As if Toyota didn’t have enough trouble with the sudden acceleration of some models that have led to a massive recall worldwide – now comes word that there are a growing number of complaints about the popular Prius hybrid 2010 model and a brake problem. According to a CNN Money article, more than 100 complaints have been lodged with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a newly designed version in 2010 that was introduced last summer. And it isn’t just a domestic problem. In Japan there have been 14 similar complaints about brake malfunctions according to the Japan Automobile Dealers Association. A spokesman says that the problem owners report is that when they step on the brake they do not get a full braking feel. It reportedly happens when drivers are taking the cars over bumpy roads or a frozen surface. A complaint into NHTSA sounds very similar:
“I have been driving my 2010 Prius for 6 months and have experienced the following nearly 10 times,” wrote one owner, “When braking, if a pothole or bump in the road is hit, the car seemingly jerks forward/accelerates for a split second.”
This is very bad news for Toyota as the Prius is the third most popular car they sell behind the Camry and Corolla. Prius adds to the recalled 2.3 million vehicles in January due to sticking gas pedals and the recall of 4.2 million cars for what’s called a sticking pedal under the floor mats. The new Prius recall adds another 1.1 million cars to the mix.
What can owners do? Take it to the dealer and you are likely to be dismissed as being more sensitive than other drivers to the feeling of weaker brakes. That is not the right answer or the correct approach to take with Toyota owners. Stay safe and insist on answers from the world’s largest automaker. If you have trouble with your Toyota, contact an experienced Jacksonville injury attorney to help guide you get the answers you deserve.
