Toyota recalls small number of Prius models over ECU failure

Toyota Australia is recalling seven examples of its Prius model due to a fault with its electronic control unit.

The issue affects a handful of Prius and Prius I-Tech 1.8L Hybrids produced in 2021.

According to the Department for Infrastructure, a software fault in the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) could cause a loss of motive power while driving.

As a result, the hybrid system would shut down, which could increase the risk of an accident.

A statement from Toyota says: "In the involved vehicles, a software error can cause a control computer (hybrid vehicle ECU) to erroneously determine that it does not have the correct information about the transmission position. This can occur if the shift position is changed during a short window of time when the computer is checking the system status."

A list of VINs is available here.

Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by Toyota and asked to make an appointment at their preferred Toyota dealer for the ECU to be reprogrammed, free of charge, which will take approximately an hour.

Toyota can be contacted regarding the issue by phoning 1800 987 366 or emailing: recallsupport@toyota.dataresponse.com.au