1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

Engine groans between 60-70 mph. 2012 Prius.

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by bpeacock, Nov 15, 2016.

  1. bpeacock

    bpeacock Junior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 14, 2016
    3
    2
    0
    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Three
    I just bought a used 2012 Prius. On the way home, as soon as I got it up to 60 mph, I began to hear this loud groan from the engine. It is fairly repetitive and fades every few seconds. If I get the car above 70 mph, the noise stops. I've never driven a Prius before, but I assume this isn't normal - any insights? Everything else seems to be performing perfectly. The noise is present regardless of the mode the car is in.

    (Note: I am fully aware I should have tested the car above 60 mph before I purchased - please don't take the time to inform me of that, as I am already feeling thoroughly ashamed. I trusted the CPO label a little too much it seems.)
     
  2. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 17, 2010
    54,717
    38,247
    80
    Location:
    Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Touring
    Being Certified Pre-Owned, I would get in touch with the dealership right away, get them to test drive, see what they say. Most importantly: get something on paper from them, along the lines of "customer says noise heard when driving between 60~70 mph". And hopefully some diagnosis. Even if they find nothing, you've registered an issue with them, virtually right after purchase.

    I'm "guessing" wheel bearing problem, but not very up on such problems.
     
    bisco likes this.
  3. Vman455

    Vman455 Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 8, 2014
    534
    551
    13
    Location:
    The Middle
    Vehicle:
    2013 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    That was my first thought, before even opening the thread.
     
  4. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 17, 2010
    54,717
    38,247
    80
    Location:
    Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Touring
  5. bpeacock

    bpeacock Junior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 14, 2016
    3
    2
    0
    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Three
    Sounds like a plan. Thank you so much!
     
    bisco and Mendel Leisk like this.