Water pump valve is slow

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Emma10.10, Jul 22, 2025 at 6:52 PM.

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  1. Emma10.10

    Emma10.10 New Member

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    Location:
    Michigan
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    After 2 months of troubleshooting and repair$, mostly at the dealership, I at last, drove my car home. At about 100 miles; the check engine light came on. The dealership technician said it was the water pump valve working slowly. To replace the valve: $500.

    I’m thinking it’s been sitting for so long, maybe it will start working again after being driven more regularly. The light’s been off for another 100 miles. If I don’t replace the valve, am I gambling, courting more expensive repairs?
     
    #1 Emma10.10, Jul 22, 2025 at 6:52 PM
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
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    First step is to get away from the Toyota Stealership with a car that old. They are warranty specialists focused on maximizing cost of repairs to newer cars to increase the financial leverage with the manufacture. They play the same game with out-of-warranty customers too. You're often paying more than double at a stealership for parts and labor and compared to a reputable mechanic.

    Based on you description problem is likely P1121, which is a part you can buy aftermarket for as cheap as $40 and it takes about 1.5 hours to swap out it out. If you live near me that'd mean I'd charge you about $100...

    Alternatively, if you or a friend or family member has basic automotive skills we can walk you through this repair. What's more, this specific problem will only lower MPG slightly, it won't damage or prevent you from driving the car.
     
    #2 PriusCamper, Jul 23, 2025 at 3:18 AM
    Last edited: Jul 23, 2025 at 3:38 AM
  3. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    #3 PriusCamper, Jul 23, 2025 at 3:24 AM
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