1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

whining noise after powering down

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by pvsteph7, Feb 22, 2008.

  1. pvsteph7

    pvsteph7 New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 22, 2008
    23
    0
    0
    Location:
    CA
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Does anyone else's Prius make a whining noise for 10-20 seconds after powering it down? It's kind of like a soft whirring noise, really like"whining."

    I have a 2005 w/ 43k miles. I just bought it used, so I don't know if it made that noise before.

    Thoughts? I read a previous post that it might be the coolant pump? Does this necessitate a trip to the dealer?
     
    #1 pvsteph7, Feb 22, 2008
  2. Bob64

    Bob64 Sapphire of the Blue Sky

    Joined:
    Apr 9, 2007
    1,540
    92
    0
    Location:
    Virginia
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    thats the coolant transfer pump that pumps the hot coolant into the thermos for warmer startup the next time you turn it on.
     
    #2 Bob64, Feb 22, 2008
  3. Bill Merchant

    Bill Merchant absit invidia

    Joined:
    May 3, 2005
    4,096
    82
    13
    Location:
    USA | Oregon | Portland area | 97004 |
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Hi pvsteph7. Every North American Prius makes that noise. If it doesn't sound like a cat being stepped on, it's probably OK. If you suddenly STOP hearing it is the time to be worried; it may have died. As the car gets older, and particularly in winter, you may hear the coolant transfer pump more. But unless it's really making a racket, or stops completely, you're OK. BTW, it may turn on for a few seconds a few hours after shutting down; this, too, is normal.
     
    #3 Bill Merchant, Feb 22, 2008
  4. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

    Joined:
    Mar 27, 2004
    7,663
    1,040
    0
    Location:
    United States
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    If you didn't get both the owner's manual and the scheduled maintenance guide with the car, then buy them from a dealer or online. They will save you money and trouble.
     
    #4 richard schumacher, Feb 22, 2008
(You must log in or sign up to post here.)