Faulty Electronics Force Toyota to Recall C-HR, Plug-in Prius Hybrids

Late last week, Toyota announced it will conduct separate U.S. safety recalls of around 28,600 C-HR crossovers from the 2018 model year and approximately 39,900 Prius Plug-in Hybrids from 2012-2015.

For the affected C-HRs, there’s a possibility that the electronic parking brake might not operate properly. Toyota claims there is a chance the parking brake won’t disengage after it is applied. There is also a chance the faulty electronics might prevent it from being applied in the first place, which is a little more serious. In addition to creating a possible rollaway risk in certain situations, the automaker says it would be in noncompliance with a federal safety standards.

The issues affecting the Prius specifically deals with plug-in models. Affected units may have a faulty fuse that can malfunction if the car is operated in “EV mode” under sustained high-load driving conditions (i.e. perpetually uphill or carrying a lot of extra weight). If the fuse does go, drivers will be treated to a dazzling array of warning lights and warning messages.

Toyota claims a busted Prius may be able to operate under its own power — but will act crippled. However, there is a chance the hybrid system could shut down entirely and leave owners stranded by the side of the road. Fortunately, steering and braking should not be affected, so there’s no chance of the vehicle coming to a screeching halt on the expressway. Still, it’s probably best to pull off swiftly and safely before calling for a tow truck.

Toyota will issue an update for the C-HR’s electronic control unit software before the end of the month. Meanwhile, Prius owners will have to to wait until January to get their notification in the mail. Obviously, the fixes will be covered by the manufacturer. If you’re curious if your vehicle is one of the models affected, you can input your VIN into the NHTSA recall database or contact Toyota directly.

[Image: Toyota]