2007 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 369

You may hear a motor sound in the engine compartment when the brake pedal is depressed with the hybrid system off. When the hybrid system is started or stopped, you may hear a sound coming from the hybrid battery in the luggage compartment. However, this does not indicate any trouble. 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 your Toyota dealer. NOTICE z The hybrid started when "N". Be sure then start the system cannot be the shift position is to put it in "P" and system. Tips for driving in various conditions D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you much better control. 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 such as a tire burst. 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. z If any warning light comes on (See page 125 for details.) or the 12 volt battery is disconnected, the hybrid system may not start by pushing the "POWER" switch. In that case, push it once again. If the "READY" light does not come on, contact your Toyota dealer. z When you start the hybrid system at a lowered outside temperature, it may take longer before the blinking "READY" light changes to stay on. D When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they touch the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking brake, and put the hybrid transaxle "P". If necessary, block the wheels. CAUTION Never start the hybrid system from outside the vehicle, or an accident may occur. Be sure to sit on the driver seat, then start the system when driving. 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 applied. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Toyota dealer for assistance. 352