HELP! Just Bought a 2005 and having a MAJOR problem

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(JenVanVooren @ Jul 18 2007, 03:10 PM) [snapback]481096[/snapback]</div>

That's it, my husband is going to be assignesd his own screen name! The last post was from him and he was defending himself for me calling him a chicken! ) Thanks for the pic Galaxee, the Chicken will appreicate it and so will his wife, especially if it works...

Hobbit also suggested taking out the ecu connectors and reseating them, so we might try that tonight as well. If anything comes of trying these pot. fixes, I will be sure to let you know.

Thanks again!

-Jen

 

So ... any luck on that shifter?
.
_H*

 

Anyone get a message about Prius being in Park and locked up, with message saying that you need to be on a level spot?

 

Re: HELP! Just Bought a 2005 and having a MAJOR problem

Are you sure you were in Park? This usually happens when you open the door while in gear.

 

This can also happen with a weak 12V Aux battery. This is especially prevalent in colder weather because the chemistry in this battery makes the output lower. Unlike most cars this 12V battery does not actually start the engine, it only boots the computers which in turn signal the Hybrid Traction Battery to crank the motor. The problem is since you don't get to hear the battery in action trying to crank the car, you really have no warning when it decides to go belly up.

If your 12V battery is 3-4 years old, and you are now experiencing problems with colder weather like no-start, or park warning messages, you probably have a bad 12V battery. I recommend you just replace it. This site sells a complete kit with a superior battery for $175 shipped. It includes instructions and is easy, all you need is a 10mm socket wrench or it can even be done with pliers if you struggle a bit.

The kit is usually less money than the dealer is going to charge for a crappy original battery that's likely been sitting on a shelf for too long, and the new optima battery has more capacity and will last longer.

Technical explanation: The transaxle has a park lock device called a park pawl. It's engaged by a high-torque electric motor. If there is insufficient 12V power for this motor to operate, it will provide this error message and can prevent the car from engaging drive.

 

Before replacing the 12V battery test it yourself:
http://priuschat.com/forums/newbie-forum/73400-weird-stuff-happening-mpgs-dropping-test-battery.html

It's easy, it's fun, it will either save you some money or give you confidence that replacing the battery is the right thing to do.

 

Re: HELP! Just Bought a 2005 and having a MAJOR problem

Chicken calling must be followed by divorce, July of 2007!