Toyota confirms Prius brakes recall in the UK

Toyota has launched a global recall on the latest generation Prius to rectify a software problem in the anti-lock braking system.

This follows last week's high profile accelerator recall of 180,000 models in the UK.

Third generation
The Prius recall will apply to all third generation models built before 27 January 2010 and will include 8,500 models in the UK.

The brand said no accidents linked to this issue have been reported in Europe and the recall would not apply to Lexus hybrid models.

The recall is being taken in response to reports of what Toyota termed "inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady braking on bumpy or slick road surfaces when the ABS is actuated."

ABS software upgrade
Toyota dealers and authorised repairers will carry out an ABS software upgrade on the affected cars in a job which will take around 40 minutes.

Toyota said it will write individually to every owner in the next few days having obtained their contact details from the DVLA.

"In the meantime, the cars are safe to drive. At no time are drivers without brakes. Toyota GB guarantees to every customer its utmost attention to making this upgrade as quickly and efficiently as possible," said a company statement.