2003 Toyota Prius: jerking or lurching

Filed Aug 31, 2020 · Brakes · NJ

Occasionally, when braking, the car will begin to brake, then lurch forward a little, and then brake again properly. It's disconcerting at best and scary and dangerous at worst. I've had this brake problem for years but finally realized that it's a significant toyota flaw with the ABS, and that newer priuses and lexuses were recalled because of a similar problem. Toyota did not recall the 2001-03 priuses and refuse to accept that it's anything but the result of age (as per aug 2020). However, I've seen online that many owners have had this problem since they first bought the car! I bought it used and can't remember how long it's been happening. It's not every time I drive the car. It hasn't caused an accident, but it certainly could. And if I crash into someone, it will be considered my fault, even though it's very clearly toyota's fault! I'm very disturbed that people have been reporting this issue for years, that toyota dealers have referenced it as a problem, too, and that toyota refuses to accept responsibility and fix the problem.

Filed Nov 7, 2012 · Steering · 75,000 miles · NC

Two years ago, my car began exhibiting steering issues. When turning, both in reverse and drive, the steering wheel would shudder violently. After a few seconds, the shuddering subsided and the car steered normally. The issue was especially bad when the car was cold and improved as the car warmed up. Over the past couple of years, the issue has worsened, occurring with increasing frequency and with increasing violence. The steering wheel now jerks uncontrollably as I drive, and the steering wheel shudders when turning, sometimes so violently that I cannot hold onto the wheel or control the car. Turning left is becoming progressively difficult; the car pulls constantly and sharply to the right even though the tires on the car were just aligned. The 2003 toyota prius was already recalled for steering issues exactly as I describe. Toyota claimed the issue lay with the pinion shaft nuts. The pinion shaft nuts in my car were already replaced, per the recall. However, the steering problem persists and is growing worse. From my research, other 2003 toyota prius owners describe the same problem, and the same failure of the recall repair to remedy the problem. Mechanics not affiliated with toyota have told me this is a common, well known issue with the 2003 toyota prius. According to the toyota recall notice, "if the steering wheel is repeatedly and strongly turned to the full-lock position, there is a possibility the nuts securing the pinion shaft in the steering gear box assembly may become loose." (http://pressroom.toyota.com/releases/toyota+prius+eps+pinion+shaft+nut+june+2011+recall+faq.htm). However, my car has been driven gently and maintained well throughout its life. Despite my careful care of the vehicle, it has become dangerous to drive. I believe the recall insufficiently addressed the steering issues endemic to the 2003 toyota prius.

Filed Sep 29, 2011 · Steering · 104,442 miles · VT

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 toyota prius. The contact stated after having her vehicle repaired under the federal safety agency recall campaign id number: 11v304000 (steering:electric power assist system) the steering wheel would jerk violently and made a loud noise. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance. The VIN was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 104,442.

Filed Feb 18, 2010 · Steering · 27,770 miles · CA

I have a 2003 toyota prius. When I made left turns the steering wheel would stick and I would have to jerk it back to straighten out the car. I took it into the shop and the steering system had to be replaced. The cost of the repair was approx. $2800. I am making a report in the event that there are other prius' that have had this problem.

Filed Sep 26, 2007 · Acceleration · OR

2003 toyota prius with acceleration and brake problems. Customer stated when she released her foot from the brake pedal the vehicle raced forward while making a loud noise. The brakes were reapplied but it did not stop the vehicle. *kb the consumer was able to veer slightly to the left to avoid an accident. The vehicle finally stopped after lurching about 30 to 40 feet well beyond the stop sign and into the intersection. The dealer was unable to duplicate the problem.

Filed Nov 12, 2003 · Fuel system · MD

Since the first month after buying the car, gas mileage has been no more than 30 miles per gallon, which is at least 20 miles less than advertised... On more than one occasion the car has jerked forward in traffic almost causing accidents and when driving more than 60 MPH the car loses control, also the car has shut off numerous times while driving 60 MPH almost causing more accidents.