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Check hybrid system warning, need new shifter assembly

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by bobbintb, Sep 11, 2018.

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  1. bobbintb

    bobbintb Junior Member

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    I was on the interstate recently on cruise control and my 2012 Prius had a warning light saying to pull over and check the hybrid system. I don't recall the exact wording. It dropped out of cruise and I had to pull over because it wouldn't accelerate. The messaged remained after shutting the car off for a bit and turning it back on. It went away after 3 power on cycles. I took it to Autozone to get the diagnostic code but there was none. I took it into the dealer and they said there was a voltage drop and I needed to replace the shifter assembly. I forgot to get the exact code from the guy. I haven't had any issues with the vehicle other than that. Also, since then the "charge" meter on the dash doesn't ever show any charging.

    The quote the dealer gave me seemed a little high, just shy of $700, but I'm not sure how much labor and parts are. Dealer parts are always more. Plus I'm a little uncertain of the diagnosis. I have no reason to doubt them really, it's just that they only gave me the jist of the problem and I'm a very technically minded person that prefers the full story. I've researched and the error can mean many things, depending on the code. I'll have to get the code from the guy but any thoughts on the matter? Does their assessment sound correct? Does the cost seem reasonable? I could do it myself and just might for that price but I wanted to get a better sense of the situation.
     
    #1 bobbintb, Sep 11, 2018
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    welcome!

    how many miles on her?

    maybe a local mech could install a salvage shifter for cheap.
     
    #2 bisco, Sep 12, 2018
  3. bobbintb

    bobbintb Junior Member

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    Just took it in for the 110k maintenance. I'm looking for parts locally and all. I could probably do it myself; it's really a matter of time, not skill. Just wondering if anyone else has had this same issue. I get that error messages are not always written well and that lots of things are interconnected. It's just that it being the shifter assembly seems odd and I didn't get enough background explanation to make me feel confident in the assessment.

    Error code is P181B. I haven't had a chance to look into the code but hopefully that will satisfy me. It's just that I work in tech and I have a hard time taking someone else's word for it, LOL. Especially when they say something like the entire thing needs to be replaced.
     
    #3 bobbintb, Sep 13, 2018
  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    it is certainly unusual. where did the code come from, dealer or auto zone?
     
    #4 bisco, Sep 14, 2018
  5. jerrymildred

    jerrymildred Senior Member

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    I found this PDF file that includes your code.
    hybrid control system - PriusChat

    Here's the relevant part, I think.
    Screen Shot 2018-09-15 at 7.54.37 AM.png
     
    #5 jerrymildred, Sep 15, 2018
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  6. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    It's a cheap and easy repair. They don't often go bad. Complete used ones can be had on eBay for about $50 delivered. Just search "LKQ Prius shifter,"

    Installation can't be easier. Just carefully pry off the trim panel and lay it aside. Using a 12mm socket and ratchet (1/4 drive with extension recommended), remove the three flange nuts that hold the shifter in place. Remove the shifter. Depress the tab on the white wire connector.

    Install in reverse order, and you're done.

    You don't even have to disconnect the battery. The codes will automatically clear.
     
    #6 Georgina Rudkus, Sep 15, 2018
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  7. bobzchemist

    bobzchemist Active Member

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    I took my shift assembly off when I bought an electronic pushbutton shifter - took maybe 15 minutes. Super, super easy. If it were me, I'd buy one of the aftermarket shifters for $200 - 300 or so. I love mine, it's one of the coolest things about my Prius.

    Stage 10

    ELD (I have this one)

    OGS

    APR

    I can't find any US info on the TOM's switch. Maybe someone here can help.

    There are a bunch of posts about these here and elsewhere on the web. Personally, I think these should have been standard equipment.

    OTOH, replacing the shifter assembly with a used one would be even easier. You can get one on Ebay fairly easily.
     
    #7 bobzchemist, Sep 15, 2018
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  8. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    I'm curious if you use B a lot, or just leave it in D most all the time.
     
    #8 Mendel Leisk, Sep 15, 2018
  9. bobzchemist

    bobzchemist Active Member

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    Because the OEM shifter assembly is trying to replicate a mechanical shifter with what is essentially a computer joystick, it is overly complicated. Buttons are a better, more reliable choice.
     
    #9 bobzchemist, Sep 15, 2018
  10. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    Here's some info from the Repair Manual. The last portion really runs on, I believe way more than you need, complete dash removal, but I can't be bothered to trim it down.
     

    Attached Files:

    #10 Mendel Leisk, Sep 16, 2018
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  11. bobzchemist

    bobzchemist Active Member

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    #11 bobzchemist, Sep 16, 2018
    Last edited: Sep 16, 2018
  12. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    what happens if you push the wrong button with the stage 10?
     
    #12 bisco, Sep 16, 2018
  13. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    I'm with you, there. The OEM shifter has gone through many, if not all, regulatory bodies in all jurisdictions where the Prius has been sold.

    The only modifications that I have and recommend doing to the OEM shifter is shortening or "slamming" the shaft and/or redesigning the shift knob.

    Even then, the shape and surface contact area of the knob in case of impact with the human body should also be seriously considered.
     
    #13 Georgina Rudkus, Sep 16, 2018
  14. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    that's where the stage 10 shines
     
    #14 bisco, Sep 16, 2018
  15. Raytheeagle

    Raytheeagle Senior Member

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    A nimbus works well as an OEM replacement ;).

    Serves a great purpose of also being a great phone mount:).

    Avoids wasted space (y).
     
    #15 Raytheeagle, Sep 16, 2018
  16. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    is that a nimbus 2000?
     
    #16 bisco, Sep 16, 2018
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  17. Georgina Rudkus

    Georgina Rudkus Senior Member

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    If you have the Stage 10, can you comment on the certifications in Europe, Asia, Canada and the US, et al?
     
    #17 Georgina Rudkus, Sep 16, 2018
  18. Raytheeagle

    Raytheeagle Senior Member

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    #18 Raytheeagle, Sep 16, 2018
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  19. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i don't. have looked at them longingly, but unwilling to pull the trigger
     
    #19 bisco, Sep 16, 2018
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  20. Raytheeagle

    Raytheeagle Senior Member

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    What mods have you done to your pip:whistle:?

    Just the duct tape variety:p?
     
    #20 Raytheeagle, Sep 16, 2018
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