Toyota PRIUS
What the hazard is
In limited instances, the hybrid system may shut down resulting in the vehicle stopping whilst being driven, increasing the risk of an accident and injury or death of vehicle occupants and other road users.
What to do
Owners of the involved vehicles will receive a campaign notification by mail at their last known address instructing them to take their vehicle to their preferred Toyota Dealer for the Hybrid System ECU reprogramming at No Charge to the owner.
Defect
The software used to control the boost converter contained within the hybrid system intelligent power module, during high-load driving such as accelerating from a stop, may cause higher thermal stress on the Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors. These transistors could deform or become damaged, resulting in various warning lights illuminating and in most cases the vehicle will enter failsafe mode. The vehicle can still be driven certain distances but with reduced motive power.