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TSB update after error code comes up to replace thermoset after thermostat already replaced.

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Chris77*, Mar 22, 2023.

  1. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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    I am looking at a 2006 that is in overall good condition with 150000 miles that I would like to buy. I am having it inspected before I buy it this weekend. The story is the owner replaced thermostat last year and the error code came right back on. Was told water pump might be going out and monitored for leaks and didn't have any. The local Toyota dealer installed TSB software update and issue has now been resolved for a few months. Is there any cause for concern? I think maybe I would have replaced water pump anyways. I read once replacing the water pump between 100-150mi will prolong the life of the head gasket. Prius Chat what do you think of this story? Thanks..
     
  2. dolj

    dolj Senior Member

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    No. The engine coolant water pump is a wear item so just replace it fails. If you check for weeping or bearing sounds and change it if you notice anything like that you'll get it before it fails.
    Do you mean 100,000-150,000 miles?

    Maybe in as much as you then don't have to worry about the pump failing at which point you then continue to drive and cook your head and gasket.
     
  3. ChapmanF

    ChapmanF Senior Member

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    If you know what error code and you're just not telling us, relent. We can't bear the suspense.

    If the seller knows what error code and just isn't telling you, that's for you and the seller to work out.

    An error code looks like a letter P, C, B, or U, followed by a digit 0, 1, 2, or 3, followed by three more places that are all digits 0-9 or letters A-F.
     
  4. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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    Don't have it. Will text the owner in the morning and see if he remembers. Thanks.
     
  5. Tombukt2

    Tombukt2 Senior Member

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    That'll be a big start. These cars are some of the most reliable on the planet water pumps and things like that on the generation to don't just literally usually go out they wear out and people in tune will hear a few noises before they stop working.and theyres an overheat light to help . Nose helps too the smell of extreme Ice heat is memorable to some.
     
  6. cyberpriusII

    cyberpriusII Prodigyplace says I'm Super Kris

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    Actually, the water pump is a known issue. Had to replace mine at 50K
     
  7. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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    This youtube prius mechanic was suggesting water pump replacement as preventative maintenance mostly for gen 3. I am curious why did the TSB update fix the thermostat problem? Was the thermostat bad and does it mean there are other issues going on? Wondering if I should buy or walk. Still waiting on a reply for the code if the owner remembers. TY
     
  8. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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  9. ChapmanF

    ChapmanF Senior Member

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  10. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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    dealership charged one hour of labor to update software. why did this fix problem?
     
  11. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    Might be able to speculate if we knew what the TSB number was.

    Really, any code is just programming. The ECM turns on a light and saves a code when certain inputs reach a programmed threshold value.

    If the engineers figure out that some codes are incorrectly setting, or are irrelevant, then they will release new software to fix the "bug" and change how that particular code sets (or change other outputs to prevent the code set condition).

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
  12. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

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    The car passed inspection. It was recommended front struts and shocks that doesn't need to be done right away. Picking it up next week. Thanks for your help.