Toyota Recalls 240,000 Prius Vehicles After Defect Found, Service Campaign Announced

The Toyota Prius remains one of the most popular hybrids in the Japanese automaker’s lineup. Still, even long-standing bestsellers are not immune to problems. Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has ordered Toyota to recall 239,504 Prius vehicles due to a defect affecting the rear doors.

According to regulators, a fault in the circuit design of a sensor may cause the rear doors on these hatchbacks to open unexpectedly, without warning to the driver or passengers.

If water accumulates near the sensor and the door is closed with force, the seal can be temporarily compromised. This may allow moisture to enter the circuit, potentially causing a short circuit.

As a result, a rear door may remain partially open, triggering a warning light on the instrument panel. In the most serious cases, the doors could open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in use.

To address the issue, Toyota plans to install relays in the electrical circuits of both the left and right rear doors on all affected Prius vehicles manufactured between November 24, 2023, and November 4, 2025. The fix is intended to prevent accidental door openings.

Two incidents linked to this defect have already been reported in Japan. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.