2017 Toyota Prius Prime problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 46 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 2.8 times the median Prius Prime year — the 2017 model ranks #1 of 8 Prius Prime years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across electrical system (9), visibility & wipers (6), and engine (4), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
46
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
1
Investigations
8
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2017 compare to other Prius Prime years?
What are the most common 2017 Toyota Prius Prime problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 9 | 20% | new |
| Visibility & Wipers | 6 | 13% | new |
| Transmission | 4 | 9% | new |
| Engine | 4 | 9% | new |
| Brakes | 4 | 9% | new |
| Driver Assistance | 4 | 9% | new |
| Tires & Wheels | 3 | 7% | new |
| Airbags | 2 | 4% | new |
| Fuel System | 2 | 4% | new |
| Other | 2 | 4% | new |
| Steering | 2 | 4% | new |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 2% | new |
| Speed Control | 1 | 2% | new |
| Seats | 1 | 2% | new |
| Seat Belts | 1 | 2% | new |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“I have a 2017 Toyota Prius Prime advanced. It has the large infotaiment screen that is where I have to access many items. Often, seemingly randomly, the screen shuts down and reboots itself. During the time it is rebooting I do not have any access to the controls. It gives no warning when it is…”
“WINDSHIELD CRACKED WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. I DID NOT NOTICE ANYTHING HITTING IT, BUT THERE ARE CRACKS ON THE CENTER HIGH POSITION DISCOVERED WHEN I STOPPED. I HAVE CONTACTED GLASS REPAIR SHOP BUT THERE IS NO PARTS TO MAKE REPLACEMENT FOR THIS VEHICLE. THERE IS A NATIONWIDE BACK ORDER ON…”
“Toyota has a very well known issue with head gasket failures right around 140k miles that they refuse to address. This is my second Prius and my second failure right at 140k miles. They refuse to acknowledge it, but the advisors in the service department say that's their "bread and butter." They…”
“This vehicle rear ended another vehicle in peak hour stop and go traffic. The estimated speed at the time of impact was 10-15 MPH. There was exensive front end damage to the vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. Unclear if the AEB engaged but the driver actively tried braking but not successful in…”
“JUST FIVE MINUTES AFTER I LEFT THE HOUSE, I WAS DRIVING AT 15 MILES MPH ON A CURVED ROAD AND THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY LOST POWER. THIS INCLUDES BOTH THE ELECTRIC MOTOR AND THE GAS MOTOR. BOTH THE STEERING SYSTEM AND BRAKES MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME TOO STIFF TO TURN AND THE…”
2017 Toyota Prius Prime — common questions
Is the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 46 complaints put the 2017 model at #1 of 8 Prius Prime years. It is one of the Prius Prime years to avoid.
What are the most common 2017 Prius Prime problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are electrical system (9 complaints), visibility & wipers (6 complaints), engine (4 complaints).
Does the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime.
Is the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime under NHTSA investigation?
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Which Toyota Prius Prime years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Prius Prime years to avoid are 2017. The cleanest record among Prius Prime years belongs to 2023.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.