Software glitch prompts Prius recall
Toyota is recalling some of its current, third-generation Prius models to correct a potential problem with the hybrid system’s boost converter software.
The recall affects 30,790 UK-registered Prius, cars. Worldwide, there have been no reports of any accidents or injuries relating to this issue but in Europe Toyota has recorded 11 reports of the issue occurring.
Toyota says it has identified a potential issue concerning the software used to control the boost converter in the Intelligent Power Module, part of the hybrid system’s inverter assembly. The boost converter is required when driving with a high system load, such as accelerating hard from standstill.
The company believes the software setting could lead to higher thermal stress occurring in certain insulated-gate bipolar transistors in the boost converter, which may lead to them deforming or being damaged.
In a statement Toyota said: ‘Should this happen, warning lights may be illuminated and the car is likely to switch to “failsafe” operation, in which the car can be driven with reduced power. In limited cases the hybrid system may shut down, causing the vehicle to stop.’
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