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Philosophy regarding preemptive part replacement

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by app-o-matix, Jul 6, 2022.

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What is your approach to part replacement?

  1. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

    4 vote(s)
    50.0%

  2. Better safe than sorry

    0 vote(s)
    0.0%

  3. Hybrid approach :-)

    4 vote(s)
    50.0%
  1. app-o-matix

    app-o-matix Junior Member

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    Just curious whether the Prius DIY maintainers here approach maintenance with an “if it ain’t broke” mentality or if you will replace some parts/components before they fail. I know that the second approach can sometimes do more harm than good, but can it still be viable depending on the part and being conscientious about the replacement process? I’m thinking more about things in the range of cost and difficulty of something such as a water pump. For context, I have a 2006 with 140,000K. Only major issue I’ve had is traction battery whack-a-mole with the modules and an unresponsive MFD.
     
    #1 app-o-matix, Jul 6, 2022
  2. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    Depends on if you like carrying tools and spare parts at all times, then add in the potential for working on the vehicle is the middle of nowhere, after which you can top it off with how much of your life allows for being punctual or not.

    Would I replaced a W/P because of some seeping pink snot, not so much. Did I replace that same W/P before going through west TX in the summer heat, yes as I felt it was prudent. The replacement wasn't required, but neither is working in the summer heat on the side of the I-10.
     
    #2 SFO, Jul 6, 2022
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  3. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    On a 2006 Prius, I am in the boat of don't fix it unless it's broken. On a 2010 Prius, I'm in the boat of better safe than sorry.
     
    #3 JC91006, Jul 6, 2022
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  4. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Your question is not specific enough. Every repair or replacement before it fails is specific to that part and directly relates to 1) how much the mechanic wants to rip you off for, or 2) how much money you want to save, which could come back to bite you in the long run depending on the part.
     
    #4 PriusCamper, Jul 6, 2022
  5. nancytheprius

    nancytheprius Active Member

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    I preemptively replaced pcv valve, brake pads, and fluids on my 06 prius. it has 94k miles. for the rest im waiting til it needs to be changed. i live close to work tho
     
    #5 nancytheprius, Jul 6, 2022
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  6. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i haven't done anything in ten years
     
    #6 bisco, Jul 6, 2022
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  7. app-o-matix

    app-o-matix Junior Member

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    Honestly, that's been me for the most part as well. But having to pull out interior panels and all to get to the hybrid battery, I thought that it would be the perfect time to replace my rear struts. That isn't necessarily preemptive since they are definitely due, although I don't have a broken spring or anything, but my friend, who has a 2007 with similar mileage, just had to replace his water pump and it got me thinking -- Should I? Could I? This then spun me off thinking about other possible preemptive strikes like suspension components, cooling system components, fuel system components, etc.

    Considering it further, I think the motivation is partly preemptive, but in some ways, with a car that is 16 years old and has 140K miles, I see it as a rejuvenation with idea of helping to maximize its lifespan and optimize its performance to the extent possible for what it is, rather than just dealing with things when they break and having it ride and drive below what its reasonable potential is. Like somewhat of a rebuild, without being a rebuild rebuild, if that makes any sense.
     
    #7 app-o-matix, Jul 6, 2022
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  8. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i do think it's a good idea. if the car isn't burning much oil, you could keep it pretty reliable for a long time to come.
     
    #8 bisco, Jul 7, 2022
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  9. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    All depends on your budget, time, ability, and risk tolerance. Some things I consider to be normal maintenance stuff- all fluids, filters, spark plugs, TB & MAF cleaning, etc. Routine brake and lighting inspections. Tires and TPMS sensors as needed.

    Other things I did were optional, but worth it to me- new 12V battery, OE inverter pump and a 3-way valve. I'll probably do the ICE water pump belt and pulley at next service.

    Beyond that, I deal with things as they happen or as routine inspections turn them up. A rattle over bumps is caused by loose front sway bar end links that are also on the "to do" list.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
    #9 mr_guy_mann, Jul 7, 2022
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