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Wizzing/whining noise when trying to start

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Rookiepriusowner, Sep 30, 2021.

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  1. Rookiepriusowner

    Rookiepriusowner New Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2021
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    Location:
    Sonoma
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    ----USA----
    I am looking at purchasing a used 2007 Prius worth about 175,000 miles on it in great condition. Only problem is that when you hit the start button with foot on the break you hear this loud whizzing/whining noise almost like on a starter not engaging properly. I’ll upload video I took where the noise can be heard along with lots of dash lights including the dreaded red triangle sitting in the car where lights are displayed including red triangle. From the outside it sounds like coming from the engine. I am as my dad always told me about as mechanically inclined as his grandmother and she’s been dead for 50 years so I don’t know. My new friend/Mechanic assured me he’d be able to figure it out but of course he doesn’t show up. I don’t want to purchase because I don’t know what I’m doing but if it’s something easy to fix I’d be willing to do it because the price is really good. Any help from anyone would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
     
    #1 Rookiepriusowner, Sep 30, 2021
  2. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    Feb 7, 2017
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    Location:
    Northern California
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    Welcome to PriusChat!!
    If you have warning lights displayed on the dash then you will generally have codes (DTCs) stored in the ECU that can be retrieved. Best to find a hybrid compatible OBD2 code scanner, and post the retrieved codes (DTCs) in this thread for additional guidance.

    Does the gas engine actually start and run for more than 10 seconds, does the vehicle test drive and stop as expected?

    My WAG is, this vehicle may have a failing brake actuator / accumulator, not a cheap part (new OEM is over 1k) or an easy fix (could take 6+ hours the first time around). Unless this vehicle is actually priced "cheap" it could be a pass, as other high ticket items could also go out on it in the near future (HV battery, etc). Though it could also be a keeper if you or someone you know has a DIY attitude and tools.

    Best to get the codes read, that way you don't have to wonder if this vehicle is the right one for you.

    FYI: your posts are being moderated until you've posted 5 times.
     
    #2 SFO, Oct 2, 2021
    Raytheeagle likes this.
  3. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Jul 25, 2007
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    Location:
    Clearwater, Florida
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Sounds like the chain is broke in the trans. If so it will be very loud when attempting to start. You can confirm by having someone attempt to start the car and you listen under the car.

    Big big repair job the transmission will need to be replaced. With your skill set Run from that one no matter how cheap it is.
     
    #3 edthefox5, Oct 24, 2021
  4. Synergy144

    Synergy144 New Member

    Joined:
    Jul 31, 2022
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    Location:
    Mass
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Did you ever figure out what was wrong, if so can you give me a little info it would be greatly appreciated.
     
    #4 Synergy144, Aug 1, 2022
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