So. Cal. Tech to Diagnose "Transmission Lock Mechanism" Problem?

[arkestra]

On several occasions over the last several weeks, I've had a problem starting my 2005 Prius. I won't go into the details, except to say that on two of those occasions, I got a "transmission lock is abnormal" message, which was the subject of a thread last year. (Ideally, I'd link to the thread here, but they won't let me do that because I do not yet have 5 posts. I will try to insert the link in the "trackback" section below. The thread was "Caution: The transmission lock mechanism is abnormal")

My regular dealership service dept. has been unable to find any problem (even though I brought it there twice with a hybrid system warning light and the red exclamation mark in a triangle light on). They tested the battery yesterday, and said it was fine. (In case it makes a difference -- I saw on one thread that it could -- I'm sure they did not take out the battery for the test.) At least they didn't charge for anything. I went to another dealership, but the service person seemed uninterested in me giving them my business, basically saying they were unlikely to find anything unless they could duplicate the probelm.

Can anyone recommend a dealership/service place anywhere in Southern California that has a GOOD master technician who could diagnose the problem?

Thanks for your help

n

[grand total]

Despite what the service department said it probably is your 12V battery.

[Patrick Wong]

If you have a 2005, and the original equipment 12V battery is still installed, I'd suggest that you replace the battery now and be done with it. You'll probably find that the symptom that you described will go away.

[brownsnoutuk]

I had the same message on my car yesterday. It was definately 100% the 12v battery.

[TucsonPrius]

As others said, this is a sign that your 12V battery is dying.

When this happened to me, I picked up a new battery at the Toyota dealership and replaced it myself. Took about 20minutes. If I remember correctly all you need is a 10mm socket with a long (6") extension. The Toyota dealership even took back the old battery for recycling so I didn't have to worry about proper disposal.

Some people suggest getting an Optima with the belief that is a better battery; I have no idea if they are better or not. I do know that I didn't think it was worth the trouble of getting a conversion kit....

Thanks,
Shawn

[richard schumacher]

Check the battery yourself with a voltmeter at the jump points, or use the built-in self test procedure given by jdenenberg here:
PriusOnline.com • View topic - how to put 12V battery in sleeping mode?

A good unloaded "12V" battery will provide 12.6V. If you get less than 12.0V with no load the battery is near death.

[keith_w]

[quote=arkestra;816494]On several occasions over the last several weeks, I've had a problem starting my 2005 Prius. I won't go into the details, except to say that on two of those occasions, I got a "transmission lock is abnormal" message...

My regular dealership service dept. has been unable to find any problem (even though I brought it there twice with a hybrid system warning light and the red exclamation mark in a triangle light on). They tested the battery yesterday, and said it was fine. (In case it makes a difference -- I saw on one thread that it could -- I'm sure they did not take out the battery for the test.) At least they didn't charge for anything. I went to another dealership, but the service person seemed uninterested in me giving them my business, basically saying they were unlikely to find anything unless they could duplicate the probelm.

Can anyone recommend a dealership/service place anywhere in Southern California that has a GOOD master technician who could diagnose the problem?

* * * *

Since I live in Southern CA, I'd like to know what dealerships you went to!
I keep track...
I go to the Marina Toyota dealer on Lincoln Blvd, in Venice.
So far, so good, but I've heard tales like yours before (too casual service departments).

Thanks, keith whaley
'07 Metallic Gray Pkg #6

[arkestra]

thanks for all the responses. after another little problem on saturday morning, i went to my regular dealership and received better service with a new service person. the battery was replaced and, although it's only been a little more than 24 hours, so far, so good. thanks again everyone.