Shaking during acceleration

It is going to be difficult to pin point that problem from just the description. I think you will need to get someone with expertise to observe while the symptoms are evident. It could be tire damage or wheel balance. Some front end problems, like a shimmy due to loose ball joints, occur at specific speeds.

It could be propulsion related, if it really only occurs under acceleration and is not speed dependent. That would indicate something related to the spark plugs (misfiring), or throttle body, or fuel mixture. Those things usually throw DTC's, so with out warning lights it is only a guess.

 

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Welcome to PriusChat!

 

There are many reports of high mileage Prii using oil. Like every other engine ever made, there is a need to check the oil on a regular basis. The car was likely low on oil when you got it, if it is not something you have checked already. There is a warning that appears on the MFD ("Problem" is displayed) if low oil pressure is detected.

Now that you have engine lights on, the codes can be read by a suitable OBDII reader. You can try the generic reader which is available at some car parts stores, which can read standard engine codes but won't read Prius hybrid related codes. Otherwise, paying at Toyota for a scan is an option. Please report the codes here for the helpful folk to comment on.

 

how many miles on her?

 

that's kinda young for that much oil burning, hpefully, someone simply forgot to add oil. top it up and keep a weathereye on the level. who did you buy it from, any maint. records?

 

My 2007 Prius with 165k would burn oil. Some of the things it would do when accelerating is what you are describing. Also when ever I would drive over 55MPH the warning light would come on for a few seconds and then turn off.

Does the engine make a rattle noise? (that's what mine would do)

 

The usual symptom of low oil is that during a change of speed, or during a sharp turn, the oil intake pipe in the sump is left high and dry while the remaining oil is piled up in one side or the other of the oil pan. This produces a brief warning until the oil begins to pump again. However, at this point there is damage happening to the aluminum engine. So it is critical to always check the oil. Weekly is not too much, until you get a feel for what the car is using.

 

Cylinder 1 misfire is something that has also been mentioned often enough here. First take a look and make sure the spark plug recess is completely dry with no water accumulated. Try new spark plugs if they have not been changed already. At that age you are due for a new set. If no joy then swap the igniter coils to see if the problem moves to another cylinder. Last is to clean, or even replace the injector 1.

If you pull spark plug 1 you may find that it is oily, which might give an indication of where your oil is going. Also, check or replace the PCV valve as it can leak oil.

 

There also have been problems with spark arcing through the plug boot. I would remove the #1 coil/boot assy and closely inspect it for signs of carbon tracking. (arcing through the boot to the valve cover) While you are at it, it would be a good time to replace the spark plugs with OEM if it has not already been done.

 

So i too have this shaking during accelerating but only >40mph; it ends while coasting on cruise or when my foot comes off the gas. Vibrations seem to go sideways & possibly emanating from right front engine or tire. Shakes are consistent over 40mph while going straight on mainly flat roads or uphill. Haven't noticed it going down hill. I just noticed it while on a road trip cross country loop northbound to Zion national park at 115,000 engine miles, originating from VA going on 3000:8000 total miles. I've been using the cheap gas & after a few bottles of carberator cleaner. Ive had the 2005 Prius since Jul 2015 & havent noticed shakes until now.

I will try new spark plugs & full tune up. Thanks.