What Is the Prius Transaxle and What Makes it Go Out?

The Toyota Prius transaxle is a system that is unique to the Prius series of cars, and there are many different ways that this system can fail.

Prius Transaxle

The Prius transaxle is a set of two motors that integrate the functions of the transmission, differential and any of the other components of the axle. The transaxle basically regulates the two motors together as a unit, making control of the car much smoother, according to the Prius Drivers Handbook.

What is Different

The Prius transaxle is unique in that it controls two motors, but only one is a combustion engine powered by gasoline. The other is an electric engine that is powered off of the front wheels turning. The vast majority of transaxle systems are in cars that primarily burn gasoline or natural gas.

Mechanical Problems

If either motor in the Prius transaxle has trouble running, it will turn the entire system offline. Also, if the transmission is not functional, the transaxle will not work. Any problem with any major system on your Toyota Prius, including electrical issues, will turn off the Transaxle.

Resources

• "Prius Drivers Handbook" ; Toyota; 2005