ALL THE SERVICE AND REPAIR. AS I PULLED INTO THE SERVICE AREA THE VIOLENT SHAKING HAPPENED AGAIN. I RESEARCHED THE ISSUE ONLINE AND FOUND THE THERE WAS A RECALL OF THE POWER ASSIST STEERING UNIT DUE TO A FAULTY SENSOR. WHEN I QUESTIONED THE DEALER REGARDING THE RECALL THE SERVICE GUY BECAME DEFENSIVE AND SAID IT IS NOT COVERED UNDER RECALL AND WARRANTY IS EXPIRED SO IT IS A CHARGEABLE REPAIR. I REVIEWED THE RECALL NOTICE AND WARNINGS BUT MY VEHICLE IS NOT IN THE VIN RANGE BUT THE PROBLEM IS EXACTLY THE SAME AND COST $4000 TO REPAIR. I DON'T BELIEVE THIS IS A FAIR PROCESS IF SOME VEHICLES WERE REPAIRED WHILE OTHERS HAVE TO BE PAID FOR BY OWNERS. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-20
- VIN: JT2BK12U410
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL, UNCONTROLLABLE SHUDDER, WILL LITERALLY RIP ITSELF OUT OF YOUR HAND OR GRIP. USUALLY HAPPENS DURING THE FIRST OF THE DAY WHEN IT'S RELATIVELY COLD. WHILE SLOWLY MOVING THE VEHICLE, THE STEERING WHEEL WILL START TO VIBRATE VIOLENTLY, IN AN UN CONTROLLABLE MANNER. SOMETIMES THE POWER STEERING WILL JUST ERROR OUT WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET DURING THE DAY, LOOSING ALL POWER STEERING AS WELL. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-20
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2001 PRIUS. I BOUGHT IT IN 2003. EVER SINCE I BOUGHT IT, THE STEERING WHEEL SOMETIMES WOBBLES WHEN I BACK UP AND TURN THE WHEEL. THIS HAS BEEN CONSISTENT SINCE 2003. THIS WINTER, WHEN THE WEATHER HAS BEEN VERY COLD, THE STEERING WHEEL HAS SHUDDERED VIOLENTLY SEVERAL TIMES, WOBBLED WHILE DRIVING FORWARD TWICE, AND NOW THE WARNING LIGHT FOR POWER STEERING IS ON. I AM TAKING IT TO THE DEALER TOMORROW, JAN 21 2011. I HAVE READ ABOUT THE WOBBLING STEERING WHEEL WHILE BACKING UP SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR. I AM ALSO SEEING THAT THERE WAS AN EXTENSION OF THE WARRANTY ON THE STEERING COLUMN, BUT I NEVER RECEIVED NOTICE, AND MY DEALER DENIES ANY RECALL REGARDING THIS PROBLEM. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-02
- VIN: JT2BK12U110
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, AN UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL IMMEDIATELY BECAME STIFF AND HARD TO CONTROL. THE FAILURE WOULD OCCUR INTERMITTENTLY AND WHEN DOING SO, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD ALSO SHAKE ABNORMALLY. THE CONTACT WOULD SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE AND WHEN RESTARTING, THE STEERING WOULD RESUME NORMAL OPERATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 00V285000 (STEERING: GEAR BOX -OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION) THEREFORE THEY WOULD NOT ASSIST WITH THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 205,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-14
- VIN: JT2BK12U610
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: PREMATURE WEAR AND CROWNING OF TIRES DUE TO MANUFACTURING DEFECT OF REAR AXLE. CAN ONLY BE CORRECTED BY AFTER MARKET PLASTIC SHIMS INSTALLED AT AN EXPENSE OF APPROXIMATELY $500 OR OVER INFLATE TIRES TO 50 PSI AND LOOSE ROAD TRACTION OR INFLATE TIRES TO TOYOTA SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMATURE WEAR DUE TO TOE OUT DEFECT. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-13
- VIN: JT2BK12U410
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY 2001 TOYOTA PRIUS STEERING 'GROANS' WHEN THE WHEELS ARE TURNED FAR LEFT OR RIGHT. THIS DEFECT OCCURS MORE OFTEN IN WARM WEATHER AND AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS. *TR
2001 Toyota Prius recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2001 Toyota Prius.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: LOSS OF POWER STEERING, PARTICULARLY WHEN AN OPERATOR IS ACTIVELY INTENDING TO STEER THE VEHICLE, MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: 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.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: ENGINE OIL INSIDE THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR COULD CAUSE EXPANSION DUE TO THE HEAT OF THE ENGINE AND COULD DEFORM THE SENSOR WIRING CONNECTOR. THE CONNECTOR MAY BECOME DISCONNECTED, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING AND NOT BE ABLE TO BE RESTARTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: 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: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE POWER STEERING WARNING ICON WILL BE DISPLAYED ON THE CENTER PANEL, AND THE DRIVER COULD EXPERIENCE HIGHER THAN NORMAL STEERING EFFORT DEPENDING UPON VEHICLE SPEED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE ELECTRIC STEERING GEAR BOX.
Positive 2001 Toyota Prius car reviews
Additional sources
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Are you having problems with your 2001 Toyota Prius?
Moriah Gerlach 2025-01-04
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such an amazing experience with your Prius! It's great to know that you've been able to put 18K miles on it without any complaints and are averaging about 47.7 mpg. The quality of the vehicle is truly reassuring and it's definitely not a cheesy tin can like some imports. The steel body adds to the solid feel and it's no slouch when you need acceleration. Plus, I love how you can 'hear the light change' just like in the Toyota commercial. The interior room is also a huge plus and it provides a comfortable ride. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
Gerald Renner 2024-11-29
More than a year now and the Prius goes humming along. The seats are great, the ride is comfortable, and the interior is quiet. Plus, the excellent mileage (44 at 70 mph on the highway, and 46 mpg overall) is a huge bonus! The trunk is plenty big and all useable, and the sound system is surprisingly good. I can't believe how much room there is; even at 6'2
Leo Bergstrom 2024-11-26
The car has been performing great, and we have been averaging 46 to 48 mpg overall mileage. Unfortunately, we have had some issues with the tires not holding up well. However, Toyota has been very helpful and has replaced them twice at no charge while trying to find the root of the problem.
Uriah Lebsack 2024-11-22
Hi there! I just wanted to share that even though I've only had my Prius for a relatively short term, I already know that I made the right choice.
Helmer Kassulke 2024-10-28
I'm surprised that more people aren't buying these. It's such a wonderful and reliable car. It's always nice to pass by the gas pumps and have a good laugh.