How common is Gen 2 Head Gasket Failure after 300,000 miles?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by PrimalPrius, Feb 6, 2026.

  1. PrimalPrius

    PrimalPrius Member

    Joined:
    Nov 21, 2018
    108
    10
    0
    Location:
    America
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    Base
    I'll simplify the question: The only places where coolant can enter oil are:

    1) Head gasket

    2) Timing chain cover (RTV seal or damaged cover).

    3) Pipe plug in head.

    4) Crack/hole in head.

    5) Crack/hole in block.

    Surely someone here can confirm or dispute.
    I'm 99.9% sure, but the reason I am asking is to avoid that "Do'h! All this time it was actually leaking at the ____________!" moment.
     
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

    Joined:
    Jun 6, 2008
    10,704
    6,722
    7
    Location:
    Texas Hill Country
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    Three
    You act like this a game show. Jeopardy has prizes but, unlike you, the host has no risk.

    My guesses and answers:

    Diagnostic steps lead to answers:

    We can't see it, put our tools on it and are not getting paid to diagnose or repair. Pay somebody.
     
    #62 rjparker, May 9, 2026
    Last edited: May 9, 2026
  3. PrimalPrius

    PrimalPrius Member

    Joined:
    Nov 21, 2018
    108
    10
    0
    Location:
    America
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    Base
    You sound like a smart guy, but post some odd replies, at leat from time to time, in this case completely missing the question.

    The question is: Are the paths/interfaces listed the only places on a gen 2 prius where coolant can theoretically enter the oil?
    I think they are. There is no oil cooler in the radiator, for example.
     
  4. PrimalPrius

    PrimalPrius Member

    Joined:
    Nov 21, 2018
    108
    10
    0
    Location:
    America
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    Base
    Surely many here know?
    Are these the only places on a (Gen 2) prius where coolant and oil can mix?

    1) Head gasket

    2) Timing chain cover (RTV seal or damaged cover).

    3) Pipe plug in head (10mm hex key).

    4) Crack/hole in head.

    5) Crack/hole in block.