loud noise on starting enging (and on restart)

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by worrywort, Sep 20, 2009.

  1. worrywort

    worrywort New Member

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    I have a 2006 Prius, package 5. I get a loud noise--almost like a loose engine mount or loose connection in the exhaust system immediately after starting--and for a while each time that the gas engine shuts off (to go to the electric motor only mode). The sound seems to be in the engine compartment. I open the hood and I'm clueless.
    This will persist for the first 2-5 or so minutes of driving (sometimes less, sometimes more).
    It isn't there on the expressway at 55 mph--and but it is noticeable if I'm parked at a drive-thru window or sitting waiting to pick some-one up at a drive thru.
    It isn't heard once fully warm with stop and go for construction work on the express-way.

    I don't have a single dealer in the area who I can trust for work. (Buffalo).
    I have tried to get mechanics who I have used previously for non-hybrids to look and no one wants to touch the car.

    I am a basic klutz and probably shouldn't be owning a three year older hybrid. I thought about trading it in but bought the extended warranty instead.

    Should I change the 12V batter just to be safe?
    I am afraid of this car breaking down after reading posts on inverter coolant/batteries/transaxle.

    I did buy the 7/100000 warranty but it seems, based on other posts, that it isn't worth much.
     
    #1 worrywort, Sep 20, 2009
  2. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    Based on how you describe it, sounds normal to me. My 2006 did that while still cold and then it went away... Never led to a problem.
     
    #2 Paradox, Sep 20, 2009
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  3. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    Given your description of the noise, I'd say that the 12V battery has nothing to do with that particular problem.

    You might be right that an engine mount is loose. Can you demonstrate the noise upon demand, when the car is cold?

    If yes, then since you have extended warranty coverage, I suggest you report the problem to a Toyota dealer (if not Buffalo, then drive to another city).

    Why pay >=$1K for the extended warranty, if you don't use it when it can help?
     
    #3 Patrick Wong, Sep 20, 2009
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  4. worrywort

    worrywort New Member

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    It's there more when cold. I can't always have it happen but it happens more often than not when the engine is cold.
     
    #4 worrywort, Sep 20, 2009
  5. firepa63

    firepa63 Former Prius Owner

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    It's normal for the engine (ICE) to be a little rough starting and stopping when cold. If the noise and shudder go away after about 5 - 10 minutes of driving, I would consider it normal.
     
    #5 firepa63, Sep 20, 2009
  6. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    What Patrick wrote. Not dealing with a problem will be more expensive than dealing with a dealer.
     
    #6 richard schumacher, Sep 20, 2009
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