2010 TOYOTA PRIUS stop start

542 5-2. Steps to take in an emergency
PRIUS_U (OM47668U) U.S.A.
Changing “POWER” switch modes and starting the hybrid sys-
temApply the brakes and touch the
Toyota emblem side of the
electronic key to the “POWER”
switch.
An alarm will sound to indicate
that the start function cannot
detect the electronic key that is
touched to the “POWER” switch if
any of the doors is opened and
closed while the key is touched to
the switch.
To change “POWER” switch modes: Within 10 seconds of the
buzzer sounding, release the brake pedal and press the
“POWER” switch. Modes can be changed each time the
switch is pressed. ( P. 164) 
To start the hybrid system: Press the “POWER” switch within
10 seconds after the buzzer s ounds, keeping the brake pedal
depressed.
In the event that the “POWER” swit ch still cannot be operated, con-
tact your Toyota dealer.
ITO52P165
STEP1
■ Stopping the hybrid system
Push the “P” position switch and press the “POWER” switch as you normally
do when stopping the hybrid system.
■ Replacing the key battery
As this procedure is the temporary measure, it is recommended that the
electronic key battery be replaced immediately when the battery depletes.
(P. 460)
STEP2

548
5-2. Steps to take in an emergency
PRIUS_U (OM47668U) U.S.A.
If your vehicle overheats
Correction procedures■ If the high coolant temperatur e warning light comes on or
flashes
Stop the vehicle in a safe place and turn off the air condition-
ing system.
Check to see if steam is coming out from under the hood.
If you see steam: 
Stop the hybrid system. Carefully lift the hood after the
steam subsides and then restart the hybrid system.
If you do not see steam: 
Leave the hybrid system operating and carefully lift the
hood.
The following may indicate that your vehicle is overheating:
● The high coolant temperature warn ing light comes on or flashes:
The engine may be overheating.
● “HYBRID SYSTEM OVERHEAT” is shown on the multi-informa-
tion display: 
The power control unit may be overheating.
Follow the correction procedure as described below.
STEP1
STEP2

5
When trouble arises
553
5-2. Steps to take in an emergency
PRIUS_U (OM47668U) U.S.A.
If the vehicle becomes stuck
CAUTION
■When attempting to free a stuck vehicle
If you choose to rock the vehicle back and forth to free it, make sure the sur-
rounding area is clear, to avoid striking other vehicles, objects or persons.
The vehicle may also lunge forward or lunge back suddenly as it becomes
free. Use extreme caution.
■ When shifting the shift lever
Be careful not to shift the shift lever with the accelerator pedal depressed. 
This may lead to unexpected rapid acceleration of the vehicle that may
cause an accident and result in death or serious injury.
Carry out the following procedures if the tires spin or the vehicle
becomes stuck in mud, dirt, or snow.
Stop the hybrid system. Set t he parking brake and push the
“P” position switch.
Remove the mud, snow, or sand from around the stuck tire.
Place wood, stones or some other material to help provide
traction under the tires.
Restart the hybrid system.
Shift the shift lever to “D” or “R” and carefully apply the
accelerator to free the vehicle.STEP1
STEP2
STEP3
STEP4
STEP5