Toyota Prius Recall – 8,500 UK cars affected

The 2009 / 2010 Prius is being recalled for brake software problems

Toyota has issued a recall for the Toyota Prius to rectify software problems causing braking problems on the 3rd generation Prius.

Last week we asked if the Toyota Prius would be the next Toyota to be recalled, after reports that the software on the Prius was causing problems with the brake systems on slippery surfaces. The next day we heard on the grapevine that Toyota were about the bite the bullet on a Prius recall in the US and Japan – which is where all the reports of problems had originated.

But Toyota have now decided to go a step further and have initiated a worldwide Toyota Prius Recall with 8,500 cars in the UK affected and 400,000 worldwide.

The problem afflicts all third generation cars of the Toyota hybrid built up until 27th January this year. It seems that Toyota were aware of a software issue on the braking system and implemented a fix for cars built after this date.

This is not on thew scale of – or as potentially dangerous as – the sticky brake pedal recall on many of Toyotas models, but it’s still a big blow for Toyota, affecting as it does their hybrid flagship.

The fix is said to take 40 minutes, and Toyota are contacting all owners to arrange for the software update – through the DVLA in the UK.

Same advice as with the main Toyota recall – if you’re concerned then contact Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388 744.

But at least for owners the recall is completely clear; if you have a 3rd generation Toyota Prius you can be almost certain your car will be recalled. But don’t worry. The advice is straightforward; if there is an odd feel on your brakes on slippery surfaces don’t panic. Just brake harder and the ABS will take care of things and bring you safely to a stop.

Still, it’s a worry for Prius owners. And another big headache for – and a blow to the reputation of – Toyota.

Got an opinion on the Toyota Prius Recall? Will it damage Toyota further – or is it just ‘one of those things’? Share it with us – and hundreds of thousands of Cars UK readers – by letting us know what you think in the comments below.
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