2018 Toyota Prius recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Toyota Prius and 37 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (6), exterior lighting (5), visibility/wiper (5). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 46–52 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2018 ranks #8 of 14 Prius model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (139). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.6 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Toyota Prius. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Electrical system · wiring
Problem: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles. A portion of the engine wire harness connected to the hybrid Power Control Unit (PCU), could contact the cover at this connection and wear, causing an electrical short circuit.
Risk: An electrical short can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine wire harness assembly and replace it if damage is found. A protective sleeve or protective tape will be included to prevent any future damage. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0T.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
I am writing to inform you about a very dangerous situation that occurred to me in June 2026 and that could pose a significant safety risk to other drivers who own 2016-17-18-19 Toyota Prius cars. The risk stems from a defective part (the catalytic converter) that Toyota Corporation knew about in 2019 but failed to notify owners of those models. Instead of issuing a recall…
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while having a routine oil change, the contact was made aware that there was no coolant in the coolant reservoir. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact was constantly adding coolant to the coolant reservoir; however, the following day the coolant reservoir was empty. The failure had occurred on several diff…
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Prius. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine constantly overheated. An unidentified warning light was flashing on the instrument panel. An independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and became aware that the coolant reservoir was empty. One month later, the same failure reoccurred. A second independent mechanic…
Safety ratings
2018 Toyota Prius 5 HB FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Toyota Prius.
Prius
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.8 L
Regular
Prius c
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.5 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Toyota Prius have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Toyota Prius, most recently for electrical system · wiring (09/05/2018). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Toyota Prius?
Based on 37 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (6), exterior lighting (5), visibility/wiper (5).
Is the 2018 Toyota Prius safe?
The 2018 Toyota Prius earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Toyota Prius?
The 2018 ranks #8 of 14 Prius model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (139). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.6 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Toyota Prius get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Toyota Prius range from 46 to 52 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 Toyota Prius in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: PRIUS, Prius.