ZVW30
Toyota Prius import check
ZVW30 is the factory model code for the Toyota Prius, built for the Japanese market from 2009 to 2015. Every genuine car has a chassis (frame) number that starts with ZVW30-. That number is the one thing that links its Japanese history to its UK records.
ZVW30 at a glance
- Model code
- ZVW30
- Make
- Toyota
- Model
- Prius (third)
- Body
- 5-door hatchback
- Built
- 2009 to 2015
- Engine
- 2ZR-FXE (1797 cc naturally aspirated hybrid)
- Drivetrain
- FWD
- Japanese trims
- L, S, G, S Touring
- Chassis number format
- ZVW30-nnnnnn
From our own model library. UK records sometimes drop the hyphen or the leading zeros of the serial; our check allows for that.
Known problems to check on a ZVW30
- EGR cooler blockage leading to head-gasket failure
- Ask for a hybrid battery health check
- Brake actuator faults
These are common issues for the model, not facts about any particular car. Ask the seller about each one.
Kilometres, miles and the first UK MOT
A ZVW30 sold new in Japan has a speedometer in kilometres. When it is imported, the speedometer is either converted to miles or left in km, and the first UK MOT should record whichever the dial shows. Mistakes here are common, and they’re where mileage problems hide.
We put the Japanese auction mileage and every UK MOT reading on one timeline and check the crossing: whether the readings agree after converting, whether the km figure was written down as miles, and whether the first UK reading is lower than the car had already done in Japan. See an illustrative example.
Questions
What is the chassis code for the Toyota Prius?
ZVW30. A Japanese-market Toyota Prius has a frame number that starts with ZVW30, then a hyphen and a serial number. You’ll find it on the V5C and on a plate in the engine bay.
Which years was the ZVW30 built?
From 2009 to 2015, with the 2ZR-FXE (1797 cc naturally aspirated hybrid) engine and FWD layout.
What should I check when buying a ZVW30?
EGR cooler blockage leading to head-gasket failure. Ask for a hybrid battery health check. Brake actuator faults. Also check that the Japanese auction mileage lines up with the first UK MOT, because km and miles are easily mixed up.