Toyota recalls Prius due to faulty brakes I hope this addresses some of the recently reported "total brake loss" failures here.
There are only a few affected owners with actual failed accumulators so it's a low-incident, proactive recall. Certainly nothing like the widespread grabby brakes when reversing syndrome. In this old thread, I didn't think it was a prospective recall but my prediction turned out to be false. Only those built through October 2009. If you're registered through Toyota Owners Official Web Site: Service Coupons, Owner's Manuals, Service Scheduling And More , your recall notice is already there if you're affected.
You have to get on the site with your VIN to see if your car is part of it. Not all are. When it becomes official Toyota will track you down with the info. If you are registered you may beat the crowd and be first in line,,, I hope. And the way I read it, a nitrogen charged accumulator can leak causing nitrogen bubbles to enter the brake fluid. I would think that could go beyond a "soft pedal" to 'pedal to the floor'. Here's all there is from Toyota: At the present time, Toyota is currently preparing the remedy. What is the Condition? The subject vehicles are equipped with brake pressure accumulators consisting of a metal plunger containing brake fluid encased in a metal housing. The plunger is designed with metal pleated bellows to allow for motion. Nitrogen gas is sealed between the plunger and housing. There is a possibility that a fatigue crack could develop in the bellows due to the vertical vibration of the plunger while driving. If this occurs, nitrogen gas could leak into the brake fluid and cause the brake pedal stroke to become longer, resulting in decreased braking force. Decreased braking force could result in increased stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. When will the Remedy be Available: The remedy procedures will be provided to each dealership in the near future. At which time, Toyota will notify owners of covered vehicles by first class mail. Additional information will be posted on this site once the remedy is available. I'm on the waiting list for this recall to become official.
