Toyota Prius User-Guide
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.
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
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.
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