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Getting the Red Exclamation Point when braking on downhills

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Bulldogman, Aug 14, 2014.

  1. Bulldogman

    Bulldogman Junior Member

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    My apologies if this has been covered at length here. But just recently had the auxiliary battery replaced at the dealer. Was getting the 'chirping/barking seal' sounds at stop lights and it was becoming more frequent.

    Car has 92K on it. But after having the battery changed, still getting the warning sign on the display. Took to the dealer again, and they couldn't find anything. Said the reset the computer but it's still displaying sporadically.

    Any feedback would be appreciated. It's been a solid car other than that.
     
    #1 Bulldogman, Aug 14, 2014
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    That sound comes from the brake actuator. There is no impact on brake system reliability.

    You can have the brake hydraulic system flushed and new brake fluid added. That might help. Otherwise, live with the problem unless you want to spend four digits to have the brake actuator replaced.

    The 12V battery has nothing to do with this issue.

    Regarding the master warning light triangle (which I believe you are referring to as the warning light mentioned in your title) have you checked the engine oil level on the dipstick?
     
    #2 Patrick Wong, Aug 15, 2014
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  3. M in KC

    M in KC Active Member

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    Find a new dealer. That's a pathetic response from a dealership. They clearly must of met their quota for the period.
     
    #3 M in KC, Aug 15, 2014
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  4. cnschult

    cnschult Active Member

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    For less than what the dealer charged for a bad battery you could have had an optima installed which would last perhaps twice as long.

    If you have a 2011 you are in the wrong forum (gen ii and you should be in gen iii) however we are happy to help and very few (if anybody) on the gen III forums will know more than Patrick on Prius issues.

    Replacing the 12V battery is a knee-jerk reaction by many dealers to any problem with the Prius, it is my understanding that only Master Techs who have been to Japan to train specifically on the hybrid synergy drive are supposed to work on the Prius, but I could be wrong, and even among Master Techs there is bound to be a few bad apples.
     
    #4 cnschult, Aug 15, 2014
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  5. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    OK, did anyone check engine oil levels?
     
    #5 Former Member 68813, Aug 17, 2014
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  6. alexeft

    alexeft Member

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    This!!!
     
    #6 alexeft, Aug 18, 2014
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  7. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    I agree with Patrick.

    My speculation is that there is no connection between having the aux battery replaced and the brake sounds.

    The brake issue, is totally separate.

    Why a dealership would simply reset the computer and have you drive away?

    Poor customer/product support.
     
    #7 The Electric Me, Aug 18, 2014
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  8. Bulldogman

    Bulldogman Junior Member

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    You guys are right on target! It was low oil level that was getting the triangle symbol flashing. Not happy with the knee-jerk reaction of the dealer.

    By the way, it's 2008 Prius Gen II, I'm inquiring about here. I also own a Gen III.

    So it appears it's the brake actuator from the reading here. So you guys feel I can live safe with the hydraulic brakes?
    Flush the fluids, etc??
     
    #8 Bulldogman, Aug 18, 2014
  9. Bulldogman

    Bulldogman Junior Member

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    Again many thanks for the replies here! Big help!!
     
    #9 Bulldogman, Aug 18, 2014
  10. alexeft

    alexeft Member

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    Watch the oil from now on! You 'll destroy the poor thing otherwise!
     
    #10 alexeft, Aug 18, 2014
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