Code P0aa6 info codes 526, 613 - Transaxle Replacement Question

I'm getting conflicting information from my mechanic vs the Toyota dealership, and I'm looking for some other input/advice/opinion.

The master warning light came on in my 2009 Prius (133,000 miles). It was towed to my mechanic who advised me it was a P0aa6 code, and said it should be covered by Toyota SB 0306-08, with replacement of the transmission for up to 10 yrs/150,000 miles. (I am a PA resident; see: TSB 0306-08 vs. TSB EG045-06 60K vs. 150K warranty? | PriusChat)

It was towed to the dealer, who advised me that for $375 they could verify if it was covered, as they would need to perform additional diagnostics. The outcome of the additional testing by the dealer was they determined it was P0AA6 codes with info codes of 526 and 613 that required a transaxle replacement. They also told me it was not covered by the service bulletin and quoted a price of $5,000.

My mechanic told me that it should be covered, even though apparently the service bulletin specifies 2004-2008, and my car is 60 days beyond this window. He recommended I call Toyota customer service directly and "pitch a fit." He said he would be happy to talk to them for me.

I called Toyota Customer Service myself this morning, figuring that it couldn't be that hard, but I didn't get much further than opening a case # and being told repeatedly that "there is no extended service associated with that VIN." I was also advised that if 2009 is added to the extended warranty coverage years, and I had the work done by the dealership, I would be eligible for a reimbursement.

What is a reasonable course of action here? Is this a documented, known problem I should be asking Toyota to resolve (as my mechanic says) or is this a case of bad luck, as the dealer says? I would be very grateful for any opinions or suggestions.

 

Replaced at 60,000 miles.

 

Unfortunately, no engine washing, no car washing, not even any rain for a few weeks. The dealer said they checked the wiring, and the wiring wasn't the problem. I don't know if they did the additional cleaning/drying you recommend. I can ask.

 

Thanks for the input.

 

I'm wondering if I should I be looking for a cheaper repair, pay the $5,000 at the dealership, or invest in a new car? This car has had decent care, and I really haven't spent any money to speak of on repairs before this. But it does have 133K on it.

 

My mechanic sent me this post: Gen 2 Prius (2004-2009) Transmission Failure, P0AA6, P0A92, P0A7A - Luscious Garage | Hybrid Specialists which does make it seem like a known issue for 2004-2009 models. However, in PA it's only covered for 2004-2008. I really have no idea if it should be covered, but the bottom line is, in PA it is not covered. I talked to some guy who said he called Toyota CS every day for 6 months, and they did eventually cover his 2009, but I don't have the time or emotional fortitude to manage that.

 

Well, tomorrow's the big day. I got a salvage unit for $400 and a very reasonable estimate from a 2-person garage. I did pay an annoying $375 to have the dealership identify the problem as specifically the transaxle and not other possible causes. Fingers crossed! As a side note, I'm a nurse practitioner and see myself as practicing at the intersection of art and science, and it's been very interesting for me to get a sense of how car mechanics operate in a similar zone.