Hi I have a prius from 2008. I love my car BUT latly the heat does not work and now and then it comes upp a red triangel and a text "PROBLEM". And one sight that look like a termometer. Anybody knows what is wrong?
I believe that is the engine coolant warning light. Light is telling you the engine is running to hot (or coolant is low). Engine coolant relates to the heater system. First step: Check the coolant level. Second: Look for a leaking rubber hose in the system. Last: Just maybe the system is clogged. Mixing Green and Red coolant could cause a clog as that combination gums up things. So flush the system. If clogged and then flushed it is prudent to change the thermostat. Finally: Hate to say this but a blown head gasket seems to be a common failure with these cars and that would also affect the cooling system. Good luck.
My mom had a 2008 that did that. It had had work done on the front end, and the radiator hoses were put back on with worm clamps instead of Toyota's usual spring clamps. It had seemed ok for a while. Once the coolant is low enough that it can't even be pumped through the heater and you get no heat, you are at least a gallon down. Buy two. Mom's didn't have any tell-tale leak when cold. I had to start the car and let it warm up to pressure, and then there was a river visible underneath it. Avoid driving with no coolant.
