2002 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 172

When the ignition switch is turned to on or off, you may hear a sound coming from the hybrid vehicle battery in the trunk. However, this does not indicate any trouble. Tips for driving in various conditions D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you much better control. CAUTION D Drive slowly onto curbs and, if possible, at a right angle. Avoid driving onto high, sharp-edged objects and other road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire damage resulting in tire bursts. Drive slowly when passing over bumps or travelling on a bumpy road. Otherwise, the impact could cause severe damage to the tires and/or wheels. D Before driving off, make sure the parking brake is fully released and that the parking brake reminder light is off. NOTICE The "READY" light does not come on when the selector lever is put in a position other than "P". Depress the brake pedal and put the selector lever in "P" and turn the ignition switch to "START" again. If there is a problem somewhere in the hybrid system, the hybrid system malfunction warning light will come on in place of the "READY" light. If this happens, contact Toyota dealer. D Do not leave your vehicle unattended with the "READY" light on. D Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. It can cause dangerous overheating, needless wear, and poor fuel economy. D When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they touch the curb that the vehicle will not roll. Apply parking brake, and put the selector ver into "P". If necessary, block wheels. so the lethe D To drive down a long or steep hill, reduce your speed and downshift. Remember, if you ride the brakes excessively, they may overheat and not work properly. D Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may get the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that there is no traffic near you, and then press the pedal lightly. If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while lightly pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake pulled. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Toyota dealer for assistance. D Be careful when accelerating or braking on a slippery surface. Sudden acceleration or engine braking, could cause the vehicle to spin or skid. NOTICE When you start the hybrid system at a lowered outside temperature, it may take longer before the blinking "READY" light changes to stay on. 163