What are the most common Toyota Prius V problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 345+ owner reports, the 2012 Toyota Prius V has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Electric Water Pump Failure and Engine Overheating, EGR Cooler Cracking and Coolant Leak, EGR Cooler Condensation and Engine Intake Carbon Buildup. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Toyota Prius V reliable?
The 2012 Toyota Prius V has 5 known issues documented across 345+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Electric Water Pump Failure and Engine Overheating and EGR Cooler Cracking and Coolant Leak. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Prius V problems?
Repair costs for known Toyota Prius V issues range from $0 to $1,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Electric Water Pump Failure and Engine Overheating, typically costs $250-$800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2012-2017 Toyota Prius V Electric Water Pump Failure and Engine Overheating?
The Prius V uses an electric water pump (like all Gen 3 Prius-based vehicles) rather than a belt-driven mechanical pump. The electric pump motor can fail without warning, causing rapid engine overheating. Unlike a belt-driven pump where you'd hear squealing before failure, the el… Repairs typically run $250-$800. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2017 Toyota Prius V EGR Cooler Cracking and Coolant Leak?
The Prius V shares the same 2ZR-FXE engine as the standard Prius and is subject to EGR cooler cracking. The EGR cooler develops internal cracks from thermal stress, allowing coolant to leak into the EGR passage or externally onto the engine. This causes coolant loss, overheating… Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2017 Toyota Prius V EGR Cooler Condensation and Engine Intake Carbon Buildup?
The Prius V uses an EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler that produces condensation during short trips and cold weather driving. This condensation mixes with exhaust gases to form carbon deposits in the intake manifold and on the intake valves. Over time, the carbon buildup res… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2015 Toyota Prius V Rear Liftgate Seal Water Leak into Cargo Area?
The Prius V wagon body style suffers from water leaks around the rear liftgate seal, particularly at the upper corners where the seal meets the roof. Water enters the cargo area during rain and car washes, pooling under the cargo floor mat and in the spare tire well. The leak can… Repairs typically run $50-$300. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2017 Toyota Prius V 12V Auxiliary Battery Premature Failure?
The Prius V's small 12V auxiliary battery fails prematurely, often within 3-4 years. The battery is located in the right rear cargo area and is difficult for owners to check. When it fails, the hybrid system cannot initialize, leaving the car completely dead — even though the mai… Repairs typically run $150-$300. Severity: medium.
