100,000 Mile Service= Rapid ICE/EV Cycling

I have a 2009 Prius which I purchased at 72,000 miles nearly one year ago and now has 100,250 miles. Thanks to all of the PC DIY’ers and your informative posts I have performed all of the recommended services to include, oil/filters, transaxle fluid, ICE coolant, inverter pump and coolant, replaced engine belt, spark plugs, PCV valve and cleaned both the throttle body and MAF sensor. Since the service I have noticed that, even with the AC off it takes considerably less depression of the gas pedal to start the ICE. I have read through the forums and tried the Do It Yourself Test Procedure (jdenenberg) and the battery checks out ok. I ensured the inverter pump reservoir has been filled to capacity as I read this could affect the ICE and cause it to run. I took the MAF and re-cleaned the bulb and yet the problem persists. I’m sure the problem’s not in my head as I have 28,000 miles of driving experience and after reading several posts over the past three months, feathered the pedal to accomplish a 52.5 MPG average on a 19 mile one way commute on a Georgia highway. I am not sure which direction to proceed in and any help would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks.

 

I keep my tire pressure at 51psi and I haven't taken a hit on my mileage. It just seems like it doesn't take as much depression on the gas pedal until the ICE kicks in.

 

Thanks.

The tire says inflate to 51psi max.

Patrick, I noticed in one of your posts pertaining to the MAF you mentioned specifically cleaning two wires, I think that is what they were, along with the bulb. I did not clean those wires. Also I filled my radiator during the refill but did not think to add coolant to the reservoir which I will do tomorrow. Do you think either can have anything to do with with it?

BTW, thanks so much for your input and insight in maintaining the Prius! I'm sure you've inspired countless other empowered DIY'ers!