2001-2003 Toyota Prius: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Toyota Prius includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Toyota Prius .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
The radio knob(s) may quit working. Revised knobs are available. (2002)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on and a code may indicate a problem with the oxygen sensor, requiring reprogramming of the engine control computer. (2004)
Dashboard lights:
Three warning lights (Master, Hybrid, and Check Engine) may all glow simultaneously after the car is restarted cold (below 32-degrees F), requiring a revised control computer. The lights may also come on due to a problem in the fuel system, which would require a revised gas tank and engine computer. The same three lights may come on due to low engine output, requiring installation of a new accelerator pedal. (2001-02)
Electrical problem:
After much city, stop-and-go driving or prolonged highway driving in hot weather, the vehicle may have low power output or the "Ready On" indicator may not show requiring replacement of the inverter. (2001-03)
Engine stalling:
After sitting for an extended time, or when used exclusively for short trips, the vehicle may not start. The original battery, rated at 272 CCA, should be replaced with a larger one rated at 356 CCA along with the hold-down hardware. (2001-03)
Exhaust system:
In climates were road salt is used, a valve in the exhaust system becomes corroded and sticks, requiring installation of a revised front exhaust pipe. (2001-02)
Keyless entry:
The remote keyless entry and the keyless ignition may malfunction if there is also a Mobil Speedpass (or similar) transmitter on the same key ring and the problem can be alleviated by replacing the vehicle's oscillators located in both the trunk and cabin. (2004)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $1,280 |
| Alternator | $1,870 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $8,695 |
| Brakes | $550 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,490 |
| Exhaust System | $560 |
| Radiator | $600 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,520 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $505 |
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