### Toyota's Safety Concern: Prius Rear Door Recall The Toyota Prius, a hybrid vehicle known for its fuel efficiency, has been hit with a recall due to a potential safety hazard. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 141,286 Prius variants are affected by the recall, which includes 2023-2024 Prius Prime plug-in hybrids, 2023-2026 Prius hatchbacks, and 2025-2026 Prius Plug-In Hybrid variants. ### The Issue: Unlocked Rear Doors The problem lies in the rear door switch, which can short circuit due to water intrusion. This short circuit can cause an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, potentially increasing the risk of injury. Toyota has confirmed that only 1% of the affected cars have the defect, but without checking each car, it's impossible to determine which ones are affected. ### Recall and Repair Toyota will contact owners of the affected cars by ...
### Toyota’s Safety Concern: Prius Rear Door Recall
The Toyota Prius, a hybrid vehicle known for its fuel efficiency, has been hit with a recall due to a potential safety hazard. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 141,286 Prius variants are affected by the recall, which includes 2023-2024 Prius Prime plug-in hybrids, 2023-2026 Prius hatchbacks, and 2025-2026 Prius Plug-In Hybrid variants.
### The Issue: Unlocked Rear Doors
The problem lies in the rear door switch, which can short circuit due to water intrusion. This short circuit can cause an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, potentially increasing the risk of injury. Toyota has confirmed that only 1% of the affected cars have the defect, but without checking each car, it’s impossible to determine which ones are affected.
### Recall and Repair
Toyota will contact owners of the affected cars by March 29, 2026, with instructions to have their vehicles checked by a dealer. Dealers will modify the left and right rear door handle switch circuits to prevent the switch from activating even if it is shorted. Any owner who has already paid to have their vehicle fixed previously will be reimbursed for their repairs.
### A Safety Concern in the Making
This recall comes at a time when concerns about electronic door handles are on the rise. China has banned electronic door handles due to the potential hazard of people becoming trapped in their vehicles. In the US, a bill has been introduced to require manual interior door handles in new cars. The Toyota Prius recall serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in the automotive industry.
### What You Need to Know
If you own a Toyota Prius and are concerned about the recall, you can contact your dealership and reference NHTSA campaign number 26V049 or Toyota’s recall number 26TB03 and 26TA03. It’s essential to stay informed about recalls and take proactive steps to ensure your safety on the road.
### Conclusion
The Toyota Prius recall highlights the importance of addressing potential safety concerns in the automotive industry. As a car enthusiast, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest news and recalls to ensure your safety on the road.
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