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DRIVING
Just Drive It !
Vital Info
Ignore all the advanced technology!
It's too easy to get preoccupied with everything Prius automatically does for you, especially with
the Multi-Display providing constant performance information. The hybrid system was designed
so you could to drive it like a traditional car. That way, you can enjoy the remarkably smooth &
quiet ride. Let the computer worry about how to save gas and reduce emissions.
Startup
Step On the Brake
New owners sometimes fall victim to this, not being able to figure out why the car won’t start.
For safety, stepping on the brake before starting has always been highly recommended in all types
of vehicles anyway. But in Prius, it is required. Because if you don’t, you’ll find that only the
accessories will power-up. The hybrid system itself won’t start until you push the power button
while also stepping on the brake at the same time.
If you do make the mistake of not pressing the brake pedal far enough to the floor, a collection of
warning the lights by the speedometer will come on. In that case, lift your foot off the brake. Wait
a few seconds, and then press it again... only harder this time. Wait a few more seconds, and then
press the PARK button. That will reset the system.
12-Volt Jumping
If the 12-volt auxiliary battery is ever drained completely, you can jump it similar to a traditional
vehicle. With the Prius OFF (hybrid system & lights), connect the positive-cable to the jump-start
terminal (within the black plastic fuse-box, under the Prius hood) then to the positive-terminal on
the 12-volt battery of the supplying vehicle (as it is running). Next, connect the negative-cable to
the negative-terminal on the 12-volt battery of the supplying vehicle. Then the other end of the
negative-cable can be connected to an unpainted metal component under the hood; a very good
place for this is the support attaching the engine & motor to the body of the vehicle in the front
driver's side corner under the Prius hood. At this point, start the hybrid system. When "READY"
appears on the Prius speedometer cluster, you should then disconnect the cables following the
opposite order they were connected.
For safety information, greater detail, and illustrations, please refer to your Owner's Manual.
A very simple way to confirm you have a good electrical connection before attempting to start is to
just turn on the ceiling light. If it illuminates brightly, you know that the supply coming from the
donor vehicle is sufficient to successfully jump the Prius. If the light is dim, the connection is bad
and you must fix it before proceeding.
Winter Heat
Creating heat for the emissions system and heat to keep you warm is fastest and most efficient if
you simply drive gently immediately after starting the Prius in the winter. Allowing the engine to
run while the Prius is parked takes longer and is less efficient. "Just Drive It
!"
Once the heater warms up, resist the temptation to turn up the fan-speed on too high. That will
actually decrease the potential heat. Air blasting over the fins of the core too quickly prevents the
opportunity to absorb as much heat as possible. Slower air doesn’t. In other words, don't exceed
the medium speed setting.
Prius User-Guide 2 of 45 Last Updated: 2/07/2006