2013 Plug-In — ABS Pump/Brake Actuator Failure? Looking for Owner Experiences

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by LeeCincy, Dec 17, 2025 at 11:46 AM.

  1. LeeCincy

    LeeCincy Junior Member

    Joined:
    May 12, 2014
    14
    2
    1
    Location:
    Ohio
    Vehicle:
    2013 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    ----USA----
    I have a 2013 Prius Plug-In (~150k miles) and I’m looking to sanity-check what a local shop told me about an ongoing brake issue.

    Symptoms I’ve experienced:

    • Intermittent brake lights staying on

    • Corrosion found on the connections on the brake light connected to pedal

    • Multiple brake/ABS warning lights on the dash

    • Stiff or inconsistent brake pedal feel
    The shop believes these symptoms often point to a failing ABS pump / brake actuator assembly on aging Priuses and mentioned this is a fairly common failure. They warned it’s a safety-related repair, requires OEM Toyota parts, and typically runs in the $3k–$4k range. They suggested confirming with a full ABS diagnostic scan.

    Before moving forward, I wanted to ask:

    • Have others experienced similar symptoms that ended up being the ABS pump/actuator?

    • Did your issue start intermittently before fully failing?

    • Were there any alternative causes found (switch, wiring, booster, etc.)?

    • If you replaced the ABS unit, did it fully resolve the issue long-term?
    Appreciate any firsthand experiences or insight. Trying to make an informed decision before authorizing diagnostics or a major repair.