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GREEN CHOICE

Toyota Prius

EPA MPG: 50 mpg
Average Retail Price
$7,225

RECALL ALERT:
There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability

Overall Reliability
/ 100

We expect the 2025 Prius will be more reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2023 and 2024 models.

The 2011 Toyota Prius has been recalled 6 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
/ 5
Common Trouble Spot
/ 5

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2011 Toyota Prius owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Catalytic converter

"It was stolen and cost $2500 to replace. Not the manufacturer's fault"

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other exhaust system problem

"Sounds like there are loose parts rattling inside the converter"

Anonymous, IN (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other/unsure

"No Prius to talk about. I only have a single car. It is great."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"The plastic undercarriage of car gets caught on objects and falls down. I have had to repair/remove it twice!"

Anonymous, GA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Had to but 4 new tires because of age and cracking; Under the front bumper and front bumper had to be replaced because it was dragging."

Anonymous, TX (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Tire pressure sensors no longer work. Not resolved - replacement is too expensive given current value of the car."

Anonymous, SC (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Over time the gasket for sun roof has hardened, shrunk and detached from glass. A visit to dealership we bought it from reveled a cost of $2400 to replace entire glass due to fabrication! No action taken due to costs."

Anonymous A., IN (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Dim low beam illumination"

Anonymous, WV (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Other steering/suspension problem

"Corrosion ate through the rear axle. Too much acid rain and pot holes."

Anonymous, MD (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Shocks or struts

"needed replacement"

Anonymous A., CA (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Tie rods

"One tie rod and caused some driveability problems, but I was able to make it in to the shop for repair"

Anonymous A., IL (2011 Toyota Prius Five 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Wheel bearings

"speed sensor failure due to bearing due to bearing failure"

Anonymous, MN (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Each of the rear wheel bearings failed, which resulted in the ABS, VSC, and regenerative braking systems going offline until the bearing was replaced. Replacement was straightforward and quick at the local service garage we usually use."

Anonymous A., NY (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Display screen freezes up

"The display screen didn't work at all. We has to get a new audio/display screen system."

Anonymous A., CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Hardware replacement

"Screen unresponsive to touch. Bought replacement at Amazon and installed it myself"

Anonymous, FL (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other in-car electronics problem

"The tire pressure sensor light is always on. I have been periodically checking the tire pressures, but one tire suffered a small puncture and I did not realize it until I had driven it flat and ruined the tire."

Anonymous A., CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Radio

"Radio would turn off intermittently the past year but has not acted up recently."

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Antilock braking system (ABS)

"The master cylinder had to be replaced so that the brakes worked properly. All the lights came on indicating failure."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Interior leak. Total cost $2400"

Anonymous, TN (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Master cylinder

"I only have one Prius. Somehow, two are listed. Ignore the second Prius. It does not exist."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Premature brake wear

"Calipers on right rear wheel appear to be dragging wearing the calipers and the rotor."

Anonymous, NH (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Engine rebuild or replacement

"Engine Light came on, I took it to the shop after the water pump & thermostat were replaced. Engine was toast."

Anonymous, MD (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Head gasket

"It failed only a few weeks after we bought and had to be replaced. No problems since."

Anonymous A., CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Head gasket failed. So did the spark plugs and coil all had to be replaced. Cost 5200 bucks. No used cars available so I had it repaired. It was worth it. I love this car."

Anonymous A., AR (2011 Toyota Prius Five 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other major engine problem

"The exhaust gas return clogged for 3 of my 4 cylinders. This made the car shake hard at high speeds. The local Toyota dealer offered to sell me a replacement engine, but I found an independent mechancic to clean out the EGR openings for a fraction of the cost of a new engine."

Anonymous A., TX (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Headlights

"The bulbs keep burning out on the front headlights"

Anonymous, NC (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other electrical system problem

"The company that replaced the windshield 3 years ago due to a crack did a poor job. Water leaked onto the electrical panel under the dashboard causing the door locks and then the rear window wiper to malfunction."

Anonymous, AZ (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Remote engine starter

"The remove receiver failed and would not allow the car to start not only remotely but using the key system. It was towed and dealer repair the system. It took 3 days."

Anonymous, NC (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

EV Battery

Electric/hybrid battery pack failure, replacement or malfunction, or cooling.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Electric/hybrid battery pack malfunction (didn't need replacement)

"vehicle would not engage into drive the dealer fixed it for under a class action lawsuit agreement so this is a known problem which may occur. only issue ever had with this car otherwise just routine maintenance"

Anonymous, AZ (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Electric/hybrid battery pack replacement

"The high voltage/traction batter had been showing signs of where and age. Then the computer indicated the battery had failed. It wasnt completely gone, but bad enough where we didnt feel comfortable driving the car I replaced the battery with the Dr. Prius version that is lithium ion"

Anonymous A., IL (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Other electric/hybrid battery problem

"A warning came up on the dashboard. I took it to the mechanic who said the battery needed to be replaced."

Anonymous, WA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

/ 5

What Owners Say

A/C compressor

"I noticed that the air conditioning did not work very well in October of 2022 but since it was coming on winter I wasn't going to worry about it until the following spring, March 2023. I took it then to my mechanic who diagnosed the problem, and was able to fix it after ordering the correct part. It cost me about $2,600 and I needed a loaner car for 2 days."

Anonymous A., MA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"it failed"

Anonymous, MA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Other body problem

"It seems some underpart is dragging on the ground. A local mechanic "zip tied" the dragging part back to the chassis/frame. In Jun during inspection, I will inquire more about what is dragging, the fix, and will it contribute to decision of when to replace the car."

Anonymous, PA (2011 Toyota Prius Five 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
Sunroof

"Front part of sunroof hinge/seal failed, (attaches front part of roof to top of windscreen), water leak and loud noise (hard to understand where the noise came from). Toyota wanted $340 for seal plus labor, temporary repair with black duct tape works well, likely to become permanent"

Anonymous A., FL (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

"In 2021. It was eventually repainted by Toyota but it took a lot of effort."

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"Top of car and rear view mirrors is where the sealant of the paint has started to shed."

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius Four 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Oil leaks

"At a dealer servicing appointment, I was informed that the timing cover seal was leaking and needed to be replaced. I had it replaced at a cost of close to $1K."

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

"For about the last 2-3 years the car has lost oil between oil changes, requiring about a gallon of oil. The first time I had it checked (about two years ago) they couldnt see a leak, but last time I had it checked they saw the leak at the valves"

Anonymous, CT (2011 Toyota Prius Five 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Spark plugs or wires failure

"There was a leak and it all happened at the same time. My spark plugs were replaced along with the coil and the head gasket. The car was about to fall. It was a mess. Caldwell Toyota made the repairs. They did a great job."

Anonymous A., AR (2011 Toyota Prius Five 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Squeaks or rattles

"For several months, there has been a rattle in the left front that is transmitted through the steering wheel when driving on rough roads. I have not had it fixed"

Anonymous A., VA (2011 Toyota Prius Three 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

/ 5

What Owners Say

Emission control devices (includes EGR)

"The hybrid system completely stopped working. Car had to be towed to the dealer. The vacuum switch valve was replaced but it cost me $600"

Anonymous, CA (2011 Toyota Prius Two 1.8-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

/ 5

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

/ 5

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

/ 5

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

/ 5

2011 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

Reliability History
* Redesign year
07
08
09
10*
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16*
Overall Reliability Verdict

POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Electric Motor
EV Battery
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
Recalls
PROVIDED BY
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 04, 2018
If the hybrid system shuts down unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Summary:
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.
What should you do:
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.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 18V684000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 807329
AIR BAGS
Jun 30, 2016
If either portion of the curtain shield air bag inflator ejects into the passenger cabin, there is an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Summary:
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus CT200h vehicles. A weld in the curtain shield air bag inflator may crack causing one or both portions of the inflator to eject into the passenger cabin.
What should you do:
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install retention brackets to the curtain shield air bags, free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota Customer Service Department at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is Toyota G0U, and Lexus GLJ.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V487000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 482002
SEATS
Jun 02, 2016
If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Summary:
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
What should you do:
SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V396000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 7749
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