2016 Toyota Prius Safety Report

The 2016 Toyota Prius presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its recall history and complaint data reveal several significant concerns. The vehicle has been subject to 5 recalls, addressing critical issues such as potential engine wire harness shorts leading to fire risk, air bag deployment failures (both side/window and frontal passenger), hybrid system inverter issues causing power loss, and parking brake disengagement. These recalls indicate design or manufacturing flaws that could severely impact safety. NHTSA complaint data, with 176 total complaints, highlights recurring problems. The most frequent complaints are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (33 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (22), and SERVICE BRAKES (10). Specific complaints detail issues like headlights blinding oncoming traffic, sudden loss of braking power, and various hybrid system malfunctions leading to vehicle stalling or reduced power. Several complaints also mention engine coolant leaks and water pump failures, sometimes resulting in irreparable engine damage. The presence of 8 injury reports, despite no reported crashes or fires in the complaint data, underscores the potential severity of some of these issues. Common complaint patterns include hybrid system failures, often manifesting as sudden power loss or stalling, and brake system malfunctions, including loss of braking power or various warning lights. Engine-related issues, particularly coolant leaks and water pump failures, are also noted. The recall for the engine wire harness and hybrid system inverter directly correlates with some of these reported power loss and potential fire risks. The air bag recalls are particularly concerning given complaints of non-deployment in crashes. Despite its strong crash test performance, the numerous recalls and diverse range of complaints, some with severe safety implications, suggest that owners should be vigilant about maintenance and recall compliance.

Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and recurring critical complaints, potential buyers should ensure all 5 recalls have been addressed and be prepared for potential hybrid system, brake, or engine coolant issues. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic specializing in hybrids is highly recommended.