I have a 2010 Prius and it failed inspection because the inspector said that there was an engine pulley on the side of the engine with no belt on it. I looked at it and there is no belt. I know that Toyota uses the same 1.8 engine in other models. Is it because it is a hybrid that this pulley is not used. The car runs fine and has been running great since August 2009 when I bought it. Just never noticed this odd pulley. I'm taking it to the dealer after calling to make an appointment yesterday. I don't like the cost of going to the dealer, but I need an inspection every 12 month in the commonwealth of Virginia.
Morons in inspection roles! Next time ask him what that "missing belt" should be driving. Just for info., the "pulley" is only -part- of the "harmonic balancer". It absorbs shocks on the crankshaft, lengthening the life of parts such as bearings. Instead of creating another part to inventory, Toyota used the same part on all the engines of this model. Hence, on a Prius, we have an unnecessary pulley. It would drive a "serpentine belt", for power steering, water pump, alternator, and perhaps A/C (though due to the power required for A/C refrig pumps that is usually a separate belt). On the Prius, all those are electric, and the alternator is MG1, with the output realized through a 12V output from the inverter, powered from the 200V hybrid battery. Similar, but different.
That 'pulley' is used as a flywheel. No belt -- ever. No way you should pay a dealership because the inspector is an idiot
I think you're right, I'm going to take my chances on NOT finding another clown, and cancel my Dealer appointment.
Personally, I would go back to the shop that failed the inspectiion and show them this: All-New Third Generation Toyota Prius Raises the Bar for ... It is from Toyota, and states that the Prius does not have accessory belts. Have them pass the car, and refund your money for the aggravation.
Take it back and tell them to reinspect it. IF they fail it again, ask that a station supervisor be called or get the number of the station supervisor or auditor. Put that guy out of business, he is too stupid to be a state inspector.
Do not waste your time/money on this. The inspector is completely out-to-lunch: the pulley is a left over from this engine's use on other Toyota model, Corolla I think. Your issue is solely with the inspector, nothing wrong with the car.
I don't know what the cost is in Virginia for state inspection. Here it is the same whether you go to a small garage or to the dealer. we also get inspected every 12 months.
Everyone here is right. From 2010 up...there are no belts on the Prius engines. Great idea! All accessories are electric driven.
