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grinding noise in engine area

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Evans, Jun 7, 2014.

  1. Evans

    Evans New Member

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    weirsdale, Fl
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    II
    04 with 200k miles, car started stuttering like out of gas, when stopped there was a grinding noise from engine. Took to dealer on trailer, when it was taken to the mechanic all problems went away. Changed oil looking for metal chips, none. Did computer upgrade which was the only code on the check engine light.
    Drove car for two days on short trips, four or five times 20 to 30 miles. Ran great. At around 40 miles on next day same problem. No lights or codes of any type. Carried to dealer again, they said they were not sure if it is the engine, transmission, or something in between. I was told they would have to take it apart to find out and the least amount it would cost is $5,000.
    The grinding occurs when the engine is running only. when revved up it is louder, at idle the noise changes while sitting in park, louder quieter etc. when driving on electric, sounds perfect. (no sound at all)
    Input on this in very welcome
     
    #1 Evans, Jun 7, 2014
  2. nh7o

    nh7o Off grid since 1980

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    Mechanics use a stethoscope to locate such noises. It can be a long piece of plastic tubing, one end to the ear, the other held against various locations on the engine to see where the noise is loudest. Assuming it is not something as simple as the water pump, a used short block engine can be had for minimal cost ($500?), and the replacement can be done by a competent mechanic, not necessarily the dealer. That would get you down the road for much less than what you were quoted. Given the mileage, you are likely at the point where increased oil consumption has started, so it is not a bad option.
     
    #2 nh7o, Jun 7, 2014
    ChrisFaehrtPrius likes this.
  3. Evans

    Evans New Member

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    II
    I do not think it is the engine. I put the car in neutral on a hill with the engine running making grinding noise. As the car picked up speed rolling down hill in neutral 5 to 10mph the grinding noise gradually went away as the car increased speed. As I slowed the noise came back at the same rate as I slowed down. Driving back up the hill the engine would rev up but very little power was getting to the wheels. The noise was worse when the car was in park charging the batteries up than running and not charging the batteries. Again the car works perfectly running on electric. Is this indicative of the transaxle malfunctioning? I have no error lights or codes popping up.
     
    #3 Evans, Jun 9, 2014
  4. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    So you get this sound when you are not moving? Just when the engine is on? Have you tried to put it onto inspection mode (this keeps the engine running constantly) and go out to the engine compartment and hear the noise?
     
    #4 JC91006, Jun 9, 2014
  5. jadziasman

    jadziasman Prius owner emeritus

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    Can you locate where the noise is emanating from? Listen closely and try to pinpoint the location. You better hope it's not the driver's side inside the transaxle. As Egon from Ghostbusters said with respect to "crossing the streams", "it would be bad".
     
    #5 jadziasman, Jun 9, 2014
  6. nh7o

    nh7o Off grid since 1980

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    While not a delightful prospect, replacement of the transaxle is possible with a used unit and a good mechanic with the right tools. Not a show stopper.
     
    #6 nh7o, Jun 9, 2014
  7. PriusToo

    PriusToo Junior Member

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    I would just take it to a Prius Specialist in your area.
    All the guessing is all good, but......
     
    #7 PriusToo, Jun 11, 2014
  8. CoastieChief

    CoastieChief New Member

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    Hi Evan, I also have an 2004 Prius with over 20th miles. Had similar issue and troubleshoot to main water pump bearing. Awful grinding and rattle noise. Replaced the water pump and noise is gone engine running smooth. I would check the water pump.
     
    #8 CoastieChief, Nov 4, 2014
    ChrisFaehrtPrius likes this.
  9. dorunron

    dorunron Senior Member

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    Sometimes the simplest things is what causes most of the problems.

    Check the water pump for the ICE. Common problem with the Gen II Prius. Can make noise when bearings are worn out in the pump area and the pulley that tensions the bolt.

    DIY job if you have tools and patience. Otherwise Toyota can do the work for you.

    Beware the cooling system must be purged of all air and be completely refilled with Toyota SLLC when work is completed.

    Extensive documentation can be found here on Prius Chat concerning the water pump, idler pulley etc. Do a Google Search for more information.

    I do realize this string is dated July of this year, but the information does apply for those who are researching this particular subject.

    Ron (dorunron)
     
    #9 dorunron, Nov 4, 2014
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