My new prius (4,000 miles) died on the NJ turnpike last month. No warning, the red triangle flashed on & the engine cut out. I was hoping to at least be able to make it to the next exit and get off the turnpike. The battery died after about 1 mile, so I sat by the side of the road.
I called the nearest Toyota dealer, they were unhelpful as to how to re-start it. Just said to bring it in. Unfortunately NJ Turnpike allows only their tow trucks, so I had to put it on a flatbed at great expense. The front wheels were locked up, as the car was in park. The tow guy was dragging it onto the bed until I stopped him. Several minutes of pushing the start button finally got it going long enough to put in neutral. By the time we got to the dealer the car was able to start, albeit with red flashing triangle.
The dealer said they pulled an error code off the computer, but he had no idea what it meant or what caused it. Said they "re-programmed" it . Ever since then the engine has had a more pronounced shudder when starting or stopping. Now also "maint reqd" light flashes for a few minutes after car is first started.
Anyone know a good Prius dealer in NYC area?
PriusGuy said:
Does anyone have information that would help determine the percentage of Prius that have experienced the software or computer problems described on these chat groups? I am considering purchase of an 05 package 4 Prius and I tend to keep cars 8 to 12 years (15 now on my current Accord and just beginning to encounter unscheduled maintainence). I have read numerous posts of failures requiring a tow truck and software reload. More than 1 of those events in 10 years would be unacceptable. Any information out there to indicate if this is happening to 1% of the vehicles, far fewer, or more?