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Model-year record

2013 Toyota Prius c
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2013 Toyota Prius c

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

56

Reports to NHTSA, 2013

Safety recalls

0

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

50

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (32% of 56 reports), followed by service brakes (23%).

Electrical System32% · 18 reports
Service Brakes23% · 13 reports
Exterior Lighting7% · 4 reports
Air Bags5% · 3 reports
Fuel/Propulsion System5% · 3 reports
Hybrid Propulsion System5% · 3 reports
Power Train5% · 3 reports
Steering5% · 3 reports

+ 5 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 56 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11417643, ODI 11338161, ODI 11713042, ODI 11690862, ODI 11677091.

Individual complaint reports(56)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Hybrid Propulsion SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11715964Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to cold-start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that on several occasions the vehicle was started; however, the instrument cluster and other electrical devices failed to operate as needed. The contact replaced the auxiliary battery. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred, and the vehicle needed to be jump-started. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11715964 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11713042Details +

Brake master cylinder failure.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11713042 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJan 2026 · ODI 11708254Details +

Car suddenly needed a jump start and again after a day or two of non-use. On the third day Brakes, ABS and traction control warnings were lighted up and remains. Brakes are mostly ineffective. My own scan returns the code C1252 and C1256 that says brake booster system failing. Took it to the dealer who charged $290 again to scan and came up with failed brake booster and pump assembly. The dealers is quoting total $4000 to fix. Toyota Customer Support Program Bulletin dated 8/2018 and revised on 8/2019 extends the warranty on for this issue (for Toyota Prius C 2013) for 10 years or 150000 miles. I was never informed by Toyota or the seller (Stevens Creek Toyota, San Jose CA) about this defect under warranty that I could have gotten repaired well before the dead line of 10 years. Now Both Toyota or the dealer's service department refuse to bear the repair cost.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708254 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesDec 2025 · ODI 11706251Details +

Warning lamps for ABS and others and the chiming dings came on while pulling away from the bank drive through and parking for a second. I shut the engine off and turned back on with no success. I was barely able to park in a spot because of difficulties braking. My car had been making an electric noise every 15 seconds or so previously, at different times when parked, but I thought it was the hybrid engine. Now I think it was the brake pump trying to build up pressure due to a faulty, leaking brake actuator.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706251 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2025 · ODI 11690862Details +

My 2013 Toyota Prius has a failed inverter/converter assembly, including the Intelligent Power Module (IPM). This component is critical for vehicle operation and designed to last the life of the car. Premature IPM shorting and inverter failure is a known defect acknowledged by Toyota through multiple recalls and service campaigns for other VINs with the same part number. My vehicle is giving codes P0A94 and P0A1A which are also listed in the recalls for other Prius models of similar age. My vehicle experiences the same failure, yet Toyota has denied goodwill coverage, claiming “insufficient service history.” Routine maintenance like oil changes and brake inspections does not affect this component, making the denial unreasonable. There is nothing to service on the inverter. This defect poses a serious safety risk, sudden inverter failure caused total loss of power while driving and loss of power steering, it was difficult to pull my car off the road. This poses a danger to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. Toyota’s exclusion of my VIN from coverage leaves me financially responsible for a known safety defect. I request NHTSA to investigate Toyota’s handling of inverter/IPM failures, the denial of goodwill assistance for affected VINs, and ensure that Toyota addresses this life-threatening defect consistently across all affected vehicles instead of narrowing the scope on who gets coverage when this is a dangerous electrical malfunction.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11690862 at NHTSA →
Hybrid Propulsion SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11684746Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The contact stated that he and his wife were in the vehicle during the failure, and the vehicle was almost crashed into. The contact stated that he and his wife were left stranded in oncoming traffic. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a computer failure and that the inverter converter assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,421.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11684746 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11677091Details +

failure of the Intelligent Power Module (IPM) within the inverter assembly

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11677091 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJul 2025 · ODI 11670556Details +

Recently the dash board lights started intermittently coming on. When they are on, the brakes do not work until pressed all the way to the floor and even then the car takes a long time to stop. The lights will randomly turn off and suddenly the car brakes work normally again. It is happening intermittently with no rhyme or reason as to when it will happen. It's scary to drive because I dont know if the brakes will work or not and I almost ran into another car when trying to stop at a stop light. I took the car to be inspected at the Toyota service center for $190 and after inspection they said the brake booster and master cylinder assembly need to be replaced and it will cost $2300.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11670556 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJun 2025 · ODI 11668019Details +

Require replacement of brake booster pump, decreased braking ability

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11668019 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2025 · ODI 11652650 · crashDetails +

There was a driver side collision and the airbags did not deploy. Brakes do not slowly apply they slam down causing vehicle to slide/skid in emergency braking, ABS does not function properly. The dealership recently did an appraisal (4/2/25) on the vehicle that states “Lost communication with side airbag sensor LH, Side airbag sensor LH initialization incomplete, front speed sensor RH & LH circuit, and D- Door Motor ECU communication stop”. Insurance company inspected vehicle after crash, and there was a police report filed. There were no warning indicators prior to incident or after.

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11652650 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesDec 2024 · ODI 11632163Details +

the vehicle exhibits several warning lights on the dash including ABS, VSC brake and handbrake. Diagnosed code as C1391 which toyota had released a bulletin to admit this issue, but they don’t make a recall instead of only repair it when occurred within their limited time line. now my vehicle falls in their bulletin scope but out of their “warranty “ scope. and quoted for thousands of repair. as a matter of fact, this put me at a great risk in driving it. and toyota didn’t make a public recall to solve this problem.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11632163 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesSep 2024 · ODI 11614590Details +

Driving on the highway at 70mph my warning lights for my ABS, traction control, and other brake related warning lights came on. My brakes became soft and hard to stop the car. Immediately brought to dealer who said that my booster accumulator was leaking and needed to replace both the accumulator and pump for over $3,500. This is a know. Issue with Toyota because they have a service bulletin that they wouldn’t honor because my car is more than 10 years old. This is a serious issue and someone is going to get badly hurt.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11614590 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2024 · ODI 11614548 · crashDetails +

Immobilized failure due to combination of brake hose failure preventing hybrid control/shift actuator. Hybrid steering lock became disengaged and could not communicate with the certification ecu due constant power being disabled due to complete main body failure. Hybrid system cannot go back into park however ecm side did. Ecm was not receiving power as dealer coded main body as a plug in hybrid effectively disabling fuel systems (including emissions/fuel safety) causing full misclassification in the smart key certification process. Car starts, goes into ready and disables LIN comms alongside cutting main relay due to tailgate and fuel constant powers being cut while driving.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Mar 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11614548 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesAug 2024 · ODI 11607942Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH and pulling out of the driveway, while attempting to depress the brake pedal, excessive amount of force was needed to depress the brake pedal. The contact stated that the braking distance was extended, and the vehicle was jerking while stopping. The contact stated that the ABS, Brakes, and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the hydraulic brake booster pump actuator and accumulator had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer confirmed related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program under NHTSA ID Number: 10181735 (Equipment Adaptive/Mobility, Equipment, Service Brakes) however the vehicle was no longer covered for the repair. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in the Customer Service Program. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report. The failure mileage was 133,000.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11607942 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJun 2024 · ODI 11596903Details +

Head low beam lights no work

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11596903 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesFeb 2024 · ODI 11572127Details +

I purchased this car July 14th 2023 from a dealership that wasn't Toyota for my daughter to go back and forth to school and as soon as we drove off the lot all kinds of lights came on I called the dealership asked what they were he acted like he didn't know what I was talking about so I've had it at a couple different shops finally Toyota looked at it the service manager let me know that there used to be a recall on the brake booster with master cylinder assembly and that that recall the extended warranty on it had expired I'm not sure how anything thats to do with safety expires when it's regarding your braking

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11572127 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlAug 2023 · ODI 11539026Details +

I was going on my way to work on the freeway at approximately 65 miles per hour, suddenly I felt as if my car shut off will driving and I lost power. I pressed on the gas Pedal as I was pulled into the emergency lane to the right of the freeway, the gas pedal did not work. I pulled to the side and I shut the car off. I waited about 20 minutes and I turned the car back on.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11539026 at NHTSA →
Hybrid Propulsion SystemMay 2023 · ODI 11524593Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check Hybrid Propulsion System warning light illuminated, and the vehicle the stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the inverter module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and 18V684000 (Hybrid Propulsion System). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 104,000.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11524593 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2023 · ODI 11520646Details +

My vehicle has under 150,000 miles. I was driving on the highway and my Prius lost power and left me on the side of the road. I took it to Toyota to run a diagnostic in Elk Grove Ca. I was told the ipm inverter, control computer had to be replaced and it would cost me $5,200.00. This is a real disappointment because I don’t have this money to fix the vehicle.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11520646 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2023 · ODI 11509104Details +

A tree fell on my car during a storm. The tree remains on top of my car. Waiting for your party to remove it off of my car.

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11509104 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2023 · ODI 11500797Details +

According to Toyota Dealership, "WILL NEED TO REPLACE (MG1) HV TRANSAXLE UNIT AS 1ST STEP IN ORDER TO TO BE ABLE TO PROCEED WITH DIAGNOSE AND CHECKED FOR ANY OTHER SHORTED COMPONENTS". Vehicle is available for inspection. Vehicle was being driven on a city street towards a red light when the vehicle experienced a jolt and lost complete acceleration power and a "Check Hybrid System" was displayed on the dashboard. Luckily all vehicles behind were already coming to a stop for the red light, otherwise, the safety of my family and myself may have been put in more serious harm. Vehicle able to crawl to a nearby gas station. Attempted to use remaining battery power to drive back to residence nearby, but lost all battery power/function and puled into a bus lane where vehicle was towed from. There were no warning lights or messages displayed prior to the incident. Toyota Dealership performed DTC verification 3 times and found to verify P0A94 detail code 172 is the persistent DTC when memory is cleared. They also inspected the vehicle for concern and were able to verify Check Engine Light is ON, vehicle is on "Limp Mode" and does not "Ready ON". The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone else other than the Toyota Dealership.

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11500797 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesOct 2022 · ODI 11490471Details +

The break master cylinder is lighted up on the dashboard and the ABS system is not working which makes me sliding when I'm trying to use brakes. Too much noise coming when starting the engine for like a minute then it cool down The front chairs are not good for diver and passenger nick as it is one piece chairs with build in head stand and now I'm reviewing chiropractor for my nick frequently since I used this car

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Oct 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11490471 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2022 · ODI 11471817Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the vehicle stalled as a system failure warning message appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle inadvertently turned. The vehicle was restarted but shifted into limp mode with the message displayed. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and then drove the vehicle to the residence. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000 (Hybrid Propulsion System) and 14V053000 (Hybrid Propulsion System, Electrical System) which she linked to the failure. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Apr 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11471817 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2022 · ODI 11463143Details +

I bought my car as used, 3 months after that i hear a weird noise when i use the break, then I replace the break pads but it doesn’t solve the problem after that I got alert C1391, I went to mechanic shop he told me it needs to replace the break booster pump part number 4707052020, I did that but doesn’t solve the problem and still the alert come and go. I want to know if this is general safety issue for this model and should be fixed by the dealer or i should fix it on my own

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11463143 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesApr 2022 · ODI 11461282Details +

Brake Master Cylinder assembly failure. Brakes starting to fail. Not covered under warranty past 150k miles.

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11461282 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherApr 2022 · ODI 11459900Details +

Problem one: water in the passenger taillight. I got on YouTube to find a video to repair it, and guess what? The person in the video was replacing HIS taillight for the exact same problem! PS. I uploaded a picture, and it's sideways! But if you look closely, you can see the water line! Can I get a refund if I get the dealer to replace this?

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11459900 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2022 · ODI 11459903Details +

So, long story short: for months now, the engine light goes on and off. Whenever it goes on, I go to Autozone or O'Reilly's to get the codes read. It's always the same code: P261B. So I got the coolant pump replaced. The same thing happens! I'd bet there is nothing wrong with the pump, so why am I getting that same code? I'll be happy to send it to you if you want to test it....

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11459903 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2021 · ODI 11444160Details +

Without warning my 2013 prius C stalled on the freeway with a hybrid battery warning. When the car was shut off it had intermittent problems with starting. After jumping the car battery , it ran normally again for some time before the stalling problem persisted. The hybrid battery stopped running and I received a warning light. Diagnostics at my repair shop said it was an inverter issue.I see that toyota has recalled several models for similar issues with the inverter. When the car is jumped it seems to work for a short time before stalling out again. Has created a real safety issue for me and there is a real lack of information on behalf of toyota on whether or not it will be covered under existing models. It seems like every model toyota from this year was recalled for an inverter issue. The car does run normally on occasion, charges the battery, and will run on EV, but mostly remains in a stalled out low power mode after it has these stalling episodes.e Diagnostics have stated to me that the car batteries are healthy and I relplaced the 12V and several fuses etc throughout this process with similar results.

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11444160 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2021 · ODI 11432155Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle shut-off without warning. The contact pulled over and was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic but was diagnosed nor repaired. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

Reported
Sep 2021
Incident date
Sep 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11432155 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2021 · ODI 11417643 · crashDetails +

While in line at a church food bank, with cars in front and in back of me, the Prius C suddenly lunged forward. While my foot was on the brake, I hit the car in front of me. The impact was strong enough to cause almost $1400 worth of damage to the car in front of me and more than that for my car. My car's fender is damaged as well as the lights and hood of the car. My sister was in the passenger seat and nephew in the back seat. My sister told me that all she could see when the sudden movement started was my foot on the brake. She said that from where she was sitting, she could not see if my foot was on the gas pedal but could clearly see when my foot was on the brake. So lucky that there were no injuries either to the husband and wife in the car in front of me nor to my passengers. There is no reason for me to have accelerated that fast when the car in front moved a fraction of feet at a time. I would release the brake and the car would move slowly until I applied the brake again. The Prius was inspected by Toyota at a dealer and we were told they could find no sign of anything wrong with the car. There were no warning lights or messages before the sudden acceleration happened. Due to the possibility of it happening again, we decided to park the car in case any litigation could be processed. We have been denied by many law firms due to the fact that there were no serious injuries and the age of the car. About a month after the incident, we bought a new Prius and if unable to litigate, will sell the car for parts. My fear is that it may happen again and could seriously injure or kill someone or the driver and/or passengers in our 2013 Prius. We will not allow it to be driven again and will either junk or sell for parts. Is there any recourse for us to pursue to be refunded for the damage that we paid to the couple whose car we hit, a rental until we bought the new car and refund for the 2013 Prius. Thank you very much for your attention.

Reported
May 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11417643 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2021 · ODI 11389826Details +

HYBRID WARNING LIGHT COMES ON OUT OF NOWHERE. CODE 3107: LOST COMMUNICATION BETWEEN SRS ECU AND POWER MANAGEMENT ECU. ALL WIRES ARE OTHERWISE GOOD AND NO CORROSION IS APPARENT. THIS MISCOMMUNICATION MEANS THAT THE AIRBAGS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY. BATTERY IS HEALTHY ACCORDING TO TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. HYBRID WARNING LIGHT COMES ON INTERMITENTLY TO SHOW WHEN MISCOMMUNICATION IS HAPPENING.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11389826 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2020 · ODI 11385233 · crashDetails +

TOYOTA IS TRYING TO COVER UP THE TRUE NUMBER OF VEHICLES SUBJECT TO THE HYBRID SYSTEM RECALL.. TOYOTA CLAIMS THIS VEHICLE IS NOT THE SUBJECT OF RECALL, YET THE VEHICLE DISPLAYS ALL THE SYMPTOMS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL.. 1.) THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT FREEWAY SPEED ON WESTBOUND HWY 92 ON 12/27/2020 AT APPROXIMATELY 6:30PM 2.) THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER.. DASHBOARD LIGHTS CAME ON.. ERROR MESSAGE SAID "HYBRID SYSTEM FAILURE" 3.) POWER TO BRAKING AND STEERING REMAINED 4.) VEHICLE WENT OFF THE FREEWAY, WITH NO POWER, DOWN AN EXIT RAMP, AND CAME TO A STOP, LUCKILY, IN A LEGAL PARKING PLACE, AT THE CURB ON DE ANZA BLVD.. THIS IS WHAT TOYOTA SAID PUBLICLY: 'THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE DESIGNED TO ENTER A FAILSAFE DRIVING MODE IN RESPONSE TO CERTAIN HYBRID SYSTEM FAULTS', THE AUTOMAKER EXPLAINED. 'TOYOTA HAS FOUND THAT IN RARE SITUATIONS, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT ENTER A FAILSAFE DRIVING MODE AS INTENDED. IF THIS OCCURS, THE VEHICLE COULD LOSE POWER AND STALL. WHILE POWER STEERING AND BRAKING WOULD REMAIN OPERATIONAL, A VEHICLE STALL WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHER SPEEDS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.'

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11385233 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesNov 2020 · ODI 11373206Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND AN ABNORMAL HISSING SOUND WAS HEARD. THE VEHICLE STOPPED HOWEVER, THE SECONDARY BRAKES FAILED. TRIANGLE TOYOTA DE SAN JUAN (223 MARGINAL, JOHN F. KENNEDY BECHARA, SAN JUAN, 00920, PUERTO RICO, +1 787-304-1633) WAS CONTACTED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ACCUMULATOR PRESSURE SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373206 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2020 · ODI 11366860Details +

CAR DIED LAST NIGHT (10/27) AAA NOT ABLE TO JUMP BATTERY. BAD FUSE. TOWED TO SF TOYOTA ON GEARY BL. TAKEN CAR TO SHOP THREE TIMES SINCE PURCHASE 7/22/20 FOR PROBLEMS. ALSO TOLD NOTHING IS WRONG. THIS APPEARS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE. ALSO I WAS TOLD CAR WAS DAMAGED, NOT IN MAJOR ACCIDENT. HAS SIGNS OF HEAVY DAMAGE FROM 3 ACCIDENTS. IT ONLY HAS 54,XXX MILES ON A 2013 PRIUS C.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11366860 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11338161 · crashDetails +

WHILE IN MOTION, THE VEHICLE SWITCHED OUT OF READY MODE. THE VEHICLE DID NOT SWITCH BACK INTO READY MODE. BODY DAMAGE INCURRED DURING EMERGENCY STOP, DUE TO VEHICLE GOING AT ABOUT 35MPH WHEN THE MALFUNCTION OCCURRED ON A SURFACE STREET.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11338161 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11337095Details +

DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY ON MY WAY TO WORK SUDDENLY THE MY 2013 PRIUS C ENGINE COMPLETELY STOPS. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR COMPLETELY SHUTS DOWN AND NOW I'M A SITTING DUCK GOOD THING PEOPLE SLEW DOWN FOR ME AND EVEN HELP ME PUSH MY CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD SAFELY. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AND NEEDS ATTENTION. IVED TAKEN MY CAR TO ANTIOCH TOYOTA AND EMPHASIZE THAT I SAW 2 RECALLS ON THIS WEBSITE BUT THE DID NOT BELIEVE ME AND THEY ARE CHARGING ME OVER $4000 TO FIX IT. IT'S NOT RIGHT FOR THEM TO JUST CHECK THEIR SYSTEM AND NOT CHECK A NHTSA WEBSITE FOR RECALLS AND COMPLAINTS. IT'S VERY IRRESPONSIBLE FOR THEM NOT TO CHECK FOR RECALLS

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11337095 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemFeb 2020 · ODI 11309262Details +

MY PRIUS C HAS 110,000 MILES AND ALREADY EXPERIENCE THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT TWICE, THE FIRST TIME I JUST DISCONNECT ALL THE WIRING TO THE HYBRID BATTERY AND IT SAT FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS, THAN RECONNECTED THE WIRES AND OPERATED NORMAL 2 MONTHS WENT BY AFTER A NORMAL DRIVE, PARKED THE CAR BUT WHEN I WENT AND STARTED THE CAR THE CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM LIGHT COMES BACK ON AGAIN.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11309262 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2019 · ODI 11230545Details +

WHEN STATIONARY OR IN MOTION REAR TAIL LIGHT LENSES LEAK AROUND THE PERIMETER CAUSING TAIL LIGHTS TO FILL WITH WATER. THE WATER INSIDE THEM INCREASES UNTIL LIGHTS SHORT OUT.

Reported
Jul 2019
Incident date
Mar 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11230545 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2019 · ODI 11219077 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

I WAS INVOLVED IN A LEFT-HAND TURN, T-BONE STYLE/SIDE IMPACT CAR ACCIDENT ON JUNE 5TH, 2019. THE OTHER DRIVER WAS GOING 50+ MPH AND I WAS GOING 20 MPH. MY AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE AT LEAST DEPLOYED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WHERE THERE IS IMPACT.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11219077 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2019 · ODI 11183570Details +

I AM REQUESTING $2,919.03 IN REPAIR REIMBURSEMENT FOR MY 2013 PRIUS C, VIN # [XXX] ON 2-11-19 I ATTEMPTED A RIGHT TURN ON A CITY STREET IN SAN MARCOS, CA. I ROTATED THE STEERING WHEEL AND HEARD AND FELT A 'CLUNK.' THE STEERING WHEEL LOST ALL TORQUE AND SPUN FREELY WITHOUT ENGAGING THE WHEELS. I DRIFTED INTO THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION WITH COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING (SEE SAN DIEGO SHERIFF REPORT #[XXX]. BIG RED'S AUTOMOTIVE (SEE ATTACHED INVOICE) TOOK ATTACHED PICTURES OF STEERING COLUMN AND INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. PICTURES REVEAL INTERNAL DAMAGE TO COGS. CARFAX REPORT INDICATES EXTENSIVE DEALER SERVICE HISTORY WITH NO REPORTED ACCIDENTS. DEALER TOYOTA OF ESCONDIDO DID NOT DISCLOSE DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO VEHICLE. WITH NO EVIDENCE OF AN ACCIDENT CAUSING CONDITION AND EXTENSIVE DEALER SERVICE TO THIS VEHICLE I CONCLUDE CONDITION CAUSING COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING IS FACTORY DEFECT. I REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT OF REPAIR COST. THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CW *TT *TR

Reported
Mar 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11183570 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2018 · ODI 11103445Details +

AROUND 2:00 AM ON FWY 101 NORTH/SOUTH DIVISION POINT, CAR SUDDENLY LOST ITS POWER AND ACCELERATOR STOPPED WORKING AND STOPPED IN THE CURVING AREA ON FASTEST LANES. I TURNED MY KEY ON/OFF FOR 5 TIMES LIGHTS ON THE PANEL WAS ON BUT ACCELERATOR WAS NOT WORKING AT ALL FOR 30 MIN SO I CALLED POLICE AND AAA TOWING. WHEN FINALLY AAA CAME AND TALKING ON THE PHONE, THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATED AGAIN. IT WAS VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS MY CAR WAS FORCED TO PARK ON THE FASTEST LANE ON THE CURVING AREA AT 2:00AM AND MANY TRUCKS AND CARS WERE DRIVING 90 MILES/HOUR. 4-5 CARS WERE YELLING AT ME "IT IS VERY DANGEROUS TO PARK YOUR CAR RIGHT HERE !" AND SOME MALE DRIVERS OFFERED ME FOR HELP BUT I TOLD THEM THAT I WAS WAITING FOR POLICE (AS I WAS MORE AFRAID TO GET A HELP FROM STRANGERS.) THIS INCIDENT COULD CAUSE A VERY SERIOUS INJURIES OR DEATH. NEXT DAY, I TOOK MY CAR TO TOYOTA NORTHLEDGE BUT THEY SAID THERE WAS NO PROBLEM OF THIS CAR. I READ THE "RECALL" OF TOYOTA PRIUS 2010-2014 ABOUT INVERTER PROBLEM WHICH CAUSE THE POWER FAILURE BUT TIM/SERVICE MANGER TOLD ME THAT "YOUR VIN # IS NOT COVERED WITH THIS ISSUE." THEREFORE, HE CAN NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT.

Reported
Jun 2018
Incident date
Jun 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11103445 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesFeb 2018 · ODI 11074712Details +

BRAKE LIGHTS STAY ON AFTER BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED WHEN CAR IS IN PARK AND WHEN IT IS IN MOTION. THE BRAKE LIGHTS STAY ON EVEN AFTER THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM IGNITION AND CAR LOCKED. TOYOTA HAS REPAIRED THIS PROBLEM TWICE AND NOW IT IS THE THIRD TIME I HAVE THE PROBLEM.

Reported
Feb 2018
Incident date
Feb 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11074712 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2017 · ODI 11034633Details +

THERE IS A DEFECT IN THE REAR LENS AND BODY ASSEMBLY, PART NUMBER 81551-52A94 (RIGHT SIDE) AND CORRESPONDING PART ON THE LEFT SIDE. A SEAM CRACKS AND ALLOWS WATER INTO THE LENS ASSEMBLY. EVENTUALLY, ENOUGH WATER ACCUMULATES TO COVER THE BRAKE LIGHT CAUSING IT TO SHORT. THE TOYOTA DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT I COULD DO BUT REPLACE BOTH ASSEMBLIES. I HAVE THE OLD PARTS AND HAVE TAKEN PICTURES. THE SEAM ON BOTH ASSEMBLIES FACING IS CRACKED AT EXACTLY THE SAME POINT ... ABOUT MID-WAY CLOSEST TO THE REAR HATCH. MY GUESS IS THAT ICE ACCUMULATED IN THE SPACE AND CAUSED THE ASSEMBLIES TO CRACK.

Reported
Oct 2017
Incident date
Oct 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11034633 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2017 · ODI 10970657Details +

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, WITH LESS THAN 45,000 MILES AND REGULAR MAINTENANCE METICULOUSLY PERFORMED ON THE CAR, THE BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING, ABS WARNING, AND SLIP INDICATOR WARNING LIGHTS ALL ILLUMINATED - INDICATING, "HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED BY YOUR TOYOTA DEALER IMMEDIATELY." TOOK CAR TO TOYOTA DEALER AND SERVICE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED ENGINE ELECTRICAL WIRE HARNESS WAS COMPLETELY CHEWED THROUGH BY RODENTS, WHICH HE SAID HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY COMMON NOW THAT TOYOTA IS USING SOY-BASED WIRE COVERINGS, AND THAT THE CAR WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE UNTIL THE WIRE HARNESS IS COMPLETELY REPLACED. THE ESTIMATED COST OF REPAIR IS $3,843.83. TOYOTA WILL NOT COVER THE COST OF THEIR DESIGN DEFECT, WHICH NOT ONLY CAUSES A MAJOR FINANCIAL SETBACK, BUT ALSO A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD FOR ANYONE DRIVING A TOYOTA.

Reported
Apr 2017
Incident date
Mar 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10970657 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingOct 2016 · ODI 10920321Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REVERSE LIGHTS WOULD NOT ILLUMINATE. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT WATER WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE LIGHT COVER FIXTURE, WHICH CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL SHORT AND CORROSION TO THE WIRE HARNESS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Jul 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10920321 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2016 · ODI 10851386Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER RESTARTING, THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,300.

Reported
Mar 2016
Incident date
Mar 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10851386 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJan 2016 · ODI 10822479Details +

WHILE DRIVING MY PRIUS C 2013, WITH 11,484 MILES, FOR 5 MINUTE, THE MESSAGE PANEL INDICATE IMMIEDIATE STOP AT SAFE PLACE WITH ALL PRECAUTIONS. HABRID SYSTEM NOT FUCNTIONING.. 6 OR 7 WARNING LIGHTS APPEAR ON DISPLAY PANEL. AND MOTOR BECOMES UNSTABLE OF ITS RPM'S. AND STARTS HESITATION. CAR IN DEALERS SHOP FOR 3 DAYS WITH NO IDEA OF REASONS FOR THIS OCCURRENCE.FORTUNETLY I WASN'T ON HIGHWAY OR TURNPIKE, I WAS 3 MINUTES FROM MY HOME.. TOYOTA DOES NOT PROVIDE ROADSIDE ASSITTENCE EVEN IF YOU BOUGHT CAR NEW WITHIN 36,000 MILES OR 3 YEAR WARRENTY.??????

Reported
Jan 2016
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10822479 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2015 · ODI 10782327Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED, AND THE BRAKES HESITATED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE COMPUTER NEEDED TO BE RESET. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V053000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE YEAR, MAKE, AND MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000. UPDATED 1/15/16 *CN UPDATED 11/30/2017*JS

Reported
Oct 2015
Incident date
Jul 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10782327 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2015 · ODI 10704787Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA PRIUS C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS MOISTURE WITHIN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL THAT CAUSED MOLD TO GROW INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110.

Reported
Apr 2015
Incident date
Sep 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10704787 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2015 · ODI 10691187Details +

I HAVE HAD MY TOYOTA PRIUS C FOR 1.5 YEARS. I WAS ASSURED IT WAS A SAFE CAR. HOWEVER THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS. THE CAR HAS AN AUTO TRACTION CONTROL THAT WILL TURN ON DURING FLURRIES OR IF THERE ARE WET LEAVES OR RAIN. WHEN THE TRACTION CONTROL (A SAFETY FEATURE) TURNS ON MY WHEELS STOP,MY BRAKES STOP, I CANNOT CONTROL MY STEERING AND I AM BASICALLY AT THE MERCY OF THE CAR. I HAVE BEEN IN SEVERAL NEAR ACCIDENTS ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS 55-65 MPH, AND ON BACK ROADS 25MPH+ AND ON TURNS WHERE I AM GOING 2-4 MPH AT A GLIDE, OR ON HILLS, BECAUSE THE CAR WILL TURN ON THE AUTO TRACTION AND I LOSE COMPLETE CONTROL. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS BASED ON THIS FEATURE OF THE CAR (WHICH OTHER CARS HAVE A FEATURE TO TURN OFF THE TRACTION) YET TOYOTA HAS DONE NOTHING. PEOPLE HAVE FOUND A WAY TO SHUT OFF THE TRACTION THEMSELVES IN NEWER MODELS THROUGH A SET OF STEPS THAT COULD BLOW THE ENGINE, YET THEY SAY THE RISK IS THE SAFER OPTION. A GOOGLE SEARCH WILL SHOW THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE WHO FEEL LIKE THEIR LIFE IS IN DANGER BECAUSE OF HOW BAD THIS FEATURE IS IN BAD WEATHER. THIS CAR CANNOT HANDLE ANY TYPE OF BAD WEATHER. I TRIED TO GO TO A TOYOTA MECHANIC (JONES JUNCTION IN BEL AIR MARYLAND) AND WAS TOLD I WAS OUT OF LUCK AND I WOULD JUST HAVE TO CRASH MY CAR IN A POTENTIALLY FATAL ACCIDENT BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T WANT TO BE LIABLE. I FEEL LIKE MY LIFE AND THOSE AROUND ME ARE IN DANGER BECAUSE THE CAR SO EASILY GOES OUT OF CONTROL. I CAN'T EVEN GET IN MY OWN DRIVEWAY OR MOVE IF THERE IS 1 INCH OF SNOW BECAUSE EVERYTHING SHUTS OFF AND I GET STUCK IN THE STREET. I'M SCARED IN THIS CAR BUT I CANNOT RETURN IT BECAUSE I WOULD LOSE SO MUCH MONEY. THIS "SAFETY FEATURE" PUTS LIVES IN DANGER AND THERE IS NO OPTION TO TURN IT OFF UNLIKE OTHER BETTER CAR MODELS. TOYOTA NEEDS TO RECALL THEIR PRIUS AND PRIUS C AND PRIUS V CARS SO OWNERS CAN HAVE THE OPTION OF TURNING ON OR OFF THE TRACTION. *TR

Reported
Feb 2015
Incident date
Feb 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10691187 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls

No recalls are listed for this model year as of Jul 2026. Recall records can change when NHTSA publishes new information.

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Pedestrian alert sounds

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.

Crash-test ratings

2013 Toyota Prius C 5 HB FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Prius c1.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive534650

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2013 Toyota Prius c: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2013 Toyota Prius c?

Owners filed 56 NHTSA complaints about the 2013 Toyota Prius c. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2013 Toyota Prius c?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (32% of complaints) and service brakes (23%).

How many recalls does the 2013 Toyota Prius c have?

No safety recalls are on record for the 2013 Toyota Prius c as of Jul 2026.

What gas mileage does the 2013 Toyota Prius c get?

The EPA rates the 2013 Toyota Prius c at 50 mpg combined.