Erratic starting

http://priuschat.com/forums/care-maintenance-troubleshooting/44629-2001-p3191-problems.html

 

See the attached TSB. The basic problem is that the gasoline engine is not starting within the amount of time allowed by the engine ECU.

I suggest that you first try tuning up your car as follows:

1. Change the iridium spark plugs if this has not recently been done.
2. Change the engine air filter if dirty.
3. Clean the throttle body interior and throttle plate using throttle body cleaner.

If this does not help your symptoms, then have your dealer measure fuel line pressure to see if the fuel pump (located in the fuel tank) or circuit opening relay are problems. Minimum fuel line pressure is 43 psi.

The reason that the TSB suggests replacing the engine ECU is that the current version allows more time for the engine to start. There is nothing actually wrong with the old ECU.

The engine ECU is located behind the glove compartment. If you can remove the compartment box, see if you can identify the part number on the ECU and compare to the current number of 89661–47054.

Since the engine ECU is quite expensive, if its replacement is not covered under warranty you may decide to live with the problem.

Good luck.

 

The first 2 codes are Engine malfunction and engine won't start. I can't identify the C codes.If its not throwing DTC's for something specific it might just need a tune up like the other posters said. Can't believe the dealer didn't try to hose you for a massive tune-up. Since you didn't post mileage on the car or its tune level hard to help you. Probably just needs plugs and filters. Hope those aren't the original plugs sittin' in there for 7 years.

 

There should be no need to replace the gas tank if the fuel pressure is correct. Perhaps Patrick Wong, who has owned a Classic, can provide more insight. The current model has the fuel pump in the tank.

 

I agree with Bill Merchant: The gas tank needs to be replaced only if the fuel pressure is low. The fuel pump is located within the gas tank for both Classic and 2G models.

Have you had a chance to try tuning up your car to see if that reduces or eliminates the erratic start symptoms that you have noticed?

 

Damm it i got a prius with a code c1259 and c1310, the dealer says its the hv batt,but they dont know i repalced it with another prius,and the other prius is just fine now they wont even take a look at it any one got any ideas.