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Car knocking, changed spark plugs, problem persists

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Jacob Bonner, Feb 7, 2019.

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  1. Jacob Bonner

    Jacob Bonner Member

    Joined:
    Feb 7, 2019
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    Location:
    United States
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Within 100 miles of the Eastern NC area, that seems to be the going price for Gen 2's within 120k to 180k miles, for whatever reason. Of course, cheaper ones can be found, but the miles aren't enticing (200k+). Cars seem to be much cheaper in the Orlando, Florida area. In fact, my father almost bought a Hyundai Genesis from that region simply because of that.
     
    #81 Jacob Bonner, Oct 28, 2019
  2. ASRDogman

    ASRDogman Senior Member

    Joined:
    May 29, 2018
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    Location:
    Florida
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    oops
     
    #82 ASRDogman, Oct 28, 2019
  3. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 17, 2010
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    Location:
    Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Touring
    Most people think: we progress. Maybe not always?

    I do think you're on to something: with every "gen" they've managed to eff something up, and the third gen was a biggie.
     
    #83 Mendel Leisk, Oct 28, 2019
    Merkey, Jacob Bonner and mikey_t like this.
  4. iskoos

    iskoos Active Member

    Joined:
    Dec 24, 2017
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    Location:
    Orlando, FL
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    I am in Orlando and had no idea that the cars are much cheaper hereo_O

    I bought a used high mileage 2010 Prius III 2 years ago. And after 20k miles, it didn't give me any real issue. This is (so far) of course. And I don't know what the future will bring. And I didn't know any of these serious problems Gen3 has before I bought it. But I don't think it would have changed my mind. There is no other car on the market at this price level that can get your 50+ mpg.

    I experienced this infamous knocking issue about a week or two after I purchased the car. I checked the reason and when I found about the possible head gasket issue, I was alarmed. But then it never happened. I followed the "Do not shut off the car by pressing the power button if it is running" rule all the time. I did some basic maintenance like cleaning intake and the complete EGR system, replaced spark plugs, installed Oil Catch Can.

    I experienced the knocking issue once again during the first start after the car sat in the garage for about 4 months and that was it. So far so good. (Knock on wood):).

    If I was in OP's shoes, I would replace the head gasket (not in the dealer of course. Not sure if they even do that). It is definitely the most logical option. Putting a used engine is really unnecessary. Who guarantees how long it will last? Trading the car is like giving it away.

    If that engine didn't hydrolock and damaged the piston rods, parts will be a few hundred and a mobile mechanic can replace the head gasket on your driveway in several hours I would assume. All will be way under $1000. And the car will be back on road like new...
    Of course you should consider doing it yourself if you think you can. I know I would try it my own:)

    Think again...
     
    #84 iskoos, Oct 28, 2019
    ASRDogman and Jacob Bonner like this.
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