60 complaints reported

2014 Toyota Prius Brakes

Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.

Reports
60
Crashes
4
Fires
0
Injuries
1

Complaint Timeline

Chronological view of owner reports

Oct 2026

The brake booster/accumulator failed on my vehicle. This part was a common failure during the 2010-2015 production run so much so that Toyota extended coverage to replace. Mine failed recently beyond the warranty extension of 10 years/150k miles. My vehicle has only 108k miles and is 15 months beyond warranty. Toyota Corporate will not replace this vital part, despite the fact it was a defective design. I can’t drive it any longer since I don’t have the $4000 to make repair. Toyota Corporate has shown little concern despite this critical safety defect.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Feb 2026
Aug 2026

The brake booster system (electric brake booster pump) in my 2014 Toyota Prius has been making frequent, audible cycling noises inside the cabin, particularly during cold weather. I have also noticed a faint odor outside the vehicle that seems related to electrical movement. No ABS or brake warning lights have illuminated, but the cycling pump may indicate increased stress on the brake system. The issue has not yet been diagnosed or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. The problem has not caused a loss of braking ability to date, but the unusual noises and electrical odor suggest potential risk if the booster were to fail completely. No recall or customer support program currently covers this issue. The component is part of the vehicle’s brake system and would be available for inspection by a dealer or manufacturer upon request. Toyota has offered no help or possibility of Goodwill assistance inspection for this issue.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Aug 2026
Mar 2026

The slip notification, abs, and brake lights turned on while driving on the highway. The brakes then became very stiff and the vehicle did not brake as fast or as well as it normally does without the lights.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Mar 2026
Jan 2026

2014 Prius HB with 135k miles , onboard system warning lights for Brakes, ABS system, TPMS and Traction Ctrl all came one suddenly. Brake losing pressure while vehicle making strange noise under front driver side

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Jan 2026
Jan 2026

I was driving on the freeway, and a few lights(including ABS, brake lights) all came on and a beeping noise started, as i immediately lost complete control of my brakes! That God it was late, and no cars were in front of me. The car slowed down as I removed my foot of the gas right away. I tried to pull over as soon as I heard the lights, and that’s when I realized my brakes were completely gone! I was able to stop after about two miles; car stop on its own as it slowed down. Apparently, this was a major known issue and had warranty up to 150k miles. At the time of the incident, my car had about 165k miles. I had the car for years, and no one at the dealer ever mentioned anything about this or even tried to make me aware of it! I called the Toyota dealer and corporate number several times and they declined providing me with any help at all! This caused me fear and traume because I never thought this was possible! It could’ve ended my life and the life of people around me if there were any cars in sight! The problem has been confirmed by a reputable mechanic! He did the repairs! He also called the Toyota dealer and corporate and attempted collecting anything since he found out about the warranty and common issue. They also denied help. No lights were on at all before this incident happened! It all came at once! I even have all records of monthly/ bimonthly complete inspections at the dealer with everything normal on the results!

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Aug 2025
Dec 2025

Apparently Toyota knows of a recurring problem with the brake actuator. I took my Toyota Prius to the dealer for an unrelated recall issue that they repaired and I asked them what the sound was that I kept hearing every 10 seconds or so. The told me it is the brake actuator, but did not seem concerned at all that I get it repaired right away. They did quote me a very high price to have it fixed by them. I have chosen to take it to my mechanic for repair. In the mean time, I decided to research this on the internet and discovered that it is a known problem by Toyota and there is a class action suite filed on them. I want Toyota to pay to have it fixed! I fear for my life and lives of others with the same issue.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Apr 2025
Sep 2025

The ADS, traction light, and brake light all came on at once. Apparently this is a known problem with these cars and Toyota was fixing them for awhile but has stopped. No brake issues were reported when I brought it in for inspection in 2023. I never received any mail stating that this was a know defect and I needed to bring my car in to get it inspected. It's obvious to me that Toyota designed a defective part that impacts safety, and is forcing the owner to bear the cost of the fix by creating parameters that can never be met before the warranty expires.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Sep 2025
Sep 2025

My brakes consistently lock and the car lunges forward. Driving down the highway I tapped my brakes and they didn’t work. I lost traction in the brakes. I had no control over the car or speed. I’m scared everyday I have to drive it. This is extremely dangerous and I've seen this comment often with this vehicle. Toyota said they had an extended warranty for this but it expired. I never received any mail or phone calls stating that this was a known defect. They say they can’t do anything now and are quoting me over $3000 to fix it.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Sep 2025
Sep 2025

Got code C1391, a common issue with the Prius. Brake Booster Assembly is defective due in no part to owner/driver of vehicle. This creates a serious safety issue with braking. Traction control light, brake light, and ABC light are all on and repair is ridiculously expensive.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Dec 2024
Aug 2025

The brake actuator failed, it can be available for inspection anytime. My ABS light, brake light, and traction control lights all came on to indicate the failure. Since the hybrid engine requires the breaking system to recharge, failure of this part will eventually lead you to be stranded if it isn’t functional. Additionally, the responsiveness of the breaks makes driving at higher speeds a lot riskier. Toyota offered an "extended warranty" to have the parts replaced for free for 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever came first. My make is 2014, at only 89,000 miles.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Aug 2025
Aug 2025

While driving my dashboard lit up with Brake, ABS, and traction control warning lights. Brake pedal fell to the floor when pressed. I was then able to stop the car. I brought the car to a local auto parts store, where they were able to determine that the error code was C1391 brake accumulator pressure leak. I made an appointment and brought my car to my local Toyota dealer the next day. I was informed that the brake booster assembly, brake booster pump, and master cylinder would have to be replaced, at a cost of approximately $4035.00. I was informed that Toyota issued a Customer Satisfaction Program for this exact issue on my car. While my car has 129,000 miles and falls within their coverage range of 150,000, the car’s age of 11 years did not fall within their limit of 10 years. According to Toyota, this is a known failure and my only problem is that my brakes did not fail sooner. Toyota’s corporate office denied my appeal to cover the cost of the repair. The local Toyota dealer charged me $150 to read the code and confirm what the local Auto parts store was able to do for free.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: May 2025
Jul 2025

I was told that my Brake Booster and Brake Booster Pump Assembly needed replaced. I had specifically asked my dealership in the past if there were any issues with my car and was told that there was nothing, which was untrue. I called Toyota and was told that I was mailed something back in 2018, but I do not remember receiving it. Now I am told that this has expired. I wanted to know if I had any recourse or extension time on this program 21 TE01. I am afraid that my brakes will not work, as the lights go off and on. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Mar 2025
Jul 2025

Brake booster system failed and needs replacement. Was told that there was a recall but it expired in 2024 and my car is not covered. Cal has 102000 miles on it.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Jun 2025
Jun 2025

2014 Toyota Prius C with 220k miles. Four warning lights came on while driving. Brakes became not responsive unless you press down very hard. Regenerative braking, went away. The Brake pump can be audibly heard turning on every few seconds.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS C, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: May 2025
Jun 2025

Failed brake booster on 2014 Toyota Prius due to Customer Support Program Bulletin POL18-03 See attached documents sent to Toyota. They would not reimburse the ~ $3,000 repair to the brake booster which was in the Customer Support Program Bulletin POL18-03 Almost had an accident and the repair was done within the repair window.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Nov 2023
May 2025

After 120K miles and 11 years of use, my Prius 3 brake booster pump failed while I was driving. The warning lights came on, including the ABS and brake lights. My brake felt strange, and I had to finish my drive to the dealership keeping a large driving distance so the brakes would work in time. I was advised that this was a result of a C1391 error and that the brake pump part is only covered under extended warranty for 10 years. The advisors at the dealership said it is extremely common for cars to come in with this problem just after the warranty period has ended. I have spoken to other Prius user who have complained of the same issue and are considering a class action lawsuit because this safety issue is so common.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: May 2025
Apr 2025

Issue started with a noise sounding like a motor constantly trying to prime its self. Then while driving on freeway ABS light Brake light and traction control lights all came on. Took car to dealership and was given a $3700 bill to replace Brake Booster Master Cylinder and Brake booster pump. This is a known issue to Toyota and have offered an extended warranty 10 years or 150000 miles but not a recall. My vehicle is at 11 years and 123000 miles. This issue put my family in danger due to the threat of total brake failure.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Apr 2025
Apr 2025

Was driving down the road and the brakes stopped working and the the brake light the traction light and abs light came on. The brakes only worked if i put the pedal all the way to the floor after that. I checked online and found numerous other people have had this issue but no recall has ever been done. only nhtsa safety notices and a volunteered customer support program by toyota which was no longer being honored because I was passed the 10 year mark even though my vehicle was still under the 150k mile threshold by toyota. I wish your organization would force toyota to do a full recall on this. this is a dangerous safety issue involving a defective brake booster and master cylinder

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Apr 2025
Apr 2025

There was a safety recall issued for brake system malfunctions involving the brake booster and brake booster pump assemblies on my vehicle. Unfortunately, the recall expired on December 31, 2024. On March 4, 2025, at 4:10 PM, I contacted the District Manager Advocate in Plano, Texas. I explained that I had been in the ICU twice and am now [XXX]. During the recall period, I was in and out of hospitals for more than four years, making it impossible for me to be aware of or respond to the recall in time. My vehicle has since begun exhibiting the exact symptoms outlined in the recall. When I brought this to their attention, I was told that while the issue was indeed covered under a past recall, there is nothing they can do now because it has expired. This vehicle is our only mode of transportation, which is critical for my ongoing medical treatments, as well as for my husband who recently suffered a heart attack. As I write this, we have no other option but to continue using the vehicle—despite the serious safety risk—because of the urgent and necessary care both of us require. On August 4, 2025, I contacted Toyota headquarters. They reached out to the dealership and spoke with management, but unfortunately, no resolution was offered except for information about a separate, newer recall. I followed up again with the District Manager and spoke with Ashley, who informed me that after escalating the case, there was still nothing further they could do and she expressed her apologies. This situation has caused further deterioration to my health due to the stress and anxiety of potential vehicle failure, and it has added to the burden of my husband’s fragile health condition. At this time, he has been unable to return to work, and we have no income to cover the cost of a repair that should have been addressed through the original recall. We would deeply appreciate any assistance, reconsideration, or compassionate review of our case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Feb 2025
Apr 2025

The brake booster assist assembly failed, causing a leak of brake fluid, im told that over time this failure can lead to a break failure. I contacted Toyota. They informed me that there was an assistance program for fixing this defect. However it expired in 2024? If they know about a defect why did the program expire? This is a safety issue.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Jan 2025
Mar 2025

I am writing to express my profound concern and disappointment regarding a recent, terrifying incident involving the brake system of my 2014 Toyota Prius. On Saturday, June 21, 2025, while driving with other passengers, my vehicle experienced a complete and sudden brake failure. Multiple warning lights illuminated on the dashboard, and despite my efforts, the brakes became unresponsive, making it impossible to stop the car. The sheer terror and helplessness I felt in that moment, with the very real potential for a catastrophic accident involving myself, my passengers, and other road users, is indescribable. Fortunately, through sheer luck and quick thinking, I was able to make an emergency stop on the side of the road, preventing any collision or injury. However, the emotional toll of that experience, the lingering stress, and the fear of a recurrence remain significant. I was subsequently informed that the cause of the failure was a leak in the brake accumulator. I am attaching the diagnosis and repair invoice. The necessary repairs were not completed until Wednesday, June 25th. This unforeseen and critical malfunction also necessitated the expense of a rental car for four days, adding to the financial burden and inconvenience. My frustration is compounded by the fact that this brake accumulator issue is a well-documented and known defect in Toyota Prius models, specifically affecting 2010-2015 vehicles. Toyota itself has previously issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB T-SB-0043-13) acknowledging this problem and offering warranty extensions for affected vehicles, typically up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. Despite this being a recognized safety concern, I was informed that my vehicle falls approximately eight months outside the 10-year warranty period, thus disqualifying me.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Jun 2025
Feb 2025

The brake booster assembly failed at odometer reading 92,463. Prior to diagnosis, several dashboard lights turned on, and the vehicle's braking was negatively affected. The failed brake booster assembly problem was diagnosed, confirmed and repaired by an ASE certified repair technician on 3/14/2024. Toyota refuses to reimburse me for this expensive repair ($2,375.97.) Toyota has operated in an unethical way by not issuing a true RECALL for this known defect. Its "Customer Support Program Bulletin" is full of unclear instructions and vague definitions of what is required for reimbursement. Toyota refuses to reimburse me for even a portion of this expensive repair. NTHSB should force Toyota to issue a recall and reimburse all affected customers who incurred this $2,000 - $3,000 repair.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Mar 2024
Jan 2025

My 2014 Toyota Prius (VIN [XXX] , 77,000 miles) displayed Brake, ABS, and Slip warning lights. A mechanic confirmed failure of the Brake Booster and Pump Assembly (DTC C1391). Toyota previously acknowledged this as a safety-related defect under Customer Support Program ZJB, but my coverage expired because I never received Toyota’s notice dated May 21, 2019. My car has been undrivable for weeks and Toyota refuses goodwill repair. This is a serious brake safety issue that should be reviewed for recall or extended coverage since many Prius owners have experienced the same failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Oct 2025
Dec 2024

Apparently there is a known defect on the brake actuator/master cylinder/booster on the 2014 Prius that would have been addressed if the car had been driven for less than 10 years or 150,000 miles. We purchased our car in April 2014 and the part just failed yesterday at only 126,000 miles. We understand that there is a pending class action suit (or perhaps one that was settled) but do not know how to become a member of it. It seems as if they knew that the part was defective, but did not offer to do a voluntary recall and remediate this before a failure, they should have, but instead, now we have a $3400 repair bill. Requesting assistance in evaluating whether there was negligence and or liability for them not addressing this issue in a timely manner.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Dec 2024
Dec 2024

On [XXX] my brakes failed while driving, (brake booster and actuator) moving at 25 mph, all of a sudden lights ABS and brakes indicator light started flashing and beep. I was approaching a yellow light and attempting to slow down, my foot went to to floor and the were NO BRAKES. I used the EMG brake slow down me pulled into an empty parking lot. My vehicle is available for inspection at request. My safety was was put at risk due to having no control and coming very close to crashing into another car putting that driver at risks as well, but was blessed I was able to avoid an accident. This problem has been confirmed by Phillips Toyota in Leesburg FL #(352)728-3020. The vehicle components have not been inspected by others besides the dealer. I am 2 months over the 10yr customer support program at 102k miles. I have been complaining for the past YEAR to the dealer regarding strange noises like chirping, air deflating when pressing brakes, constant buzzing sounds from system even when car is off, and being propelled forward when going over gravel or railroad track surfaces of the ABS light goes on. This is on record and each time I’d ask, they’d mention it is the brake booster going but because there was no indicator lights or code coming up, they were unable to do anything. My last service in may 2024, I requested a diagnostic on the brake system, which I paid extra for, knowing the 10yr program was about to be expired in July. The dealer found no codes and assured me it was safe to drive and that if I were to see those warning light come on, that I was to drive the car straight to the dealer to inspect. Well, long story short, the lights came on, and immediately the were NO Brakes and I was completely out of control with no time to drive it safely to the dealer. I had it towed to the dealer and they quoted me $3000 to repair brake booster/actuator. I am working with Toyota corporate for compensation. This is a major safety issue that should be a RECALL! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2014 TOYOTA PRIUS, Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Corporation
Incident: Sep 2024

Trend Over Time

Complaints by year

Quick Summary

The 2014 Toyota Prius has 60 Brakes complaints on file. 4 crashes have been reported. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.