Prius 3 "ready"problems

[petval]

Masses of posts regarding Battery failing problems. In my case Battery does not appear to fail, as instruments, fan door locks etc, all work but it takes 2 to 20 times to enter the ready mode. Bit nerve racking as never sure if it will fail totally. suspect Battery is original and due to change but don't want to change, if unecssesary

Any explanation or advice appreciated. car does quite a few short journeys and low annual mileage. regards Peter.

[FROSTYBALLS]

Hello Peter - welcome to Toyota Owners Club.

[Grumpy Cabbie]

The Prius 12v is small as it doesn't crank or turn the engine in the way a traditional cars 12v does.

It is reported to last about 5 years/80,000 miles (with some exceptions) and is about £100 to replace at the dealers.

If your car has covered more miles OR had a situation where the 12v has been run flat more than once or twice, then the chances are your 12v needs replacing. Obviously non of us can tell you to do that, but you can check the 12v yourself as follows;

First thing in the morning after the car has been parked, get in and put the car in Acc Mode (NOT Ready mode) by just pressing the button without pressing the Brake pedal. Now wind all 4 windows down at the same time, and back up again. If the interior lights go very dull and the windows struggle, then your 12v is probably failing.

Now put the car in Ready mode and wind windows down and back up again. If they zoom up and down quickly, your 12v is the issue.

Saying that, if the car is struggling to even go into Ready mode, you might want to speak with your dealers and get the 12v changed pronto. You don't want it to fail on you at an inconvenient time nor do you want to risk jump starting the Prius as you have to follow a slightly different way and get it wrong and you can fry your electrics.

[Chris Dance]

I agree with Grumpy Cabbie. Seems like you require a new 12v Battery. It should not take that amount of time to go to ready mode.

[RunningInPleasePass]

I agree, it looks like you need a new Battery, your dealer will soon sort it out for you.

[petval]

Thanks everyone for the advice. Looks, as I expected, I will be shelling out for a new Battery. regards Peter