# Toyota Issues Recall for New Prius Due to Rear Door Safety Risk
## Toyota Recalls New Prius Models Over Rear Door Safety Concerns
Toyota has announced a recall for approximately 55,000 2023 and 2024 Prius and Prius Prime models in the US. The recall is due to a potential safety issue where the rear doors could open unexpectedly while driving, caused by a short circuit in the electronic rear door latches. This could happen if the doors are not properly locked, which poses a risk of doors opening during vehicle operation or in the event of a collision.
## Addressing the Issue
Toyota plans to notify affected owners about the recall by early June. The automaker will resolve the issue by replacing the left and right rear door opener switches with updated components featuring an improved design. Until the fix is implemented, Toyota advises customers in the US and Canada to activate the door auto-lock feature when shifting the transmission into Park to prevent potential door opening due to a short circuit.
## Global Impact and Vehicle Redesign
The recall affects about 211,000 vehicles worldwide, including markets in Asia and Japan. The revamped 2023 Prius model, which received a significant redesign, has seen increased demand and a sales surge of 138.6% in the first quarter of 2024.
## Conclusion
Prioritizing customer safety, Toyota’s recall demonstrates its commitment to addressing potential safety risks promptly and efficiently. Owners of the affected Prius models are urged to follow the manufacturer’s guidance once they receive official communication regarding the recall.
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## FAQs
### 1. How many vehicles are included in the Toyota Prius recall?
Approximately 55,000 2023 and 2024 Prius and Prius Prime models in the US are subject to the recall.
### 2. What is the cause of the rear door issue in the Toyota Prius models?
The rear door safety concern is attributed to a short circuit in the electronic rear door latches.
### 3. How will Toyota address the recall?
Toyota plans to replace the left and right rear door opener switches with updated components featuring an improved design to resolve the issue.
### 4. How can owners prevent potential door opening before the fix is implemented?
Owners in the US and Canada are advised to activate the door auto-lock feature by shifting the transmission into Park until the issue is fixed.
### 5. How has the Toyota Prius model been performing in terms of sales?
Following the 2023 model redesign, the Toyota Prius has witnessed a substantial sales increase of 138.6% in the first quarter of 2024.
