2012 Toyota Prius C
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 64
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 2
- Top problem
- Service brakes
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
41% of complaints
Complaints per year
2012: 64 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 64 |
| 2013 | 56 |
| 2014 | 33 |
| 2015 | 17 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 2 |
| 2018 | 6 |
| 2019 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Service brakes
41% · 26 reportsShow complaint excerpts
While my daughter was driving brake pedal faded and rear brakes locked up causing her to lose initial control of car . Steering felt tight .
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-06-30
Code C1391 shows in which the accumulator and the brake booster assembly need to be changed. This is a known defect and was covered through an âextended warrantyâ due to a lawsuit.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-03-11
The brakes fail and the ABS module stops working correctly and when I go at a speed of 60 MPH the brakes lock until the speed drops and they work again.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-10-11
Electrical system
23% · 15 reportsMost commonly citing inverter.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2012 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while attempting to park, the vehicle rapidly accelerated upon tapping the brake pedal and crashed into a brick storefront without warning. The air bags failed to deploy upon impact.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-13
Also filed under Air bags and power train
Air bags
13% · 8 reportsShow complaint excerpts
The brakes were applied gently as the car was approaching a stopped car. The Prius C then accelerated, at which time the brakes were firmly applied, the ABS system engaged, but not in enough time for the vehicle to stop.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-28
Also filed under Structure
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while exiting a residential driveway, another vehicle crashed into the vehicle and all of the air bags failed to deploy. A police report was filed and no injuries were reported.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-04-08
Engine
8% · 5 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Problem with the fuel bladder causing the gauge to read incorrectly. The gauge gets stuck at a quarter tank and before you know it, you're out of gas.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-04-11
Seat belts
6% · 4 reportsSafety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 2 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2013-03-18Defect petitionClosed 2014-07-25 Drivability, Service brake failure
-
I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds
Buy-smart checklist
2012 Toyota Prius C — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Service brakes: 26 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 15 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 8 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2012 Toyota Prius C reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2012 Toyota Prius C?
- The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 41% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2012 Toyota Prius C have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.