Optima Yellowtop died young?

I installed a n Optima Yellowtop in 2010, got seven years out of it. Plenty happy to replace wiyh another when it got weak.

The new one is down to an 11.8 volt load condition after only four months! (I checked because I got the red brake light, the brakes symbol and the antilock symbol, which PriusChat indicated could well be a 12 volt issue). The system indicates it's charging at 14.4 volts, so that's not the issue. The car is still driven daily, 20 mile round trip commute.

Has anyone elee had one of these things go South on them early?

Planning to go to the store first thing in the morning and request replacement.

 

Should be 12+ as I understand it. Dropped to 11.8

 

I've been a fan. As stated, the first one in this 2008 Gen 2 went nearly seven years, in the tropics. I put another in the wife's Pris V a couple years back and it's going strong. I've installed them for three Prius driving friends and they're all happy. Hopefully this one is a fluke.

 

Hmmm. NAPA tested the battery and says it's good -- in fact it teads higher AH than rated. I have it on a smart charger and we'll see what's up after I top off and re-install.

 

Well, battery is good.

I noted the coolant in the inverter looked a little low, so topped it off. Started car, cannot see any turbulence.

I believe the pump was already replaced under warranty.

Is it OK to drive about 30 minutes to the Dealer, or should I have it trailered?

 

Ah, OK. I used to fly through Typhoons for a living, so what I was expecting to see from the description "Watch for turbulaence on the reservoir" was, um, excessive.

The pump runs. The fluid moves.

I jumpered points 4 & 13 on the OBD hookup, started the car, pumped the brakes 8 quick times and, Voila. All lights out.

Thanks to all, and to Patrick Wong, for the assistance.

Dontcha love a story with a happy ending?

 

All the lights having to do with brakes were lit up.

First thing checked 12 volt.

Then Inverter pump. All good.

Finally just did as above. Whew!