2015 Toyota Prius Plug-In

The 2015 Toyota Prius Plug-In is a hybrid vehicle known for its exceptional fuel economy and environmentally friendly design. It features a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, producing a combined 134 horsepower. While owners appreciate its fuel efficiency and reliability, some common complaints include limited all-electric range and a somewhat uninspiring driving experience. Dislikes often center around the interior design and road noise. Other Prius trims had different engines and drivetrain options, but the 2015 Prius Plug-In only came with one configuration.

Electric Motor

1.8L 4-Cylinder Hybrid System

• Hybrid Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced all-electric range, decreased fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Inverter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The inverter converts DC electricity from the high voltage battery to AC electricity to drive the electric motor. Symptoms include reduced performance, warning lights, or complete failure of the hybrid system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the inverter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Jerking/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting or a feeling of hesitation during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software, $3,000+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn-out bushings, struts, or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• 12V Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery handles starting the car, when it fails the car has trouble starting or doesn’t start at all. The 12V is not the same as the Hybrid battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, or complete failure of the navigation system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for software, $500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight housings or resealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console around the gear shift and buttons becoming loose.
  • Solution: Tightening the screws, or replacing the console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2015 Toyota Prius Plug-In, while generally reliable, faces a few common issues. The most significant concern is the hybrid battery degradation, which can be a costly repair. Other problems, such as suspension noise and electrical malfunctions, are less severe but can still be inconvenient. Overall, while most issues are costly, the Prius Plug-In is still a very reliable car when compared to others.