Trying to troubleshoot some grinding noises location

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Tom Mayor, Aug 11, 2025 at 1:30 PM.

  1. Tom Mayor

    Tom Mayor Junior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2023
    51
    10
    0
    Location:
    Orlando
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    Hi everyone,

    I replaced the transmission fluid for the first time at 161,250 miles. About a year and a half later, in May this year
    around 177,000 miles, I started noticing a grinding/rubbing noise located by the driver’s side floor. It only happens when pressing the gas pedal There’s no noise when cruising, whether the car is in drive or neutral. I don’t think the noise happens while braking, maybe not.

    I’ve attached a video—please play it loud or use headphones to hear the noise clearly.




    My mechanic initially suspected the driver-side CV axle. After replacing it, the noise persisted.

    He then checked the rear engine mount and said it was definitely loose when he shook it. Could the noise be caused by the rear mount? He's going to replace soon. But I wanted to go deeper through what it could be

    I’m starting to wonder if something inside the transmission could be causing it, although I’ve read that it’s very unlikely for this transmission to fail or make noises like this.

    He also tightened bolts underneath the car and checked other parts, including bearings. I’m also considering the possibility that a crooked brake component or something might be rubbing against the wheel while driving.

    Any ideas or similar experiences?



    Thank you very much!
     
    #1 Tom Mayor, Aug 11, 2025 at 1:30 PM
    Last edited: Aug 11, 2025 at 2:54 PM
  2. Tom Mayor

    Tom Mayor Junior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2023
    51
    10
    0
    Location:
    Orlando
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    N/A


    Video of the noise through the link above.
     
  3. ASRDogman

    ASRDogman Senior Member

    Joined:
    May 29, 2018
    7,305
    3,821
    0
    Location:
    Florida
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Are you paying this guy to "guess" at what the noise is for the parts and labor to just
    replace parts????? I hope not.
    It could be anything almost... wheel bearing, compressor, coolant pump, tire.

    WHY did you replace the transmission?



     
  4. Tom Mayor

    Tom Mayor Junior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 15, 2023
    51
    10
    0
    Location:
    Orlando
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    I mean to write transmission fluid.

    Noise doesn't Increase with speed. Only when pressing gas.

    I live in a rural area. Mechanic tries his best