I have come to recognize the usual sounds of the regenerative braking system (especially after the engine is shut off), but for the past 6 months I have heard a repetitive "creaking" sound that usually occurs when the brake pedal is being depressed. I believe that it is part of the braking system cycling, but the sound is not encouraging. Of course, Toyota repair can never duplicate the sound. Has anyone had this kind of problem with their 2006 model?
It's not the rattling sound of the brake accumulator pump? That one is a little buzzing or rattling sound that comes from forward of the driver's foot well. You hear it maybe every third time you press on the brake. Could that be it? Tom
Welcome to Priuschat mdough. It's great to see another local here! Does this seem to be what you're experiencing per chance? http://priuschat.com/forums/toyota-.../29211-tsb-br001-07-brake-actuator-noise.html
inspect brake rotors for rust. If you see some, find a hill and then do the neutral braking trick at like 30mph to scrape the rust off.
Rotor noise from rust will be apparent when you brake below eight mph. If you hear the noise braking gently at speed, then it's not the rotors. Rust on the rotors is very common with the Prius, since they don't get much use. Many people clean them off from time to time by braking in neutral, which will force the use of friction brakes. On a clear stretch of open road, move the shifter to N and hold it for a second or two. The Prius will switch to N. Gently apply the brakes until you slow down, then shift back to D. Repeat as needed. Tom
