Toyota Prius models recalled for unexpected rear door opening risk
Toyota is recalling certain 2023–2026 Prius and Prius Prime models because water may enter the rear door switch, causing an unlocked door to open unexpectedly while driving. This increases injury risk.
What this means for you
Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.
Our severity reasoning: This is a structural vehicle defect involving an electrical/switch system that creates a risk of a door opening unexpectedly while driving, which increases injury risk. No reported injuries or deaths are stated in the source, placing this at High (score 3) rather than Severe.
Plain-English summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing is recalling certain 2023–2024 Prius Prime, 2023–2026 Prius, and 2025–2026 Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, which can allow an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly. A door that opens while the vehicle is moving increases the risk of injury.
Dealers will modify the rear door switch circuits free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on March 26, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, which is anticipated in Q2 2026. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recall (NHTSA recall number 24V274, which this recall expands and replaces) will need to have the new remedy performed.
Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's internal reference numbers for this recall are 26TB03 and 26TA03.
The recalled product
- Product
- 2026 TOYOTA PRIUS
- Brand
- TOYOTA
- Manufacturer
- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Hazard
- door-opening
- electrical-short-circuit
- water-intrusion
- Affected units
- 141,286
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (3)
- PRIUS
- PRIUS PRIME
- PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.