Blown Head gasket at 163k

Well my 2011 Prius started rumbling 2 weeks ago. Pulled the plugs and shoved a usb phone endoscope down and saw coolant in #1 cylinder. Called for a repair and was flabbergasted at the quote of roughly $3,100. Other places were similar in price. I don't know any independent mechanics so dealer was the least hassle and quickest. 1 week later and one expensive repair, the car drives on.

After getting it home, I again pulled the plugs and used a camera to see if anything changed as far as cleanliness. I expected something for that amount of money since they had the heads off, but nothing was cleaned. I also pulled the EGR valve and cooler off for the first time and was extremely happy to see light through the cooler. After 2 cans of brake cleaner, even more light could be seen. I was a little amazed at seeing light before the first cleaning after reading stories on this site. I was more curious if the EGR system was clogged to the point of possibly causing the head gasket issue. Based on me blowing through the EGR cooler before cleaning, I'd say I lucked out.

Every time I have to go to a dealer for something that I can't do, reminds me why I do as much as I can myself. At the going service rate of $150/hr, I probably save $5k or more in labor.

 

No oil burning, or at least nothing noticeable during oil changes.