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I have a 2016 Prius IV with some very odd climate control issues. Up until about a few weeks ago the climate control worked normally. It came on immediately when starting the car to the last preset and worked as it should. Now the climate control takes about a minute to show anything on the screen and allow me to change any settings. When it turns on it seems to start at a default state with the "Auto" button on and the AC turned on. The heat also starts out at the same set temp every time it turns on no matter the last preset. While driving the heat is very hot and only cools down when stopped even when lowered to the lowest heat setting. After bringing it to the dealer to diagnose, they told me the climate control head unit would need to be replaced which I have done and I still yield the same odd issues. Has anyone else had these issues or have any insight? Any help is appreciated.

Thanks!
 

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Sounds like a bad relay. Never allow repairs unless the mechanic agrees that would fix the problem. Otherwise, he should replace the part and give you back your money. Stupid people always get away ripping off customers. There are codes and diagnostic tools for every problem that pinpoints what is the issue and how to fix it. One has to find a skilled mechanic, not an idiot who replaces many parts without results..
 

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2012 Toyota Prius 2
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Scanning a car won't always tell you the problem but it will give you clues. The dealer tech get's paid a flat rate so they have a given amount of time they spend on the car to diagnose the problem. That's why many times parts get replaced and yet the problem is still there. I seriously doubt that it's a "relay" as they usually fail entirely. It could be an issue with a heater control valve being slow to respond, which causes the delay in the control system.
Being a mechanic and shop owner I often have situations where I'll tell a customer that my diagnosis is only 90% sure and if they agree to replace the part knowing that there's a 10% chance it won't solve the problem I'll replace it. There are rare cases where that doesn't work but now at least one suspect part is eliminated as the possible cause. Sometimes it's multiple failures causing the issue. It takes good diagnostic skill, not guessing that will fix the issue. Not all of us are "stupid people" getting away with ripping off customers. Look for a good private shop that knows the Prius and ask about how they go about diagnosing a problem. Good luck.
 
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