Sorry as a newbie owner I have so much to worry. I make short trips in Prius and the place I live is quite cold for half a year. Will exhaust system rust be a typical problem? Is the Prius exhaust system made of Aluminum or Steel (or iron)? What are your experiences? TIA...
Most of the exhaust system is stainless steel. This is because the Prius spends a lot of time without the engine running. You might be interested in this older thread: http://priuschat.com/forums/prius-main-forum/18192-prius-exhaust-system.html Tom
It is of a stainless steel alloy that is not quite rustproof, and just a tiny bit magnetic. There have been a few corrosion issues with both models of Prius but I would not give it a lot of concern. In general if you can combine your wintertime trips you will get better fuel economy, in addition to getting condensation out ot the exit tube.
:welcome: Welcome to PriusChat GusTheCat! To improve your fuel efficiency and also keep emissions as low as possible, bunch your short trips together when you can and drive to your furthest stop first. Then work your way back home. This will help warm the exhaust system and save fuel. If it's safe to do so, if you're only stopping for a moment to run into the post office to check your mail box, for example, leave your car READY. Just put it in park, don't turn it off. The Prius always assumes it's starting cold when you power it on and goes through a warm-up cycle, which is unnecessary if the car is warm already, but uses extra fuel. Check out out local group and feel free to stop by if your schedule permits.
Thank you both! And the tips! I did not know that there is a local club ... that is good. I will show up when I can...
