Oops, my 2002 Prius broke down yesterday for the first time. Almost 75,000 miles with no hitch. Tried to start up and the gas engine sounded normal at first, then kind of made a gravelly sound and shut down with master alert and check engine. Since I am only 8 blocks from the dealer with a full battery, I went ahead and drove 15mph on electric instead of having to get towed. Turns out one of the computer control componets decided to fry. Must not have been an essential part because they were able to bypass it until the part they ordered gets here. I do notice a bit of sluggishness on the power, especially as it transitions from all electric to needing the gas. I will get more details on what exact part failed when I take it back in tomorrow.

 

Wow!!

Looking forward to hearing about the trouble codes and diagnosis. VERY interesting.

Bob Wilson

 

Just back from the shop... The dealer replaced the ICE ECU after receiving scan codes 3190 (Poor engine power), 3101 (engine system malfunction), and 10300 (unknown error). They submitted it as a warantee claim even though I am past the 70,000 mark. That saves me a $1000 repair bill.