Strange sound coming from engine

This sound is from the coolant control valve. It seems many 2005 models are having this issue. There are write ups on here that shows you how to replace it. Part is around $80 at the dealer (DIY)....replacement cost is around $500 (at the dealer)

 

It won't cause any driving issues. If you are somewhat handy at DIY, you can replace this fairly easily........or you can simply ignore it.

 

I think I may have the same problem, here is a link to the audio

Oops, I can't put links on this forum yet, and I need an answer asap. Please look on youtube for "eichelman prius sound" Thanks,

The sound cycles and is steady and repetitious, for about a minute.

It can happen while at a stop light, with brake on, or when coasting into our driveway, both before we turn the engine off, and just afterwards.
The coolant was changed 4 months ago. Its a 2009 with 135,000 miles. It is happening more often now, and the dealer couldnt find or repeat the problem, but they tried to get air out of the system, but didnt really notice a big problem with air. Yet afterwards the problem persists.

 

That sound is probably coming from the engine coolant valve which is located in the vicinity of the inverter. If the check engine light is not on, then you can ignore the sound. If the CEL is on then the valve should be replaced.

Even if the CEL remains off, if the sound really bugs you, then change the valve now.

 

My wife is thinking of traveling 1000 miles with it from VA to Ohio. I'm concerned that the engine might overheat, since this is a 'coolant' valve. Could that happen? - likely?

 

If the engine coolant valve is stuck in one position or the other, there are two possible outcomes:

1. Either the cabin heater will not work very well, or
2. The coolant heat recovery system will not work very well which means the gasoline engine will take slightly longer to reach operating temperature from a cold start.

Neither of those outcomes relate to engine overheating.