2574-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)■
Conditions that may trigger the system even if there is no possibility of a
collision
If the following obstructs the front of the sensor, the system judges that a col-
lision may be possible and operates.
● When passing by a vehicle while making left or right turns or passing a vehi-
cle in an opposite lane.
● When the vehicle rapidly approaches an object in front of it (such as another
vehicle, toll gate, etc.)
● When climbing a steep hill, etc., and there are structures in the upper region
of the road (billboards, low ceilings, street lamps, etc.)
● When driving through narrow passages or places with low ceilings (bridges,
tunnels, overhead passes, etc.)
● When driving on an uneven road surface
● When metal objects are on the road surface causing level differences or
protrusions in the road
● When an extreme change in vehicle height occurs
● When the radar sensor moves off position due to its surrounding area being
subjected to a strong impact.
● When there is an obstacle (guardrails, etc.) on the roadside at a curve
entrance
● When the front of your vehicle is pointing upwards (caused by putting a
heavy load in the luggage compartment)
When the system is activated in the situations described above, there is also
a possibility that the brakes will be applied with a force greater than normal.
■ Obstacles not detected
The sensor cannot detect plastic obstacles such as traffic cones. There may
also be occasions when the sensor cannot detect pedestrians, animals, bicy-
cles, motorcycles, trees, or snowdrifts.
■ Situations in which the pre-crash safety system does not function prop-
erly
The system may not function effectively in situations such as the following:
● On roads with sharp bends or uneven surfaces
● If a vehicle suddenly moves in front of your vehicle, such as at an intersec-
tion
● If a vehicle suddenly cuts in front of your vehicle, such as when overtaking
● In inclement weather such as heavy rain, fog, snow or sand storms
● When your vehicle is skidding with the VSC system off
● When an extreme change in vehicle height occurs
● When the radar sensor moves off position due to its surrounding area being
subjected to a strong impact
● Due to greatly turning the steering wheel when an obstacle suddenly
appears ahead
2604-5. Using the driving support systems
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
WARNING
■ Limitations of the pre-crash safety system
It is the driver’s responsibility to drive safely. The driver should be aware of
the surroundings and strive for safe driving.
Do not rely on the pre-crash safety system instead of normal braking opera-
tions. This system does not avoid or reduce collisions in every situation.
Overly relying on the system and entrusting it with safety may cause an
unexpected accident which could lead to death or serious injury.
Although the system is designed for the purpose to support in avoiding colli-
sions or reducing the damage of a collision, the effect changes according to
various conditions.( →P. 256)
Therefore, it does not always provi de the same performance. Also, the pre-
crash braking does not work depending on the operating conditions of the
driver. When the driver has stepped on the brake pedal and is operating the
steering wheel, the system judges that the driver is taking avoiding action
and the automatic braking may not operate.
■ Handling the radar sensor
Observe the following to ensure the pre-crash safety system can function
effectively.
Otherwise, the system may not function correctly and could result in an
accident.
●Keep the sensor and grille cover clean at all times.
Clean the sensor and grille cover with a soft cloth so you do not mark or
damage them.
● Do not subject the sensor or surrounding area to a strong impact.
If the sensor moves even slightly off position, the system may not work
normally or malfunction. If the sensor or surrounding area is subject to a
strong impact, always have the area inspected and adjusted by any autho-
rized Toyota dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped pro-
fessional.
● Do not disassemble the sensor.
● Do not attach accessories or stickers to the sensor, grille cover or sur-
rounding area.
● Do not modify or paint the sensor and grille cover.
● If the radar sensor needs to be replaced, contact any authorized Toyota
dealer or repairer, or another dul y qualified and equipped professional.
2614-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
WARNING
■ Cautions regarding the assist contents of the system
By means of alarms and brake control, the pre-crash safety system is
intended to assist the driver in avoiding collisions through the process of
LOOK-JUDGE-ACT. There are limits to the degree of assistance the system
can provide, so please keep in mind the following important points.
● Assisting the driver in watching the road
The pre-crash safety system is only able to detect obstacles directly in
front of the vehicle, and only within a limited range. It is not a mechanism
that allows careless or inattentive driv ing, and it is not a system that can
assist the driver in low-visibility conditions. It is still necessary for the driver
to pay close attention to the vehicle’s surroundings.
● Assisting the driver in making correct judgement
When attempting to estimate the possibility of a collision, the only data
available to the pre-crash safety system is that from obstacles it has
detected directly in front of the vehicle. Therefore, it is absolutely neces-
sary for the driver to remain vigila nt and to determine whether or not there
is a possibility of collision in any given situation.
● Assisting the driver in taking action
The pre-crash safety system’s braking assist feature is designed to help
reduce the severity of a collision, and so only acts when the system has
judged that a collision is unavoidable. This system by itself, without the
proper operations of the driver, is not capable of automatically avoiding a
collision or bringing the vehicle to a stop safely. For this reason, when
encountering a dangerous situation the driver must take direct and imme-
diate action in order to ensure the safety of all involved.
2624-6. Driving tips
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
Hybrid vehicle driving tips
◆Using Eco drive mode
When using Eco drive mode, the torque corresponding to the accel-
erator pedal depression amount can be generated more smoothly
than it is in normal conditions. In addition, the operation of the air
conditioning system (heating/cooling) will be minimized, improving
the fuel economy. (→P. 247)
◆Use of Hybrid System Indicator
The Eco-friendly driving is possible by keeping the Hybrid System
Indicator within Eco area. ( →P. 116)
◆Shift position operation
Shift the shift position to D when stopped at a traffic light, or driving
in heavy traffic etc. Shift the shift position to P when parking. When
using the N, there is no positive effect on fuel consumption. In the
N, the gasoline engine operates but electricity cannot be gener-
ated. Also, when using the air conditioning system, etc., the hybrid
battery (traction battery) power is consumed.
◆Accelerator pedal/brake pedal operation
● 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 fuel con-
sumption. Battery power can be restored by driving with the
accelerator pedal slightly released.
For economical and ecological driving, pay attention to the fol-
lowing points:
2634-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
◆When braking
Make sure to operate the brakes gently and in a timely manner. A
greater amount of electrical energy can be regenerated when slow-
ing down.
◆Delays
Repeated acceleration and deceleration, as well as long waits at
traffic lights, will lead to bad fuel economy. Check traffic reports
before leaving and avoid delays as much as possible. When driving
in a traffic jam, gently release the brake pedal to allow the vehicle to
move forward slightly while avoiding overuse of the accelerator
pedal. Doing so can help control excessive gasoline consumption.
◆Highway driving
Control and maintain the vehicle at a constant speed. Before stop-
ping at a toll booth or similar, allow plenty of time to release the
accelerator and gently apply the brakes. A greater amount of elec-
trical energy can be regenerated when slowing down.
◆Air conditioning
Use the air conditioning only when necessary. Doing so can help
reduce excessive gasoline consumption.
In summer: When the ambient temperature is high, use the recircu-
lated air mode. Doing so will help to reduce the burden on the air
conditioning system and reduce fuel consumption as well.
In winter: Because the gasoline engine will not automatically cut out
until it and the interior of the vehicle are warm, it will consume fuel.
Fuel consumption can be improved by avoiding overuse of the
heater.
265
4
4-6. Driving tips
Driving
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
Winter driving tips
●Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tempera-
tures.
• Engine oil
• Engine/power control unit coolant
• Washer fluid
● Have a service technician inspect the condition of the 12-volt bat-
tery.
● Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire
chains for the front tires.
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match
the size of the tires.
Perform the following according to the driving conditions:
●Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen.
Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away
the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
● To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan,
remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in
front of the windshield.
● Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accu-
mulated on the exterior lights, vehicle’s roof, chassis, around the
tires or on the brakes.
● Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before
getting in the vehicle.
Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before
driving the vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a man-
ner appropriate to the prevailing weather conditions.
Preparation for winter
Before driving the vehicle
2664-6. Driving tips
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
Accelerate the vehicle slowly, keep a safe distance between you and
the vehicle ahead, and drive at a reduced speed suitable to road con-
ditions.
Park the vehicle and shift the shift position to P and block the wheel
under the vehicle without setting the parking brake. The parking brake
may freeze up, preventing it from being released.
Use the correct tire chain size when mounting the tire chains. Chain
size is regulated for each tire size.
XSide chain
3.0 mm (0.12 in.)
30.0 mm (1.18 in.)
10.0 mm (0.39 in.)
XCross chain
4.0 mm (0.16 in.)
25.0 mm (0.98 in.)
14.0 mm (0.55 in.)
Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary depending on loca-
tion and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing
chains.
■ Tire chain installation
Observe the following precautions when installing and removing chains:
●Install and remove tire chains in a safe location.
● Install tire chains on the front tires only. Do not install tire chains on the rear
tires.
● Install tire chains on front tires as tight ly as possible. Retighten chains after
driving 0.5 - 1.0 km (1/4 - 1/2 mile).
● Install tire chains following the instru ctions provided with the tire chains.
When driving the vehicle
When parking the vehicle
Selecting tire chains
1
2
3
4
5
6
Regulations on the use of tire chains
2674-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
PRIUS +_OM_OM47888E_(EE)
WARNING
■ Driving with snow tires
Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failure to do so may result in a loss of vehicle control and cause death or
serious injury.
●Use tires of the specified size.
● Maintain the recommended level of air pressure.
● Do not drive at speeds in excess of the speed limit or the speed limit spec-
ified for the snow tires being used.
● Use snow tires on all, not just some wheels.
■ Driving with tire chains
Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failure to do so may result in the vehicle being unable to be driven safely,
and may cause death or serious injury.
●Do not drive in excess of the speed limit specified for the tire chains being
used, or 50 km/h (30 mph), whichever is lower.
● Avoid driving on bumpy road surfaces or over potholes.
● Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering, sudden braking and shifting
operations that cause sudden engine braking.
● Slow down sufficiently before entering a curve to ensure that vehicle con-
trol is maintained.
■ When parking the vehicle
When parking the vehicle without applying the parking brake, make sure to
chock the wheels. If you do not chock the wheels, the vehicle may move
unexpectedly, possibly resulting in an accident.
NOTICE
■Repairing or replacing snow tires
Request repairs or replacement of snow tires from any authorized Toyota
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional or
legitimate tire retailers.
This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the opera-
tion of the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.
■ Fitting tire chains
The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly
when tire chains are fitted.