2012 Toyota Prius Owners Manual

●Make sure the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light is not illuminated when using the seat belt extender for the front passenger seat. If the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light is illuminated, disconnect the extender tongue from the seat belt buckle, and reconnect the seat belt. Reconnect the seat belt extender after making sure the “AIR BAG ON” indicator light is illuminated. If you use the seat belt extender while the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light is illumi- nated, the SRS airbags for the passenger may not activate correctly, which could cause death or serious injury in the event of a collision.

●Do not apply a heavy load to the front passenger seat or equipment (e.g.

seatback pocket).

●Do not put weight on the front passenger seat by putting your hands or

feet on the front passenger seat seatback from the rear passenger seat.

●Do not let a rear passenger lift the front passenger seat with their feet or

press on the seatback with their legs.

●Do not put objects under the front passenger seat.

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CAUTION

■Front passenger occupant classification system precautions

●Do not recline the front passenger seatback so far that it touches a rear seat. This may cause the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light to be illuminated, which indicates that the passenger’s airbags will not deploy in the event of a severe accident. If the seatback touches the rear seat, return the seat- back to a position where it does not touch the rear seat. Keep the front passenger seatback as upright as possible when the vehicle is moving. Reclining the seatback excessively may lessen the effectiveness of the seat belt system.

●If an adult sits in the front passenger seat, the “AIR BAG ON” indicator light is illuminated. If the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator is illuminated, ask the passenger to sit up straight, well back in the seat, feet on the floor, and with the seat belt worn correctly. If the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator still remains illuminated, either ask the passenger to move to the rear seat, or if that is not possible, move the front passenger seat fully rearward.

●When it is unavoidable to install a forward-facing child restraint system on the front passenger seat, install the child restraint system on the front pas- senger seat in the proper order. (→P. 165)

●Do not modify or remove the front seats. ●Do not kick the front passenger seat or subject it to severe impact. Other- wise, the SRS warning light may come on to indicate a malfunction of the detection system. In this case, contact your Toyota dealer immediately.

●Child restraint systems installed on the rear seat should not contact the

front seatbacks.

●Do not use a seat accessory, such as a cushion and seat cover, that cov-

ers the seat cushion surface.

●Do not modify or replace the upholstery of the front seat.

159

1-8. Safety information Child restraint systems

A child restraint system for a small child or baby must itself be prop- erly restrained on the seat with the lap portion of the lap/shoulder belt. The laws of all 50 states of the U.S.A. and Canada now require the use of child restraint systems.

Points to remember

Studies have shown that installing a child restraint on a rear seat is much safer than installing one to the front passenger seat. ● Choose a child restraint system that suits your vehicle and is

appropriate to the age and size of the child.

● For installation details, follow the instructions provided with the

child restraint system. General installation instructions are provided in this manual. (→P. 165)

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1-8. Safety information

Types of child restraints

Child restraint systems are classified into the following 3 types according to the age and size of the child. Rear facing ⎯ Infant seat/convertible seat

Forward facing ⎯ Convertible seat

Booster seat

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■When installing a child restraint system on the front passenger seat

When you have to use a child restraint system on the front passenger seat, adjust the following: ●The seatback to the most upright posi-

tion

●The seat cushion to the fully rearward

position

■Selecting an appropriate child restraint system

●Use a child restraint system appropriate for the child until the child

becomes large enough to properly wear the vehicle’s seat belt.

●If the child is too large for a child restraint system, sit the child on a rear

seat and use the vehicle’s seat belt. (→P. 109)

CAUTION

■Child restraint precautions

●For effective protection in automobile accidents and sudden stops, a child must be properly restrained, using a seat belt or child restraint system depending on the age and size of the child. Holding a child in your arms is not a substitute for a child restraint system. In an accident, the child can be crushed against the windshield, or between you and the vehicle’s interior. ●Toyota strongly urges the use of a proper child restraint system that con- forms to the size of the child, installed on the rear seat. According to acci- dent statistics, the child is safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat.

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CAUTION

■Child restraint precautions

●Never install a rear-facing child restraint system on the front passenger seat even if the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light is illuminated. In the event of an accident, the force of the rapid inflation of the front passenger airbag can cause death or serious injury to the child if the rear-facing child restraint system is installed on the front passenger seat.

●A forward-facing child restraint system may be installed on the front pas- senger seat only when it is unavoidable. A child restraint system that requires a top tether strap should not be used in the front passenger seat since there is no top tether strap anchor for the front passenger seat. Adjust the seatback as upright as possible and always move the seat as far back as possible even if the “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light is illumi- nated, because the front passenger airbag could inflate with considerable speed and force. Otherwise, the child may be killed or seriously injured.

●Do not use the seat belt extender when installing a child restraint system on the front or rear passenger seat. If installing a child restraint system with the seat belt extender connected to the seat belt, the seat belt will not securely hold the child restraint system, which could cause death or seri- ous injury to the child or other passengers in the event of a sudden stop, sudden swerve or accident.

●Do not allow the child to lean his/her head or any part of his/her body against the door or the area of the seat, front and rear pillars or roof side rails from which the SRS side airbags or SRS curtain shield airbags deploy even if the child is seated in the child restraint system. It is dangerous if the SRS side airbags and curtain shield airbags inflate, and the impact could cause death or serious injury to the child.

●Make sure you have complied with all installation instructions provided by the child restraint manufacturer and that the system is properly secured. If it is not secured properly, it may cause death or serious injury to the child in the event of a sudden stop, sudden swerve or accident.

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CAUTION

■When children are in the vehicle

Do not allow children to play with the seat belt. If the seat belt becomes twisted around a child’s neck, it may lead to choking or other serious injuries that could result in death. If this occurs and the buckle cannot be unfastened, scissors should be used to cut the belt.

■When the child restraint system is not in use

●Keep the child restraint system properly secured on the seat even if it is not in use. Do not store the child restraint system unsecured in the pas- senger compartment.

●If it is necessary to detach the child restraint system, remove it from the vehicle or store it securely in the luggage compartment. This will prevent it from injuring passengers in the event of a sudden stop, sudden swerve or accident.

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1-8. Safety information Installing child restraints

Follow the child restraint system manufacturer’s instructions. Firmly secure child restraints to the seats using the LATCH anchors or a seat belt. Attach the top tether strap when installing a child restraint. The lap/shoulder belt can be used if your child restraint system is not compatible with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Chil- dren) system.

Child restraint LATCH anchors LATCH anchors are provided for the outer rear seats. (But- tons displaying the location of the anchors are attached to the seats.)

Seat belts equipped with a child restraint locking mecha- nism (ALR/ELR belts except driver’s seat belt) (→P. 109)

Anchor brackets (for top tether strap) An anchor bracket is provided for each rear seat.

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1-8. Safety information

Installation with LATCH system

STEP 1

Widen the gap between the seat cushion and seatback slightly.

Latch the hooks of the lower straps onto the LATCH anchors. If the child restraint has a top tether strap, the top tether strap should be latched onto the top tether strap anchor. For owners in Canada: The symbol on a child restraint system indicates the presence of a lower connector system.

Type A

STEP 2

Canada only

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1-8. Safety information

If

the buckles onto

the Latch LATCH anchors. the child restraint has a top tether strap, the top tether strap should be latched onto the top tether strap anchor. For owners in Canada: The symbol on a child restraint system indicates the presence of a lower connector system.

Type B

STEP 2

Canada only

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1-8. Safety information

Installing child restraints using a seat belt (child restraint lock function belt)

■ Rear facing ⎯ Infant seat/convertible seat

Place the child restraint system on the rear seat facing the rear of the vehicle.

Run the seat belt through the child restraint system and insert the plate into the buckle. Make sure that the belt is not twisted.

then allow

Fully extend the shoulder belt and to retract slightly in order to activate the ALR lock mode.

it

Lock mode allows the seat belt to retract only.

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

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STEP 4

1-8. Safety information

While pushing the child restraint system down into the rear seat, allow the shoulder belt to retract until the child restraint system is securely in place.

After the shoulder belt has retracted to a point where there is no slack in the belt, pull the belt to check that it cannot be extended.

■ Forward-facing ⎯ Convertible seat

STEP 1

STEP 2

Place the child restraint system on the seat facing the front of the vehicle.

Run the seat belt through the child restraint system and insert the plate into the buckle. Make sure that the belt is not twisted.

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1-8. Safety information

STEP 3

STEP 4

then allow

Fully extend the shoulder belt and to retract slightly in order to activate the ALR lock mode.

it

Lock mode allows the seat belt to retract only.

While pushing the child restraint system into the rear seat, allow the shoulder belt to retract until the child restraint system is securely in place.

After the shoulder belt has retracted to a point where there is no slack in the belt, pull the belt to check that it cannot be extended. If the child restraint has a top tether strap, the top tether strap should be latched onto the top tether strap anchor. (→P. 172)

STEP 5

170

■ Booster seat

STEP 1

STEP 2

1-8. Safety information

Place the child restraint system on the seat facing the front of the vehicle.

Sit the child in the child restraint system. Fit the seat belt to the child restraint system according to the manufacturer’s instruc- tions and insert the plate into the buckle. Make sure that the belt is not twisted.

Check that the shoulder belt is correctly positioned over the child’s shoulder and that the lap belt is as low as possible. (→P. 109)

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1-8. Safety information

Removing a child restraint installed with a seat belt

Press the buckle release button and fully retract the seat belt.

Child restraint systems with a top tether strap

STEP 1

Secure the child restraint system using a seat belt or the LATCH anchors, and do the following.

Foldable type outside seats

Adjust the head restraint to the upmost position.

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1-8. Safety information

Non-foldable type outside seats

Remove the head restraint.

Center seat

Adjust the head restraint to the upmost position.

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1-8. Safety information

STEP 2

Open the anchor bracket cover, latch the hook onto the anchor bracket and tighten the top tether strap.

Make sure the top tether strap is securely latched.

STEP 3

Outside only: Do the following.

Foldable type

Adjust the head restraint to the downmost position.

Non-foldable type

Install the head restraint.

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1-8. Safety information

■Laws and regulations pertaining to anchors

The LATCH system conforms to FMVSS225 or CMVSS210.2. Child restraint systems conforming to FMVSS213 or CMVSS213 specifica- tions can be used. This vehicle is designed to conform to the SAE J1819.

CAUTION

■When installing a booster seat

To prevent the belt from going into ALR lock mode, do not fully extend the shoulder belt. ALR mode causes the belt to tighten only. This could cause injury or discomfort to the child. (→P. 111) ■When installing a child restraint system

Follow the directions given in the child restraint system installation manual and fix the child restraint system securely in place. If the child restraint system is not correctly fixed in place, the child or other passengers may be seriously injured or even killed in the event of sudden braking, sudden swerving or an accident.

●If the driver’s seat interferes with the child restraint system and prevents it from being attached correctly, attach the child restraint system to the right- hand rear seat.

●Adjust the front passenger seat so that it does not interfere with the child restraint system.

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1-8. Safety information

CAUTION

■When installing a child restraint system

●Only put a forward-facing child restraint system on the front seat when unavoid- able. When installing a forward-facing child restraint system on the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as pos- sible even if the “AIR BAG OFF” indica- tor light is illuminated. Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury if the airbags deploy (inflate).

●When a booster seat is installed, always ensure that the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of the child’s shoulder. The belt should be kept away from the child’s neck, but not so that it could fall off the child’s shoulder. Failing to do so may result in death or serious injury in the event of sudden braking, sudden swerving or an accident.

●Ensure that the belt and plate are securely locked and the seat belt is not

twisted.

●Shake the child restraint system left and right, and forward and backward

to ensure that it has been securely installed.

●After securing a child restraint system, never adjust the seat. ●Follow all installation instructions provided by the child restraint system

manufacturer.

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CAUTION

■Do not use a seat belt extender

If a seat belt extender is used when installing a child restraint system, the seat belt will not securely hold the child restraint system, which could cause death or serious injury to the child or other passengers in the event of sud- den braking, sudden swerving or an accident.

■To correctly attach a child restraint system to the anchors

When using the LATCH anchors, be sure that there are no foreign objects around the anchors and that the seat belt is not caught behind the child restraint system. Make sure the child restraint system is securely attached, or it may cause death or serious injury to the child or other passengers in the event of a sudden braking, sudden swerve or accident.

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1-8. Safety information

178

2-1. Driving procedures Driving the vehicle

The following procedures should be observed to ensure safe driv- ing: ■ Starting the hybrid system

→P. 192
■ Driving

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

With the brake pedal depressed, shift the shift position to D. (→P. 202) Check that the shift position indicator shows D. (→P. 214) Release the parking brake. (→P. 212) Gradually release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelerator pedal to accelerate the vehicle.

■ Stopping

STEP 1

STEP 2

With the shift position in D, depress the brake pedal. If necessary, set the parking brake. When the vehicle will be stopped for an extended period of time, shift the shift position to P. (→P. 205)

■ Parking the vehicle

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

STEP 4

STEP 5

STEP 6

Stop the vehicle completely. Set the parking brake. (→P. 212) Shift the shift position to P. (→P. 205) Check that the shift position indicator shows P. (→P. 202) Press the “POWER” switch to stop the hybrid system. Slowly release the brake pedal. Lock the door, making sure that you have the electronic key on your person. When parking on a hill, block the wheels as needed.

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2-1. Driving procedures

Starting off on a uphill

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

Firmly set the parking brake with the brake pedal depressed, and then shift the shift position to D. Release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelerator pedal. Release the parking brake.

■When starting off on a uphill

The hill-start assist control is available. (→P. 301)

■Driving in the rain

●Drive carefully when it is raining, because visibility will be reduced, the

windows may become fogged-up, and the road will be slippery.

●Drive carefully when it starts to rain, because the road surface will be

especially slippery.

●Refrain from high speeds when driving on an expressway in the rain, because there may be a layer of water between the tires and the road surface, preventing the steering and brakes from operating properly.

■Breaking in your new Toyota

To extend the life of the vehicle, observing the following precautions is rec- ommended: ●For the first 200 miles (300 km):

Avoid sudden stops.

●For the first 600 miles (1000 km):

• Do not drive at extremely high speeds. • Avoid sudden acceleration. • Do not drive at a constant speed for extended periods.

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2-1. Driving procedures

■Operating your vehicle in a foreign country

Comply with the relevant vehicle registration laws and confirm the availability of the correct fuel. (→P. 562)

■For efficient use

●Shift the shift position to D when driving.

In the N position, the gasoline engine operates but electricity cannot be generated. The hybrid battery (traction battery) will discharge, requiring unnecessary engine power to recharge.

●Drive your vehicle smoothly.

Avoid abrupt acceleration and deceleration. Gradual acceleration and deceleration will make more effective use of the electric motor (traction motor) without having to use gasoline engine power.

●Avoid repeated acceleration.

Repeated acceleration consumes hybrid battery (traction battery) power, resulting in poor acceleration. Battery power can be restored by driving with the accelerator pedal slightly released.

●Shift the shift position to P when parking.

In the N position, the hybrid battery (traction battery) does not recharge. Leaving the shift position in the N position for an extended period of time may discharge the hybrid battery (traction battery). The vehicle cannot run if the hybrid battery (traction battery) is discharged.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

■When starting the vehicle

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the hybrid sys- tem operating. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

■When driving the vehicle

●Do not drive if you are unfamiliar with the location of the brake and accel-

erator pedals to avoid depressing the wrong pedal. • Accidentally depressing the accelerator pedal instead of the brake pedal will result in sudden acceleration that may lead to an accident that could result in death or serious injury.

• When backing up, you may twist your body around, leading to a diffi- culty in operating the pedals. Make sure to operate the pedals properly. • Make sure to keep a correct driving posture even when moving the vehicle only slightly. This allows you to depress the brake and acceler- ator pedals properly.

• Depress the brake pedal using your right foot. Depressing the brake pedal using your left foot may delay response in an emergency, result- ing in an accident.

●Because there is no engine noise when the vehicle is being driven using the electric motor, pedestrians in the vicinity may not notice the vehicle. Even though the vehicle is equipped with the vehicle proximity notification system, drive with care as pedestrians in the vicinity may still not notice the vehicle if the surrounding area is noisy.

●Do not drive the vehicle over or stop the vehicle near flammable materials. The exhaust system and exhaust gases can be extremely hot. These hot parts may cause a fire if there is any flammable material nearby.

●Do not let the vehicle roll backward while a forward driving position is

selected, or roll forward while the shift position is in R. Doing so may result in an accident or damage to the vehicle.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

●If the smell of exhaust is noticed inside the vehicle, open the windows and check that the back door is closed. Large amounts of exhaust in the vehi- cle can cause driver drowsiness and an accident, resulting in death or a serious health hazard. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

●Do not shift the shift position to P while the vehicle is moving.

Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle control.

●Do not shift the shift position to R while the vehicle is moving forward.

Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle control.

●Do not shift the shift position to D while the vehicle is moving backward.

Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle control.

●Moving the shift position to N while the vehicle is moving will disengage the hybrid system. Engine braking is not available with the hybrid system disengaged.

●During normal driving, do not turn off the hybrid system. Turning the hybrid system off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. However, in the event of an emergency, such as if it becomes impossible to stop the vehicle in the normal way: →P. 556

●Use engine braking (shift position B instead of shift position D) to maintain

a safe speed when driving down a steep hill. Using the brakes continuously may cause the brakes to overheat and lose effectiveness. (→P. 202)

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CAUTION

●Do not adjust the positions of the steering wheel, the seat, or the inside or

outside rear view mirrors while driving. Doing so may result in a loss of vehicle control that can cause accidents, resulting in death or serious injury.

●Always check that all passengers’ arms, heads or other parts of their body

are not outside the vehicle, as this may result in death or serious injury.

●Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit per- mits it, do not drive over 85 mph (140 km/h) unless your vehicle has high- speed capability tires. Driving over 85 mph (140 km/h) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high-speed capability tires or not before driving at such speeds. ■When driving on slippery road surfaces

●Sudden braking, acceleration and steering may cause tire slippage and

reduce your ability to control the vehicle, resulting in an accident.

●Sudden acceleration, engine braking due to shift changing, or changes in

engine speed could cause the vehicle to skid, resulting in an accident.

●After driving through a puddle, depress the brake pedal to make sure that the brakes are functioning properly. Wet brake pads may prevent the brakes from functioning properly. If the brakes on only one side are wet and not functioning properly, steering control may be affected, resulting in an accident.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

■When changing the shift position

Be careful not to change the shift position with the accelerator pedal depressed. Changing the shift position to any positions other than P or N may cause the vehicle to accelerate abruptly, causing an accident and resulting in death or serious injury. After changing the shift position, make sure to confirm the current shift posi- tion displayed on the shift position indicator inside the meter.

■If you hear a squealing or scraping noise (brake pad wear limit indica-

tors) Have your Toyota dealer check and replace the brake pads as soon as pos- sible. Rotor damage may result if the pads are not replaced when needed. It is dangerous to drive the vehicle when the wear limits of the brake pads and/or those of the brake discs are exceeded.

■When the vehicle is stopped

●Do not depress the accelerator pedal unnecessarily.

If the vehicle is in any shift position other than P or N, the vehicle may accelerate suddenly and unexpectedly, causing an accident.

●Do not leave the vehicle with the hybrid system on for a long time.

If such a situation cannot be avoided, park the vehicle in an open space and check that exhaust fumes do not enter the vehicle interior.

●In order to prevent accidents due to the vehicle rolling away, always keep depressing the brake pedal while the “READY” indicator is on. Apply the parking brake as necessary.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

●If the vehicle is stopped on an incline, in order to prevent accidents caused by the vehicle rolling forward or backward, always depress the brake pedal and securely apply the parking brake as needed.

●Avoid revving or racing the engine.

Running the engine at high speed while the vehicle is stopped may cause the exhaust system to overheat, which could result in a fire if combustible material is nearby.

■When the vehicle is parked

●Make sure to firmly apply the parking brake and shift the shift position to P. Failure to do so may cause the vehicle to move, or the vehicle to acceler- ate suddenly if the accelerator pedal is accidentally depressed. Also, when leaving the vehicle, make sure to turn off the hybrid system and lock the vehicle. Sound or shuddering may not be noticed even when the hybrid vehicle is ready to drive (when the “READY” indicator is illuminated).

●Do not leave glasses, cigarette lighters, spray cans, or soft drink cans in

the vehicle when it is in the sun. Doing so may result in the following: • Gas may leak from a cigarette lighter or spray can, and may lead to a

fire.

• The temperature inside the vehicle may cause the plastic lenses and

plastic material of glasses to deform or crack.

• Soft drink cans may fracture, causing the contents to spray over the interior of the vehicle, and may also cause a short circuit in the vehi- cle’s electrical components.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

●Do not leave cigarette lighters in the vehicle. If a cigarette lighter is in a place such as the glove box or on the floor, it may be lit accidentally when luggage is loaded or the seat is adjusted, causing a fire.

●Do not attach adhesive discs to the windshield or windows. Do not place containers such as air fresheners on the instrument panel or dashboard. Adhesive discs or containers may act as lenses, causing a fire in the vehi- cle.

●Do not leave a door or window open if the curved glass is coated with a metallized film such as a silver-colored one. Reflected sunlight may cause the glass to act as a lens, causing a fire.

●Do not touch the exhaust pipe while the hybrid system is operating or

immediately after turning the hybrid system off. Doing so may cause burns.

●Do not leave the hybrid system operating in an area with snow build-up, or where it is snowing. If snowbanks build up around the vehicle while the hybrid system is operating, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehi- cle. This may lead to death or a serious health hazard.

■Exhaust gases

Exhaust gases include harmful carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless. Inhaling exhaust gases may lead to death or a serious health hazard. ●If the vehicle is in a poorly ventilated area, stop the hybrid system. In a closed area, such as a garage, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle. This may lead to death or a serious health hazard.

●The exhaust system should be checked occasionally. If there is a hole or crack caused by corrosion, damage to a joint or abnormal exhaust noise, be sure to have the vehicle inspected and repaired by your Toyota dealer. Failure to do so may allow exhaust gases to enter the vehicle, resulting in death or a serious health hazard.

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2-1. Driving procedures

CAUTION

■When taking a nap in the vehicle

Always turn the hybrid system off. Otherwise, if you accidentally move the shift lever or depress the accelerator pedal, this could cause an accident or fire due to hybrid system overheating. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked in a poorly ventilated area, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle, leading to death or a serious health hazard.

■When braking

●When the brakes are wet, drive more cautiously.

Braking distance increases when the brakes are wet, and this may cause one side of the vehicle to brake differently than the other side. Also, the parking brake may not securely hold the vehicle.

●If the electronically controlled assist function does not operate, do not fol- low other vehicles closely and avoid downhill or sharp turns that require braking. In this case, braking is still possible, but the brake pedal should be depressed more firmly than usual. Also, the braking distance will increase. ●The brake system consists of 2 individual hydraulic systems; if one of the systems fails, the others will still operate. In this case, the brake pedal should be depressed more firmly than usual and the braking distance will increase. If this happens, do not continue to drive the vehicle. If the brake system warning light (red indicator) comes on while driving, immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer.

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2-1. Driving procedures

NOTICE

■When driving the vehicle

●Do not depress the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time during

driving, as this may restrain driving torque.

●Do not use the accelerator pedal or depress the accelerator and brake

pedals at the same time to hold the vehicle on a hill.

■Avoiding damage to vehicle parts

●Do not turn the steering wheel fully in either direction and hold it there for

an extended period of time. Doing so may damage the power steering motor.

●When driving over bumps in the road, drive as slowly as possible to avoid

damaging the wheels, underside of the vehicle, etc.

■If you get a flat tire while driving

A flat or damaged tire may cause the following situations. Hold the steering wheel firmly and gradually depress the brake pedal to slow down the vehicle. ●It may be difficult to control your vehicle. ●The vehicle will make abnormal sounds or vibrations. ●The vehicle will lean abnormally. Information on what to do in case of a flat tire. (→P. 523)

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NOTICE

■When encountering flooded roads

Do not drive on a road that has flooded after heavy rain etc. Doing so may cause the following serious damage to the vehicle: ●Engine stalling ●Short in electrical components ●Engine damage caused by water immersion In the event that you drive on a flooded road and the vehicle is flooded, be sure to have your Toyota dealer check the following: ●Brake function ●Changes in quantity and quality of engine oil, transmission fluid for the

hybrid system, etc.

●Lubricant condition for the bearings and suspension joints (where possi-

ble), and the function of all joints, bearings, etc.

If the P position control system is damaged by flooding, it may not be possi- ble to shift the shift position to P, or from P to other positions. When the shift position cannot be changed from P to any other position, the front wheels will lock, and you will be unable to tow the vehicle with the front wheels on the ground, as the front wheels may be locked. In this case, transport the vehicle with both front wheels or all four wheels lifted.

191

2-1. Driving procedures Power (ignition) switch

Performing the following operations when carrying the electronic key on your person starts the hybrid system or changes “POWER” switch modes. ■ Starting the hybrid system

STEP 1

STEP 2

Check that the parking brake is set. Firmly depress the brake pedal. Check that the “POWER” switch indicator turns green. If the indi- cator does not turn green, the hybrid system cannot be started. When the shift position is N, the hybrid system cannot start. Shift the shift position to P when starting the hybrid system. (→P. 205)

Press the “POWER” switch.

The hybrid system can be started from any “POWER” switch mode. Continue depressing the brake pedal until the hybrid system is completely started.

STEP 3

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2-1. Driving procedures

STEP 4

Check that the “READY” indicator is on. If the “READY” indicator changes from a flashing light to a solid light and the buzzer sounds, the hybrid system is starting nor- mally. The vehicle will not move when the “READY” indicator is off. The vehicle can move when the “READY” indicator is on even if the engine is stopped. (The gasoline engine starts or stops auto- matically in accordance with the state of the vehicle.)

■ Stopping the hybrid system

STEP 1

STEP 2

Stop the vehicle completely. Set the parking brake. (→P. 212)

STEP 3

Shift the shift position to P. (→P. 205)

Check that the shift position indicator shows P. (→P. 202)

STEP 4

STEP 5

Press the “POWER” switch. The hybrid system will stop. Slowly release the brake pedal and check that the indicator on the “POWER” switch is off.

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■ Changing “POWER” switch modes Modes can be changed by pressing the “POWER” switch with the brake pedal released. (The mode changes each time the switch is pressed.)

Off The emergency flashers can be used. ACCESSORY mode Some electrical components such as the audio system can be used. The “POWER” switch indicator turns amber. ON mode All electrical components can be used. The “POWER” switch indicator turns amber.

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■Auto power off function

If the vehicle is left in ACCESSORY or ON mode (the hybrid system is not operating) for more than an hour with the shift position in P, the “POWER” switch will automatically turn off. However, this function cannot entirely pre- vent the 12-volt battery from discharging. Do not leave the vehicle with the “POWER” switch in ACCESSORY or ON mode for long periods of time when the hybrid system is not operating.

■Sounds and vibrations specific to a hybrid vehicle

→P. 34

■Electronic key battery depletion

→P. 76

■When the ambient temperature is low, such as during winter driving

conditions The “READY” indicator may flash for a long time when the hybrid system is starting. Driving will become possible once the “READY” indicator has illumi- nated. Wait until the “READY” indicator has illuminated.

■Conditions affecting operation

→P. 72

■Notes for the entry function

→P. 73

■If the hybrid system does not start

The immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. (→P. 135) Contact your Toyota dealer.

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■When the “POWER” switch indicator flashes in amber

The system may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

■If the “READY” indicator does not come on

If the “READY” indicator does not come on when you press the “POWER” switch with the shift position in P and the brake pedal depressed, contact your Toyota dealer immediately.

■If the hybrid system is malfunctioning

→P. 495

■If the electronic key battery is depleted

→P. 454

■Operation of the “POWER” switch

●When operating the “POWER” switch, one short, firm press is enough. If the switch is pressed improperly, the hybrid system may not start or the “POWER” switch mode may not change. It is not necessary to press and hold the switch.

●If attempting to restart the hybrid system immediately after turning the “POWER” switch off, the hybrid system may not start in some cases. After turning the “POWER” switch off, please wait a few seconds before restarting the hybrid system.

■Automatically P position selection function

→P. 207

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■When the P position control system malfunctions

The “POWER” switch will not be able to be turned off. In such a case, the switch can be turned off after applying the parking brake. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

■Ending display

When the “POWER” switch is turned off, each of the following will be dis- played on the multi-information display, and will extinguish after approxi- mately 30 seconds. ●The driving distance, driving time, consumption and eco savings since

the hybrid system was started.

●The odometer/trip meter ●The clock

CAUTION

■When starting the hybrid system

Always start the hybrid system while sitting in the driver’s seat. Do not depress the accelerator pedal while starting the hybrid system under any cir- cumstances. Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

■Stopping the hybrid system in an emergency

If you want to stop the hybrid system in an emergency while driving the vehi- cle, press and hold the “POWER” switch for more than 3 seconds, or press it briefly 3 times or more in succession. (→P. 556) However, do not touch the “POWER” switch while driving except in an emer- gency. Turning the hybrid system off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

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NOTICE

■To prevent 12-volt battery discharge

●Do not leave the “POWER” switch in ACCESSORY or ON mode for long

periods of time without the hybrid system on.

●If the hybrid system is off, but the indicator on the “POWER” switch is illu- minated, this indicates that the “POWER” switch is still turned on. When exiting the vehicle, always check that the “POWER” switch is off. ■Symptoms indicating a malfunction with the “POWER” switch

If the “POWER” switch seems to be operating somewhat differently than usual, such as the switch sticking slightly, there may be a malfunction. Con- tact your Toyota dealer immediately.

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2-1. Driving procedures EV drive mode

In EV drive mode, the electric motor (traction motor), powered by the hybrid battery (traction battery), is used to drive the vehicle. This mode allows you to drive in residential areas late at night, or in indoor parking lots etc. without concern for noises and exhaust gas emissions.

Turns EV drive mode on/off

When EV drive mode is turned on, the EV drive mode indica- tor will come on. Pressing the switch when in EV drive mode will return the vehicle to normal driving (using the gasoline engine and elec- tric motor [traction motor]).

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■Situations in which EV drive mode cannot be turned on It may not be possible to turn EV drive mode on in the following situations.* If it cannot be turned on, a buzzer will sound and a message will be shown on the multi-information display. ●The temperature of the hybrid system is high.

The vehicle has been left in the sun, driven on a hill, driven at high speeds, etc.

●The temperature of the hybrid system is low.

The vehicle has been left in temperatures lower than about 32 °F (0 °C) for a long period of time etc.

●The gasoline engine is warming up. ●The hybrid battery (traction battery) is low.

When the amount of remaining hybrid battery (traction battery) charge displayed on the meter is low. (→P. 42)

●Vehicle speed is high. ●The accelerator pedal is depressed firmly or the vehicle is on a hill etc. ●The windshield defogger is in use. *: Depending on the circumstances, EV drive mode may also not be

switched to in situations other than those above.

■Switching to EV drive mode when the gasoline engine is cold

If the hybrid system is started while the gasoline engine is cold, the gasoline engine will start automatically after a short period of time in order to warm up. In this case, you will become unable to switch to EV drive mode. After the hybrid system has started and the “READY” indicator has illumi- nated, press the EV drive mode switch before the gasoline engine starts to switch to EV drive mode.

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■Automatic cancelation of EV drive mode

When driving in EV drive mode, the gasoline engine may automatically restart in the following situations. When EV drive mode is canceled, a buzzer will sound and the EV drive mode indicator will flash and go off. ●The hybrid battery (traction battery) becomes low. ●Vehicle speed becomes high. ●The accelerator pedal is depressed firmly or the vehicle is on a hill etc.

■Possible driving distance when driving in EV drive mode

In EV drive mode, it is possible to drive up to about 1.3 mile (2 km) if driving at a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or less. (The distance that is possible depends on the hybrid battery [traction battery] level and driving conditions.)

■Changing a driving mode when in EV drive mode

EV drive mode can be used in conjunction with Eco drive mode and power mode. However, EV drive mode may be automatically canceled when used in con- junction with power mode.

■Fuel economy

PRIUS is designed to achieve the best possible fuel economy during normal driving (using the gasoline engine and electric motor [traction motor]). Driv- ing in EV drive mode more than necessary may lower fuel economy.

CAUTION

■While driving

When driving in EV drive mode, pay special attention to the area around the vehicle. Because there is no engine noise, pedestrians, people riding bicy- cles or other people and vehicles in the area may not be aware of the vehicle starting off or approaching them, so take extra care while driving.

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2-1. Driving procedures Hybrid transmission

Select a shift position appropriate for the driving conditions. ■ Shifting the shift lever

Shift lever Operate the shift lever gently and ensure correct shifting operation.

When shifting to the D or R positions, move the shift lever along the shift gate. To shift to the N position, slide the shift lever to the left and hold it. The shift position will change to N. Shifting to B is only possible when shift position D is selected.

The shift lever will always return to this original position after a shifting operation.

When shifting from P to N, D or R, from D to R, or from R to D, ensure that the brake pedal is being depressed and the vehicle is stationary.

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Shift position indicator The position of the frame on the shift position indicator changes in accordance with the current shift position. When any shift position other than D or B is selected, the arrow toward B and B position indicator disappear from the shift position indicator.

When selecting the shift position, make sure that the shift position has been changed to the desired position by checking the shift position indica- tor provided on the instrument cluster. ■ Shift position purpose

Shift position

Function

Parking the vehicle/starting the hybrid system

Reversing Neutral

Normal driving*

Applying moderate engine braking when driving

down hills or on steep slopes

*: For good fuel economy and noise reduction, the D position should usu-

ally be used.

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■ Selecting a driving mode

The following modes can be selected to suit driving conditions:

Eco drive mode Suitable for improving the fuel economy, because the torque corre- sponding to the accelerator pedal depression amount can be gener- ated more smoothly than it is in normal conditions and the operation of the air conditioning system (heating/cooling) will be minimized. When the “ECO MODE” switch is pressed, the “ECO MODE” indicator comes on. Power mode Use when high levels of response and feeling are desirable, such as when driving in mountainous regions or when overtaking. When the power mode switch is pressed, the power mode indicator comes on.

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2-1. Driving procedures

P position switch

■ When shifting the shift position to P

Fully stop the vehicle and set the parking brake, and then press the P position switch.

the shift position

When is changed to P, the indicator comes on. Check that the P position is illumi- nated on the shift position indica- tor.

■ Shifting the shift position from P to other positions

● While depressing the brake pedal firmly, operate the shift lever. If the shift lever is operated without depressing the brake pedal, the buzzer will sound and the shifting operation will be disabled. ● When selecting the shift position, make sure that the shift posi- tion has been changed to the desired position by checking the shift position indicator provided on the instrument cluster. ● The shift position cannot be changed from P to B directly.

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■Operation of the air conditioning system in Eco drive mode

Eco drive mode controls the heating/cooling operations and fan speed of the air conditioning system to enhance fuel efficiency. (→P. 204) To improve air conditioning performance, adjust the fan speed or turn off Eco drive mode.

■For the shift positions

●When the “POWER” switch is off, the shift position cannot be changed. ●When the “POWER” switch is in ON mode (the hybrid system is not oper- ating), the shift position can only be changed to N. The shift position will be changed to N even if the shift lever is shifted to D or R and held in that position.

●When the “READY” indicator is on, the shift position can be changed

from P to D, N or R.

●When the “READY” indicator is flashing, the shift position cannot be changed from P to another position even if the shift lever is operated. Wait until the “READY” indicator changes from a flashing to a solid light, and then operate the shift lever again.

●The shift position can only be changed to B directly from D. In addition, if an attempt is made to change the shift position by moving the shift lever in any of the following situations, the buzzer will sound and the shifting operation will be disabled or the shift position will automatically change to N. When this happens, select an appropriate shift position. ●Situations where the shifting operation will be disabled:

• When an attempt is made to change the shift position from P to another

position by moving the shift lever without depressing the brake pedal.

• When an attempt is made to change the shift position from P or N to B

by moving the shift lever.

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2-1. Driving procedures

●Situations where the shift position will automatically change to N: • When the P position switch is pressed while the vehicle is running.*1
• When an attempt is made to select the R position by moving the shift lever when the vehicle is moving forward.*2
• When an attempt is made to select the D position by moving the shift lever when the vehicle is moving in reverse.*3
• When an attempt is made to change the shift position from R to B by

*1: Shift position may be changed to P when driving at extremely low

moving the shift lever.

speeds.

*2: Shift position may be changed to R when driving at low speeds. *3: Shift position may be changed to D when driving at low speeds.

■Reverse warning buzzer

When shifting into R, a buzzer will sound to inform the driver that the shift position is in R.

■Automatically P position selection function

When the shift position is in a position other than P, pressing the “POWER” switch with the vehicle stopped completely will cause the shift position to change to P automatically, and then the “POWER” switch will turn off.

■If the shift position cannot be shifted from P

There is a possibility that the 12-volt battery is discharged. Check the 12-volt battery in this situation. (→P. 543)

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■About engine braking

When shift position B is selected, releasing the accelerator pedal will apply engine braking. ●When the vehicle is driven at high speeds, compared to ordinary gaso- line-fueled vehicles, the engine braking deceleration is felt less than that of other vehicles.

●The vehicle can be accelerated even when shift position B is selected. If the vehicle is driven continuously in the B position, fuel efficiency will become low. Usually, shift the shift position to D.

■When driving with cruise control or radar cruise control activated

Even if switching the driving mode to power mode with the intent of enabling engine braking, engine braking will not activate because cruise control or radar cruise control will not be canceled.

■When canceling Eco drive mode/power mode

●Press the switch again. Also, power mode will be canceled automatically when the “POWER” switch is turned off. However, Eco drive mode will not be canceled automatically until the switch is pressed, even if the “POWER” switch is turned off.

●When in Eco drive mode, if the power mode switch is pressed or the operation is reversed, the mode will switch to that of the last switch to be pressed.

■Switching the drive mode when in EV drive mode

→P. 201

■After recharging/reconnecting the 12-volt battery

→P. 433

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2-1. Driving procedures

■Customization

Settings (e.g. Reverse warning buzzer) can be changed. (Customizable features →P. 590)

CAUTION

■When driving on slippery road surfaces

Do not accelerate or shift the shift position suddenly. Sudden changes in engine braking may cause the vehicle to spin or skid, resulting in an accident.

■For the shift lever

Do not remove the shift lever knob or use anything but a genuine Toyota shift lever knob. Also, do not hang anything on the shift lever. Doing so could prevent the shift lever from returning to position, causing unexpected accidents to occur when the vehicle is in motion.

■P position switch

Do not press the P position switch while the vehicle is moving. If the P position switch is pressed when driving at very low speeds (for example, directly before stopping the vehicle), the vehicle may stop sud- denly when the shift position switches to P, which could lead to an accident.

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NOTICE

■Hybrid battery (traction battery) charge

If the shift position is in N, the hybrid battery (traction battery) will not be charged. To help prevent the battery from discharging, avoid leaving the N position selected for an extended period of time.

■Situations where P position control system malfunctions are possible If any of the following situations occurs, P position control system malfunc- tions are possible. Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place on level ground, apply the park- ing brake, and then contact your Toyota dealer. ●When the “P LOCK MALFUNCTION” warning message appears on the

multi-information display. (→P. 509)

●When the shift position indicator remains off.

■Notes regarding shift lever and P position switch operation

Avoid repeatedly operating the shift lever and P position switch in quick suc- cession. The system protection function may activate and it will not be temporarily possible to shift the shift position other than P. If this happens, please wait for a while before attempting to change the shift position again.

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2-1. Driving procedures Turn signal lever

The turn signal lever can be used to show the following intention of the driver:

Right turn Left turn Lane change to the right (push and hold the lever partway) The right hand signals will flash until you release the lever. left Lane change (push and hold the lever partway) The left hand signals will flash until you release the lever.

the

to

■Turn signals can be operated when The “POWER” switch is in ON mode.

■If the indicator flashes faster than usual

Check that a light bulb in the front or rear turn signal lights has not burned out.

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2-1. Driving procedures Parking brake

U.S.A.

Canada

To set the parking brake, fully depress the parking brake pedal with your left foot while depressing the brake pedal with your right foot. (Depressing the pedal again releases the parking brake.)

■Parking brake engaged warning buzzer

→P. 493

■Usage in winter time

→P. 317

NOTICE

■Before driving

Fully release the parking brake. Driving the vehicle with the parking brake set will lead to brake components overheating, which may affect braking performance and increase brake wear.

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2-1. Driving procedures Horn

To sound the horn, press on or close to the

mark.

■After adjusting the steering wheel

Make sure that the steering wheel is securely locked. The horn may not sound if the steering wheel is not securely locked. (→P. 117)

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2-2.Instrument cluster Gauges and meters

The units used on the display may differ depending on the target region. The following gauges and meters and display illuminate when the “POWER” switch is in ON mode:

Fuel gauge Displays the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank. Speedometer Displays the vehicle speed. Instantaneous fuel consumption Displays the current rate of fuel consumption. Shift position indicators Displays the shift position. Multi-information display Presents the driver with a variety of driving-related data. (→P. 223)

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Touch tracer display (if equipped)

2-2. Instrument cluster

When the audio control switches, climate control switches, “DISP” button or “TRIP” button of the steering wheel are touched, the touch tracer display will appear in front of the gauges, with the touched button highlighted to allow the driver to identify the button that is being operated.

The button can then be operated by further presses. If an audio/navigation system is used that is not compatible with the steering switches in this vehi- cle, the audio switch display may not operate correctly.

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2-2. Instrument cluster

MPH or km/h button

The speed units can be selected MPH or km/h.

Press the button to switch the display between MPH and km/h.

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2-2. Instrument cluster

Instrument panel light control

The brightness of the instrument panel lights can be adjusted by turn- ing the dial.

Brighter Darker

■Brightness of the instrument panel light

If the headlight switch is turned on while the surrounding area is dark, the instrument panel lights will dim.

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2-2. Instrument cluster

CAUTION

■To prevent an accident

Instrument cluster

Do not place anything or attach a sticker in front of the instrument cluster. The item may obscure or obstruct the display, or could reflect off the display, possibly causing an accident.

NOTICE

■To prevent damage to the engine and its components

The engine may be overheating if the high coolant temperature warning light comes on or flashes. In this case, immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place, and check the engine after it has cooled completely. (→P. 549)

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2-2. Instrument cluster Indicators and warning lights

The indicator and warning lights on the instrument cluster and instrument panel inform the driver of the status of the vehicle’s vari- ous systems. For the purpose of explanation, the following illustration displays all indicators and warning lights illuminated. Instrument cluster

Some indicators and the units used on the display may differ depending on the target region. Instrument panel

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2-2. Instrument cluster

■ Indicators

The indicators inform the driver of the operating state of the vehicle’s various systems.