37 problems related to electronic stability control have been reported for the 2008 Toyota Prius. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Every time I am braking and go over a bump in my 2008 Toyota Prius the anti-lock braking system kicks in. When it does so, it feels like the brakes disengage for a second and the car goes faster, like the braking system is failing before it ends up kicking in. My Toyota dealer tells me this is the way it is supposed to work but it does not feel safe to me. It has been this way since the first day I bought the car brand new from the dealer.
I have a 2008 Toyota Prius and apparently I'm experiencing the same problems as the 2010's in the recall. After reading the description from new releases I realize that I have been experiencing the problem. The event is reproducible and occurs whenever I'm braking and the car hits the slightest bump or dip in the road. If I do not let go of the brake just before the bump/dip/small pothole, the brake seems to disengage and the car feels as if its lurching forward. The engine does not seem to rev but there is a definite feeling of acceleration. I have noticed this pretty much since I bought the car but did not think all to much of it, I just adjusted my driving habits as best as possible. ( I thought perhaps the abs or traction control was just too sensitive) I drive through out the day and a road I travel on has gotten pretty beat up with all the snow removal so I have to be very careful driving on this road if there is any traffic, as I must anticipate the bumps/dips and brake accordingly otherwise this event will occur. Again the issue is reproducible thankfully I have not had an accident due to this.