2008 TOYOTA PRIUS Owners Manual

81
1
Before driving
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
1-7. Theft deterrent system
Immobilizer system
The vehicle’s keys have built-in transponder chips that prevent the
hybrid system from starting if the key has not been previously regis-
tered in the vehicle’s on-board computer.
Never leave the keys inside the vehicle when you leave the vehicle.
Vehicle with smart key sys-
tem:
The indicator light flashes after
the “POWER” switch has been
turned OFF to indicate that the
system is operating.
Vehicles without smart key
system:
The indicator light flashes after
the key has been removed
from the “POWER” switch to
indicate that the system is
operating.

82 1-7. Theft deterrent system
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
■System maintenance
The vehicle has a maintenance-free type of immobilizer system.
■ Conditions that may cause the system to malfunction
● If the grip portion of the key is in contact with a metallic object.
● If the key is in close proximity to or touching a key to the security system
(key with a built-in transponder chip) of another vehicle.
■ Certifications for the hybr id system immobilizer system
For vehicles sold in the U.S.A.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interfer-
ence, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC WARNING:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. For vehicles sold in Canada
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not
cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, includ-
ing interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
CAUTION
■ Certifications for the immobilizer system
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
FCC ID: MOZRI-24KTY
MADE IN JAPAN

83
1-7. Theft deterrent system
1
Before driving
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
NOTICE
■
For proper system operation
Do not modify, remove or disable the hybrid vehicle immobilizer system. If
any unauthorized changes or modifications are made, the proper operation
of the system cannot be guaranteed.

84
1-7. Theft deterrent system
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
Alarm (if equipped)
The system sounds the alarm and flashes the vehicle lights when an
attempt to steal the vehicle is detected.
■ Triggering the alarm
The alarm is triggered in the following situations.
●A locked door or back door is unlocked or opened in any way
other than using the entry function, wireless remote door lock
function or using the mechani cal key. (The doors will lock
again automatically)
● The hood is opened while t he vehicle is locked.
■ Setting the alarm system
Close the doors, hood and
lock all doors. The system will
be set automatically after 30
seconds.
The indicator light changes
from being on to flashing when
the system is set.
■Deactivating or stopping the alarm
Do one of the following to deactivate or stop the alarm.
●Unlock the doors.
● Start the hybrid system. (the alarm will be deactivated or
stopped after a few seconds.)

85
1-7. Theft deterrent system
1
Before driving
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
■
Items to check before locking the vehicle
To prevent unexpected triggering of the alarm and vehicle theft, make sure
of the following
● Nobody is in the vehicle.
● The windows are closed before the alarm is set.
● No valuables or other personal items are left in the vehicle.
■ Triggering of the alarm
The alarm may be triggered in the following situations.
(Stopping the alarm deactivates the alarm system.)
● A person inside the vehicle opens a door, the back door or hood.
● The 12 volt battery is recharged or replaced when the vehicle is locked.
■ Panic mode
When is pushed for longer than
about one second, an alarm will sound for
about 60 seconds and the vehicle lights
will flash to deter any person from trying
to break into or damage your vehicle.
To stop the alarm, push any button on the
wireless remote control.
ITY17P002

86
1-7. Theft deterrent system
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
Theft prevention labels (U.S.A.)
These labels are attached to
the vehicle to reduce vehicle
theft by facilitating the tracing
and recovery of parts from sto-
len vehicles. Do not remove
under penalty of law.

87
1
Before driving
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
1-8. Safety information
Correct driving posture
Drive with a good posture as follows:
Sit upright and well back in
the seat.
Adjust the position of the
seat forward or backward to
ensure the pedals can be
reached and easily
depressed to the extent
required. (P. 57)
Adjust the seatback so that
the controls are easily oper-
able.
Adjust the tilt position of the
steering wheel downward
so the airbag is facing your
chest. ( P. 7 0 )
Lock the head restraint in
place with the center of the
head restraint closest to the
top of your ears. ( P. 62)
Wear the seat belt correctly.
(  P. 64)

88 1-8. Safety information
PRIUS_U_(L/O_0802)
CAUTION
■While driving
● Do not adjust the position of the driver’s seat.
Doing so could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
● Do not place a cushion between the driver or passenger and the seatback.
A cushion may prevent correct posture from being achieved, and reduce
the effectiveness of the seat belt and head restraint, increasing the risk of
death or serious injury to the driver or passenger.
● Do not place anything under the front seats.
Objects placed under the front seats may become jammed in the seat
tracks and stop the seat from locking in place. This may lead to an acci-
dent. The adjustment mechanism may also be damaged.
■ Adjusting the seat position
● Take care when adjusting the seat position to ensure that other passen-
gers are not injured by the moving seat.
● Do not put your hands under the seat or near the moving parts to avoid
injury.
Fingers or hands may become jammed in the seat mechanism.