2022 Toyota Prius Safety Report

The 2022 Toyota Prius presents an overall strong safety profile, evidenced by its excellent NHTSA safety ratings, achieving a 5-star Overall rating, with 5 stars in Side crash tests and 4 stars in both Frontal and Rollover tests. This indicates robust performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has accumulated 22 NHTSA complaints, including 3 crashes and 4 injuries, which warrants closer examination. A significant concern is the single recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V734000) related to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) software, which could falsely detect an error and shut down the hybrid system, leading to a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash. This recall directly impacts fundamental vehicle operation and safety. Complaint patterns reveal several recurring issues. The 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' component leads with 5 complaints, encompassing diverse problems such as a loud screeching sound from the Data Control Unit, a melting steering wheel, and non-illuminating door lock buttons. 'SERVICE BRAKES' accounts for 2 complaints, including instances of unintended acceleration and brake failure, with one complaint specifically mentioning a failed brake booster. Other notable issues include odometer fraud (2 complaints), seat belt detachment (1 complaint), and issues with the vehicle's display and air conditioning. Despite the high safety ratings, the nature of some complaints, particularly those involving unintended acceleration, brake failure, and the critical engine control unit recall, suggests potential real-world safety risks that may not be fully captured by crash tests alone. The recall's consequence of a 'loss of drive power' is a severe safety hazard. While the total number of complaints is relatively low for a vehicle of this age, the diversity and severity of some reported problems, especially those related to fundamental driving functions, should be considered by potential owners.

Our recommendation: While the 2022 Toyota Prius boasts high crash test ratings, be aware of the critical ECU software recall and investigate if the fix has been applied; also, scrutinize the vehicle's service history for electrical and brake system issues, especially if purchasing used.