I bought a 2003 Prius a few weeks ago, and while initially ran fine, over the last week, it was more and more hesitant to start. The lights and radio and console system worked fine, but the engine itself wouldn't start until- well, until I'm not sure what (I doubt my pleading and threatening did the job, but I'm not sure what did). As of yesterday, it wouldn't start at all- the electrical components still work fine, but I'm getting nothing from the engine. Unfortunately, I'm not much of a mechanic, and while I did find a copy of the manual online, it didn't help much. Is there a standard list or flowchart to isolate/identify a problem before I take it in to a professional? If so, where might I find it?
start with the 12v health, if it is good, you'll need to read the trouble codes. how many miles on her? your best bet is @ericbecky in madison. he is a member here, and has a hybrid repair shoppe. very knowledgeable, and easy to talk with.
1. Clean the mass air flow sensor (using MAF cleaner spray) and the throttle body interior and throttle plate (using throttle body cleaner sprayed upon a clean cloth. Use the cloth to scrub the throttle body interior and throttle plate.) 2. As previously suggested, check the condition of the 12V battery. A new 12V AGM battery, fully charged, measures 13.0V. A discharged battery measures 12.0V. See where your battery is when the car is IG-OFF and has rested overnight, before you try to start it in the morning. 3. If the car still does not start, you will need to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes. 4. Once you have the logged DTC, the Toyota factory repair manual provides troubleshooting info associated with a specific DTC. techinfo.toyota.com
you do know that a prius does not always have the engine running right? it only ~starts~ when needed, [for what ever reason, heat, power[drive], big battery recharge, AC etc...]. can you _drive_ [put it in gear] it ('ready')?!
