Popular fuel-efficient hybrid, beloved by Uber drivers and eco-conscious commuters. Exceptionally reliable powertrain with many examples exceeding 250,000 km. However, 2010-2014 models have known issues: head gasket failures (due to clogged EGR system), excessive oil consumption (faulty piston rings), and inverter coolant pump failures. The 2015 model is most reliable with updated pistons and head gasket. Hybrid battery typically lasts 10-15 years. Avoid 2010 model year specifically - most problematic of the generation.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€600 - €1,100/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€400-650
Risk buffer
€200-450
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Head gasket failure (2010-2014 models)€2,900 - €4,000
Clogged EGR system causes differential cylinder overheating, gasket leaks · more· less
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) passages in the intake manifold clog with carbon at different rates - cylinder #1 first, then #2, etc. This causes uneven cylinder temperatures and head gasket failure between cylinders #1 and #2. Typically occurs between 150,000-200,000 km. Symptoms: rough cold starts, coolant loss, white smoke, misfires (P0300-P0304 codes), morning "death rattle" when coolant seeps into cylinders overnight. Toyota updated the head gasket part (11115-37060) in 2015. Prevention: clean entire EGR system every 50,000-100,000 km. 2015 models have significantly reduced failure rates.
Faulty piston ring design causes 1 liter per 1,000 km oil burning · more· less
Design flaw in 2010-2012 engines - piston rings get clogged with carbon and fail to seal properly. Typically starts around 130,000-150,000 km. Can progress to burning 1 quart per 400 miles (650 km) in severe cases. Toyota released TSBs T-SB-0168-16 and T-SB-0169-16 outlining diagnosis and repair with updated pistons/rings. 2014 has revised piston design, 2015 has fully updated pistons and rings. Oil burning accelerates EGR clogging, creating a cascade effect leading to head gasket failure. Essential: 5,000 km oil change intervals, quality synthetic oil.
Hybrid battery degradation€1,400 - €5,500
NiMH battery pack lasts 10-15 years, eventual capacity loss reduces MPG · more· less
The third-generation Prius uses NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries, less durable than lithium batteries in 2016+ models. Typical lifespan: 10-15 years or 200,000-300,000 km. Signs of failure: engine running constantly, fuel economy dropping below 17 km/l (40 mpg), reduced electric-only capability. Warranty: 5 years/100,000 km in Europe (can be extended with annual Hybrid Health Checks to 10 years). Replacement cost: €1,400-2,500 (remanufactured), €4,500-5,500 (OEM dealer). Many specialists offer cell-level rebuilds for €1,200-1,800. Battery rarely fails catastrophically - gradual degradation is normal.
The inverter coolant pump (separate from engine cooling) circulates coolant to keep the high-voltage inverter cool. Internal manufacturing defect causes premature failure. Symptoms: P0A93 error code, check engine light, no coolant circulation in inverter reservoir. Critical: do NOT drive with failed pump - inverter overheating causes catastrophic failure (€7,000+ replacement). Toyota recalled 2004-2007 models but 2008-2015 also affected. Updated pump part number: G9020-47031. Repair: 2-3 hours labor, €200-300 parts. DIY-friendly for experienced home mechanics. Check inverter coolant reservoir for circulation during routine maintenance.
Brake actuator accumulator failure€1,200 - €2,500
Accumulator cracks, nitrogen gas leaks into brake fluid, spongy pedal · more· less
2010 models recalled for brake booster assembly pump (fatigue crack in accumulator). Symptoms: brake pedal becomes spongy, longer pedal stroke, whirring noise every 15-20 seconds, C1256 diagnostic code. Toyota recalled 87,000 vehicles in 2013 (Safety Recall 13V-235). Affects 2010 Prius and Lexus HS250h. Later models can also develop actuator issues but at lower rates. Replacement requires complete brake actuator assembly - dealer-only repair due to hybrid brake system complexity. Some owners report warranty extensions for this specific issue - contact Toyota with VIN to check eligibility.
EGR valve and cooler clogging€750 - €3,000
Carbon buildup clogs EGR cooler and intake manifold passages by 90,000-110,000 km · more· less
This is preventive maintenance, not necessarily a failure - but ignoring it CAUSES head gasket failure. EGR cooler/pipe clogs from oil vapor fed by PCV valve. Proper maintenance: clean EGR valve, cooler, and intake manifold passages every 50,000-100,000 km. Dealer charges €3,000+ for full service. Independent specialists: €750-1,200. DIY: €50-100 (oven cleaner, gaskets, afternoon of work - many YouTube tutorials available). Prevention: 5,000 km oil changes, quality fuel additives (Techron, RedLine), occasional high-RPM driving to burn off carbon. Critical on 2010-2014 models.
Steering intermediate shaft noise€200 - €450
Clicking/ticking from steering column on bumps and when turning stationary · more· less
Splined slides in intermediate steering shaft lose lubrication, causing clicking sounds over bumps and when turning wheel at standstill. Common issue on 2003-2011 Toyota models (Prius, Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Sienna). Not dangerous initially but can progress to loose steering feel. Diagnosis: shake shaft by hand - should not rattle. Temporary fix: re-grease shaft. Permanent fix: replace intermediate shaft (€180 part, 1.5 hours labor). Toyota issued recalls for some model years but not all third-gen Prius. More of an annoyance than safety issue unless severely worn.
12V auxiliary battery failure€150 - €350
Small 12V battery powers accessories, lasts 3-8 years depending on climate · more· less
The Prius has TWO batteries: small 12V lead-acid (starts car, powers computers/accessories) and large hybrid battery (drives car). 12V battery in trunk, easy access under right side panel. Typical lifespan: 3-4 years (hot climates) to 8-10 years (cool climates). Failure symptoms: car won't start (no "READY" light), electrical glitches, dashboard warning lights. Replacement: €150-200 (S46B24R AGM battery fits all 2004-2018 Prius). DIY installation: 15 minutes. Many auto parts stores offer free installation. This is normal wear item, not a design flaw.
Easy access underneath, high precious metal content, takes thieves 2-5 minutes · more· less
Prius catalytic converters contain high concentrations of rhodium, palladium, and platinum. 2004-2009 models most targeted (scrap value €1,000+), but 2010-2015 also at risk (scrap value €550). Third-gen models have additional risk: coolant lines run to catalytic converter - if cut during theft, coolant leaks and can destroy engine if driven. DO NOT drive 2010-2015 Prius after cat theft. Prevention: park in secure areas, install cat shield/guard (€200-400), VIN etching, motion sensor lights. Insurance claim typically €1,500-2,500 including parts and labor.
Sunroof drain clogging (if equipped)€100 - €800
4 drain tubes clog with debris, water leaks into cabin causing mold/damage · more· less
Sunroof has 4 drain tubes (2 front, 2 rear) running down A-pillars to drain cups under car. Tubes clog with leaves, dirt, creating water buildup. Common leak points: passenger side A-pillar, headliner near sun visor. Can cause extensive mold, interior damage, electrical issues. Prevention: clean drains annually - pour water into sunroof drain holes, verify it exits under car. DIY cleaning: shop vacuum to remove debris, speedometer cable to clear blockages (gentle - don't puncture tubes). Professional cleaning: €100-200. If mold develops: €500-800 interior remediation. Check if buying used: damp carpet, musty smell, water stains on headliner.
Generally reliable but 2010-2014 need EGR maintenance
The third-gen Prius powertrain is fundamentally sound with many examples exceeding 300,000 km. However, 2010-2014 models require diligent EGR system maintenance to prevent expensive head gasket failure. The 2015 model year resolved most issues with updated pistons, rings, and head gasket. Prioritize cars with complete service history showing regular EGR cleaning. Avoid 2010 model year specifically.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Toyota dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at 5,000 km intervals maximum and evidence of EGR system cleaning.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Original size: 195/65R15 or 215/45R17.
Cold start
Engine must start completely cold. Listen for rattling in first 30 seconds (timing chain/head gasket warning sign).
Hybrid battery health
Monitor fuel economy during test drive - should achieve at least 18 km/l (42 mpg) in mixed driving. Petrol engine should not run constantly.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Monitor for warning lights, regenerative braking feel, smooth transitions.
Specific for this vehicle
Check oil consumption records
Ask owner how much oil is added between changes. Excessive consumption (more than 1L per 5,000 km) indicates piston ring issues on 2010-2014 models.
Cold start head gasket check
Engine must be completely cold. Start and listen for rough running, misfires, or white smoke from exhaust. Check for coolant in oil (milky oil cap) or oil in coolant.
Verify inverter coolant pump operation
With car running, remove inverter coolant reservoir cap (separate from engine coolant, usually pink/red). Should see light turbulence from pump circulating. No movement = failed pump.
Check for P0A93, P0300-P0304 error codes
Request OBD scan. P0A93 = inverter cooling issue. P0300-P0304 = misfires indicating head gasket or carbon buildup.
Inspect brake pedal feel
Pedal should be firm. Spongy pedal or excessive travel indicates brake actuator accumulator failure (especially 2010-2011).
Test steering for clicking noise
Turn wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and drive over speed bumps. Clicking from column indicates intermediate shaft wear.
Check underneath for catalytic converter shield
Look for aftermarket cat protection shield. If absent, budget for installation (€200-400) for theft prevention.
Verify all recalls completed
Contact Toyota with VIN: brake actuator (2010), hybrid system software (2009-2014), fuel tank leak (2009-2015). Critical safety items.
Interior water leak check (if sunroof equipped)
Check carpets, especially passenger side, for dampness. Smell for mold/mildew. Look for water stains on headliner near sun visors.
EGR system service evidence
For cars over 100,000 km, request proof of EGR cleaning. Absence of this service on 2010-2014 models is major red flag for imminent head gasket failure.
Contact Toyota dealer with VIN to verify all safety recalls completed. The brake booster and hybrid inverter recalls are particularly important. Oil consumption TSB available for eligible vehicles - ask dealer if your car qualifies.
Warranty Status (Europe)
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)Expired on all 2009-2015 models
Hybrid battery base warranty (5 years / 100,000 km)Expired on all 2009-2015 models
Hybrid battery extended (up to 10 years)If annual Hybrid Health Checks maintained
Extended Hybrid Battery Warranty
In Europe, Toyota extends hybrid battery warranty through annual Hybrid Health Checks at authorized dealers. Each passed check adds one year of coverage (up to 10 years total or 100,000 km). For 2009-2015 Prius, check service history for evidence of these annual checks - this can provide valuable battery warranty extension. Contact Toyota dealer to verify current coverage status.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.