2018 Toyota Prius

2018 Toyota Prius

The 2018 Toyota Prius is a popular hybrid vehicle that offers excellent fuel economy and a comfortable ride. It is available with a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine that produces 121 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Prius is also available with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that combines the 1.8L engine with an electric motor and a larger battery pack.

Owners generally praise the Prius for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and low maintenance costs. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

• 1.8L 4-cylinder engine

  • Oil consumption issue
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings and oil seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR valve failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning EGR valve can lead to reduced engine performance and increased emissions.
    • Solution: Replace EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

  • Hesitation and shuddering
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or shudders during acceleration or gear changes.
    • Solution: Update transmission control module software or replace CVT assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: 19V551, 20E011

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• 12-volt battery failure * Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the 12-volt battery, leading to starting problems and electrical system malfunctions. * Solution: Replace 12-volt battery. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof wind noise * Description/Symptoms: Excessive wind noise from the sunroof at highway speeds. * Solution: Adjust sunroof alignment or replace sunroof assembly. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Plastic trim pieces rattling * Description/Symptoms: Loose or rattling plastic trim pieces in the dashboard or door panels. * Solution: Tighten or replace trim pieces. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ * Recalls: None Found
• Navigation system freezing * Description/Symptoms: Navigation system freezes or becomes unresponsive. * Solution: Update navigation system software or replace navigation system unit. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2018 Toyota Prius has a good reliability record. However, owners have reported some issues with the engine, transmission, electrical system, and interior. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a 2018 Prius.