2002 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 2002 Toyota Prius problems
The Toyota Prius 2002 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the throttle body, brake pressure accumulator, and steering linkage.
- Cracked Brake Pressure Accumulator: This is a common problem in various Prius models, including the 2002 model.
- Loose Steering Linkage: The steering linkage in first-gen Prii, including the 2002 model, tends to loosen over time, resulting in reduced power steering, usually when a left turn is made.
These problems can be concerning for potential buyers or current owners of the Toyota Prius 2002. However, it is essential to note that these issues do not necessarily affect all vehicles of this model year, and some may not experience any of these problems at all. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become severe safety hazards.
How many miles does a 2002 Prius last?
Owners and experts alike report that a well-maintained Prius can last beyond 200,000 miles, and many even push past the 300,000-mile mark. This longevity is a testament to Toyota's engineering, quality parts, and the vehicle's design, which is tailored for efficiency and long-term use.
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.
What are the best years of Toyota Prius to buy?
A: The safest years for the Toyota Prius, with fewer reported issues and higher reliability ratings, include the early models (2000-2004) and the more recent iterations from 2013 to 2020. These models are considered the best Toyota options for those looking for a used Toyota Prius.
Do Toyota Prius have transmission problems?
As Toyota's flagship hybrid model, the Prius has helped drive the movement towards fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles. However, like any car, the Prius can develop issues over time – especially in the complex transmission system.
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.
How long does a 2002 Prius battery last?
We know what you're thinking, “Ok, now that we're fully educated...HOW FREAKIN' LONG DO PRIUS BATTERIES LAST!?” First, there's no need to yell, we're finally here! And second, Toyota says a Prius battery will last between 100,000-150,000 miles or between 8-10 years.
What generation is a 2002 Prius?
Generation 1.5 (2001-2003)
Toyota's Prius hybrid debuted in the Japanese market in 1997 with the internal designation NHW10, but a slightly revised NHW11 didn't reach North American shores until 2001.
What is the range of a 2002 Toyota Prius?
Used 2002 Toyota Prius - Specs & Features
| Fuel & MPG | |
|---|---|
| EPA city/highway MPG | 42/41 MPG |
| EPA combined MPG | 41 MPG |
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 495.6/483.8 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11.8 gal. |
2002 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
- Service brakes problems
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Toyota Prius vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Toyota Prius
The NHTSA has received 193 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Toyota Prius. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Toyota Prius vehicles.
2023-07-02
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-02
- VIN: JT2BK12U320
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I was driving on the 91 freeway west exit ramp to merge into the 57 freeway in Orange County ca. when suddenly I lost all power steering on the car . We managed to get out the freeway on the first exit
2022-02-17
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-21
- VIN: JT2BK18U420
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Anti-lock brake failure. Failing to pressurize.
2020-09-22
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-22
- VIN: JT2BK18U320
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DRIVING UP AND DOWN A SLIGHT INCLINE, POWER STEERING SUDDENLY GOES OUT. ONLY HAPPENED TWICE SO FAR BUT I DON'T KNOW WHAT WOULD PREVENT IT FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. PROBABLY GOING ABOUT 15-20MPH UPHILL AND MAYBE 20-25MPH DOWNHILL. HAPPENED ON A CITY STREET.
2020-09-22
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JT2BK18U620
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: DRIVING SPEED LESS THAN 25MPH ON FAMILIAR SURFACE STREET WITH NEED TO STOP FOR A CAR ABOUT 75 FEET (ESTIMATE) IN FRONT; SHOULD HAVE BEEN AN EASY STOP; APPLIED BRAKES BUT CAR ACCELERATED (I THINK ONLY ELECTRIC MOTOR); FURTHER BRAKE PRESSURE DID NOT STOP THE CAR, CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE (ESTIMATE 30 MPH); FENDER BENDER CRASH OF DRIVER SIDE FRONT FENDER INTO PASSENGER REAR FENDER AND SIDE BUMPER. VERY FAMILIAR WITH CAR (19 YEARS DRIVING IT) AND VERY FAMILIAR STREET NEAR MY HOME; CONFUSION WAS NOT A FACTOR; NO AIRBAGS ON EITHER CAR ACTIVATED; I WAS ABLE TO STOP WHEN I WAS BEYOND THE STRUCK VEHICLE. I PLAN ON NOT DRIVING CAR FURTHER AND HAVE ASKED TOYOTA DEALER TO TAKE IT BACK FOR JUNK WITHOUT A DEFINITE REPLY SO FAR
2020-02-02
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-02
- VIN: JT2BK12U920
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND FELT A JERKING AT MY STEERING WHEEL A FEW MONTHS BACK, I THOUGHT OK MAYBE THE STEERING WHEEL LOOSE OR SOMETHING, I WAS GOING AROUND 65 MPH. FAST FORWARD TO TWO WEEKS AGO AND THE STEERING WHEEL COMPLETELY LOCKS UP ON ME DRIVING TO A DR APPOINTMENT I HAD TO GO TO. I WAS GOING AROUND 30 MPH IN TRAFFIC THE STEERING LOCKED UP AND THE TRIANGLE ILLUMINATED ON MY NAVIGATION SCREEN AND THE DREADED TROUBLE SIGN APPEARED. ONCE THIS APPEARED ON MY SCREEN THE STEERING WHEEL FELT LIKE IT HAD NO POWER STEERING. AT FIRST I THOUGHT, I NEED TO CHECK THE POWER STEERING FLUID, I RESEARCHED AND REALIZED THIS PRIUS IS COMPLETELY ELECTRIC POWER STEERING. SO I ARRIVED AT MY DOCTORS AND TURNED THE CAR OFF, WHEN I CAME BACK AND TURNED IT BACK ON TO MY AMAZEMENT THE LIGHT TURNED OFF AND THE POWER STEERING WAS BACK. THEN THE WEEK AFTER SAME PROBLEM HAPPENED, BUT I DIDN'T HAVE MY OBD 2 READER WITH ME, SO AGAIN I SHUT OFF THE CAR AND THE PROBLEM WENT AWAY. I STARTED TO DO RESEARCH AND REALIZED THIS IS A SERIOUS COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING, THE COMPUTER CHIP THAT CONTROLS THE STEERING MALFUNCTIONS AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, SO I CAME HERE TO CHECK IF ANY RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE AND THERE IS NOT. THE SAME PROBLEM HAPPENED AGAIN TODAY, THIS TIME MY GIRLFRIEND WAS DRIVING AND WAS GOING AROUND 45, SHE SAID SHE ALMOST CRASHED. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD AND TOYOTA APPEARS TO BE BEHIND THE EIGHT BALL IN THIS AS I HAVE READ NUMBEROUS FORUMS OF THIS MALFUNCTION, IT'S A WIDE SPREAD PROBLEM AND EXTREMELY COSTLY TO FIX. THIS PROBLEM SHOULDN'T FALL ONTO THE OWNERS AS IT IS THE MANUFACTURER'S FAULT FOR NOT DOING THEIR DUE DILIGENCE AND ADDRESSING THIS PROBLEM AT THE FACTORY BEFORE MASS PRODUCING AND SELLING TO CONSUMERS LIKE I.
2020-01-25
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-23
- VIN: JT2BK12U320
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHT LENSES COVERS REPEATEDLY CLOUDS OVER TO THE POINT I CAN HARDLY SEE THE ROADWAY AT NIGHT. DEALER HAVE CLEANSE THE LENSES HOW HAS LAST FOR ABOUT A MONTH. THE DEALER NOW SAYS THESE NEED TO BE REPLACE AT A COST TO ME FOR $750. I BELIEVE THIS IS MANUFACTURE'S DEFECT AND IT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE FOR A RECALL. THE DEALER SHOULD DEVELOP A FIX AND REPLACE THESE LENSES WITHOUT CHARGING THE VEHICLE OWNER.
2019-11-22
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JT2BK18U620
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY STEERING WHEEL STARTS SHAKING VIOLENTLY WHEN DRIVING UNDER 32 DEGREES OUTSIDE AND LOCKS UP THE ABILITY TO STEER WHICH CAN BE DEADLY ON THE HIGHWAY WHICH I DON'T DRIVE MUCH LUCKILY AND TOYOTA HAS NO OPEN RECALLS EVEN THOUGH I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THIS. I'VE HAS TO HURT MY HANDS WRESTLING WITH IT TO PULL OVER WHICH IS DANGEROUS ON SOME ROADS!!!! VERY DANGEROUS FAULT IN A CAR THIS IS THE 1 PART I RELY ON TO SAVE ME! CAN'T BELIEVE TOYOTA WON'T FIX IT!!! ALSO THIS HAPPENS A FEW TIMES EVERY WEEK THOUGH OUT THE ENTIRE WINTER! IT HAPPENS WHEN DRIVING ON WINDING ROAD AT 10-35 MPH AND SOMETIMES HAPPENS WHEN TURNING RIGHT OR LEFT! I NEED ADVICE!
2019-05-20
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-10
- VIN: JT2BK12U020
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, THE STEERING WHEEL VEERED TO THE RIGHT, WHICH CAUSED THE CONTACT TO DRIVE OVER A CURB. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V304000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME FAILURE AS LISTED IN THE RECALL CAMPAIGN. THE DEALER (LARRY H. MILLER LIBERTY TOYOTA COLORADO SPRINGS, 5115 NEW CAR DR, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80923, (719) 419-5832) INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM A WARRANTY CAMPAIGN AND THE STEERING GEAR AND COMPUTER MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. *AS
2019-05-13
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-12
- VIN: JT2BK18U730
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED TO OSCILLATE BACK AND FORTH IT SUBSIDED HOWEVER A FEW MIN LATER AS FREEWAY SPEEDS WERE APPROACHED THE WHEEL TRIED TURNING HARD LEFT THEN VIBRATED CENTER TO LEFT. IF I HAD BEEN UNAWARE THIS WOULD HAVE RESULTED IN HITTING THE CENTER DIVIDER AT FREEWAY SPEEDS. A BRIEF RESEARCH ONLINE SHOWS THIS IS NOT THE FIRST KNOWN ISSUE.. THIS WAS VERY SIMILAR TO: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=RV-UL1PXJ1U VERY DISTURBING SITUATION TO BE IN - AT FIRST THE PS WARNING INDICATOR CAME ON THEN SAID PROBLEM SOLVED ONLY TO HAPPEN AGAIN (LESS PULL THE 2ND TIME BUT STILL NOTICEABLE.)
2019-04-14
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-13
- VIN: JT2BK12U520
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN MAKING A TURN AT SLOW SPEEDS THERE IS VIOLENT BACK AND FORTH UNCONTROLLABLE MOVEMENT IN THE STEERING WHEEL. YOU HAVE TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A STOP. THE PROBLEM IS YOUR IN THE MIDDLE OF A TURN OR INTERSECTION.VERY DANGEROUS,THERE ARE NO WARNINGS WHEN THIS OCCURS.
2018-09-28
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-28
- VIN: JT2BK18UX20
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING LOST OF STEERING MOMENTARILY FOR SEVERAL MONTHS BUT THOUGHT IT WAS BELT SLIPPAGE. TODAY (9/28/ 2018) TOTAL LOST OF STEERING. WAS ABLE TO GET VEHICLE TO SIDE OF ROAD AND SHUTOFF IGNITION SWITCH. STARTED VEHICLE AGAIN AND HAD NORMAL STEERING CONTROL AGAIN. AFTER REVIEWING RECALLS NOTICED THAT TOYOTA HAD TWO VOLUNTARY RECALLS ON SAME PROBLEM BUT HAVE NOW REMOVED THEM. WHAT CAN BE DONE FOR THIS PROBLEM. (XXXX) PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2017-12-29
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-25
- VIN: JT2BK12U520
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: VEHICLE'S STEERING WHEEL BEGINS TO VIBRATE OUT OF CONTROL WHEN ATTEMPTING TURNS. THIS VIOLENT SHAKING POSES SERIOUS DANGERS TO DRIVER WHILE MAKING TURNS, AND CAUSES DRIVER TO PULL OFF OF ROAD AND COMPLETELY TURN CAR OFF. PROBLEM NOTICEABLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 1 MONTH INTERMITTENTLY BEFORE PROBLEM BEGAN OCCURRING WITHOUT FAIL EVERY SINGLE TIME VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN. WHEN TAKEN TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IN BLOOMINGTON, IN, MECHANICS SAID ENTIRE RACK NEEDED REPLACING, ESTIMATING A TOTAL MUCH HIGHER THAN VALUE OF CAR ITSELF. NO RECALL FOUND FOR THIS PROBLEM, NO PAPERWORK PROVIDED TO CUSTOMER. ONCE CUSTOMER PAID FOR DIAGNOSTIC CHARGES AND TOOK VEHICLE BACK, POWER STEERING WARNING LIGHTS ARE PERMANENTLY ENABLED AND STEERING ASSIST IS COMPLETELY OFF, CAUSING TURNING TO CONTINUE TO POSE THREAT, ALTHOUGH STEERING WHEEL DOES NOT VIBRATE, YET.
2016-10-18
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-17
- VIN: JT2BK18U620
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: HYBRID CIRCULATION PUMP FAILED. THREE WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON.
2016-09-26
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-26
- VIN: JT2BK18U120
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I HAVE TOYOTA PRIUS 2002 I WAS DRIVING YESTERDAY THE STEERING HAD BEEN MAKING LIKE A RUBBER-SQUEAK NOISE WHEN TURNED TO THE RIGHT AT LOW SPEEDS.I WAS DRIVING, AND THE WHEEL STARTED TO SORT OF PULSE IN MY HANDS LIKE IT WAS GAINING/LOSING POWER ASSIST.ABOUT 10 MINUTES LATER, FAILED. BIG PS BUTTON ON DISPLAY, WITH THE RED TRIANGLE BY THE ODOMETER. THIS MORNING I WAS DRIVING THE CAR WHEN ALMOST HATE SOMEONE BECAUSE A LOST THE CONTROL OF THE CAR AND THE STEERING WAS SHAKING.
2016-04-22
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTBK18U6200
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ON DEC 18, 2015, DRIVING AT ABOUT 20 MPH ON A NEIGHBORHOOD STREET WHICH CURVED LEFT, THE STEERING WHEEL ON MY 2002 PRIUS BEGAN SHAKING VIOLENTLY. I LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR AND STRUCK A LARGE LANDSCAPING ROCK. THE CAR HAD $2233 IN DAMAGES TO THE RIGHT FRONT BUMPER, FENDER, WHEEL AND TIE ROD. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. AFTER REPAIR, THE MECHANIC COULD NOT REPLICATE THE SHAKING. PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT, THE PRIUS ON RARE OCCASION HAD BRIEF EPISODES OF STEERING WHEEL SHAKING, ONLY WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY ON COLD MORNINGS. IN EARLY JAN 2016 THE STEERING VIBRATION OCCURRED AGAIN WHILE DRIVING ON NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS AND COULD BE STOPPED ONLY BY TURNING THE CAR OFF. WE CEASED DRIVING THE CAR. I TALKED TO OUR TOYOTA DEALER AND WERE ADVISED THE PROBABLE CAUSE WAS A DEFECT IN THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING SYSTEM AND TO CONTACT TOYOTA. I COMMUNICATED BY PHONE, EMAIL AND LETTER WITH TOYOTA, PROVIDED A VIDEO OF THE SHAKING, AND REQUESTED REPLACEMENT OF THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM. I GOT A CASE NUMBER AND WAS SCHEDULED FOR AN INSPECTION BY TOYOTA AT THE DEALER. TOYOTA BY LETTER ON 3/22/16 STATED 'WE DID NOT FIND ANY EVIDENCE THAT THIS INCIDENT WAS THE RESULT OF ANY TYPE OF MANUFACTURING OR DESIGN DEFECT.' WHEN I PICKED UP THE VEHICLE, THE VIOLENT STEERING SHAKING OCCURRED IN THE DEALER'S PARKING LOT AND WAS WITNESSED BY THE TECHNICIANS. THIS PROBLEM IS WELL KNOWN TO TOYOTA. IN 2011 WE RECEIVED BOTH A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE TO REPLACE THE EPS PINION NUTS AND A NOTICE OF WARRANTY EXTENSION UNTIL DEC 2013 FOR PROBLEMS RELATED TO UNUSUAL STEERING VIBRATION. WE HAD THE EPS PINION NUTS REPLACED ON 12/30/2011 UNDER THE SAFETY RECALL. MANY 2002 PRIUS ARE STILL ON THE ROAD. AS EVIDENCED BY THE WARRANTY EXTENSION TOYOTA KNOWS ABOUT THE POWER SYSTEM FLAWS. MY EXPERIENCE SHOWS IS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE THE CAR WITH THESE FLAWS. I REQUEST THAT TOYOTA BE REQUIRED TO FIX THIS PROBLEM.
2016-04-15
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-17
- VIN: JT2BK12U820
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED UNCONTROLLABLY AND THE POWER STEERING WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING RACK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 00V285000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.
2015-11-16
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-16
- VIN: JT2BK18U420
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SHOOK IN VERY COLD WEATHER, BUT OPERATED NORMALLY ONCE THE VEHICLE WARMED UP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
2015-04-03
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-30
- VIN: JT2BK18U220
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN MAKING TURNS OR REVERSING AT A SLOW SPEED, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD SHAKE VIOLENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 147,000.
2015-03-13
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-09
- VIN: JT2BK18U720
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE TURNING LEFT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE RACK AND PINION FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V304000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 197,000.
2015-03-06
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-05
- VIN: JT2BK12U520
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ONTO THE FREEWAY, TURNING RIGHT ONTO THE RAMP THAT CIRCLED INTO THE SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE WHEN THE A RED HAZARD TRIANGLE POPPED UP AND THE SCREEN ON MY CAR STATED PS ERROR. THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED FOR A BIT BUT FORTUNATELY I WAS STILL ABLE TO STEER. I GOT OFF ON THE NEXT EXIT AND WAS BARELY ABLE TO TURN. I TURNED OFF THE CAR AND LOOKED UP THE ERROR CODE TO FIND OUT IT WAS POWER STEERING, I CHECKED THE FLUIDS AND EVERYTHING WAS OK. TURNED ON THE CAR AND THE PS ERROR HAD DISAPPEARED, IT DROVE NORMALLY THE REST OF THE WAY HOME. *TR
2015-01-02
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-02
- VIN: JT2BK12U720
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN IN COLD TEMPERATURE THE STEERING WHEEL WILL VIOLENTLY SHAKE WHEN MAKING A TURN AT SLOW SPEEDS. *TR
2014-11-11
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-08
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: IN A MODEL 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS WITH LESS THAN 60000 MILES, WHILE STARTING OUT FROM PARK GOING INTO REVERSE THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING VIOLENTLY STARTED SHAKING AND PULLED THE STEERING WHEEL FROM THE DRIVERS HANDS. THIS CAUSED A TEMPORARY WARNING/CAUTION LIGHT THAT QUICKLY WENT OUT. AFTER THE INCIDENT THE PROBLEM BECAME MORE FREQUENT, HAPPENING WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND WHILE STOPPED. EVENTUALLY THE PROBLEM CAUSED THE STEERING ASSIST TO FAIL COMPLETELY. WHEN TOYOTA WAS CONTACTED, THEY KNEW ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND SAID THEY HAD RECALLS ON OTHER YEAR PRIUS MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. THEY REPORTED THE GEAR RACK ELECTRONIC SENSOR FAILS AND THE RACK MUST BE REPLACED BUT UNFORTUNATELY THE 2002 WASN'T UNDER THE RECALL. WHEN ASKED WHY, NOBODY SEEMED TO KNOW. *TR
2014-09-18
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-18
- VIN: JT2BK12U520
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MADE A LEFT TURN OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY AFTER STARTING VEHICLE. STEERING BEGAN TO VIOLENTLY SHUDDER AND SHAKE, CAUSING TEMPORARY LOSS OF CONTROL (MY GRIP WAS LOST ON THE WHEEL). I WAS ABLE TO GRAB THE WHEEL MORE FORCEFULLY AND REGAIN CONTROL AND COMPLETE THE TURN. HAD THIS HAPPENED ON AN INTERSTATE RAMP, I MAY NOT BE HERE TO FILE THIS COMPLAINT. ACCORDING TO THE TOYOTA NATIONAL SERVICE REGISTRY, MY VEHICLE HAS ALREADY RECEIVED THE SERVICE COVERED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN 11V304000 WHICH MAKES ME VERY, VERY VERY NERVOUS. PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR FURTHER DETAILS. *TR
2014-03-21
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-14
- VIN: JT2BK12U120
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 TOYOTA PRIUS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WITHOUT WARNING, THE STEERING SHOOK VIOLENTLY WHEN MAKING A TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING RACK AND THE NUTS IN THE STEERING LINKAGE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 11V304000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
2014-01-23
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-22
- VIN: JT2BK18U320
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TURNED ON CAR IN COLD WEATHER (UNDER 10DEGF). STARTED UP AND TRIED TO TURN RIGHT. STEERING WHEEL SHOOK VERY HARD, FAST, AND LOUDLY. TURNED OFF CAR AND RESTARTED, DID OK FOR ONE SHALLOWER TURN. 50 FEET LATER AGAIN TRIED TO TURN RIGHT AND SAME THING HAPPENED. LET IT SHAKE FOR A FEW SECONDS THEN TURNED OFF CAR AND RESTARTED. LESS THAN A MINUTE AFTER RESTART IT HAPPENED AGAIN. AFTER THAT LEFT CAR OFF FOR A FEW HOURS. RESTARTED. LET CAR WARM UP FOR 2-3 MINUTES BEFORE MOVING. DROVE STRAIGHT OUT OF DRIVEWAY. RIGHT TURN 100FT LATER WAS OK. PROBLEM DID NOT RECUR ON 30MIN DRIVE. THIS IS THE SECOND DAY I'VE HAD THIS PROBLEM. THE FIRST WAS A FEW WEEKS AGO, ALSO IN VERY COLD WEATHER AND ALSO ON A RIGHT TURN WHEN CAR WAS FIRST STARTED. SO FAR I HAVEN'T HAD IT HAPPEN ON A LEFT TURN, BUT MAYBE THAT'S JUST BECAUSE I DON'T DO ONE OF THOSE IMMEDIATELY ON STARTUP. I'VE NEVER SEEN THE PROBLEM IF TEMPS ARE ABOVE ABOUT 10 DEGREES F. *TR
2002 Toyota Prius recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Toyota Prius.
2011-06-01
- 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.
2006-07-19
- 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.
Positive 2002 Toyota Prius car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Toyota Prius problems:
2002 Toyota Prius Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-toyota-prius/problems
Problem with your 2002 Toyota Prius? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Toyota Prius.
Common 2002 Toyota Prius Problems: Flashing Full Bar Fuel Gauge
https://www.justanswer.com/toyota/gzqe2-2002-toyota-prius-flashing-full-bar-fuel-gage.html
Jun 8, 2021 ... I have a 2002 toyota Prius flashing full bar fuel gage, and lnly starts for 2 seconds,dies, and won't start again.
2002 Toyota Prius Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/toyota/prius/2002
The Toyota Prius Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 24 for midsize cars.
2002 Toyota Prius Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/prius/2002/reliability/
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 ...
Which Year Models of Used Toyota Prius to Avoid - CoPilot
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/which-year-models-of-toyota-prius-to-avoid/
Mar 18, 2024 ... According to RepairPal, the Prius has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 and a 10th ranking out of 24 midsize cars. Despite its above- ...
Other years of Toyota Prius
Are you having problems with your 2002 Toyota Prius?
Demetrius Abernathy 2024-11-21
Comfortable, fun to drive, economical and high-quality. Just read reviews of the Jetta and/or Passat I ALMOST bought. I'm glad I made the right choice. The dealer provided excellent service and had a great attitude as well. It's comfortable on long trips up the California coast. It's not a street racer, but it doesn't claim to be.
Eriberto Kris 2024-11-20
Your Prius sounds like a great car! The quality, fit, and finish are typical of Toyota's rock-solid reputation. Plus, the fuel efficiency is fantastic - you must be saving a lot of money at the pump. It's great to hear that your recent 600-mile trip went well and that the car exceeded your expectations. While you mentioned that the steering could use some improvement and an armrest would be a nice addition, overall, it sounds like you really love your Prius!
Sylvester Jones 2024-11-15
The car exhibits slight instability at high speeds, but accelerates much better than my Ford Ranger. Despite a misdesigned center arm rest that is too low and some controls being hidden by the gear shift, the car is extremely quiet. The front wheel drive performed well in snow driving, even with tire chains on, and achieved about 40 mpg. The unique CVT provides plenty of power without the need for shifting, which is actually a nice feature as the engine goes away as soon as you let off the gas.
Jerry Hammes 2024-10-24
This car is one of the best purchases I have ever made. It is high mileage, clean, quiet, technologically sophisticated, and comfortable throughout, making it a well-integrated whole. The only downside is that the back seats don't fold down. The acceleration, due to the CVT, is smooth, consistent, and perfectly adequate for any driving I need to do. Since I switched from my 1987 Saturn SL2, my operating costs have dropped by 30%, which is a significant difference. I highly recommend it!
Timmothy Batz 2024-10-22
We are the second owners of this car. As a former auto tech, I wasn't sure about its performance or reliability, but after test driving and owning it for a while, I am impressed with its overall value and driving experience. The car has been well-engineered and comes with many extras that are usually expensive options on other cars. The acceleration is smooth and the gear changes are seamless. I have had many friends and co-workers ask about the car, and I always tell them that if anything ever happened to it, I would buy another one without hesitation. I am particularly impressed with its fuel efficiency of 45 MPG's even while operating the A/C, which is a huge plus, especially in NM.