Prius 2006,first time owner!

Having received the code from Autel, can you reliably determine the cause of the problem or immediately localize the search to a specific block?
Especially without other parameters?
Unlikely. This requires experience, knowledge and a little luck.

 

I'm not going to challenge you on that, because I've never personally dealt with that issue.

I have successfully used an Autel AP2500E, a cousin to the AP200, to diagnose a problem in our car. It very directly led me to the problem, a wheel bearing hub. My other OBD scanner showed no problems at all- because it had no way of interrogating the many other ECUs in this car.

The Autel did it. It took me right to the issue, and then immediately let me clear the code after I replaced the bearing hub.

All I'm saying is that if you're going to have a single tool to cover the car, it probably should be this Autel setup, because it is not terribly expensive, covers the whole car to the limit that onboard diagnostics can, and works with the smartphone that nearly everyone already owns.

I have no argument against using other apps and tools and combining results from such to learn more and develop further insight- in fact I welcome it.

And here's the thing: you can always put off the purchase until something happens. Most dealers now (fall 2024, USD) charge $180 to do the diagnostic scan you can get out of these $70 Autel setups- just to put it in perspective.

 

Okay!
Let's agree that everyone uses what suits them and what achieves the best results.

 

Have you checked the air pressure in the spare?

I suggest getting a scanner (like the Autel) sooner rather than later. You do not want to be in the middle of a "vehicle breakdown" event and then have to order, set up, and navigate a new tool.

Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.

 

So why not do the first few cleanings on somebody else's equipment, like the big vacs at a car wash?

Then follow up with smaller home gear to maintain it later.

 

The first thing you need for self maintenance is a reasonably good understanding of how a Toyota hybrid works. Not every mechanic knows this and many don’t work on them as a result.

After developing a basic knowledge base of a very complicated design, then you should understand the routine maintenance requirements like checking & changing fluids, replacing air and cabin filters, when to change spark plugs, rotating tires and inspecting brakes.

There are many computers in a Prius and a good code and live data reader is needed to even ask questions here most of the time. You will hear about the hacked Toyota scanner Techstream and various others including kind of free apps (Dr Prius battery data) and better paid apps like Autel’s described above.

Along the way, understand the common problems like hybrid battery failures, brake by wire issues and oil burning concerns.

One thing for sure ; an 18 year old hybrid will need repairs and some repairs can cost $2000 US or more. The best strategy is to learn what you can and do oil and filter changes yourself as an easy way to save money. Having a good independent hybrid shop lined up will save you thousands when the big repairs are needed.