2010 Prius Gen 3 with 160000 Miles, Se p0301. Knocking noise at the start which goes away after 2-3 seconds and sometimes after a stop. Changed the coil and sparks.
Thinking it is the head gasket worn down and want to use Bar’s Leak Head Seal (reinforced with Carbon fiber). When this first started a few months ago, the big coolant reservoir was a little over half full and the small one was a bit less than full. I filled both up and it does not seem to have a leak since it was lowered just slightly. I haven’t driven it more than 100 miles since then.
My question is, Do I need to drain both coolant reservoirs or can I add the Head Seal to the large reservoir. If I need to drain it, Can I empty it by sucking it out of the reservoir?
If possible I rather not drain it since I don’t have a way to lift the car to get to the undercarriage.
Please be as detailed as possible in your response. Thank you very much!
p0301. Knocking noise at the start which goes away after 2-3 seconds and sometimes after a stop.
Changed the coil and sparks.
Were those parts actually bad or were you guessing? There are many things that can trigger P301. What troubleshooting steps did you take? Check freeze-frame data? Live data? Check for vacuum leaks?
https://www.carparts.com/blog/error-code-p0301-cylinder-1-misfire-detected/
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0301
There is also troubleshooting information in the site FAQ.
Thinking it is the head gasket worn down and want to use Bar’s Leak Head Seal (reinforced with Carbon fiber).
What indications are there of a blown head gasket? Did you test it? Are there obvious severe symptoms (coolant in oil or vice versa)? A head gasket won't cause knocking sounds. Knocking generally indicate an internal engine problem. If possible post a youtube video demonstrating the noise.
Those so-called "sealer" products are temporary band-aids at best and may not work at all. They can even plug up your cooling system, causing more problems. That kind of product is best used to try getting a few more miles out of a failing beater when the only other alternative is the junkyard. Your best shot at success should you choose to proceed with the stuff will be to follow the manufacturer's directions to the letter.
