A Guide to Replacing Door Hinges on the 2012-2018 Toyota Prius V
If your door is sagging or making noise, a worn-out hinge is the likely cause.
- A sagging door that is hard to close is the most common symptom of a worn door hinge.
- For a long-term fix, replacing the entire hinge assembly is better than trying to replace just the pin and bushing.
- Aftermarket brands like Dorman offer a cost-effective and reliable alternative to more expensive OEM parts.
- Properly supporting the door during replacement and ensuring correct alignment of the new hinge are critical for a successful repair.
Is Your Prius V Door Sagging? Here's Why It's Probably the Hinge
The door hinges on the Toyota Prius V are durable, but they won't last forever. The driver's door hinge is usually the first to fail simply because it's used the most. The main issue is wear inside the hinge, specifically on the internal pin and bushings. Once these parts wear down, the door will have extra play, causing it to sag and fall out of alignment.
Symptoms of a Failing Door Hinge
- Sagging Door: The most obvious sign. The door drops slightly when you open it, and you may have to lift it to get it to latch properly.
- Popping or Clicking Noise: You may hear a distinct pop or click when opening or closing the door. This is the sound of the worn internal parts shifting under the door's weight.
- Difficult to Close: A sagging door won't line up correctly with the striker on the car's body, making it hard to shut without slamming.
- Wobbly Feel: If you can grab the bottom of the open door and lift it up and down, and you feel movement or a clunking sensation, the hinge is worn.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Toyota for door hinge failure on the 2012-2018 Prius V. While some newer Prius models have recalls for electronic door latches, these do not apply to the mechanical hinges on the Prius V. Any failure is typically due to normal wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hinge
When replacing a door hinge, you have a few options. While you can always buy a new part from a Toyota dealer, aftermarket parts offer significant savings. For a simple mechanical part like a hinge, aftermarket options are a reliable choice.
Brand Tiers
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is the exact same part your Prius V was built with. It guarantees a perfect fit and the highest quality, but it also comes at the highest price.
- Dorman: Dorman is a well-known aftermarket brand that offers a good balance of quality and price. Their parts are widely available and are a popular choice for DIY repairs. While some mechanics have mixed opinions on Dorman's overall quality, their hinges are generally considered a solid, cost-effective alternative to OEM.
- Replacement: This is often a generic or store-brand option. These are the most budget-friendly hinges available. They are designed to meet original specifications and are a good choice if your primary concern is keeping repair costs low.
Pro Tip: Replace the Hinge, Not Just the Pin
You might see hinge pin and bushing kits for sale. However, the original Toyota hinge pins are crimped in place and not designed to be easily serviced. Grinding out the old pin and installing a new one can be difficult and time-consuming. For a stronger, longer-lasting repair, it is recommended to replace the entire hinge assembly.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $70 - $120 |
| New Aftermarket (Dorman, Replacement) | $23.55 - $49.08 |
| Used OEM | $20 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $375 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a bad door hinge?
Yes, but it should be fixed as soon as possible. A sagging door may not latch securely, and could potentially open while driving in a worst-case scenario. It also puts stress on the door latch and striker, which can cause more damage over time.
Is this the same as a "door check"?
No. The door hinge is the heavy-duty metal part that the door pivots on. The door check is a separate arm that stops the door from opening too far and holds it open in specific positions. If your door swings freely and won't stay open on its own, you likely need a new door check, not a hinge.
Do I need special tools for the replacement?
You will need a good socket set (10mm to 14mm sockets are common) and something to support the door, like a floor jack with a block of wood. Some mechanics use a special 12mm offset hinge bolt wrench to access the bolts without removing the fender, which can make the job easier.
Do new aftermarket hinges come painted?
No, new hinges typically come with a black E-coat (electro-coat) primer. This primer protects against rust but is not a final finish. For a perfect match, you will need to have the new hinge painted to match your car's body color before installation. This is less critical if the hinge is mostly hidden by the fender.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68710-12151 (Front Upper Right) 68720-02020 (Front Upper Left) 68730-12120 (Front Lower Right) 68740-02080 (Front Lower Left) 68750-20122 (Rear Upper Right) 68760-20121 (Rear Upper Left) 68770-52031 (Rear Lower Right) 68780-52031 (Rear Lower Left)
Each door on the Prius V uses two hinges: an upper and a lower. The parts are specific to each corner of the vehicle (e.g., Front Driver Side Upper is a unique part). Hinges are typically made of steel and are attached with bolts to both the vehicle's A-pillar/B-pillar and the door itself.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Toyota Prius V: