•Interacting with your vehicle, for examplepressing the brake or accelerator pedal.
•You can temporarily switch off theshutdown feature any time the ignition ison (for the current ignition cycle only).Use the information display to do so. SeeInformation Displays (page 110).
•During the countdown before shutdown,you are prompted to press OK or RESET(depending on your type of informationdisplay) to temporarily switch the featureoff (for the current ignition cycle only).
Switching Off Your Vehicle When It IsStationary
1. Put the transmission in position P.
2. Press the button once.
3. Apply the parking brake.
Note:This switches off the ignition, allelectrical circuits, warning lamps andindicators.
Note:If your vehicle is left running for 30minutes without any interaction, itautomatically shuts down.
Switching Off Your Vehicle When It IsMoving
WARNING: Switching off the enginewhen your vehicle is still moving results in asignificant decrease in braking assistance.Higher effort is required to apply the brakesand to stop your vehicle. A significantdecrease in steering assistance could alsooccur. The steering does not lock, but highereffort could be required to steer your vehicle.When you switch the ignition off, someelectrical circuits, for example airbags, alsoturn off. If you unintentionally switch theignition off, shift into neutral (N) and restartthe engine.
1. Put the transmission in position N anduse the brakes to bring your vehicle to asafe stop.
2. When your vehicle has stopped, put thetransmission in position P.
3. Press and hold the button for onesecond, or press it three times within twoseconds.
4. Apply the parking brake.
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
WARNING: Exhaust leaks may resultin entry of harmful and potentially lethalfumes into the passenger compartment. Ifyou smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle,have your vehicle inspected immediately. Donot drive if you smell exhaust fumes.
Important Ventilating Information
If you stop your vehicle and then leave theengine idling for long periods of time, werecommend that you do one of the following:
•Open the windows at least 1 in (3 cm).
•Set your climate control to outside air.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (If Equipped)
WARNING: Failure to follow engineblock heater instructions could result inproperty damage or serious personal injury.
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Starting and Stopping the Engine
WARNING: Do not use your heater withungrounded electrical systems ortwo-pronged adapters. There is a risk ofelectrical shock.
WARNING: Do not fully close the hood,or allow it to drop under its own weight whenusing the engine block heater. This coulddamage the power cable and may cause anelectrical short resulting in fire, injury andproperty damage.
Note:The heater is most effective whenoutdoor temperatures are below 0°F (-18°C).
The heater acts as a starting aid by warmingthe engine coolant. This allows the climatecontrol system to respond quickly. Theequipment includes a heater element(installed in the engine block) and a wireharness. You can connect the system to agrounded 120-volt AC electrical source.
We recommend that you do the following fora safe and correct operation:
•Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cordthat is product certified by Underwriter’sLaboratory (UL) or Canadian StandardsAssociation (CSA). This extension cordmust be suitable for use outdoors, in coldtemperatures, and be clearly markedSuitable for Use with OutdoorAppliances. Do not use an indoorextension cord outdoors. This couldresult in an electric shock or become afire hazard.
•Use as short an extension cord aspossible.
•Do not use multiple extension cords.
•Make sure that when in operation, theextension cord plug and heater cord plugconnections are free and clear of water.This could cause an electric shock or fire.
•Make sure your vehicle is parked in aclean area, clear of combustibles.
•Make sure the heater, heater cord andextension cord are firmly connected.
•Check for heat anywhere in the electricalhookup once the system has beenoperating for approximately 30 minutes.
•Make sure the system is unplugged andproperly stowed before starting anddriving your vehicle. Make sure theprotective cover seals the prongs of theblock heater cord plug when not in use.
•Make sure the heater system is checkedfor proper operation before winter.
Using the Engine Block Heater
Make sure the receptacle terminals are cleanand dry prior to use. Clean them with a drycloth if necessary.
The heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours ofenergy per hour of use. The system does nothave a thermostat. It achieves maximumtemperature after approximately three hoursof operation. Using the heater longer thanthree hours does not improve systemperformance and unnecessarily useselectricity.
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Starting and Stopping the Engine
HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
This hybrid vehicle combines electric andgasoline propulsion to provide breakthroughperformance and improved efficiency.
Familiarizing yourself with these uniquecharacteristics will provide an optimal drivingexperience from your new vehicle.
Note:You may notice higher engine speedsupon start-up. This temporary condition isnormal and necessary to heat up the cabinand minimize emissions.
Starting:
When you start your vehicle, agreen ready indicator light willappear in the lower right portionof the instrument cluster and a ready to drivemessage will appear in the middle of the leftcluster screen, letting you know that yourvehicle is ready for driving.
The engine may not start because thisvehicle is equipped with silent key start. Thisfuel saving feature allows your vehicle to beready–to–drive without requiring the gasengine to be running. This indicator willremain on while your vehicle is on, whetherthe engine is running or not to indicate yourvehicle is capable of movement (using itselectric motor, engine, or both). Typically, theengine will not start unless the vehicle iscold, a climate control change is requested,or the accelerator is pressed.
Driving:
The gas engine automatically starts andstops to provide power when needed andto save fuel when not needed. Whilecoasting at low speeds, coming to a stop, orstanding, the gas engine normally shutsdown and your vehicle operates inelectric-only mode.
Conditions that may cause the engine to startup or remain running include:
•Considerable vehicle acceleration.
•Vehicle speed above 85 mph (137 km/h).However, the maximum speed forelectric-only operation may be lowerwhile driving in hot temperatures or onhilly terrain.
•Ascending a hill.
•Charge level of high voltage battery islow.
•Very high or low outside temperature (toprovide system cooling or heating).
•Engine not warm enough to providepassenger requested cabin temperature.
Stopping:
The gas engine may shut off to conserve fuelas you come to a stop. Restarting yourvehicle is not required. Simply step on theaccelerator when you are ready to drive.
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Unique Driving CharacteristicsE144692
Transmission Operation:
Due to the technologically advanced,electronically-controlled continuouslyvariable transaxle, you will not feel shiftchanges like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note:Since engine speed is controlled bythe transmission, it may seem elevated attimes. This is normal hybrid operation andhelps deliver fuel efficiency andperformance.
Neutral:
We recommend that you do not idle thevehicle in neutral (N) for an extended periodof time because this will discharge your highvoltage battery, shut off your air conditioningand heating, and decrease fuel economy.The engine will not start or stop, and cannotprovide power to the hybrid system in neutral(N).
Low:
Low (L) is designed to mimic the enhancedengine braking available in non-hybridvehicles. Low gear will produce high enginespeeds to provide necessary engine braking.This is normal and will not damage yourvehicle. In low gear, the gas engine willremain on more often than in drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltagebattery. A cool battery maintains battery lifeand provides the best possible performance.The high voltage battery is cooled by cabinair drawn from vent holes in the trim panelsbehind the rear seats. Avoid placing objectsat the vent holes that block airflow to thehigh voltage battery.
Engine:
The engine speed in your hybrid is notdirectly tied to your vehicle speed. Yourvehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. Duringheavy accelerations, your hybrid may reachhigh engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you maysee the engine speed changing without yourinput. This is intentional and maintains thebattery charge level. You may also noticeduring extended downhill driving that yourengine continues to run instead of shuttingoff.
During this engine braking, the engine stayson, but it is not using any fuel. You may alsohear a slight whine or whistle when operatingyour vehicle. This is the normal operation ofthe electric generator in the hybrid system.
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Unique Driving Characteristics
If the service engine soon indicator remainson, have your vehicle serviced at the firstavailable opportunity. Although somemalfunctions detected by the OBD-II may nothave symptoms that are apparent, continueddriving with the service engine soon indicatoron can result in increased emissions, lowerfuel economy, reduced engine andtransmission smoothness and lead to morecostly repairs.
Readiness for Inspection andMaintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state and provincial and localgovernments may haveInspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs toinspect the emission control equipment onyour vehicle. Failure to pass this inspectioncould prevent you from getting a vehicleregistration.
If the service engine soon indicatoris on or the bulb does not work,your vehicle may need service.See On-Board Diagnostics.
Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if theservice engine soon indicator is on or notworking properly (bulb is burned out), or ifthe OBD-II system has determined that someof the emission control systems have notbeen properly checked. In this case, thevehicle is not ready for I/M testing.
If the vehicle’s engine or transmission hasjust been serviced, or the battery hasrecently run down or been replaced, theOBD-II system may indicate that the vehicleis not ready for I/M testing. To determine ifthe vehicle is ready for I/M testing, turn theignition key to the on position for 15 secondswithout cranking the engine. If the serviceengine soon indicator blinks eight times, itmeans that the vehicle is not ready for I/Mtesting; if the service engine soon indicatorstays on solid, it means that your vehicle isready for I/M testing.
The OBD-II system checks the emissioncontrol system during normal driving. Acomplete check may take several days.
If the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing, youcan perform the following driving cycleconsisting of mixed city and highway driving:
1. 15 minutes of steady driving on anexpressway or highway followed by 20minutes of stop-and-go driving with atleast four 30-second idle periods.
2.Allow your vehicle to sit for at least eighthours with the ignition off. Then, start thevehicle and complete the above drivingcycle. The vehicle must warm up to itsnormal operating temperature. Oncestarted, do not turn off the vehicle untilthe above driving cycle is complete.
If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M testing,you need to repeat the above driving cycle.
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Engine Emission Control
2. Locate the access door and remove theplastic cover.
3. Pull the outer cover off to expose theservice disconnect cover.
4. Slide the handle on the servicedisconnect outboard to the right.
5. Pull the handle toward you and removethe circuit from the vehicle to disable thehigh-voltage battery.
Reactivating the High-Voltage Battery
Note:If you have manually disconnectedyour high-voltage shut off circuit you willneed to reconnect the circuit before it canbe reactivated. The vehicle detects if theelectrical system is safe and thenreactivates.
HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY CUT-
OFF SWITCH
The high-voltage shut off operation shuts offpower from the high-voltage battery after acollision, or if your vehicle receives asubstantial physical jolt.
1. Press the START/STOP button to turnignition off.
2. Press the brake pedal and press theSTART/STOP button.
3. If your vehicle is not powered after thissequence, repeat steps 1 and 2 up to twomore times.
Note:During this process, your vehicle willdetect if the electrical system is safe andreactivate. Once your vehicle determinesthe electrical system safe, you can start yourvehicle as you would normally by eitherturning the ignition key or by pressing thebrake in combination with the START/STOPbutton.
Note:In the event your vehicle does notreactivate after the third key cycle, contactan authorized dealer.
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•Turn the ignition off.
•Open the driver's door with your seat beltunlatched.
•Unlatching your seatbelt when thedriver's door is open.
If you turn the ignition off when your vehicleis moving, your vehicle first shifts into neutral(N) until it slows down enough to shift intopark (P) automatically.
Note:If you have waited an extended periodof time, (2-15 minutes) before starting yourvehicle, unlatching your safety belt doescause this feature to activate, even with thedriver's door closed.
Note:This feature may not work properly ifthe door ajar switch is malfunctioning. If yourdoor ajar indicator does not illuminate whenyou open the driver’s door or the indicatorilluminates with the driver’s door closed, seeyour authorized dealer.
Reverse (R)
With the transmission in reverse (R), yourvehicle moves backward. Always come to acomplete stop before shifting into and outof reverse (R).
Neutral (N)
Press the neutral (N) button to put yourvehicle in neutral. In neutral, your vehicle canstart and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedaldown when in this position.
Stay in Neutral mode
Stay in Neutral mode allows your vehicle tostay in neutral when you exit your vehicle.Your vehicle must be stationary to enter thismode.
To enter Stay in Neutral mode:
1.Press the neutral (N) button on the shifterassembly.
2. The message Select N Again to EnterStay in Neutral mode appears in theinformation display screen.
3. Press the neutral (N) button again toenter Stay in Neutral mode.
The message Stay in Neutral modeengaged appears in the instrument clusterwhen your vehicle has entered Stay inNeutral mode.
Note:During this mode the neutral (N) buttonflashes continuously and the instrumentcluster displays neutral as the selected gear.
Exiting Stay in Neutral mode
To disable Stay in Neutral mode put yourvehicle in another gear. See the Putting theVehicle in Gear section for instructions onhow to do this.
Entering a Carwash
Note:Always put your vehicle in Stay inNeutral mode when entering an automaticcar wash. Failure to do this could result invehicle damage that may not be covered bywarranty.
Drive (D)
The normal driving position for the best fueleconomy.
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Transmission
GENERAL INFORMATION
Note: Occasional brake noise is normal. Ifa metal-to-metal, continuous grinding orcontinuous squeal sound is present, thebrake linings may be worn-out. Have thesystem checked by an authorized dealer. Ifthe vehicle has continuous vibration orshudder in the steering wheel while braking,have it checked by an authorized dealer.
Note:Brake dust may accumulate on thewheels, even under normal drivingconditions. Some dust is inevitable as thebrakes wear and does not contribute tobrake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels(page 321).
See Warning Lamps andIndicators (page 104).
Wet brakes result in reduced brakingefficiency. Gently press the brake pedal afew times when driving from a car wash orstanding water to dry the brakes.
Brake Over Accelerator
In the event the accelerator pedal becomesstuck or entrapped, apply steady and firmpressure to the brake pedal to slow thevehicle and reduce engine power. If youexperience this condition, apply the brakesand bring your vehicle to a safe stop. Movethe transmission to park (P), switch theengine off and apply the parking brake. Inspect the accelerator pedal for anyinterference. If none are found and thecondition persists, have your vehicle towedto the nearest authorized dealer.
Brake Assist
Brake assist detects when you rapidly brakeby measuring the rate at which you press thebrake pedal. It provides maximum brakingefficiency as long as you press the pedal.Brake assist can reduce stopping distancesin critical situations.
Anti-lock Brake System
This system helps you maintain steeringcontrol during emergency stops by keepingthe brakes from locking.
This lamp momentarily illuminateswhen you switch the ignition on. Ifthe light does not illuminate duringstart up, remains on or flashes, the anti-lockbraking system may be disabled. Have thesystem checked by an authorized dealer. Ifthe anti-lock brake system is disabled,normal braking is still effective.
If the brake warning lampilluminates when you release theparking brake, have your systemchecked by an authorized dealer. It alsoilluminates momentarily when you switch theignition on to confirm the lamp is functional.If it does not illuminate when you switch theignition on or begins to flash at any time,have the system checked by an authorizeddealer.
Note:The brake warning lamp mayilluminate and stay illuminated until youswitch off your vehicle as a result of drivingat high elevation.
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