What do you think is the weakest link in the car?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Rhino, Nov 17, 2009.

  1. Rhino

    Rhino New Member

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    Since 1976, I've never had a car in my extended family, US or Japanese, fail on me because of an engine failure. While we discuss oil change a lot, I think the engine is one tough part. So while oil changes are important, I think possibly that transmission maintenance is more important.

    I think the part that needs the most tender loving care is the transmission (transaxle) and the big traction battery. There is nothing we can do about the traction battery so possibly some more frequent attention to the transmission (transaxle) is a good idea.

    Of course there are tires, brake shoes and headlights which can get expensive but I don't see how we can make that last longer except by not using them.

    I am open to comments. Just trying to figure out how to make the car last the longer.
     
    #1 Rhino, Nov 17, 2009
  2. spiderman

    spiderman wretched

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    Great point. I know Bob W. changed his transaxle lube and posted the results of the test done on it (search). Depending on how I tack on the miles, I may replace the oil before the OCI. But I have to say, I have never had transmission issues in all the vehicles I have owned.
    I got to think that these transaxles are less prone to issues than automatic transmissions. Just my opinion though.
    I was just thinking about an electric heating pad around the battery. I wonder if that would help and if there is enough room?
     
    #2 spiderman, Nov 17, 2009
  3. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    I suspect I'm missing the target with my response, but with my research here and elsewhere, I'd say the weakest link on the generation 2 came with HID headlight failures and with a percentage of people experiencing trouble with the Gas Bladder in so much as having difficulty filling it. Also some trouble with what has been called the "Guess Guage" instead of the gas gauge.

    But I don't think those "weakest links" are what the OP is wanting feedback on. I'm guessing you really want feedback or suggestions about how to best maintain your vehicle?

    To that you've opened up a universe of opinion. My opinion is with the design of The Prius there are a lot of things that like with any car may eventually need maintenance, repair or replacement. But unlike a "normal" car I think The Prius has more than it's share of components that you can't do much about, until you do have a failure. Most of the electronics, work until they don't work. I think mechanically you can possibly help yourself with careful monitoring of fluids oil and transaxle. As the OP mentions other items are simply wear items and issues.

    I know this isn't particularly helpful, and I myself am curious to read any other suggestions. Good Idea for a thread.
     
    #3 The Electric Me, Nov 17, 2009
    1 person likes this.
  4. KK6PD

    KK6PD _ . _ . / _ _ . _

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    What do you think is the weakest link in the car?


    THE DRIVER!!!!
     
    #4 KK6PD, Nov 17, 2009
  5. Fstr911

    Fstr911 Member

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    I am not so sure it's the weakest link in the car but the bluetooth delay is certainly annoying.
     
    #5 Fstr911, Nov 17, 2009
  6. LeadingEdgeBoomer

    LeadingEdgeBoomer Member

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    There's a whole long thread on weak FM radio reception, unless you live in an urban area and do not need to reach out to distant weaker stations.
     
    #6 LeadingEdgeBoomer, Nov 17, 2009
  7. Randall Rash

    Randall Rash Member

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    Bluetooth delay answering phone is annoying.
    Traction control brake delay when braking on rough ground is SCARY.:eek:
     
    #7 Randall Rash, Nov 17, 2009
  8. SlowTurd

    SlowTurd I LIKE PRIUS'S

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    tires and abs
     
    #8 SlowTurd, Nov 18, 2009
  9. toyotechwv

    toyotechwv Toyota Technician

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    "What do you think is the weakest link in the car?"

    Loose nut between the steering wheel and seat.:D
     
    #9 toyotechwv, Nov 18, 2009
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