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"Shock" or "Shudder"

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Technical Discussion' started by NEPrius1, Nov 23, 2009.

  1. NEPrius1

    NEPrius1 Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 24, 2009
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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    I have reviewed many of the posts regarding a "shock" or "shudder" sound vibration/feeling when the ICE starts when the vehicle is started. I have a 2010 and these symptoms seem more evident these days as the weather has become colder.

    Although there is discussion of the issue on the forum, I can not find a post that discusses whether there is a solution - is this normal? Has anyone addressed the issue with a Toyota technician?

    Thanks in advance.
     
    #1 NEPrius1, Nov 23, 2009
  2. tortus

    tortus New Member

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    2009 Prius
    What you have described is normal according my 2009 prius owners manual. I too have noticed ICE shudder that is especially severe when my ICE shuts off at traffic stops before it is fully warmed up. One time after backing out of my garage, I set the E brake, popped the hood and watched the ICE as I waited for it to stop. When it stopped, it shook and ran backwards for about a quarter turn. I thought "this can't be good". I have found this to be helpful: As I come to a stop, I watch the display with the screen showing the energy flow arrows between battery, generator and ICE. I then make sure that I am pressing the brake hard enough to make the arrows disappear. I was just pressing hard enough to keep the car from moving, but not enough to stop flow from battery to generator. Another option is to shift to neutral at stops, but then I have to use the brake anyway to keep the car from rolling, so I seldom use this option.>>>>Tortus
     
    #2 tortus, Nov 24, 2009
  3. ibmindless

    ibmindless Member

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    It's just a piece of the Prius' personality. If it's any consolation, it seems as though this has diminished as more miles are put on the car. I have 21K and rarely notice this trait anymore.
     
    #3 ibmindless, Nov 25, 2009
  4. cossie1600

    cossie1600 Active Member

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    Try owning an Insight, it's a lot worse :)
     
    #4 cossie1600, Dec 3, 2009
  5. austingreen

    austingreen Senior Member

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    Just get used to it. My guess is it has to do with the atkins cyle engine not being happy at low rpm. I'm sure it hurts the engine a little, but so little compared to a normal car idling every time you stop. I tried turning on eco mode which seems to cause the shutter less often as I think it thinks I don't need as much cabin heat. Then again I've only driven when its in the 30s not when its really cold.
     
    #5 austingreen, Dec 4, 2009
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