A recall has been issued by Toyota for certain models of the popular Prius hybrid vehicle due to a potentially hazardous issue with the rear doors. The problem affects approximately 141,286 units of the 2023-2026 Prius Prime plug-in hybrids, 2023-2026 Prius hatchbacks, and 2025-2026 Prius Plug-In Hybrid variants.
According to Toyota, an unlocked rear door may open unexpectedly while moving, which could increase the risk of injury. The automaker attributes this issue to water entering the rear door switch and causing a short circuit.
In most cases, only about 1% of affected vehicles are expected to have the defect, but Toyota is unable to determine which cars are affected without inspecting each one. If the problem occurs, the vehicle will notify the driver with an alert in the digital gauge cluster and a door alert buzzer.
Toyota has already received reports of this issue since February 2025 and took steps to investigate and submit a voluntary recall to the NHTSA on January 28, 2026. The recall is expected to be resolved by March 29, 2026, when owners will receive instructions to have their vehicles checked and modified at no cost to them.
In some cases, owners who have already paid for repairs may also be eligible for reimbursement. This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and inspections to ensure safety on the road.
This recall highlights the potential consequences of neglecting routine maintenance tasks, such as checking door switches for water damage. It's essential for Prius owners to stay vigilant and report any unusual issues to Toyota promptly.
