[BillBoy5]

I have a 2005 Prius with approximately 236,000 Miles. The check engine light had been showing up and going away in the past, but now is permanently staying on, and the engine is running rough. I know I may be coming to the end of the useful life of this car, but I'm looking for any suggestions to fix it. I did go to a mechanic about a year ago and he replaced the Spark Plug and some things associated with the Cylinder (I'm not sure what). The light then went off for about 2 months but returned later, and I went back to the shop. He then told me there is nothing more that could be done and just drive it until it dies. Does anyone have any suggestions on anything I could try to keep it running?? Thanks!

 

[Easy Rider]

You need to ask that mechanic WHY he told you what he did.
IF.....the plug in that cylinder is becoming fouled because of oil that is getting by the rings........
Then it's probably done for. Are you using much oil ??

Cars don't last forever. You've had a good run.
Give it up.

 

[BillBoy5]

Thank you -- I appreciate it - l will ask the mechanic and look into that! It may be on its last leg...

 

[Easy Rider]

Thank you -- I appreciate it - l will ask the mechanic and look into that! It may be on its last leg...

If that IS the problem, switching to a thicker "High Mileage" oil might help a little.......but if it does, it won't last long.
Also installing a hotter plug might help some too.

 

[BillBoy5]

Oh great! Some good suggestions. I'll give 'em a go...

 

[Prius blog]

ok
1st get away from that mechanic
2nd go to autozone and get codes: exmple misfire, spark plug, o2 sensor, cat converter etc
3 get a tune up. spark plugs, air filter, o2 sensor(s) l ll say anywhere from 200 to 1000, cheaper if done yourself
4 visit prius.blog and post how you solved it

 

[StevenA]

Does it have a coil pack on top of each plug? Find out which cylinder isn’t working and change the coil pack with another cylinder and see if problem moves to the other cylinder.
And as far as the car might be giving up with only 236,000 miles, don’t listen to that garbage either.