2005 Prius Chokes and Stalls

Have the dealer check for un-installed upgrades (recalls and TSBs). Then confirm their answer by calling Toyota USA yourself (have the VIN in hand) and asking them yourself.

Fairly common easy-to-fix possibility is a dirty throttle plate, so you might ask them explicitly to check that. Rumor has it that this is not very hard to clean by one's self. Search here for several posts on the subject.

 

Regardless of what the guess gauge showed, it sounds like an out of fuel condition.

 

Hi Terry,

I've attached a potentially relevant TSB; pls read it and see if it sounds applicable to your situation.

Subsequent to the publication of that TSB, SSC 50P was released in late 2005. This recall requires reprogramming of the engine and hybrid vehicle ECUs. It also requires installation of dielectric grease in a transaxle electrical connector. The VINs of the affected 2005s go up to 0133248, 3029798, and 7006863 (these are the last digits of the VIN). The SSC file is 3MB in size so I am not posting it.

As was previously mentioned, it also is possible that despite your fuel gauge showing 3 bars, you are out of fuel. Since your Prius is already at the dealer, I am sure they will soon tell you the problem. If your Prius was out of fuel, a DTC will be logged to that effect.

 

Yes, this is easy to clean. One way is to buy a can of throttle body cleaner rated safe for use with catalytic converters, and follow the can's directions. Another way (that I prefer) is to remove the air cleaner housing and use Q-tips moistened in rubbing alcohol to scrub off the black residue. You can open the throttle plate 90 degrees when the car is IG-OFF by twisting the spring-loaded shaft.

The dirty throttle body interior & throttle plate tends to cause problems more with Classic, prone to stalling problems and registering DTC P3191 if the latest version engine ECU (part # 89661-47054) is not installed per TSB EG011-03. Some Classics, even with the current engine ECU, still have stalling problems in the winter. Sometimes installing fresh iridium spark plugs & cleaning the throttle body will help.

 

can't say much till we know the codes- lots of things can cause those symptoms. post up here once ya know more.