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HELP --- 1st Gen Prius

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by ford, Oct 25, 2010.

  1. ford

    ford New Member

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    Okay I couldn't find a spot for this anywhere else so please forgive me.

    I have a 2003 Toyota Prius, that you have to push sooo hard to make it stop, the ABS and brake light are on and there is some aweful chime that is solid and doesn't go away (very high pitch), I just got the car, and got it like this. I think its signs of a BRAKE BOOSTER, but I have been unable to loacted that, I found the Master Cylinder, but looks like you have to remove the Hybrid engine to do... Is there a procedure for this I really need some help here.
     
    #1 ford, Oct 25, 2010
  2. Hal W

    Hal W New Member

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    Better have the brake shoes checked ASP. Sounds like metal to metal. H
     
    #2 Hal W, Oct 26, 2010
  3. ford

    ford New Member

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    Its nothing to do with brake pads or anything, there is a HUGE resistance in the peddle, therefore it is suspected that its a Brake Booster, I just can't find it. I need to know where on the First Gen Prius its located.
     
    #3 ford, Oct 26, 2010
  4. Hal W

    Hal W New Member

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    Has the DOT 3 ever been replaced. Have you talked to the Toyota service people. Yes a read your post again . H
     
    #4 Hal W, Oct 26, 2010
  5. ford

    ford New Member

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    No idea if it has ever been changed I just got the car. But I've been working on cars for years, feels like the boost (I just can't locate it), brake fluid looks ok.
     
    #5 ford, Oct 26, 2010
  6. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    I recommend that you take the car to your local Toyota dealer for assistance. The brake system is really not DIY-serviceable for issues other than replacing the pads and shoes.

    The warning lights and the warning tone are telling you that the brake system is seriously impaired. There may be air in the system or the brake actuator assembly may need to be replaced.
     
    #6 Patrick Wong, Oct 26, 2010
  7. ford

    ford New Member

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    I am actually a mechanic so I am not concerned about doing the work, only difference is I've not done it a Prius. Where would the booster be located? I doesn't seem like air in the line as the pedal is hard to push not soft and spongy.
     
    #7 ford, Oct 26, 2010
  8. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    Two
    There is no vacuum-operated brake booster. The reason for this is because the Prius gasoline engine does not run part of the time, hence there would be no vacuum to operate the booster.

    If you wish to DIY I recommend you download repair manual info at techinfo.toyota.com

    You will see that it is necessary to have access to the Toyota diagnostic laptop to 1) obtain the relevant DTC and 2) do most brake system repair, such as replacing the brake actuator assembly, purging air out of the hydraulic lines, etc.
     
    #8 Patrick Wong, Oct 26, 2010
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