Prius v repair: is it worth it?

Discussion in 'Prius v Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by lifeinthecrack, Sep 10, 2025.

  1. lifeinthecrack

    lifeinthecrack New Member

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    2012 Prius v wagon
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    V
    Hey Prius Chat!

    I have a 2012 Prius V, which I love. I bought it used only a year ago and it's been doing well until a dreaded check engine light came on a few weeks ago. I had the codes read at Autozone, which returned P0441- Evaporative Emission System Incorrect Purge Flow and P0455 - Evaporative Emission System Leak Detected (large leak).

    I brought the car to the dealership yesterday and they ran a smoke test and said the canister evap pump assembly needs to be replaced, which is a decently expensive fix (quoted $885). However, they said that the body (tray that the 12v battery sits in) is so rusted and the battery is at risk of falling out of the car. They said they don't recommend putting money into it and directed me to sales. Does anyone have experience with something similar? I love this car and spent $10,000 buying it and have already put $2,000 into maintenance. Would appreciate any suggestions!
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    #1 lifeinthecrack, Sep 10, 2025
    Last edited: Sep 10, 2025
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    Any car with any problem can be fixed if it's worth it to you and your finances. Would I do an evap? Probably assuming the car was safe which is a key factor.

    Usually rust depreciates the value of a car significantly. Most people with an old Prius avoid dealerships when repairs are needed. If it were me I would get a second opinion on the car's future from an independent shop.

    I am sure the second shop could replace the evap canister for less.

    If it is truly dangerous from an impending chassis or unibody failure I certainly would avoid spending money for other common expenses like a new hybrid battery, brake booster or engine, all gen3 weak points as they age.
     
    #2 rjparker, Sep 10, 2025
  3. lifeinthecrack

    lifeinthecrack New Member

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    Thank you! I'm going to get a second opinion on how bad the rust really is/safety and if there's anything I can do to strengthen the body, as well as see if the evap could be replaced for less.
     
    #3 lifeinthecrack, Sep 14, 2025
  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    you can't go by the battery floor, that's a common prius problem cause water leaks in and sits there.
    most people just do a little body work and drop the battery back in.
    how many miles on her? v's are great cars, but the head gasket is a weak point and expensive fix.
     
    #4 bisco, Sep 14, 2025
  5. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk MMX GEN III

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    Post some pics of the rear suspension. You can shimmy under there enough without jacking it up, and get a light on it.
     
    #5 Mendel Leisk, Sep 15, 2025
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