2017 Toyota Prius Prime

The 2017 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offering enhanced electric-only driving range compared to the standard Prius. The Prius Prime is equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 121 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners often praise the Prime for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced safety features. Common criticisms include the limited rear passenger headroom due to the battery placement, and the relatively small cargo area.

Electric Motor

Two Electric Motors with 1.8-liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Reduced EV Range
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing a reduction in the electric vehicle (EV) range over time, particularly in colder weather. The battery’s ability to hold a charge diminishes, resulting in shorter distances driven on electric power alone.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Hesitation or Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed hesitation or jerking during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This can be more pronounced when transitioning between electric and gasoline power.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software; $3,000 - $6,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Entune Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Entune infotainment system can be slow, unresponsive, or prone to freezing. Connectivity issues with smartphones, especially regarding Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, are also reported.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200 for software; $500 - $1500+ for head unit.
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V auxiliary battery can drain prematurely, leading to starting problems or other electrical malfunctions. This issue is often related to leaving the car in “Ready” mode or excessive use of accessories while the engine is off.
  • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery, diagnosis of parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracking Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Display Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The coating on the center console display can peel or delaminate over time, causing visibility issues.
  • Solution: Display replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup or condensation inside the headlight housings can occur, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight components.
  • Solution: Seal or replace headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Summary

The 2017 Toyota Prius Prime is a reliable and fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid vehicle, but owners have reported some issues. The most common problems relate to electrical components (infotainment system and 12V battery), interior (dashboard cracking and display delamination), and potential reductions in EV range over time. While some of these issues can be addressed with software updates or relatively inexpensive repairs, others, such as replacing the hybrid battery or dashboard, can be more costly. Overall, the severity of these issues varies, and potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems when considering a used 2017 Prius Prime.