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2010 Toyota Prius Review: An Unreliable Year To Avoid For The Popular Hybrid Car

Rating: 4.48
Based on 100 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2010 Toyota Prius, part of the third generation (2010-2015), is a pioneering hybrid hatchback. Its popularity stems from its exceptional fuel efficiency and eco-friendly image. Key trims included the base, II, III, IV, and V, offering varying levels of features. When new, the MSRP ranged from approximately $22,000 to $28,000. Its distinctive aerodynamic design and hybrid powertrain set it apart.
The Good

The 2010 Prius offers exceptional fuel efficiency, appealing to the eco-conscious and budget-minded. Its reputation for reliability provides peace of mind. While not sporty, its smooth ride offers reasonable comfort. The iconic, recognizable design satisfies those seeking a distinctive, environmentally-friendly vehicle. It provides a strong value proposition for buyers prioritizing practicality.

The Bad

The 2010 Prius isn't known for thrilling performance or luxurious features. Some owners report issues with excessive oil consumption. The ride can be firm, and road noise can be noticeable. The interior materials, while durable, may not feel premium. The braking system can sometimes feel grabby or inconsistent. Watch out for potential hybrid battery degradation as the vehicle ages.

2010 Toyota Prius: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 1.8L 4-cylinder gasoline engine with Hybrid Synergy Drive system.
  • Horsepower: Total system horsepower of 134 hp (combined gasoline and electric).
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 10.1 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Standard features include keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, and a basic audio system.
    • II: Adds features such as a upgraded audio system.
    • III: Includes Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and navigation system.
    • IV: Features leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an upgraded JBL audio system.
    • V: Top-of-the-line trim includes LED headlights, solar roof (optional), and dynamic radar cruise control.

Each trim level builds upon the previous one, adding more comfort, convenience, and technology features. The availability of features like the solar roof and advanced safety systems varied depending on the trim and optional packages. The Prius's focus remained on fuel efficiency and practicality, with interior space optimized for passenger and cargo carrying.

2010 Toyota Prius Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2010
Make Toyota
Model Prius
Trim -
Style 5-Door
Type Sedan
Category Mid-Size Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Asia, Japan
Manufacturing City KARIYA
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 1379.83 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1814.37 kg
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.8-L
Engine Size 1.8L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds Continuously Variable
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $28,070 USD
Invoice Price $26,129 USD
Delivery Charges $760 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2010 Toyota Prius Have?

The 2010 Toyota Prius has experienced some frequently reported problems. A common concern is excessive oil consumption, particularly in later years as the car ages. Some owners have reported needing to add oil more frequently between changes. Another issue reported is with the combination meter (instrument panel) failing, although this is less widespread. There have been some reports of inverter failures, a critical component of the hybrid system, which can be costly to repair.

Recalls for the 2010 Prius have included issues with the brake booster, which could lead to reduced braking performance. It's crucial to check if any applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability is generally good, but the hybrid battery is a significant concern. While designed to last, battery degradation is inevitable, and replacement can be expensive. Some owners have also experienced issues with the water pump for the hybrid system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are vital to extending the Prius's lifespan and mitigating potential problems. Before purchasing, checking the vehicle's maintenance history and conducting a thorough inspection are highly recommended.

How long will the 2010 Toyota Prius last?

With diligent maintenance, a 2010 Toyota Prius can easily surpass 200,000 miles. Many owners report 250,000 miles or more with the original hybrid battery, though performance may gradually decline. Key to longevity is regular oil changes (using the correct viscosity), timely coolant flushes, and keeping up with brake maintenance. The hybrid battery's lifespan varies significantly based on climate and driving habits; hotter climates tend to shorten its lifespan. Weaknesses over time include potential oil consumption, hybrid battery degradation, and occasional component failures within the hybrid system.
Positive Owner Reviews
John
I got a 2010 Prius through an estate settlement. It already had about 170k miles on it and was burning about a qt of oil every 1000 miles. After some research I found a mechanic who nearly guaranteed that he could fix it without major engine work. He cleaned out the entire intake and exhaust and ran cleaning agents through the engine. 3 years later it runs great and gets much better mileage. Change the oil every 5k miles and this may not happen. Finally just had the brakes done for the first time! Great car.
Marta
The best car I have ever owned! The low gas mileage and no major problems in the past 10 years - Prius is my
Timber
Fuel milage was very good at 48 mpg. With 2 to 5 miles spurts at up to 100 mpg. Very comfey car to drive, plenty of power.
Negative Owner Reviews
JS
I bought a 2010 Prius used, to be a daily driver and general family car. As expected, it was not a fun or sporty driving experience, due to the hybrid power system, even in power mode. The rear visibility was poor, and the rear camera doesn't really make up for that. The dashboard display is in the center not in front of the driver, and the hybrid monitoring displays are all more distracting than useful.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2010 Toyota Prius offered a decent array of built-in tech for its time. Entertainment features included a standard audio system with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a JBL premium audio system. Driver-assistance features were limited but included options like dynamic radar cruise control and parking assist.

Safety features comprised standard antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). A rearview camera was available on some trims. Optional features included a solar roof that could power the ventilation system while parked. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally good, with the Prius earning high scores in most categories. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also awarded the 2010 Prius with good ratings in its crash tests. While not as advanced as modern vehicles, the 2010 Prius provided a solid foundation of safety and technology for its era, particularly when equipped with optional features.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Barcelona Red Metallic
Blue Ribbon Metallic
Silver Metallic
Super White
Tidal Wave Pearl
Sea Glass Pearl
Sandy Beach Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Gray
Bisque

2010 Toyota Prius Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2010 Toyota Prius ranged from approximately $22,000 to $28,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Prius depreciates like most vehicles, but its strong reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency helps it retain value relatively well. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and hybrid battery health. High mileage and a degraded battery will significantly lower the price.

2010 Toyota Prius Cost of Ownership

The 2010 Toyota Prius is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs are exceptionally low due to its hybrid powertrain. Routine maintenance is relatively affordable. However, potential repairs to the hybrid system, particularly the battery, can be expensive. Long-term ownership costs are lower than average due to excellent fuel economy and solid reliability, but budgeting for potential hybrid system repairs is prudent. Overall, the Prius shines as an economical choice.

2010 Toyota Prius Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Hybrid
Fuel Capacity 17.92 liters
City Mileage 1.96 km/l
Highway Mileage 2.08 km/l

2010 Toyota Prius Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2010 Toyota Prius Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/Module
Recall date 2010-02-09
Recall no. 10v039000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Toyota Prius and Lexus Hs250h Passenger Vehicles. Customers Have Experienced Inconsistent Brake Feel After ABS Actuation During Slow and Steady Application OF THE Brakes ON Rough or Slick Road Surfaces. Stopping Distances MAY BE Increased Compared With A Customer's Expectation FOR A Given Pedal Force.
Consequence Vehicle Stopping Distances MAY Increase Relative TO A Customer's Expectation Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Rewrite THE Programming OF THE ABS Control Unit Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 3, 2010, and IS Expected TO BE Completed IN Late March 2010. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331 and Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987.
Notes Toyota Recall NO. AOB Lexus Ala.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2010-02-03
Recall no. 10v036000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Passenger Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence A Driver MAY Overload A Vehicle Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2010-02-03
Recall no. 10v035000
Source NHTSA
Summary Gulf States Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Sold Between September 1, 2005 and June 2, 2008 Without THE Requisite Load Carrying Capacity Modification Labels.
Consequence This Does NOT Meet THE Standard Requirements.
Remedy Dealers Will Mail TO Consumers THE Corrected Label or THE Customer Will Have THE Option FOR Dealers TO Install THE Label Free OF Charge. Dealers Will Also Correct THE Owner's Manual. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 27, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Toyota AT 713-580-3300.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date 2013-01-16
Recall no. 13v014000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date 2013-01-16
Recall no. 13v014000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes
Recall date 2013-06-05
Recall no. 13v235000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Prius Vehicles Manufactured March 31, 2009, Through October 9, 2009; and Model Year 2010 Lexus Hs250h Vehicles Manufactured June 19, 2009, Through October 9, 2009. Nitrogen GAS From A Component OF THE Brake Booster Pump Assembly Could Leak Into THE Brake Fluid.
Consequence AS Nitrogen IS Released Into THE Brake Fluid, THE Brake Pedal MAY Have Reduced Hydraulic Pressure. Under Certain Circumstances, This Condition Could Affect Stopping Distance and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected Brake Booster Pump Assemblies. THE Recall Began ON August 7, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date 2014-02-12
Recall no. 14v053000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Through 2014 Prius Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Inside THE Inverter Module (A Component OF THE Hybrid System) Contains Transistors That MAY Become Damaged From High Operating Temperatures. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel and THE Vehicle Will Have Reduced Power Allowing IT TO Only Drive A Short Distance.
Consequence THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. THE Hybrid System Could Also Shut Down Completely Resulting IN A Vehicle Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR Both THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control Ecu, Free OF Charge. IF AN Owner Experiences A Failure OF THE Inverter Before THE Vehicle Receives Updated Software, THE Dealer Will Repair or Replace THE Inverter Assembly With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Recall date 2014-02-12
Recall no. 14v053000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Through 2014 Prius Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Inside THE Inverter Module (A Component OF THE Hybrid System) Contains Transistors That MAY Become Damaged From High Operating Temperatures. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel and THE Vehicle Will Have Reduced Power Allowing IT TO Only Drive A Short Distance.
Consequence THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. THE Hybrid System Could Also Shut Down Completely Resulting IN A Vehicle Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR Both THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control Ecu, Free OF Charge. IF AN Owner Experiences A Failure OF THE Inverter Before THE Vehicle Receives Updated Software, THE Dealer Will Repair or Replace THE Inverter Assembly With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2016-06-30
Recall no. 16v487000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus Ct200h Vehicles. A Weld IN THE Curtain Shield AIR BAG Inflator MAY Crack Causing ONE or Both Portions OF THE Inflator TO Eject Into THE Passenger Cabin.
Consequence IF Either Portion OF THE Curtain Shield AIR BAG Inflator Ejects Into THE Passenger Cabin, There IS AN Increased Risk OF Injury TO Vehicle Occupants.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Retention Brackets TO THE Curtain Shield AIR Bags, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 17, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service Department AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS Toyota G0u, and Lexus Glj.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2014-11-19
Recall no. 14v743000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4X2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4X2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4runner. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience Compression OF THE Seat Cushion Which MAY Damage THE Seat Heater Wiring.
Consequence Damage TO THE Seat Heater Wiring Could Cause THE Wires TO Short, Increasing THE Risk OF THE Seat Burning and Causing Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Heaters With Copper Strand Heating Elements and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2016-06-02
Recall no. 16v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System
Recall date 2018-10-04
Recall no. 18v684000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V Vehicles. Excessive Voltage IN THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Within THE Inverter MAY Cause THE Hybrid System TO Shut Down, Causing THE Vehicle TO Stall While Being Driven.
Consequence IF THE Hybrid System Shuts Down Unexpectedly, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control ECU AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 22, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS J0v. Note: THE Software Updates IN This Recall ARE Needed Even IF THE Vehicle HAD THE Software Previously Updated Under Recalls 14v-053 or 15v-449.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2010 Toyota Prius Insurance

Insurance for a 2010 Toyota Prius is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2010 Toyota Prius Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2010 Toyota Prius competed primarily with other hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicles. Rivals included the Honda Insight, Ford Fusion Hybrid, and Nissan Altima Hybrid. The Prius generally outperformed the Honda Insight in terms of fuel economy and interior space. The Ford Fusion Hybrid offered a more traditional sedan driving experience but didn't match the Prius's MPG. The Nissan Altima Hybrid, while offering more power, wasn't as efficient.

In terms of reliability, the Prius has a strong reputation, often surpassing its competitors. Feature-wise, the Prius offered a competitive set of technology for its time. Regarding price, the Prius was generally positioned competitively within the hybrid segment. Similar alternatives include later model year Prius vehicles or the Toyota Camry Hybrid, which offers a more comfortable ride and larger interior but sacrifices some fuel economy. If performance is a higher priority, the Ford Fusion Hybrid might be a better choice, but for overall fuel efficiency and reliability, the Prius remains a strong contender.

Ranks #128 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
128 2010 Toyota Prius (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Toyota Prius a Good Sedan?

The 2010 Toyota Prius is ideal for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and reliability. It's a good choice for commuters and environmentally conscious individuals. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained model with reasonable mileage and a healthy hybrid battery is a good value. A pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic specializing in hybrids is highly recommended. Higher trim levels (III, IV, V) offer more features but come at a higher price. Avoid models with a history of excessive oil consumption or significant hybrid battery degradation. It's a worthwhile purchase if you understand its limitations (performance, interior quality) and appreciate its strengths (fuel economy, reliability).

2010 Toyota Prius Owner Reviews

4.48
Overall rating
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Nancy on June 7, 2024

My 2010 Prius with the solar panel package has been the

My 2010 Prius with the solar panel package has been the best car I’ve ever owned. At 180k miles it drives like a dream and I’ve never had to replace anything besides the brakes. If I drive right I actually get 60-85 mpg. It’s a really wonderful car. I expect another 50 to 100k more miles out of it.

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pat on February 7, 2023

A car that sips gas

This car is very economical. Great gas mileage and very easy to maintain. Be certain to change the oil and filter. Rotate tires and check the brakes every 10K miles. Realize what this car is all about - it is not a high performance car but for transportation inexpensive cost per mile it is SUPER.

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Rachel on January 9, 2023

2010 Toyota Prius

I bought a 2010 Prius as I needed hood gas mileage. I’ve had the car for 3 years, and it had a lot of miles when I got it. It’s not given me any problem till a week ago. It’s been dependable daily. Now I think I only have a few weeks to try to gather money to replace my car. Why? Because my son had a 2012 Prius and from the day he was told it’s problem, it was 1 month before the motor blew. The entire side of the motor blew out. It was a shocking sight. I mean, it was simply gone. I think it was amazing he was not going fast, what would have happened? What happens if I’m on the hwy when mine goes? This is sad. This is a great little car for around town. It’s trouble free. Even with age and high miles it’s a good car. Going a long distance? Forget about it. The seats are hard and not only do you feel every inch of the road, you hear it too. You are crippled by the time you make a 3 hour drive. If you have any fear of driving noise, don’t get on the hwy with this car. But, if you need a dependable car, cheap to upkeep, great on gas, in city driving, this is great. This is Jan of 2023. The batteries are still good. Issues with headlights, radio, sensor lights. I will be sorry to see this little car go. I really like it all in all. I feel sorry for it and for me. It would have been helpful if someone would have brought up problems with carbon build up and how to prevent it. No one shares knowledge, like it’s a major secret or a crime to do so. But, if the car dealer had said, listen, these cars have issues with this. Put this in your car monthly. Maybe I would not be loosing my car now? Not once has this car left me stranded.

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bsimmns on January 8, 2023

Reliability

The greatest car on the planet besides my BMW's humm maybe better. .I LOVE driving this car... First hybrid I owned. I would buy another. I bought the car with 167k and now have over 210k.My daughter drives it back and forth to school. GREAT gas mileage thus far NO PROBLEMS.

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Linda on December 7, 2022

Prius review

I bought this car new in 2010 and have been the only owner since. The car is easy to drive, gets great gas mileage, and requires basic maintenance. I have changed the tires twice and the rear brakes once and otherwise it's been great!

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John on September 24, 2022

Great car, but change the oil.

I got a 2010 Prius through an estate settlement. It already had about 170k miles on it and was burning about a qt of oil every 1000 miles. After some research I found a mechanic who nearly guaranteed that he could fix it without major engine work. He cleaned out the entire intake and exhaust and ran cleaning agents through the engine. 3 years later it runs great and gets much better mileage. Change the oil every 5k miles and this may not happen. Finally just had the brakes done for the first time! Great car.

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Basem hajomar on April 18, 2022

ABS????????

I have this car for 8 years I changed water pump 5 times I changed two engines and now I changed ABS (used) for the fourth time and still not working

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Ol' Ken on May 26, 2021

Toyota didn't lye.

Extremely reliable and great on gas mileage. Not the best looking car I've ever owned, and considerably more expensive than the car I replaced it with. Still I had a hard time not just buying another one. As a used car it will give the new owner great service.

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Dave 161 on March 13, 2021

Best car I ever owned

Bought it new , a three hatch , in 2010. In over 100 k never had a problem. Handles great . With four Blizzak snows went through anything. 50 mpg all the time.

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Marta on February 3, 2021

Best gas mileage and have had no problems 10 years

The best car I have ever owned! The low gas mileage and no major problems in the past 10 years - Prius is my

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.