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How many dead cells will keep a Prius from starting?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by skittle021, Apr 9, 2021.

  1. skittle021

    skittle021 New Member

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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    I've got a 2005 Prius that refuses to start up no matter what. I've replaced the 12V battery, but still nothing. I have now been greeted by the infamous red triangle and a "main battery" logo on the touch screen.

    I removed my hybrid battery and tested the cells with a multimeter. 4 cells only register between 2.3v and 3.5v. The rest all measure a minimum of 7.39, most are around 7.5v.

    My question is: will 4 dead cells prevent the car from starting? It seems like more would have to die before the car would lock itself down like this. Is there anything else I should check or is it time to just order some new cells or a new battery?
     
  2. ozmatt

    ozmatt Active Member

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    Hi how's it going :)

    Absolutely it will, even one cell could prevent it from "ready" if it's leaking electrolyte which it sounds like yours is, take a look at the underside they leak at the thread on bottom.

    Hv leak will disable the car


    Matt


    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
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  3. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    the battery wil not work when the voltage drops below the computers parameters.

    that being said, your best course of action would be to read the trouble codes, hopefully avoiding a wild goose chase
     
  4. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    And its not just the goose that chase too... Happens with ducks as well...
     
  5. ozmatt

    ozmatt Active Member

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    I notice when there's a bunch of modules in the 2,3&4v range (usually next to each other) it's a good indication of a car that's been driven for a very long time on a bad battery, it doesn't generally happen over night! and probably has leakers and burnt up ecu and wiring harness.. all the good stuff.

    Never get many good modules out of these packs, if this is the case might be easier to find another pack!

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.