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Frequent Check Hybrid Engine Light

Discussion in 'Generation 1 Prius Discussion' started by NHoefer146, Jul 7, 2016.

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  1. NHoefer146

    NHoefer146 New Member

    Joined:
    Jul 7, 2016
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    Location:
    Wichita KS
    Vehicle:
    2002 Prius
    Model:
    One
    Hello there,

    My wife and I purchased our 2002 Toyota Prius three months ago, and it seems that it has been in the shop more than it has not. The check hybrid engine light has appeared for the third time and at this point, we are debating trading in, but I hate to see such a great vehicle go, especially since it might only be one more repair. Here are some specs:

    Mileage: 129,000

    Recently error codes:
    7/7/2016 - I'm waiting to hear back from the shop

    6/6/2016 - Error codes: P3130, P3125
    Replacements: Water pump, coolant, belt

    5/14/2016 - Error codes: cannot locate
    Replacements: B1S1 oxygen sensor, manifold

    Location: We live in Kansas, so its a flat, clean drive to and from work.

    We have purchased the vehicle for $3000 from a close friend who had taken great care of it. We need a reliable vehicle that will last us another three years while I continue my education. I guess what I am asking is whether this is standard wear-and-tear and these repairs will become less frequent, or if we may have a vehicle that requires more repairs than it is worth.

    Thank you
     
    #1 NHoefer146, Jul 7, 2016
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

    Joined:
    May 11, 2005
    107,796
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    Location:
    boston
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    welcome! i'm no expert, but i think it's more age than mileage. sometimes, things wear out from non use, as much as over or normal use. if you need a reliable car for 3 years, i would look around for a corolla/camry/etc. old hybrids will be more expensive to repair. all the best!(y)
     
    #2 bisco, Jul 7, 2016
  3. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2013
    16,470
    8,383
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    Location:
    Los Angeles, CA
    Vehicle:
    2008 Prius
    Model:
    II
    A 2002 car is going on 15 years old. It may just be a false hope that you think this car will need only 1 more repair before it becomes reliable. At 15 years old and a hybrid.....it's a combination that will continue where it'll be in the shop more than in your garage.
     
    #3 JC91006, Jul 7, 2016
    strawbrad likes this.
  4. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

    Joined:
    Mar 8, 2008
    18,199
    6,464
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    Location:
    Green Valley, AZ
    Vehicle:
    2015 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    What is the odometer reading?

    Since you bought the vehicle from a friend, did you get the prior service history of the car? If so, what other repairs have been performed?

    Did your friend have knowledge of the faults which were repaired in May and June, prior to the vehicle sale? I am wondering if you are dealing with a backlog of problems due to deferred maintenance. Those faults are not unusual for the Prius especially if the car has logged 100K+ miles.

    It will be interesting to see what is the dealer's diagnosis of the latest problem.

    It is reasonable for you to be wondering whether this pattern of monthly repairs is going to continue or not. I don't think it is possible to answer that question until more time is logged with the car.
     
    #4 Patrick Wong, Jul 8, 2016
  5. strawbrad

    strawbrad http://minnesotahybridbatteries.com

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2011
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    Location:
    Minnesota
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    II
    Friends don't sell friends Gen I Prius. :);):(:mad::confused::p:censored::cry::ROFLMAO::unsure:
     
    #5 strawbrad, Jul 9, 2016
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