Is the 2013 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 2013 Toyota Prius C?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2013 Toyota Prius C have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

2013 Toyota Prius C

○ Not enough data

2013 Toyota Prius C
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:48:15.725Z

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 56
Recalls: 0
Investigations: 1
Top problem: Electrical system

Complaints per year

2013: 56 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.

Electrical system

39% · 22 reports

Most commonly citing instrument cluster/panel.

CRASH

Show complaint excerpts

Immobilized failure due to combination of brake hose failure preventing hybrid control/shift actuator.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-09-14

Also filed under Service brakes and steering

While in motion, the vehicle switched out of ready mode. The vehicle did not switch back into ready mode. Body damage incurred during emergency stop, due to vehicle going at about 35MPH when the malfunction occurred on a surface street.

NHTSA ODI report, 2020-07-08

Also filed under Structure

Service brakes

30% · 17 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Toyota Prius C. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and failed to respond. As a result, the contact crashed into a tree and the air bags failed to deploy.

NHTSA ODI report, 2014-11-07

Also filed under Air bags

Engine

13% · 7 reports

CRASH

Fuel/propulsion system

9% · 5 reports

Hybrid propulsion system

9% · 5 reports

Most commonly citing inverter.

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2013 Toyota Prius C — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 22 reports on file for this year.
Service brakes: 17 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 7 reports on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 2013 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 2013 Toyota Prius C?: The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Toyota Prius C have?: No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.