I really don’t know what to say but let me give you the details.
Recently, I went through the process of installing a new motor in my 2009 Toyota Prius. At first, things seemed to be working well. However, it wasn’t long before I started seeing error codes pop up on my scanner. The most persistent of these was the P0016 code, which indicated an issue with the crankshaft and camshaft correlation. From there, things only got worse.
I had researched online, looking for solutions that worked for others with similar problems. Many people suggested trying different oil weights to resolve the issue. I initially added 5W30 oil, but after reading that FJ Cruiser owners had success using 10W30, I gave that a try too. I even added Lucas heavy-duty oil stabilizer, which seemed to delay the return of the dreaded P0016 code. However, despite my efforts, the motor eventually gave out(Diagnostic Report 2024-…)(Diagnostic Report 2024-…).
Looking back at the diagnostic reports from late September and early October, the issues started piling up. Beyond P0016, I started seeing additional codes related to misfires and oxygen sensors. The engine’s performance began to degrade as well, making it clear that something deeper was wrong(Diagnostic Report 2024-…)(Diagnostic Report 2024-…)(Diagnostic Report 2024-…).
As the situation worsened, I even considered taking apart the engine to check the timing chain and crankshaft connections. However, that’s not a small task, and I wanted to avoid it if possible. Unfortunately, the motor’s failure left me no choice(Diagnostic Report 2024-…). My last attempt was to drain some oil and try adding 10W30 again, hoping this would resolve the issue before resorting to drastic measures(Diagnostic Report 2024-…).
In the end, despite the oil changes and stabilizer, the motor blew up. It’s a frustrating experience, especially after investing so much time and effort into the project. Now, I’m left with the next step of fully diagnosing the damage and determining how to proceed with repairs or another replacement.
So What Do I Do Now? (Part 2)
It’s crazy to think that I once considered this company among the best JDM engine importers out there. But now, after everything I’ve gone through, I’ve realized they don’t stack up to others in the industry. What really bothers me is their 7-day warranty. Seven days! That’s just not enough time for anyone installing a Prius engine, especially when you’re dealing with the complexity of hybrid systems like I am.
Here’s the thing—I’ve since learned that other JDM engine importers offer three-month warranties, which is way more reasonable. With the time it takes to get everything installed and running, it’s only fair to allow for more than a week of testing. I mean, it took me a few days just to build the high-voltage battery charger I needed, and by then, my warranty window had already passed. It’s frustrating. Why limit it to just seven days? This is the part I can’t wrap my head around, and it’s the hill I’m standing on right now.
I’ve been in constant contact with one of the main guys at the company, letting him know what was happening every step of the way. He tried to offer me some suggestions, like switching to thicker oil or checking the wiring harness. But I kept telling him, “Everything points to a timing chain issue.” If this engine supposedly has only 50,000 to 60,000 miles, there shouldn’t be a problem with the timing chain, right?
And now, after paying almost $1,000 for the motor, they’re offering me another one for $500—half off. Sure, it’s better than nothing, but shouldn’t they be replacing it for free given the issues I’ve had? It feels like a quick way to minimize their responsibility. The texts show just how tough the negotiation has been. At one point, they said, “The best we can do is $500”. I even offered to pick it up that day to speed things along. Yet here we are.
Conclusion: A Word of Caution
After everything I’ve been through, it looks like I won’t be able to recommend any JDM engine companies, particularly for those who are replacing a motor due to issues like a bad head gasket. The unfortunate reality is that buying a JDM engine might mean inheriting the same exact problem you’re trying to escape.
If you’re serious about keeping your car long-term and want to avoid the headaches I’ve been dealing with, it’s probably better to invest in a fully rebuilt motor. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing that you’re starting fresh, rather than gambling on the condition of a used JDM engine.
I really hope you don’t face the same problems I have. But if you want to avoid these issues altogether, I suggest contacting Hybrid Pit. Their gold package rebuilt motors come highly recommended, and they offer a more comprehensive solution than just swapping out parts. Look into their services and make an informed decision before you go through the same frustrations I have.
Here’s a timeline of events.
- June 2024 – Purchased the JDM engine with a 7-day warranty and began the installation process.
- July – August 2024 – Worked on the installation of the engine, including building a high-voltage battery charger to ensure the hybrid system was charged properly. This took about 4-5 days to complete after spending the initial days installing the motor.
- September 2024 –
- Experienced P0016 and other DTC codes, indicating a crankshaft and camshaft correlation issue.
- Tried using 5W30 oil, then switched to 10W30 after reading that others resolved similar issues this way. Added Lucas heavy-duty oil stabilizer to slow down the return of the DTC codes.
- Friday, September 27, 2024 – Went to iPull uPull and picked up a crankshaft and camshaft sensor along with other parts in an attempt to resolve the error codes.
- October 2024 –
- Replaced the crankshaft sensor and camshaft sensor as part of further troubleshooting.
- Despite replacing the sensors and checking the wiring harness, the issue persisted, leading to the motor ultimately blowing out the bottom of the car after these repairs.
