Can you run a gen 3 (2012) on a bad HV battery?

It would be worth getting more details about what the battery issue is.

There's unlikely to be any damage to the engine whatever happens. Of more concern is just that the battery may reach a point where the car's computers say "nope, not doing that anymore", and if that point comes 3.5 hours into your 7 hour drive it may throw a bit of a wrench into your travel planning.

 

Why not bring the replacement pack with your and change it? It would be safer. And doubtfull
you'd get stranded. If you have AAA with unlimited towing mileage, don't worry about it.

 

The HV battery starts the engine... So if there's still life left in it it's possible... But if battery if HV battery is dead, so is the car.

 

If it's dirt cheap and otherwise in good shape I think it's a good buy, especially if you're going to do a lot of maintenence on your own. I'd clean the EGR circuit and change all the fluids. I'd just drive it as easy as possible on the way home.

 

"Wait... this is a thing?"

Definitely, as long as you've brought along all of the required tools and know what you're doing...

 

I'd run Dr. Prius app (connected by bluetooth to an OBDII adapter) to see what codes show up, then clear the codes. Sounds like the owner was freaked out by early battery problems. If you clear the codes, you probably can drive it to your place. Probably, of course, is not certainly.

 

I don't know that one. I use the OBDLink Lx (with my android phone). It is more expensive at about $50.

I got the OBDLink LX because Hybrid assistant recommends it. Dr. Prius tested the MX (supposed to work with IOS and android), didn't like it, didn't test the LX which is android only.

 

Hybrid battery diagnostic and repair tool for Toyota and Lexus Look at the 'What OBD2 to Buy" tab at the top of the page for a selection. I like the Carista unit; he seems to favor it as well.

Unlimited AAA towing ain't free, and you could end up with a couple hundred mile tow...

 

here's where to find out: Hybrid battery diagnostic and repair tool for Toyota and Lexus

 

You know, the 12v battery could be weak, or bad.... It will cause problems with the hybrid battery lights...

 

If you pay the extra money for the year, for AAA, you can get unlimited mileage towing...

 

I have no idea. But you can go to there site and find out..