Hello. I just purchased my first HEV, a 2011 Prius with 101,000 miles and I'm trying to ensure it's good for another 100,000 miles and/or 5 years. I've done everything I've seen suggested but would like to know if I'm missing anything I should do preventatively. So far I've scanned the system (downstream O2 sensor), liquid moly oil flush, oil/filter change, cleaned intake manifold, replaced PCV valve, installed oil catch can, cleaned MAF, removed and cleaned EGR valve, cooler and pipe, changed spark plugs, replaced ICE and cabin air filters, drained and refilled transaxle, ICE and inverter coolants, bled all brakes to flush fluid, greased slide pins, changed pads and rotors, replaced downstream 02 sensor, replaced water pump rotor and gasket, cleaned HEV battery ductwork but not fan yet and replaced all crush washers. I plan on pulling the HEV battery fan and bus bars for a thorough cleaning and getting it undercoated next weekend. Is there anything I've missed? Thanks in advance
Sounds well covered to me- now the next trick is to stop spending money on it and build up a cash reserve for the unexpected. It's getting to the age where 'something' will happen, and the menu of 'somethings' on old hybrids can be pricey.
I would not be too worried about the unexpected things, I would be more worried about the three expected costly problems that will occur in the next 100k miles: 1. Head gasket failure 2. Hybrid vehicle battery failure 3. Brake booster failure.
I think we're talking about the same probabilities. But the way I refer to it, the timing is the unexpected element, and either way my advice to O.P. is the same: have fun, drive on and do <whatever thing you do to save for a rainy day> to be prepared. Oh, and don't forget the air conditioner.
Thanks for all of the advice. I've done all I know to do to prevent head gasket issues but is there anything I can do preventatively to the A/C, brake booster or battery? I can't think of anything, but you don't know what you don't know and that's why I'm here!
Where the air conditioner is concerned, you can take a few steps. The thing you are most trying to avoid is the compressor working itself to death and blowing up. When that happens, they throw metal particles all throughout the system which tends to poison the next compressor... it's just a mess. How does that happen? Usually, it is because the system has run a little low on refrigerant. Not a lot low, because there is a pressure switch to detect this and safety out the system. Just a little low. Remember: this thing has an electric compressor whose RPM is controlled by a computer, not by the engine RPM. The automation in the system will cause the compressor to run at higher RPM over longer duty cycles to compensate for a reduced refrigerant level, and like anything else that adds wear and the limits are found faster. So the first thing is to look for existing leaks. Dark spots on the condenser are good giveaways. Then you can get the existing refrigerant evacuated and replace the valves and o-rings. Then pull a vacuum to test it, and if it passes, have it refilled. That refill is a very precise procedure- you need to get that refrigerant quantity within a few grams of the target, otherwise you're right back at overworked compressor. Where the brakes & battery are concerned? Get your money's worth out of the car before they go bad. I know of no other way. There are ways of reconditioning the battery to stretch out their time of service, but IMO they are not worth the expense.
On the topic of the battery. I'm currently getting 40-45mpg with a battery that the Dr. Prius app rates at 45%. What would be a realistic fuel economy gain if I were to replace the battery? I'm trying to see how long it would take for the gains to offset the cost; or. if the battery is destined to need replaced in the near future, then should I do it now and reap the increased economy longer?
Hey, You may not need to replace the battery. The Prolong systems should be able to help get some of your fuel economy back. Here is a link to the FAQ on their website. You might try looking at the How do I know if my hybrid battery is failing? section. FAQ – Hybrid Automotive It's also a good preventative maintenance tool to use on your HV battery. Garrett
This is one I just leave to the dealership. Our ‘10, with build-date August ‘09, was developing so-so AC. I had the dealership service it about 5 years back, for about $160 CDN (roughly what they quoted; and of course they tried their durndest to pad the bill, it’s their nature), and no problem since.
