Hi All, I'm hoping someone recognizes the AC problem I'm having. I did take it to the dealer and they started shotgunning the problem...1st its the blower motor ooops its not the blower motor its the ac ecu (amplifier) and at that point I brought it home and replaced the ac amplifier with a used one I bought on Ebay this did not fix or change problem. I am going to post my Youtube video of the failure. It is HOT in phx.
A worded explanation would be nice for those that don't watch video clips. If your problem is that the AC isn't cold, your 10 year old car might need a recharge.
I did find this info from PriusChat on codes and I tried it and it did work ..This sequence did run tests but didnt pull any codes (only "00") For Gen 2: {Gen 2} HVAC DTC check. With your left hand -- thumb and pinkie, hold down the Auto and recirculate buttons on the steering wheel. Then, foot on the brake, turn the Power On (Ready). Things will start flashing, then you will hear a beep as the MFD switches to the climate control screen. If you have a DTC, it will flash in the top right corner of the screen. 21 is the most common, for the solar sensor, and is normal, especially in sun-less OR. Other codes could indicate the source of problem. I found code 21 & 76 flashing one after the other on the A/C screen where it shows desired temperature setting (not on the top right, at least for a 2006). I am clear about code 21. Can anybody shed more light on what is code 76? 2006_HK, Sep 27, 2012 #24 Like Reply 2006_HK First Hybrid DTC B1476 means that the load on the inverter from the air conditioner compressor is too great. Potential problem areas include a bad compressor, incorrect refrigerant volume, or the cooling fan. Read more: Out of storage after 10 months, now AC isn't working | PriusChat
You would need a proper code reader like the MiniVci cable and techstream that runs off 32bit windows. If you don't have that, you can also get them read free at most discount auto part shops like autozone. When you brought it to Toyota, didn't they give you a readout of the codes they read?
I believe the problem is the blower motor controller which is going to be located very close to the cabin ventilation fan, in the fan housing. The fan plugs into the controller. The compressor is powered by an electric motor and the sound is relatively normal. I suggest that you test the fan by applying 12VDC to the fan's wiring harness connector, and make sure the fan motor operates for an indefinite period, as long as battery power is applied. Make sure at least one of the two radiator fans is running whenever the air conditioner compressor is spinning. If the fans are not operational, that is part of the problem. The fans should be blowing air towards the engine.
Hi Patrick, I think your AC blower motor resistor is going to be the fix. I went out and just reset the connectors and powered her up and then the AC ran for 10 min...the problem changed. I powered the Prius down and now it does the same ...blows cold for 10 -15 sec and dies. I ordered the resistor pack and I will post results (with video if it works). Thanks for your help.
Was hoping you had found a solution - my 2005 Prius started doing the exact same thing this week. One possible difference to note is if I turn the AC on and off repeatedly, it will eventually come on and stay on.
Gary, I'm experiencing the same thing now with my Prius 2005. Got the codes 21 & 22. 1st time to the shop they topped the coolant. It worked for 1 3 mile trip. Next time I started the car, it was blowing hot again. No evidence of leakage in the garage....Would be happy to hear how your situation got worked out! Thanks. Archie - Austin TX
