Toyota is recalling its 2021 Prius hybrid hatchback as it could lose power.

    “In the involved vehicles, a software error can cause a control computer (hybrid vehicle ECU) to erroneously determine that it does not have the correct information about the transmission position,” the company says in its recall notice.

    “This can occur if the shift position is changed during a short window of time when the computer is checking the system status.”

    Toyota says this is an approximate 0.1 millisecond window.

    “In this instance, warning lights will illuminate and the hybrid system will shut down resulting in loss of motive power,” the notice continues.

    “A loss of motive power could increase the risk of an accident causing injury or death of vehicle occupants and/or other road users.”

    • The recall affects seven customer-delivered vehicles produced between June 2021 and July 2021
    • The VIN list is attached here
    • The company’s recall notice is attached here

    If you own an affected vehicle, Toyota says you can continue to drive it but you’ll need to schedule an appointment with a Toyota dealership.

    A technician will perform a free hybrid control ECU software reprogramming.

    The fix will take around an hour, though dealers’ work schedules may mean you’ll need to leave your Prius with them for longer.

    If you have any further questions, you can contact the Toyota Recall Campaign Helpline on weekdays from 8:00am to 6:00pm on 1800 987 366.

    MORE: Everything Toyota Prius

    William Stopford

    William Stopford is an automotive journalist based in Brisbane, Australia. William is a Business/Journalism graduate from the Queensland University of Technology who loves to travel, briefly lived in the US, and has a particular interest in the American car industry.

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