2021 Toyota Prius

Introduction: The 2021 Toyota Prius is a compact hybrid car available in three trim levels: L Eco, LE, and XLE. It comes standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Prius delivers impressive fuel economy, reaching up to 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway. Owners praise the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and reliability but criticize its lack of power and uninspiring driving experience.

Engine 1.8L Four-Cylinder Engine with CVT

• Oil Leak: Description/Symptoms: Leaking oil from the engine block or oil pan. Solution: Replace the faulty component (gasket, seal, or oil pan). Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+. Recalls: None Found
• Intake Valve Sticking: Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idling, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the intake valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500. Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V632000

Transmission Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Hesitation and Jerking: Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitation, jerking, or slipping during acceleration or gear shifting. Solution: Reprogram the transmission control module (TCM) or replace the CVT. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure: Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure leading to loss of power. Solution: Replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+. Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V572000

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Headlight Malfunction: Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights flickering or failing. Solution: Replace the headlight assembly or ballast. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600. Recalls: None Found
• Battery Discharge: Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly or fails to hold a charge. Solution: Replace the battery or check for electrical parasitic draw. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300. Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Interior Panel Rattling: Description/Symptoms: Excessive rattling or buzzing noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior components. Solution: Inspect and tighten loose components or replace faulty panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300. Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches: Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, lagging, or displaying error messages. Solution: Update software or replace the infotainment system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000. Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2021 Toyota Prius has a few common issues, primarily related to the engine (oil leak, intake valve sticking) and transmission (hesitation, jerking, potential failure). Electrical problems, such as headlight malfunctions and battery discharge, have also been reported. While these issues can be costly to repair, the Prius generally maintains a good reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency.