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Toyota Recalls 141,000 Prius Models After Rear Door Risk
Toyota issued the recall in early February 2026, covering about 141,286 Prius-family vehicles in the U.S. after identifying a defect that can allow a rear door to open while the vehicle is moving, if that door is unlocked.
The recall has gained traction because the failure is both unexpected and easy to picture. A rear door opening at speed is rare, but it raises immediate safety concerns, especially for passengers seated in the back. Toyota says the issue is fixable at no cost to owners and has outlined a clear repair process.
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Vehicles Included in the Recall
According to Toyota and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall applies to the following U.S. models:
- 2023–2026 Toyota Prius
- 2023–2024 Toyota Prius Prime
- 2025–2026 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
Toyota notes that not every Prius built during these model years is affected. The recall is limited to vehicles equipped with a specific electric rear door lock system and door opener switch produced during certain manufacturing periods.
What Is Causing the Problem
The issue centers on the electric rear door opener switch. Under certain conditions, water can enter the switch and cause a short circuit. If the rear door is unlocked when that happens, the system may trigger the door release, allowing the door to open while driving.
Toyota’s recall report explains that the risk increases when several factors overlap. Repeated temperature changes can weaken the sealing around the switch over time. High-pressure water exposure, such as during a car wash, can push moisture past the seal. Closing the door with extra force may also momentarily compromise the seal. When water mixed with soap or detergent enters the switch, the chance of an unintended electrical activation increases.
If the condition occurs, the vehicle is designed to warn the driver. Toyota says the instrument cluster should display a door-open warning and trigger an audible alert.
Reported Incidents & Safety Risk
As of late January 2026, Toyota reported no U.S. field technical reports tied to accidents or injuries related to this defect. The company identified three warranty claims that may be connected to the condition.
Even with limited reports, the safety risk is clear. A rear door opening while the vehicle is in motion increases the risk of injury to passengers and creates a distraction for the driver at a critical moment.
How Toyota Is Fixing It
Toyota’s solution is a modification to the rear door switch circuits on both sides of the vehicle. The change prevents the switch from activating even if a short occurs. The repair will be performed by Toyota dealers and will be free of charge. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed by the end of March 2026. Toyota has also indicated that the remedy rollout will happen in phases as parts and dealer capacity are aligned.
Owners do not need to wait for the letter to act. Checking the vehicle identification number on Toyota’s recall website or the NHTSA recall database can confirm whether a specific vehicle is affected. Toyota also advises owners to make sure rear doors are locked before driving until the repair is completed. For owners who previously paid out of pocket to address the issue, Toyota’s recall filing includes a reimbursement process for eligible repairs.
Toyota’s internal investigation shows that this recall builds on earlier concerns involving door opener switch waterproofing. Additional testing highlighted how water exposure combined with cleaning chemicals could trigger the defect, leading to the expanded recall.
If you drive a Prius from the affected model years, the key decision is timing. Waiting for the notice is fine, but checking your VIN early can help you schedule the repair sooner and reduce any lingering safety concerns.
For more industry updates, visit our automotive news section.