Own a Toyota Prius Prime in Newark? These eco-friendly vehicles are popular, but they’re not perfect. At Fremont Foreign Auto, we’ve seen it all. Our Fremont shop serves Newark and the East Bay, keeping your Prius Prime in top shape.
The Prius Prime, Toyota’s plug-in hybrid, hit the streets in 2017. It’s sleek. It’s efficient. But it has its quirks. Let’s dive into the most common issues we see at our shop.
EV System Warning Light
Red alert. Your 2017-2020 Prius Prime’s EV system warning light is on. Power loss follows. Charging stops. What’s the culprit? Often, it’s the inverter. This component converts DC to AC power for the electric motors. Our techs use cutting-edge tools to diagnose the problem. Sometimes, we replace inverter parts. Other times, a full replacement is necessary. Toyota has recalled some models. We’ll check if yours qualifies for a free fix.
Brake System Troubles
Feel that? Your 2017-2018 Prius Prime’s brake pedal is spongy. Braking performance drops. It’s dangerous. The regenerative braking system, which charges the battery during deceleration, may be malfunctioning. We inspect everything: master cylinder, brake booster, regenerative components. Air in the brake lines? We’ll flush and bleed the system. Failing brake booster? We’ll replace it. Uneven pad wear? We’ll address it.
Charging Challenges
Plug it in. Nothing happens. Your 2017-2019 Prius Prime won’t charge. Frustrating, right? The issue could be simple: a faulty cable or home charging station. Or it could be complex: a problem with the onboard charger or lithium-ion battery pack. We test everything. Our specialized equipment analyzes battery health and charging capacity. Onboard charger issues often require replacement. Battery problems? We can often recondition individual cells, saving you money.
Infotainment Glitches
Your Prius Prime’s high-tech display is on the fritz. Frozen screens. Unresponsive touch controls. Smartphone connectivity issues. These problems plague all model years. We start with the basics: system resets and software updates. If that doesn’t work, we dig deeper. Hardware replacement might be necessary. Touchscreen display, control module, wiring harnesses – we replace them all with genuine Toyota parts.
Transmission Shudder
You’re accelerating from a stop. Your 2017-2018 Prius Prime shudders. It’s unsettling. The electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) might be the culprit. This system blends power from the gas engine and electric motors. We inspect it all: fluid levels, clutch packs, electronic controls. Often, a simple transmission fluid flush solves the problem. If not, we tackle more extensive repairs.
Fuel Tank Quirks
Half full. The pump clicks off. Your 2017-2018 Prius Prime’s tank won’t fill completely. It’s not you – it’s the car. The fuel tank vapor recovery system is likely malfunctioning. We check the entire fuel system: tank, filler neck, vapor recovery components. Replacing the charcoal canister or updating fuel system software often fixes the issue. Toyota has extended warranty coverage for this problem on some vehicles. We’ll check if yours qualifies.
AC Performance Problems
Hot day. Weak airflow. Strange smells from the vents. Your Prius Prime’s AC is struggling. We start with the basics: checking refrigerant levels and inspecting for leaks. We examine the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Sometimes, it’s a simple fix: a clogged cabin air filter or a faulty blend door actuator. Other times, it’s more serious: a failing compressor or refrigerant leak. We use eco-friendly refrigerants and follow proper handling procedures.
At Fremont Foreign Auto, we know your Prius Prime inside and out. Our skilled techs use the latest tools to diagnose and fix hybrid issues. We’re committed to keeping your car running smoothly, whether you’re in Newark or commuting to San Francisco.
Don’t ignore warning signs. Address problems early. Follow Toyota’s maintenance schedule. It’ll save you headaches – and money – in the long run.
Experiencing Prius Prime problems? Don’t wait. Contact Fremont Foreign Auto today. Schedule an inspection or repair. Our Fremont shop is ready to serve Newark and the East Bay. Trust us to keep your Prius Prime in prime condition. Get back to enjoying your eco-friendly ride, worry-free.
