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I have a "problem"

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by The Phoenix, Oct 21, 2016.

  1. The Phoenix

    The Phoenix Member

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    I have a 2008 Prius with 214,000 miles, lately and with increasing frequency but no real pattern I get the red triange and the word problem on the screen. It doesn't stay on and they is no noticeable changes when this happens. So now I have a problem because I don't know what it is...at all. Is there a way to get into some vehicle diagnostics without tech stream or taking it to a Toyota dealer. I did manage to get some information when I was checking the voltage of my 12v but I've forgotten the procedure. Any help would be greatly appreciated and I will also try to look for similar posts as well. Thank you.
     
    #1 The Phoenix, Oct 21, 2016
  2. JimboPalmer

    JimboPalmer Tsar of all the Rushers

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    Many Auto Parts stores have an OBDII reader you can use. They usually expect only one ECU, so they do not check all the ECUs in a Prius, but if it is an engine 'problem', they may find it.
     
    #2 JimboPalmer, Oct 21, 2016
  3. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    A common problem has been the failure of the inverter coolant pump. Open the cap and check the reservoir fluid and see if it has any movement while the car is on.
     
    #3 JC91006, Oct 21, 2016
  4. The Phoenix

    The Phoenix Member

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    I have a scan gauge and it does not register any engine code. I will check about the coolant, but the one thunk I have documented that was done was replacement of the pump
     
    #4 The Phoenix, Oct 21, 2016
  5. jadziasman

    jadziasman Prius owner emeritus

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    A low engine oil level can cause the intermittent appearance of the red triangle. When was the last time you checked it?
     
    #5 jadziasman, Oct 21, 2016
    Last edited: Oct 21, 2016
  6. The Phoenix

    The Phoenix Member

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    I think you solved my problem jad, I'm overdue for an oil change and my sometimes aggressive driving style does burn a bit of oil...I will check that right away
     
    #6 The Phoenix, Oct 21, 2016
  7. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Oh yes, always check oil level first. But you shouldn't get to the triangle warning, that's already late
     
    #7 JC91006, Oct 21, 2016
  8. goldfinger

    goldfinger Active Member

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    #8 goldfinger, Oct 21, 2016
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