The new Toyota Prius DOES have a brake problem
Toyota has admitted that there is a software problem with the 3rd generation Prius which results in problems braking on slippery surfaces.
Good grief, it goes from bad to worse for Toyota.
Yesterday we reported that there have been a number of complaints about braking problems on the latest generation (2009/2010) Toyota Prius. Owners had reported unresponsive brakes and a loss of ‘feel’ on slippery surfaces, and the Japanese Transport Ministry had ordered Toyota to investigate the reports.
It now seems as if Toyota are admitting that there is a problem with the 3rd Generation Toyota Prius produced from launch until late January this year. Apparently Toyota has now fixed this on the latest build of the Prius, but why on earth haven’t they had the earlier build cars in for a fix?
From the sound of things the problem is a result of a software error, just as we suggested yesterday. It seems that if the ABS kicks in at the point at which the Prius switches from friction braking to regenerative braking the software can’t cope, hence the lack of feel.
We are asking Toyota in the UK to comment on this, but the advice in the meantime is simple, and given by Hiroyuki Yokoyama of Toyota who told reporters “…if you experience this problem just brake harder.” Don’t worry you’ll lose control as the ABS should kick-in fully to stop you skidding.
There is no news yet on whether there will be a Toyota Prius Recall. But there should be, even if only to reassure customers..
Source: NYT
I had a Toyota Prius in November 2009. While driving in wet condition, the car looses control. When it hits a pot hole, the loss of control happens. It’s so frightening. My car has been in recall and modification carried out, but it has still got the same problem. I don’t know what to do. It’s like driving a death trap
Paramjit