Hello all; I’m just new here. We have an ’09 Prius base model; it went about 380,000 kms. and the HV battery has packed it in. Sorry to say, I set it aside and it’s been sitting for a year. Time now to fix it. Accessed and tested the battery modules, and found half (14!; all adjacent) looking good at right around 7.2v., but the other half are pretty dead with only a few volts or less. For a one-off fix, it doesn’t seem worth buying the deep-cycling and testing equipment, but if someone nearby has and would rent it to me, I’d be happy to rebuild the pack with good used modules. Otherwise, I’m looking at buying a “reconditioned” and balanced pack (2 year warranty option) from Greentec in Coquitlam BC (Vancouver; we’re in Vernon in southern central BC); the word seems that they’re reputable. They charge a core charge of $150.00 CAD, and the return shipping costs $100.00! That means it’d only cost me $50.00 + 12% taxes to keep the old pack. If I don’t find access to the equipment, then I’ll either return the core, or sell or give it away. Anybody reasonably local to get involved here?? I’m interested to hear any comments and ideas about what I’m doing; please and thanks!! Thanks!! Dave
welcome! if you click the report button at the bottom of your post, you can ask the mod to change the title. maybe something like, 'need help with battery rebuilding' and perhaps mention your geographic area. all the best!
Thanks, Bisco. You’re right; I know I have a problem with TMI; I’d probably get more and better results with brevity and KISS.
Maybe say “Vernon” in your avatar too, versus “Spalumcheen”, which will have everyone heading for Google maps. I’m (coincidentally) in Coquitlam, but “Greater Vancouver” seemed less bewildering. Greentec is essentially a US company if I’m not mistaken, and someone’s set up a franchise here. Relatively local location aside, these are refurbs, I’d be a little wary. Google reviews of this location are very positive, though.
“Bought it”, you mean the car? Yes; we’ve had the car for about 10 years and ~185,000 kms. It’s been an excellent, reliable car. but it does drink oil. A bad habit, but livable. Our daughter talked of getting a bumper sticker: “This car’s a hybrid; it burns gas and oil!” New rings & valve stem seals, or an engine, would help. If the engine were better, I’d consider a new HV battery. The body is amazingly rust-free and solid, and the rest of the car is fine.
What’s the oil consumption rate? it’s typically the rings/pistons, and there are revised versions. Also consider a new short block.
Next oil change put a bottle of Seafoam and 1/2 qt of generic ATF. Your oil control rings could be gummed up with carbon and this will clean them.
You must be thinking of a Gen 3 engine that have the low tension piston rings. The OP'S car is a Gen 2.
