Used Car Checklists

Used Toyota Prius: Inspection checklist

Pick the model year you are going to see. Each sheet lists the checks for the problems owners reported on that year, in the order you would do them at the car. Owners filed 214 complaints across these 8 years; the 2018 drew the most.

Toyota Prius

Choose a model year

Problems that follow the Prius from year to year

Each of these is a top-three complaint area in at least two model years. Darker cells mean more complaints that year. Whatever year you are looking at, give these extra time.

Area20182019202020212022202320242025Total
Electrical444263528
Wheels and tires744419
Airbags5422215
Brakes353314
Wipers and visibility55212
Transmission424212
Automatic emergency braking224

Prius generations and updates

First years of a new generation and mid-cycle updates are marked. Each year links to its checklist.

  1. Fifth generation

    2023–2023

    2024 update: Added black paint to exterior trim; Available in FWD or AWD-e powertrain

  2. Fourth generation

    2016–2021

    2018 update: Redesigned headlights and tail lights; Introduced all-wheel drive model

Mileages where Prius problems start

From owner reports for each model year, lowest mileage first. Compare these with the odometer of the car you are seeing.

Typical mileageProblemYear
10,400–11,749 milesTire sidewall damage2024

Every Prius recall to confirm

11 recalls cover the Priusyears on this site. Open a campaign number for NHTSA's full notice. 6 campaigns span more than one model year.

Show 1 more recall

Cars shoppers compare with the Prius

Before you shortlist a Prius