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Quick n00b question about sound in dash

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by AnalogColor, Jun 14, 2010.

  1. AnalogColor

    AnalogColor New Member

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    Determining a good term to explain a sound is not easy. This makes search and explaining to a mechanic difficult.

    I bought an '07 Prius two weeks ago and keep hearing an intermittent sound coming from the drivers side dash (presumably from the engine compartment). The sound is similar to the motor inside a disk changer and only lasts about 1-2 seconds.

    My roommate copied me and bought a Prius 3 days after I bought mine, so I confirmed with him that he hears it too. From some brief research it seems to be a fluid pump for the engine coolant system?

    Thanks very much

    -Joe
     
    #1 AnalogColor, Jun 14, 2010
  2. Doc Willie

    Doc Willie Shuttlecraft Commander

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    Is this a sound you hear while driving, or while parked after you have shut the engine off? In the latter case, the coolant pump is filling the thermos with coolant to keep it warm for the next start up. There is another sound several hours later as the fuel evaporation system is purged (I think).
     
    #2 Doc Willie, Jun 15, 2010
  3. AnalogColor

    AnalogColor New Member

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    This is while driving. It is pretty quiet so I didn't hear it today with the stereo on.

    It is quick and quiet so I never have time to try to find the origin. Sounds like a small motor so the water/coolant pump made sense to me.
     
    #3 AnalogColor, Jun 15, 2010
  4. AnalogColor

    AnalogColor New Member

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    Does anyone have any insight on this? I'm beginning to think it may have something to do with the brake system?
     
    #4 AnalogColor, Jun 29, 2010
  5. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    Possibly the brake accumulator, but that should not run so frequently. If you did not have the car inspected thoroughly by a Prius technician before buying, then you should do so now.
     
    #5 richard schumacher, Jun 30, 2010
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