Toyota Recalling 700,000 Prius Vehicles

Report Receipt Date: FEB 12, 2014 

Component(s): HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected: 700,000 

Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

SUMMARY:

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 Prius vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) inside the inverter module (a component of the hybrid system) contains transistors that may become damaged from high operating temperatures. If this occurs, various warning lamps will be illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle will have reduced power allowing it to only drive a short distance.

CONSEQUENCE:

The vehicle may enter a fail-safe/limp-home mode that limits the drivability of the vehicle. The hybrid system could also shut down completely resulting in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:

Toyota will notify owners and dealers will update the software for both the motor/generator control electronic control unit (ECU) and the hybrid control ECU, free of charge. If an owner experiences a failure of the inverter before the vehicle receives updated software, the dealer will replace the inverter assembly with a new one at no charge. The recall is expected to begin in late February 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.