Toyota Recalls 141,000 Prius for Doors Opening While Driving

Toyota is launching a massive recall affecting 141,286 Prius units globally. The rear doors on these 2023-2026 models can open unexpectedly while driving due to short circuits caused by water infiltration in electrical switches. This second recall for the same issue affects 19,399 vehicles in Canada.

"Water could seep into the rear door handles and cause a short circuit in the opening switch. If this were to occur, the rear doors could suddenly open while the vehicle is being driven." — Transport Canada

The Toyota Prius is making headlines again, but not for its fuel economy credentials. The Japanese automaker just announced a massive recall affecting its 2023 to 2026 models, all equipped with defective electronic door locks. More than 140,000 vehicles are affected worldwide, including nearly 20,000 in Canada.

The issue stems from the exterior rear door handles. Water can seep into electrical circuits and trigger short circuits that activate the door-opening mechanism. Result: doors unlock and swing open while the car is moving. A particularly concerning hazard for children sitting in the back seat.

A Second Recall for the Same Defect

This recall campaign doesn't appear out of nowhere. It follows a first recall launched in fall 2024 for exactly the same problem. In other words, the repairs performed last year didn't actually solve the situation. Owners who already had their vehicles serviced need to return to the dealership.

According to Transport Canada, Prius and Prius Prime models produced between October 2022 and November 2025 are affected. The defect specifically concerns the opening switches integrated into the exterior handles of the rear doors.

Toyota estimates that only 1% of recalled vehicles actually exhibit the defect. The problem is the company can't identify which specific vehicles are affected without individually inspecting each unit.

How Does This Malfunction Actually Work?

The mechanism is relatively straightforward but dangerous. The Prius door handles integrate electronic controls that replace traditional mechanical systems. These switches are normally protected by weatherseals.

When water manages to bypass these protections, it can reach the electrical circuits. Corrosion or detergent residue after a car wash can then trigger a short circuit. The system interprets this stray signal as an opening request and unlocks the door.

If the door is already unlocked when the malfunction occurs, it opens automatically. The driver will receive a dashboard alert and audible warning, but the damage is done.

What Solution Is Toyota Proposing?

Toyota dealerships will modify the circuitry of the left and right rear door switches. The goal: prevent the opening mechanism from activating even in case of a short circuit. This service will be free and should be available starting spring 2026.

In the meantime, Toyota recommends enabling the automatic door lock function. This simple but effective precaution ensures doors remain locked while driving, neutralizing the risk of unexpected opening.

A Problem Symptomatic of Modern Vehicles

This situation perfectly illustrates the new challenges posed by vehicle electrification. The latest-generation Prius multiplies electronic controls to improve ergonomics and reduce mechanical stress. But this sophistication also exposes the car to unprecedented failures.

Simple contact with water—something commonplace on a car—can now fool electronic systems and create dangerous situations. Automakers must now anticipate these interactions between natural elements and electrical circuits.

Exactly How Many Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall covers 141,286 vehicles in the United States and 19,399 in Canada. Affected models include traditional Prius hybrids and Prius Prime plug-in hybrids, all produced between 2023 and 2026.

Toyota plans to contact all owners by mail before March 29, 2026. Drivers can also check whether their vehicle is affected by entering their VIN on Toyota's official recall website.

This story reminds us that even the most reliable cars can have unexpected defects. The Prius, the symbol of mature hybrid technology, shows that innovation sometimes creates new problems. Fortunately, Toyota appears to have found a permanent solution this time.

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