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2012 Prius V, 115k miles - check engine light, Head Gasket Repair… what to do?

Discussion in 'Prius v Main Forum' started by Kellan Rohde, Jan 27, 2022.

  1. Kellan Rohde

    Kellan Rohde New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 27, 2022
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    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    N/A
    I’m the third owner of 2012 Prius V that I really, really love for my life in Los Angeles. I got it about a year and a half ago from my parents at 80k miles… out about 30-40k in that year and a half, sitting at 115k now. Recently, the check engine light appeared out of nowhere. Took it to mechanic and was told head gasket needed replacement, that this was common in engines from 2010-2012. In addition to that head gasket, mechanics seem pretty convinced that there’s additional damage to the piston rods, and I was quoted $6300 for all repairs.

    what do I do? should I take it to a dealership to see what they quote? do I swallow the huge bill and squeeze as much life out of it as I can? Do I cut my losses and sell / trade in the car?
     
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Texas Hill Country
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    Three
    Second and third opinions from Gasketmasters and Hybrid Pit
     
  3. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 17, 2010
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    Location:
    Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Touring
    That’s barely outa warranty…:eek:
     
  4. Kellan Rohde

    Kellan Rohde New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 27, 2022
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    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    N/A
    would consider it totaled if it wasn’t for the fact that used cars are so expensive right now. mostly worried that if I spend the money, it’s the beginning of the end and the car becomes a depressing money pit
     
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

    Joined:
    May 11, 2005
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    Location:
    boston
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    you should be able to find a salvage engine with install for $2-3,000. all the best!
     
  6. vvillovv

    vvillovv Senior Member

    Joined:
    Mar 19, 2013
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    Location:
    NY
    Vehicle:
    2017 Prius Prime
    Model:
    Prime Plus
    since no ones asked yet, I'll do it ! What are the fault codes? If you don't have them yet, it could help a lot if you get them and post them here. And / or use them for second and third opinions from Gasketmaster (which is there specialty) and hybrid pit.
     
  7. Tim Jones

    Tim Jones Senior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 17, 2018
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    Location:
    SE Texas
    Vehicle:
    2011 Nissan LEAF
    Model:
    ----USA----
    I changed my head gasket immediately after the low water, engine rattle.
    Been driving it over one year. Total cost $260.00