I just noticed this happening on my wifes car the other day. It almost sounds like the windshield wipers are on high. Here is a link to the video where you can distinctly hear it. Also is that the inverter whining over there in the background? That's normal right? 2006 Prius Gen II 230K miles. New HV batteries, trans, 12V at 150K 3 years ago.
ANyone? Seems like this should be a straightforward sound that someone would recognize. Im wondering if it has something to do with the brake actuator, as its right around the area where I hear it. I have the barking brakes, which i read replacement is not really needed unless you have the money to replace the gold brick brake actuator.
The sound is from a failed 3 way coolant valve. You should have DTC P1121 if you do a diagnostic. Check if you have a leak in your water pump as well. You can do that at the same time you replace the 3 way coolant valve. Both require a coolant drain.
I have already replaced the water pump. Ill check to see if I have that code, but last I check I just had that P0420? Would it definitely be throwing that code?
It may not throw p1121 yet, but that sound is 100% from the 3 way coolant valve. When did you change the water pump? Maybe you got some air in the system and the coolant is not reaching that valve. I would open up the radiator when cool, then check your coolant level.
Awesome, thanks for the info!! Water pump was changed about 10K miles ago, sound seems to be new. Ill check coolant level when I get home and report back.
Make sure you check the coolant at the radiator.....and make sure the car is cooled down, or it'll splash all over you and possibly cause some really bad burns.
Its odd. The noise went away, and I have no code. It was only doing it for the day. Could it be on its way out or another possible issue that doesnt require replacing the valve?
It'll light up the CEL when you need to replace it. We have members that simply add coolant to their system and it cures the problem/sound. I have a 2005 that has the sound occasionally for the last 20,000 miles. No codes yet so I've just ignored it. This will not leave you stranded......so no real worries.
I wondered why you said this, and though that maybe it means the pumping sound burns up coolant. So doe the sound normally come from someone's car that has low coolant?
That sound comes when the 3 way coolant valve is not working properly. It may be low on coolant as well.....it's all part of the coolant loop.
Brian Did you take it to the dealer and get the coolant control valve replaced? This it same thing that happened to me but it was intermittent and caused the p1121 error code. --Wire
I have this noise. I replaced my valve. Topped off both coolant loops. Can you suggest a proper order to try and get air from the system. All systems seem normal. No codes. Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
Actually my noise quite different. Almost a rapid vibration. I just discovered the video. I also had a brake light on dash. No codes, and went out while scanning for codes. Gen2, 120k Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
