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P0A08 error code

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by whodat, Sep 13, 2010.

  1. whodat

    whodat Member

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    2006 Prius
    Previous thread (with new subject title) on my 06 Prius losing steering and brakes while driving with multiple errors (red triangle, battery, etc.) while braking on steep down hill section of hwy 17 (mountain road). Took car to dealer but dealer could not find the root cause.

    Print out from dealer:
    131297 found code P0A08. dc/dc converter status circuit. checked aux battery-passed load test. Check cable connection from auxiliary battery terminal - cables connections are secure. Checked inverter water pump coolant level and operation-pump is working.

    So I had them replace the 12V aux battery. So far no relapse of this problem with one day driving with the new 12V aux battery. I am not convinced that this is the root cause.

    Galaxee and Patrick Wong had previous threads something about DC/DC converters overheating when the inverter pumps failed - and perhaps that is closer to the root cause of the issue my 06 Prius is having.

    Thoughts?
     
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    I suggest that you inspect the inverter coolant pump yourself, to verify that it is working. This is easy enough to do:

    1. Make the car IG-ON (from IG-OFF, press the POWER button 2x without depressing the brake pedal.) All of the instrument panel warning lights will be on.

    2. Open the hood and look for the inverter coolant pump behind the driver's side headlamp. Listen for the sound of the pump running (should sound like an aquarium pump and you should not hear air bubbles.)

    3. Look at the inverter coolant reservoir and note turbulence in the fluid which shows the fluid is circulating.

    Also note that the original 12V battery passed the "load test". This is why I suggest that owners not bother to pay for this test at the dealer, if there are any questions about the battery just replace it.
     
  3. whodat

    whodat Member

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    I checked the hose between the driver side headlamp and the fuse box and noted some slight vibration when I put my finger on it - so I am guessing (if that's the inverter coolant pump hose) its working.

    Which coolant reservoir is the inverter coolant - the yellow fluid reservoir?
    Thanks
     
  4. 2009Prius

    2009Prius A Wimpy DIYer

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  5. gabrielino

    gabrielino New Member

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    stuart
    Vehicle:
    2006 Prius
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    Your car and city caught my eye.

    I just bought a 2006 Prius and I live in Aptos too. I get back there in mid may. Perhaps we can exchange some info?
    gabe