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The cap to the engine coolant reservoir popped off {Prius 2009}

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by LunaKing, Feb 28, 2016.

  1. LunaKing

    LunaKing New Member

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    2009 Prius
    While driving last night the high coolant temperature warning light came on. This morning I see the cap was off and a hose leading to the radiator had popped off. Coolant level low (I can't even see how low). I'd like to add coolant and get to the dealer, but any idea why these things happened? Safe to drive ~10 miles after I add coolant?

    Thank you!!
     
    #1 LunaKing, Feb 28, 2016
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    After you add water (don't worry about coolant when you have an emergency) look for a coolant leak. If you don't see this and if the engine temp warning does not appear then you can drive the car. If you see a temp warning you must immediately stop.
     
    #2 Patrick Wong, Feb 28, 2016
  3. 48mpg

    48mpg Member

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    if it built up that much heat and pressure I doubt the fan is working, hope you didn't blow the head gasket, it doesn't take much to destroy a motor
     
    #3 48mpg, Feb 28, 2016
  4. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    You probably lost the fan belt. Its only job is to turn the water pump. The engine coolant overheated so bad & created so much steam it blew the cap and hoses off. Don't be surprised if you blew the head gasket.
     
    #4 edthefox5, Feb 28, 2016
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