Adaptive Equipment problems of the 2012 Toyota Prius

Three problems related to adaptive equipment have been reported for the 2012 Toyota Prius. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Adaptive Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/10/2015

I own a 2012 Prius with the technology package, including radar adaptive cruise control. I believe these same radar sensors are also used to detect imminent collisions in front of the vehicle, even when cruise control mode is not engaged. About a month ago, while driving north on interstate 5 in downtown seattle at approximately 60 miles per hour, and without cruise control engaged, my Prius went into "imminent collision mode" despite the fact that there was nothing in front of me -- no vehicles, no debris, no obstructions. Before slamming on the brakes, my seat belt was "tightened" and the brakes were automatically applied at full force, even without my foot touching the brake. This was incredibly jarring and disturbing, and could have been a serious accident if there was a vehicle behind me. Fortunately, there was no vehicle behind me at this time. After about two seconds of full braking, the vehicle "disengaged" collision mode and allowed me proceed and return to speed. I called the Toyota of seattle dealership and spoke to their service department. They were unaware of this issue, and suggested that I bring the vehicle in for servicing. They confirmed there were no outstanding recalls on the vehicle. They told me it would cost at least $100 for a basic diagnostic, and if sensors had to be replaced, it could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Because I am currently unemployed and looking for work, I did not bring my vehicle into the service center. I feel this is Toyota's obligation to fix, and shouldn't require me spending money out of pocket. I would like some kind of response from Toyota on this issue. I have avoided using the radar cruise control since this moment, but the fact that it occurred while not in this mode makes me feel that the car could "take control" at any moment and cause an accident. Thanks, ryan.

2 Adaptive Equipment problem

Failure Date: 09/03/2013

Upon starting the engine and engaging the air conditioning of my 2012 Toyota Prius with 10,000 miles, a strong foul smelling air comes from the a/c vents. At the 10,000 mile servicing, the Toyota service manager stated this smell is typical to some Toyotas. A Toyota technical assistance was performed. The report stated "no repairs needed at this time vehicle is operating as per designed. I know of no vehicle design that would stream foul air from the a/c vents of a new car. My safety concern is with the contaminants creating the foul smell and how long can a human continue to breathe these contaminants before becoming ill with respiratory problems.

3 Adaptive Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/25/2012

When going from park to drive forward, the car slips into reverse!!! I've taken it to Toyota multiple times and they say they find nothing wrong! I have to be very careful to be sure the car is actually in drive before moving it or I could back into something or someone by mistake.


Other Equipment related problems of the 2012 Toyota Prius



Safety Ratings of Prius Cars
Fuel Economy of Prius Vehicles
Prius Service Bulletins
Prius Safety Recalls
Prius Defect Investigations