2002 Toyota Prius

Introduction:

The 2002 Toyota Prius is a hybrid electric vehicle featuring a 1.5L gasoline engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It generates a combined 70 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque. The Prius has gained popularity for its fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness, but has also faced some reliability concerns.

Engine

1.5L Gasoline Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheated engine, milky oil, loss of coolant, engine misfires
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and resurface cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idle, illuminated check engine light
  • Solution: Clean or replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

CVT

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, erratic gear changes
  • Solution: Replace CVT fluid and/or torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Sway Bar Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Electrical

• Inverter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, illuminated check engine light
  • Solution: Replace inverter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hybrid Battery Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, reduced fuel efficiency
  • Solution: Replace hybrid battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hood pops open unexpectedly
  • Solution: Replace hood latch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Door Handle Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles break off when attempting to open
  • Solution: Replace door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 per handle

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per window

Summary:

The 2002 Toyota Prius is a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle, but it has faced some reliability issues. The most severe and costly issues include head gasket failure, transmission slipping, and inverter failure. While some issues are minor and affordable to fix, such as dashboard cracking or door handle breakage, others can be major and expensive. Potential buyers should thoroughly research any potential issues and weigh the costs of repairs before purchasing a used 2002 Toyota Prius.