There is hardly anything more stressful than hearing the sound of a door opening while you are speeding down the highway. Alas, for thousands of owners of the hybrid Toyota Prius, this scenario has turned from a bad dream into a real service operation.
The Japanese car giant has officially announced a large-scale recall covering more than 140,000 cars from the 2023-2026 model years. The reason? The eerie and completely unexpected unlocking of the rear doors while driving. If you own the latest generation of the hatchback, it may be time to pay serious attention to its electronic components.
Where is the “key” to the problem?
According to information from thedrive, the culprit for this dangerous situation is not a mechanical defect, but the vagaries of the weather. Toyota engineers have found that under certain conditions moisture can penetrate the external switches of the rear doors. This uninvited water causes a short circuit, which literally “lies“ the electronics that someone has pressed the open button.
“Oh, these modern electronics!“ - skeptics would exclaim. And they would be right, since the Prius relies on a hybrid system of handles with electronic release. When they “give up“ in the rain or at the car wash, the door can open just when you least expect it.
Which models are affected by the action?
A wide range of modifications manufactured between October 2022 and November 2025 are affected. The list includes:
The standard Prius hatchback (models 2023-2026);
The plug-in hybrid Prius Prime (models 2023-2024);
The new versions of the Prius Plug-In Hybrid (2025-2026).
Although the company estimates the real risk in only about 1% of vehicles, the inspection is mandatory for all. Nobody wants to gamble with the safety of their children in the back seat, right?
How will Toyota react?
The good news is that the Japanese are not turning a blind eye. The problem, which was first reported in Japan in early 2025, is now the subject of an official campaign with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the US).
What's next for owners?
Notification: Expect a letter or message from your dealer by the end of March 2026.
Free repair: Technicians will modify the switch circuits to make them “immune“ against moisture and short circuits.
Compensation: If you have already paid out of pocket to repair this defect, Toyota promises to reimburse you every penny.
Safety in the age of software
This incident comes at a time when the debate over “smart” door handles is heating up globally. After China imposed restrictions on certain electronic mechanisms, even the US has started legislative initiatives (such as the project in Illinois) requiring mandatory mechanical levers for emergency situations.
If you notice a warning light on your dashboard or hear a suspicious beep, don't ignore it! Your Toyota may be trying to tell you something important. For more information, you can always contact your local representative, quoting campaign number 26V049.
* This article is prepared based on official data from Toyota and NHTSA reports published by thedrive.