2001 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 32

Charging procedure When charging the traction batteries, always apply a full charge. If you interrupt full charging often, the SOC meter may not indicate the correct value. Whenever possible, avoid interrupting the full charging cycle. NOTE: Normal full charging is recommended a minimum of once per week to maximize battery life. D If you do not drive your vehicle for a long time, make sure to charge the batteries fully. D For daily vehicle use, always apply a full charge. After the batteries are fully charged, the charger automatically stops, and the SOC meter indicates "F" with the key turned "ON". When the key is turned "OFF", the SOC meter will indicate "E". If the vehicle is left for a long period of time in a burning sun even after charging is completed, the SOC meter will be slightly depleted from "F" mark due to battery self-discharge. However, if you stop the operation, the traction batteries may not be fully charged even if the SOC meter indicates "F". Unless the traction batteries are charged fully, the SOC meter may not indicate the correct value and the driving range will also be shortened. PREPARATION 1. Make sure the selector lever is in "P" and that the parking brake has been applied. CAUTION If the vehicle moves during charging, an accident may occur. 2. Turn the motor switch to "LOCK" and remove the key. NOTE: If the motor key is left in either the "ON" or "ACC" position, the auxiliary battery may be discharged, even after charging the traction batteries. 24