2004 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 288

Do−it−yourself service precautions If you perform maintenance by yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedure given in this Section. You should be aware that improper or incomplete servicing may result in operating problems. Performing do−it−yourself maintenance during the warranty period may affect your warranty coverage. Read the separate Toyota Warranty statement for details and suggestions. This Section gives instructions only for those items that are relatively easy for an owner to perform. As explained in Section 7, there are still a number of items that must be done by a qualified technician with special tools. For information on tools and parts for do− it−yourself maintenance, see "Parts and tools" on page 279. Utmost care ing on your injury. Here you should serve: should be taken when workvehicle to prevent accidental are a few precautions that be especially careful to ob- CAUTION D When the hybrid system is operating with the "READY" light on, the engine is automatically started in some case. When you inspect the engine compartment, be sure to press the "POWER" switch to the "OFF" mode. D When the hybrid system is on, keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive belts. (Removing rings, watches, and ties is advisable.) D Right after driving, the engine compartment-the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold and spark plug boots, etc.-will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil, fluids and spark plugs may also be hot. remove the radiator cap or loosen the drain plugs to prevent burning yourself. D Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or other solid supports. D Be sure that the hybrid system is in the "OFF" mode if you work near the electric cooling fans or radiator grille. With the ignition on, the electric cooling fans will automatically start to run if the engine coolant temperature is high and/or the air conditioning is on. D If the hybrid system is hot, do not D Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper or rags, in the engine compartment. D Use eye protection whenever you work on or under your vehicle where you may be exposed to flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. D Do not smoke, cause sparks or allow open flames around fuel or the batteries. Their fumes are flammable. D Be extremely cautious when working on the batteries. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid or strong alkali. 276