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Toyota Prius wiring can rub through and short, risking fire

NHTSA campaign 18V579000 · Reported 2018-09-05 · Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

critical How serious is it? About this label

A fire risk is serious, but Toyota has not told owners to stop driving or to park outside, so you can keep driving while you get the free repair scheduled promptly.

What's wrong, in plain English

A bundle of wires that runs to the hybrid system's power control unit under the hood can rub against the cover where it connects. Over time that rubbing wears through the insulation, and the bare wire can short out. A short circuit can spark and start a fire. Toyota dealers will inspect the wire bundle, replace it if it is damaged, and add a protective sleeve or tape so it cannot wear again.

What you should do

1. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm your Prius is included in recall J0T.
2. Call any Toyota dealer to book the wire harness inspection, or reach Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 with questions.
3. Have the inspection and any replacement done; the work and parts are free.

Affected vehicles (1)

2018 Toyota Prius

Who to contact

Toyota — official Toyota recall lookup

Customer service: 1-800-331-4331

Any franchised dealer for the brand can do the repair. Phone numbers are taken from manufacturer sites and recent NHTSA notices; if one has changed, the number in your own recall letter is the one to use.

The bigger picture

Toyota electrical recalls: fire risk, stalling and doors that pop open · all 17 Toyota recalls in this area

Official notice

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles. A portion of the engine wire harness connected to the hybrid Power Control Unit (PCU), could contact the cover at this connection and wear, causing an electrical short circuit.
Safety risk: An electrical short can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine wire harness assembly and replace it if damage is found. A protective sleeve or protective tape will be included to prevent any future damage. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0T.

Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.