Toyota Prius Prime (2021 year). Manual in english - part 5

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4-1. Key information

■

Electronic key battery depletion

●

The standard battery life is 1 to 2 years.

●

If the battery becomes low, an alarm will sound in the cabin and a message
will  be  displayed  on  the  multi-information  display  when  the  hybrid  system
stops.

●

As the electronic key always receives radio waves, the battery will become
depleted even if the electronic key is not used. The following symptoms indi-
cate  that  the  electronic  key  battery  may  be  depleted.  Replace  the  battery
when necessary. (



P. 647)

• The smart key system or the wireless remote control does not operate.
• The detection area becomes smaller.
• The LED indicator on the key surface does not turn on.
You can replace the battery by yourself (



P. 647). However, as there is a

danger  that  the  electronic  key  may  be  damaged,  it  is  recommended  that
replacement is carried out by your Toyota dealer.

●

To  avoid  serious  deterioration,  do  not  leave  the  electronic  key  within  3  ft.
(1 m) of the following electrical appliances that produce a magnetic field:
• TVs
• Personal computers
• Cellular phones, cordless phones and battery chargers
• Table lamps
• Induction cookers

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If a message regarding the state of the electronic key or power switch
mode, etc. is shown

To prevent trapping the electronic key inside the vehicle, leaving the vehicle
without turning off the power switch or other passengers from unintentionally
taking  the  key  out  of  the  vehicle,  etc.,  a  message  that  prompts  the  user  to
confirm the state of the electronic key or power switch mode may be shown
on the multi-information display. In those cases, follow the instructions on the
display immediately.

■

If “Key Battery Low Replace Key Battery” is displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display

The electronic key has a low battery. Replace the electronic key battery. 
(



P. 647)

■

Replacing the battery



P. 647

■

Confirmation of the registered key number

The number of keys already registered to the vehicle can be confirmed. Ask
your Toyota dealer.

■

If “A New Key has been Registered Contact Your Dealer for Details” is
displayed on the multi-information display

This message will be displayed each time the driver’s door is opened when
the  doors  are  unlocked  from  the  outside  for  approximately  10  days  after  a
new electronic key has been registered.
If this message is displayed but you have not had a new electronic key regis-
tered,  ask  your Toyota  dealer  to  check  if  an  unknown  electronic  key  (other
than those in your possession) has been registered.

■

If a wrong key is used

The key cylinder rotates freely to isolate inside mechanism.

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4-1. Key information

NOTICE

■

To prevent key damage

●

Do not drop the keys, subject them to strong shocks or bend them.

●

Do not expose the keys to high temperatures for long periods of time.

●

Do not get the keys wet or wash them in an ultrasonic washer etc.

●

Do not attach metallic or magnetic materials to the keys or place the keys
close to such materials.

●

Do not disassemble the keys.

●

Do not attach a sticker or anything else to the surface of the electronic key.

●

Do not place the keys near objects that produce magnetic fields, such as
TVs, audio systems and induction cookers.

●

Do not place the keys near medical electrical equipment such as low-fre-
quency therapy equipment or microwave therapy equipment, and do not
receive medical attention with the keys on your person.

■

Carrying the electronic key on your person

Carry the electronic key 3.9 in. (10 cm) or more away from electric appli-
ances  that  are  turned  on.  Radio  waves  emitted  from  electric  appliances
within 3.9 in. (10 cm) of the electronic key may interfere with the key, caus-
ing the key to not function properly.

■

In case of a smart key system malfunction or other key-related prob-
lems

Take your vehicle with all the electronic keys provided with your vehicle to
your Toyota dealer.

■

When an electronic key is lost

If the electronic key remains lost, the risk of vehicle theft increases signifi-
cantly.  Visit  your  Toyota  dealer  immediately  with  all  remaining  electronic
keys that were provided with your vehicle.

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Side doors

◆

Smart key system 

Carry the electronic key to enable this function.

Grip the driver’s door handle
to  unlock  the  door.  Holding
the  driver’s  door  handle  for
approximately  2  seconds
unlocks all the doors. 
Some  models,  grip  the  front
passenger’s  door  handle  to
unlock all the doors

*

.

Make sure to touch the sensor on the back of the handle.
The doors cannot be unlocked for 3 seconds after the doors are locked.

*

: The door unlock settings can be changed. (



P. 285)

Touch the lock sensor (the indentation on the surface of the front
door handle) to lock the doors.

Check that the door is securely locked.

The  vehicle  can  be  locked  and  unlocked  using  the  entry  func-
tion, wireless remote control or door lock switches. 

Unlocking and locking the doors from the outside

1

2

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4-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

◆

Wireless remote control

Locks all the doors

Check  that  the  door  is  securely
locked.

Unlocks all the doors

Pressing the button unlocks the
driver’s  door.  Pressing  the  but-
ton  again  within  3  seconds
unlocks the other doors.
Press and hold to open the side
windows.

*

*

: This setting must be customized at your Toyota dealer.

■

Operation signals

Doors:
A buzzer sounds and the emergency flashers flash to indicate that the doors
have been locked/unlocked. (Locked: Once; Unlocked: Twice)
Side windows:
A buzzer sounds to indicate that the side windows are operating.

■

Security feature

If a door is not opened within approximately 60 seconds after the vehicle is
unlocked, the security feature automatically locks the vehicle again.

■

When the door cannot be locked by the lock sensor on the surface of the
door handle

■

Door lock buzzer

If  an  attempt  to  lock  the  doors  is  made  when  a  door  is  not  fully  closed,  a
buzzer sounds continuously for 5 seconds. Fully close the door to stop the
buzzer, and lock the vehicle once more.

■

If the smart key system or the wireless remote control does not operate
properly

●

Use the mechanical key to lock and unlock the doors. (



P. 711)

●

Replace the key battery with a new one if it is depleted. (



P. 647)

1

2

When  the  door  cannot  be  locked  even  if
the lock sensor on the surface of the door
handle  is  touched  by  a  finger,  touch  the
lock sensor with the palm.
When gloves are being worn, remove the
gloves.

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◆

Door lock switches

Locks all the doors
Unlocks all the doors

◆

Inside lock buttons

Locks the door
Unlocks the door

The  front  doors  can  be  opened
by  pulling  the  inside  handle
even  if  the  lock  buttons  are  in
the lock position.

Move the inside lock button to the lock position.
Close the door.

The door cannot be locked if the power switch is in ACCESSORY or
ON mode, or the electronic key is left inside the vehicle.

The key may not be detected correctly and the door may be locked.

Locking and unlocking the doors from the inside

1
2

1
2

Locking the front doors from the outside without a key

1

2

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The door cannot be opened from
inside the vehicle when the lock is
set.

Unlock
Lock

These locks can be set to prevent
children  from  opening  the  rear
doors.  Push  down  on  each  rear
door switch to lock both rear doors.

The following functions can be set or canceled:

For instructions on customizing, refer to P. 753.

Rear door child-protector lock

1
2

Automatic door locking and unlocking systems

Function

Operation

Shift position linked door
locking function

Shifting the shift position to any positions other
than P locks all the doors.

Shift position linked door
unlocking function

Shifting  the  shift  position  to  P  unlocks  all  the
doors.

Speed  linked  door  lock-
ing function

All the doors are locked when the vehicle speed
is approximately 12 mph (20 km/h) or higher.

Driver’s door linked door
unlocking function

All  the  doors  are  unlocked  when  the  driver’s
door is opened within approximately 45 seconds
after turning the power switch off.

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■

Switching the door unlock function

It is possible to set which doors the entry function unlocks. 

Turn the power switch off.

When the indicator on the key surface is turned off, push and hold 

, “A/C”

or 

  for  approximately  5  seconds  while  pushing  the 

  button  on  the

key. 

The setting changes each time an operation is performed, as shown below.
(When changing the setting continuously, release the buttons, wait for at least
5 seconds, and repeat step  .)

■

Using the mechanical key

The doors can also be locked and unlocked with the mechanical key. 
(



P. 711)

■

Open door warning buzzer

If the vehicle speed reaches 3 mph (5 km/h), the master warning light flashes
and a buzzer sounds to indicate that the door(s) is not fully closed.
The open door(s) is displayed on the multi-information display.

■

Conditions affecting the operation of the smart key system or wireless
remote control



P. 295

■

Customization

Settings (e.g. unlocking function using a key) can be changed. 
(Customizable features: 



P. 753)

Multi-information 

display

Unlocking doors

Beep

Hold the driver’s door handle
to  unlock  only  the  driver’s
door.

Exterior:  Beeps  three
times
Interior: Pings once

Hold  the  passenger’s  door
handle  or  back  door  opener
to unlock all the doors.

Hold the front door handle or
back  door  opener  to  unlock
all the doors.

Exterior: Beeps twice 
Interior: Pings once

1

2

2

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4-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

WARNING

■

To prevent an accident

Observe the following precautions while driving the vehicle.
Failure  to  do  so  may  result  in  a  door  opening  and  an  occupant  could  be
thrown out of the vehicle, resulting in death or serious injury.

●

Ensure that all doors are properly closed and locked.

●

Do not pull the inside handle of the doors while driving. 
Be especially careful for the front doors, as the doors may be opened even
if the inside lock buttons are in locked position.

●

Set the rear door child-protector locks when children are seated in the rear
seats.

■

When opening or closing a door

Check the surroundings of the vehicle such as whether the vehicle is on an
incline,  whether  there  is  enough  space  for  a  door  to  open  and  whether  a
strong  wind  is  blowing.  When  opening  or  closing  the  door,  hold  the  door
handle tightly to prepare for any unpredictable movement.

■

When using the wireless remote control and operating the power win-
dows

Operate the power window after checking to make sure that there is no pos-
sibility of any passenger having any of their body parts caught in the side
window. Also, do not allow children to operate the wireless remote control. It
is  possible  for  children  and  other  passengers  to  get  caught  in  the  power
window.

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Back door

◆

Smart key system (if equipped)

Carry the electronic key to enable this function.

Locks all the doors

Check  that  the  door  is  securely
locked.

Unlocks all the doors

The  doors  cannot  be  unlocked
for 3 seconds after the doors are
locked.

◆

Wireless remote control



P. 282

◆

Door lock switches



P. 283

Raise the back door while pushing
up the back door opener switch.

The  back  door  can  be  unlocked/locked  and  opened/closed  by
the following procedures.

1

2

Opening the back door from outside the vehicle

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4-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

Lower  the  back  door  using  the
back door handle, and make sure
to push the back door down from
the outside to close it.

Be careful not to pull the back door
sideways  when  closing  the  back
door with the handle.

■

Luggage compartment light

The luggage compartment light turns on when the back door is opened with
the luggage compartment light switch on.

■

If the back door opener is inoperative

The back door can be unlocked from the inside.

When closing the back door 

On
Off
When the power switch is turned off, the
light  will  go  off  automatically  after  20
minutes.

Remove the cover.
To prevent damage, cover the tip of the
screwdriver with a rag.

Move the lever.

1

2

1

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WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

Before driving

●

Make sure that the back door is fully closed. If the back door is not fully
closed, it may open unexpectedly while driving and hit near-by objects or
luggage in the luggage compartment may be thrown out, causing an acci-
dent.

●

Do not allow children to play in the luggage compartment.
If  a  child  is  accidentally  locked  in  the  luggage  compartment,  they  could
have heat exhaustion or other injuries.

●

Do not allow a child to open or close the back door.
Doing  so  may  cause  the  back  door  to  open  unexpectedly,  or  cause  the
child’s hands, head, or neck to be caught by the closing back door.

■

Important points while driving

●

Keep the back door closed while driving.
If the back door is left open, it may hit near-by objects or luggage in the
luggage compartment may be thrown out, causing an accident.

●

Never let anyone sit in the luggage compartment. In the event of sudden
braking, sudden swerving or a collision, they are susceptible to death or
serious injury. 

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4-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

WARNING

■

Operating the back door

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may cause parts of the body to be caught, resulting in death
or serious injury.

●

Remove  any  heavy  loads,  such  as  snow  and  ice,  from  the  back  door
before opening it. Failure to do so may cause the back door to suddenly
shut again after it is opened.

●

When  opening  or  closing  the  back  door,  thoroughly  check  to  make  sure
the surrounding area is safe. 

●

If anyone is in the vicinity, make sure they are safe and let them know that
the back door is about to open or close.

●

Use caution when opening or closing the back door in windy weather as it
may move abruptly in strong wind.

●

Do not pull on the back door damper stay to close the back door, and do
not hang on the back door damper stay. 
Doing so may cause hands to be caught or the back door damper stay to
break, causing an accident.

●

If a bicycle carrier or similar heavy object is attached to the back door, it
may suddenly shut again after being opened, causing someone’s hands,
head or neck to be caught and injured. When installing an accessory part
to the back door, using a genuine Toyota part is recommended.

●

The back door may suddenly shut if it is
not  opened  fully.  It  is  more  difficult  to
open  or  close  the  back  door  on  an
incline  than  on  a  level  surface,  so
beware  of  the  back  door  unexpectedly
opening or closing by itself. Make sure
that  the  back  door  is  fully  open  and
secure  before  using  the  luggage  com-
partment. 

●

When closing the back door, take extra
care  to  prevent  your  fingers  etc.  from
being caught.

●

When closing the back door, make sure
to press it lightly on its outer surface. If
the  back  door  handle  is  used  to  fully
close  the  back  door,  it  may  result  in
hands or arms being caught.

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NOTICE

■

Back door damper stays

The  back  door  is  equipped  with  damper  stays  that  hold  the  back  door  in
place.
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may cause damage to the back door damper stay, resulting
in malfunction.

●

Do not place your hand on the damper stay or apply lateral forces to it.

●

Do not attach any foreign objects, such
as stickers, plastic sheets, or adhesives
to the damper stay rod.

●

Do not touch the damper stay rod with
gloves or other fabric items.

●

Do  not  attach  any  accessories  other
than  genuine  Toyota  parts  to  the  back
door.

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4-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

Smart key system

●

Unlocks and locks the doors (



P. 281)

●

Unlocks and locks the back door (if equipped) (



P. 287)

●

Unlocks the charging port lid (if equipped) (



P. 122)

●

Unlocks and locks the charging connector (if equipped) (



P. 125)

●

Starts the hybrid system (



P. 338)

■

Antenna location

The  following  operations  can  be  performed  simply  by  carrying
the electronic key on your person, for example in your pocket.
The driver should always carry the electronic key.

Antenna  outside  the  cabin  (driver’s
side)
Antenna  outside  the  cabin  (front  pas-
senger’s side)

*

Antennas inside the cabin
Antenna  outside  the  luggage  compart-
ment

*

Antenna outside the charging port lid

*

*

: If equipped

1

2

3

4

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Effective range (areas within which the electronic key is detected)

When  unlocking  the  charging  port  lid,  when  locking  and  unlocking  the
charging connector

*

The system can be operated when the electronic key is within about 2.3
ft. (0.7 m) of the charging port lid.
When starting the hybrid system or changing power switch modes
The system can be operated when the electronic key is inside the vehi-
cle.

*

: If equipped

■

Alarms and warning messages

An alarm sounds and warning message displays shown on the multi-informa-
tion display are used to protect against unexpected accidents or theft of the
vehicle resulting from erroneous operation. When a warning message is dis-
played, take appropriate measures based on the displayed message.
When only an alarm sounds, circumstances and correction procedures are as
follows.

When locking or unlocking the doors
The  system  can  be  operated  when
the  electronic  key  is  within  about
2.3 ft. (0.7 m) of driver’s door handle,
front  passenger’s  door  handle

*

  and

back  door  opener  switch

*

.  (Only  the

doors detecting the key can be oper-
ated.)

Alarm

Situation

Correction procedure

Exterior 

alarm

sounds  once  for  5
seconds

An  attempt  was  made  to
lock the vehicle while a door
was open.

Close  all  of  the  doors
and  lock  the  doors
again.

Interior 

alarm

pings repeatedly

The  power  switch  was
turned 

to  ACCESSORY

mode while the driver’s door
was open (The driver’s door
was  opened  when  the
power 

switch 

was 

in

ACCESSORY mode).

Turn  the  power  switch
off  and  close  the
driver’s door.

294

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■

When  “Smart  Key  System  malfunction  See  owner’s  manual”  is  dis-
played on the multi-information display

The  system  may  be  malfunctioning.  Have  the  vehicle  inspected  by  your
Toyota dealer immediately.

■

Battery-saving function

The battery-saving function will be activated in order to prevent the electronic
key battery and the 12-volt battery from being discharged while the vehicle is
not in operation for a long time.

●

In  the  following  situations,  the  smart  key  system  may  take  some  time  to
unlock the doors.
• The electronic key has been left in an area of approximately 6 ft. (2 m) of

the outside of the vehicle for 10 minutes or longer.

• The smart key system has not been used for 5 days or longer.

●

If the smart key system has not been used for 14 days or longer, the doors
cannot be unlocked at any doors except the driver’s door. In this case, take
hold of the driver’s door handle, or use the wireless remote control or the
mechanical key, to unlock the doors.

■

Electronic Key Battery-Saving Function

When battery-saving mode is set, battery depletion is minimized by stopping
the electronic key from receiving radio waves.

Press 

  twice  while  pressing  and

holding 

. Confirm that the electronic

key indicator flashes 4 times.
While the battery-saving mode is set, the
smart  key  system  cannot  be  used.  To
cancel the function, press any of the elec-
tronic key buttons.

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Conditions affecting operation

The smart key system, wireless remote control and immobilizer system use
weak  radio  waves.  In  the  following  situations,  the  communication  between
the electronic key and the vehicle may be affected, preventing the smart key
system, wireless remote control and immobilizer system from operating prop-
erly. (Ways of coping: 



P. 711)

●

When the electronic key battery is depleted

●

Near a TV tower, electric power plant, gas station, radio station, large dis-
play, airport or other facility that generates strong radio waves or electrical
noise

●

When  the  electronic  key  is  in  contact  with,  or  is  covered  by  the  following
metallic objects
• Cards to which aluminum foil is attached
• Cigarette boxes that have aluminum foil inside
• Metallic wallets or bags
• Coins
• Hand warmers made of metal
• Media such as CDs and DVDs

●

When other wireless key (that emit radio waves) is being used nearby

●

When  carrying  the  electronic  key  together  with  the  following  devices  that
emit radio waves
• Portable radio, cellular phone, cordless phone or other wireless commu-

nication devices

• Another vehicle’s electronic key or a wireless key that emits radio waves
• Personal computers or personal digital assistants (PDAs)
• Digital audio players
• Portable game systems

●

If window tint with a metallic content or metallic objects are attached to the
rear window

●

When  the  electronic  key  is  placed  near  a  battery  charger  or  electronic
devices

296

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■

Note for the entry function

●

Even when the electronic key is within the effective range (detection areas),
the system may not operate properly in the following cases:
• The electronic key is too close to the window or outside door handle, near

the ground, or in a high place when the doors are locked or unlocked.

• The electronic key is on the instrument panel, floor, or in the door pockets

or glove box when the hybrid system is started or power switch modes
are changed.

●

Do not leave the electronic key on top of the instrument panel or near the
door pockets when exiting the vehicle. Depending on the radio wave recep-
tion conditions, it may be detected by the antenna outside the cabin and the
door will become lockable from the outside, possibly trapping the electronic
key inside the vehicle.

●

As long as the electronic key is within the effective range, the doors may be
unlocked or locked by anyone.

●

Even if the electronic key is not inside the vehicle, it may be possible to start
the hybrid system if the electronic key is near the window.

●

The doors may unlock if a large amount of water splashes on the door han-
dle, such as in the rain or in a car wash when the electronic key is within the
effective range. (The door will automatically be locked after approximately
60 seconds if the doors are not opened and closed.)

●

If the wireless remote control is used to lock the doors when the electronic
key  is  near  the  vehicle,  there  is  a  possibility  that  the  door  may  not  be
unlocked by the entry function. (Use the wireless remote control to unlock
the doors.)

●

Touching the door lock sensor while wearing gloves may delay or prevent
lock operation. Remove the gloves and touch the lock sensor again.

●

If the door handle becomes wet while the electronic key is within the effec-
tive range, the door may lock and unlock repeatedly. In this case, follow the
following correction procedures to wash the vehicle.
• Place the electronic key in a location 6 ft. (2 m) or more away from the

vehicle. (Take care to ensure that the key is not stolen.)

• Set electronic key to battery-saving mode to disable the smart key sys-

tem. (



P. 294)

●

If the electronic key is inside the vehicle and a door handle becomes wet
during a car wash, a message may be shown on the multi-information dis-
play and a buzzer will sound outside the vehicle. To turn off the alarm, lock
all the doors.

●

The  lock  sensor  may  not  work  properly  if  it  comes  into  contact  with  ice,
snow, mud, etc. Clean the lock sensor and attempt to operate it again.

●

A sudden approach to the effective range or door handle may prevent the
doors from being unlocked. In this case, return the door handle to the origi-
nal position and check that the doors unlock before pulling the door handle
again.

●

If there is another electronic key in the detection area, it may take slightly
longer to unlock the doors after the door handle is gripped. 

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■

When the vehicle is not driven for extended periods

●

To prevent theft  of the vehicle, do not  leave the  electronic  key within 6  ft.
(2 m) of the vehicle.

●

The smart key system can be deactivated in advance. (



P. 753)

■

To operate the system properly

Make sure to carry the electronic key when operating the system. Do not get
the electronic key too close to the vehicle when operating the system from the
outside of the vehicle.
Depending on the position and holding condition of the electronic key, the key
may not be detected correctly and the system may not operate properly. (The
alarm may go off accidentally, or the door lock prevention may not operate.)

■

If the smart key system does not operate properly

●

Locking and unlocking the doors: Use the mechanical key. (



P. 711)

●

Starting the hybrid system: 



P. 712

■

Customization

Settings (e.g. smart key system) can be changed. 
(Customizable features: 



P. 753)

■

If the smart key system has been deactivated in a customized setting

●

Unlocking and locking the doors:
Use the wireless remote control or mechanical key. (



P. 282, 711)

●

Unlocking the charging port lid: 



P. 123

●

Unlocking and locking the charging connector: 



P. 127

●

Starting the hybrid system and changing power switch modes: 



P. 712

●

Stopping the hybrid system: 



P. 339

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■

Certifications for the smart key system



For vehicles sold in the U.S.A. and Hawaii

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

For vehicles sold in Canada

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WARNING

■

Caution regarding interference with electronic devices

●

People  with  implantable  cardiac  pacemakers,  cardiac  resynchronization
therapy-pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators should keep
away from the smart key system antennas. (



P. 292) 

The radio waves may affect the operation of such devices. If necessary,
the entry function can be disabled. Ask your Toyota dealer for details, such
as  the  frequency  of  radio  waves  and  timing  of  the  emitted  radio  waves.
Then, consult your doctor to see if you should disable the entry function.

●

Users  of  any  electrical  medical  device  other  than  implantable  cardiac
pacemakers,  cardiac  resynchronization  therapy-pacemakers  or  implant-
able  cardioverter  defibrillators  should  consult  the  manufacturer  of  the
device  for  information  about  its  operation  under  the  influence  of  radio
waves.
Radio  waves  could  have  unexpected  effects  on  the  operation  of  such
medical devices.

Ask your Toyota dealer for details on disabling the entry function.

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Front seats



Manual seat

Seat position adjustment lever
Seatback  angle  adjustment
lever
Vertical height adjustment lever
(for driver’s side)



Power seat (if equipped for driver’s side)

Seat position adjustment switch
Seat  cushion  (front)  angle
adjustment switch
Vertical 

height 

adjustment

switch
Seatback  angle  adjustment
switch
Lumbar  support  adjustment
switch

Adjustment procedure

1
2

3

1
2

3

4

5

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■

When adjusting the seat

Take care when adjusting the seat so that the head restraint does not touch
the ceiling.

WARNING

■

When 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.

■

Seat adjustment

●

To  reduce  the risk  of sliding  under  the lap  belt during a  collision,  do  not
recline the seat more than necessary.
If the seat is too reclined, the lap belt may slide past the hips and apply
restraint  forces  directly  to  the  abdomen,  or  your  neck  may  contact  the
shoulder belt, increasing the risk of death or serious injury in the event of
an accident. 
Adjustments should not be made while driving as the seat may unexpect-
edly move and cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

●

Manual seats: After adjusting the seat, make sure that the seat is locked in
position.

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Rear seats

Park the vehicle in a safe place.

Apply the parking brake firmly (



P. 352) and shift the shift position to P.

(



P. 346)

Adjust the position of the front seat and the angle of the seatback.
(



P. 301)

Depending on the position of the front seat, if the seatback is folded back-
ward, it may interfere with the operation of the rear seat.

Lift  up  and  push  down  the  head  restraints  of  the  rear  outboard
seats, and lower the head restraint of the rear center seat. 
(



P. 305)

Stow the armrest of the rear seat if it is pulled out. (



P. 566)

This step is not necessary when operating the left side seat only.

Pull  the  seatback  lock  release
lever and fold the seatback down.

To  avoid  trapping  the  seat  belt
between the seat and the inside of
the  vehicle,  pass  the  seat  belt
inside the seat belt guide and then
return  the  seatback  securely  to
the locked position.

The seatbacks can be folded down.

Before folding down the seatbacks

Folding down the seatbacks

1

2

3

4

Returning the rear seatbacks

Seat belt guide

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WARNING

■

When folding the seatbacks down

Observe the following precautions. Failure to do so may result in death or
serious injury.

●

Do not fold the seatbacks down while driving.

●

Stop the vehicle on level ground, apply the parking brake firmly and shift
the shift position to P.

●

Do not allow anyone to sit on a folded seatback or in the luggage compart-
ment while driving.

●

Do not allow children to enter the luggage compartment.

●

Do not operate the rear seat if it is occupied.

●

Be careful not to get feet or hands caught in the moving parts or joints of
the seats during operation.

●

Do not allow children to operate the seat.

■

After returning the seatback to the upright position

Observe the following precautions. Failure to do so may result in death or
serious injury.

●

Check that the seat belts are not twisted or caught in the seatback.

●

Make sure that the seatback is securely
locked  in  position  by  lightly  pushing  it
back and forth.
If  the  seatback  is  not  securely  locked,
the  red  marking  will  be  visible  on  the
seatback lock release lever. Make sure
that the red marking is not visible.

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Head restraints

Up

Pull the head restraints up.

Down

Push the head restraint down while
pressing the lock release button.

■

Rear outboard seats

To fold

Pull  the  head  restraint  up  while
pressing the lock release button.

To use

Lift up and push down the head
restraint to the lowest lock posi-
tion.

■

Rear center seat

Up

Pull the head restraints up.

Down

Push  the  head  restraint  down
while  pressing  the  lock  release
button.

Head restraints are provided for all seats.

Front seats

Lock release button

1

2

Rear seats

Lock release button

1

2

Lock release button

1

2

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■

Removing the head restraints



Front and rear center seats



Rear outboard seats

■

Installing the head restraints



Front and rear center seats

Pull  the  head  restraint  up  while  pressing
the lock release button.

Pull the seatback lock release lever and
fold  down the  seatback until  it  reaches
the  position  where  the  head  restraints
can be removed.

Pull the head restraint up while pressing
the lock release buttons.

Align  the  head  restraint  with  the  installa-
tion  holes  and  push  it  down  to  the  lock
position.
Press  and  hold  the  lock  release  button
when lowering the head restraint.

Lock release button

1

2

Lock release 
buttons

Lock release button

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

Rear outboard seats

■

Adjusting the height of the head restraints (front seats)

■

Adjusting the rear center seat head restraint

Always  raise  the  head  restraint  one  level  from  the  stowed  position  when
using.

Pull the seatback lock release lever and
fold  down the  seatback until  it  reaches
the  position  where  the  head  restraints
can be installed.

Align the head restraint with the installa-
tion holes and push it down to the low-
est lock position.

Make  sure  that  the  head  restraints  are
adjusted  so  that  the  center  of  the  head
restraint is closest to the top of your ears. 

WARNING

■

Head restraint precautions

Observe the following precautions regarding the head restraints. Failure to
do so may result in death or serious injury.

●

Use the head restraints designed for each respective seat.

●

Adjust the head restraints to the correct position at all times.

●

After  adjusting  the  head  restraints,  push  down  on  them  and  make  sure
they are locked in position.

●

Do not drive with the head restraints removed.

1

2

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PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

Steering wheel

Hold  the  steering  wheel  and
push the lever down.

Adjust  to  the  ideal  position  by
moving the steering wheel hori-
zontally and vertically.

After  adjustment,  pull  the  lever  up
to secure the steering wheel.

To  sound  the  horn,  press  on  or
close to the 

 mark.

Adjustment procedure

IO44PH004

1

IO44PH005

2

Horn

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WARNING

■

Caution while driving

Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.
Doing so may cause the driver to mishandle the vehicle and cause an acci-
dent, resulting in death or serious injury.

■

After adjusting the steering wheel

Make sure that the steering wheel is securely locked.
Otherwise,  the  steering  wheel  may  move  suddenly,  possibly  causing  an
accident,  and  resulting  in  death  or  serious  injury. Also,  the  horn  may  not
sound if the steering wheel is not securely locked.

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4-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

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Inside rear view mirror

The height of the rear view mirror can be adjusted to suit your driving
posture.
Adjust the height of the rear view
mirror by moving it up and down.



Manual anti-glare inside rear view mirror

Reflected light from the headlights of vehicles behind can be reduced
by operating the lever.

Normal position
Anti-glare position

The rear view mirror’s position can be adjusted to enable suffi-
cient confirmation of the rear view.

Adjusting the height of rear view mirror

Anti-glare function

1
2

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

Auto anti-glare inside rear view mirror

Responding  to  the  level  of  brightness  of  the  headlights  of  vehicles
behind, the reflected light is automatically reduced.
Changing  automatic  anti-glare
function mode
On/off

When  the  automatic  anti-glare
function is in ON mode, the indica-
tor illuminates.
The  function  will  set  to  ON  mode
each  time  the  power  switch  is
turned to ON mode.
Pressing the button turns the func-
tion  to  OFF  mode.  (The  indicator
also turns off.)

■

To  prevent  sensor  error  (vehicles  with  auto  anti-glare  inside  rear  view
mirror)

Indicator

To ensure that the sensors operate prop-
erly, do not touch or cover them.

WARNING

Do not adjust the position of the mirror while driving.
Doing  so  may  lead  to  mishandling  of  the  vehicle  and  cause  an  accident,
resulting in death or serious injury.

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Outside rear view mirrors

To select a mirror to adjust, turn
the switch.

Left
Right

To adjust the mirror, operate the
switch.

Up
Right
Down
Left

Push the mirror back in the direc-
tion of the vehicle’s rear. 

Adjustment procedure

1

1
2

2

1
2
3
4

Folding the mirrors

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■

Mirror angle can be adjusted when

The power switch is in ACCESSORY or ON mode.

■

When the mirrors are fogged up

The outside rear view mirrors can be cleared using the mirror defoggers. Turn
on the rear window defogger to turn on the outside rear view mirror defog-
gers. (



P. 516, 527)

WARNING

■

Important points while driving

Observe the following precautions while driving.
Failing  to  do  so  may  result  in  loss  of  control  of  the  vehicle  and  cause  an
accident, resulting in death or serious injury.

●

Do not adjust the mirrors while driving.

●

Do not drive with the mirrors folded.

●

Both the driver and passenger side mirrors must be extended and properly
adjusted before driving.

■

When a mirror is moving

To avoid personal injury and mirror malfunction, be careful not to get your
hand caught by the moving mirror.

■

When the mirror defoggers are operating

Do not touch the rear view mirror surfaces, as they can become very hot
and burn you.

314

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4-5. Opening and closing the windows

Power windows

The power windows can be opened and closed using the switches.
Operating the switch moves the side windows as follows:

Closing
One-touch closing

*

Opening
One-touch opening

*

*

: To  stop  the  side  window  partway,

operate  the  switch  in  the  opposite
direction.

Press  the  switch  to  lock  the  pas-
senger windows.

The indicator will come on.
Use this switch to prevent children
from  accidentally  opening  or  clos-
ing a passenger window.

■

The power windows can be operated when

The power switch is in ON mode.

■

Operating the power windows after turning the hybrid system off

The  power  windows  can  be  operated  for  approximately  45  seconds  even
after  the  power  switch  is  turned  to ACCESSORY  mode  or  turned  off. They
cannot, however, be operated once either front door is opened. 

Opening and closing procedures

1
2
3
4

Window lock switch

Indicator

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4-5. Opening and closing the windows

4

Op
eration

 o

f each

 compo

nen
t

■

Jam protection function

If  an  object  becomes  jammed  between  the  side  window  and  the  window
frame  while  the  side  window  is  closing,  side  window  movement  is  stopped
and the side window is opened slightly.

■

Catch protection function

If  an  object  becomes  caught  between  the  door  and  side  window  while  the
side window is opening, side window movement is stopped.

■

When the window cannot be opened or closed

When  the  jam  protection  function  or  catch  protection  function  operates
unusually and the side window cannot be opened and closed, perform the fol-
lowing operations with the power window switch of that door.

●

Stop the vehicle. With the power switch in ON mode, within 4 seconds of the
jam protection function or catch protection function activating, continuously
operate the power window switch in the one-touch closing direction or one-
touch opening direction so that the side window can be opened and closed.

●

If the side window cannot be opened and closed even when performing the
above operations, perform the following procedure for function initialization.

Turn the power switch to ON mode.
Pull and hold the power window switch in the one-touch closing direction
and completely close the side window.
Release  the  power  window  switch  for  a  moment,  resume  pulling  the
switch  in  the  one-touch  closing  direction,  and  hold  it  there  for  approxi-
mately 6 seconds or more.
Press and hold the power window switch in the one-touch opening direc-
tion. After  the  side  window  is  completely  opened,  continue  holding  the
switch for an additional 1 second or more.
Release  the  power  window  switch  for  a  moment,  resume  pressing  the
switch in the one-touch opening direction, and hold it there for approxi-
mately 4 seconds or more.
Pull and hold the power window switch in the one-touch closing direction
again. After the side  window is completely closed,  continue holding the
switch for a further 1 second or more.

If you release the switch while the side window is moving, start again from
the beginning. 
If the side window reverses and cannot be fully closed or opened, have the
vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

■

Door lock linked window operation

●

The power windows can be opened and closed using the mechanical key.

*

(



P. 711)

●

The  power  windows  can  be  opened  using  the  wireless  remote  control.

*

(



P. 282)

*

: These settings must be customized at your Toyota dealer.

1

2

3

4

5

6

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4-5. Opening and closing the windows

■

When the 12-volt battery is disconnected

The  window  lock  switch  is  disabled.  If  necessary,  press  the  window  lock
switch after reconnecting the 12-volt battery.

■

Power window open reminder function

The buzzer sounds and a message is shown on the multi-information display
in the instrument cluster when the power switch is turned off and the driver’s
door is opened with the power windows open.

■

Customization

Settings (e.g. linked door lock operation) can be changed. 
(Customizable features: 



P. 753)

WARNING

Observe the following precautions. 
Failing to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

Closing the windows

●

The driver is responsible for all the power window operations, including the
operation  for  the  passengers.  In  order  to  prevent  accidental  operation,
especially by a child, do not let a child operate the power windows. It is
possible for children and other passengers to have body parts caught in
the power window. Also, when riding with a child, it is recommended to use
the window lock switch. (



P. 314)

●

When using the wireless remote control or mechanical key and operating
the  power  windows,  operate  the  power  window  after  checking  to  make
sure that there is no possibility of any passenger having any of their body
parts caught in the side window. Also do not let a child operate side win-
dow  by  the  wireless  remote  control  or  mechanical  key.  It  is  possible  for
children and other passengers to get caught in the power window.

●

When exiting the vehicle, turn the power switch off, carry the key and exit
the vehicle along with the child. There may be accidental operation, due to
mischief, etc., that may possibly lead to an accident.

●

Check to make sure that all passengers
do not have any part of their body in a
position where it could be caught when
a side window is being operated.

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4-5. Opening and closing the windows

4

Op
eration

 o

f each

 compo

nen
t

WARNING

■

Jam protection function

●

Never use any part of your body to intentionally activate the jam protection
function.

●

The jam protection function may not work if something gets jammed just
before  the  side  window  is  fully  closed.  Be  careful  not  to  get  any  part  of
your body jammed in the side window.

■

Catch protection function

●

Never  use  any  part  of  your  body  or  clothing  to  intentionally  activate  the
catch protection function.

●

The catch protection function may not work if something gets caught just
before the side window is fully opened. Be careful not to get any part of
your body or clothing caught in the side window.

318

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5

Driving

5-1. Before driving

Driving the vehicle............. 320
Cargo and luggage ........... 332
Vehicle load limits ............. 335
Trailer towing..................... 336
Dinghy towing ................... 337

5-2. Driving procedures

Power (ignition) switch ...... 338
Hybrid transmission........... 345
Turn signal lever................ 351
Parking brake .................... 352

5-3. Operating the lights 

and wipers

Headlight switch ................ 353
AHB (Automatic High 

Beam) ............................. 358

Fog light switch ................. 363
Windshield wipers and 

washer ............................ 365

5-4. Refueling

Opening the fuel tank 

cap .................................. 371

5-5. Using the driving support 

systems

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0... 376
PCS (Pre-Collision 

System)........................... 384

LTA (Lane Tracing 

Assist) ............................. 395

RSA (Road Sign 

Assist) ............................. 410

Dynamic radar cruise 

control with full-speed 
range............................... 414

Driving mode select 

switch.............................. 430

BSM 

(Blind Spot Monitor) ........ 432
• The Blind Spot Monitor 

function ......................... 437

• The Rear Cross Traffic 

Alert function................. 440

Intuitive parking assist....... 445
Parking Support Brake 

function ........................... 455

S-APGS (Simple 

Advanced Parking 
Guidance System) .......... 467

Driving assist systems ...... 501

5-6. Driving tips

Winter driving tips ............. 507

320

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5-1. Before driving

Driving the vehicle

Check that the charging cable is disconnected. (



P. 146)



P. 338

With the brake pedal depressed, shift the shift position to D. 
(



P. 345) 

Check that the shift position indicator shows D.

Release the parking brake. (



P. 352)

Gradually release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelera-
tor pedal to accelerate the vehicle. 

With the shift position in D, depress the brake pedal.
If necessary, set the parking brake. 

If the vehicle is to be stopped for an extended period of time, shift the shift
position to P. (



P. 346)

The  following  procedures  should  be  observed  to  ensure  safe
driving: 

Before starting the hybrid system

Starting the hybrid system 

Driving

Stopping

1

2

3

1

2

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321

5-1. Before driving

5

Drivin

g

Stop the vehicle completely.
Set the parking brake. (



P. 352)

Shift the shift position to P. (



P. 346)

Check that the shift position indicator shows P.

Press the power switch to stop the hybrid system.
Slowly release the brake pedal.
Lock the door, making sure that you have the electronic key on your
person.

If parking on a hill, block the wheels as needed.

Firmly set the parking brake with the brake pedal depressed, and
then shift the shift position to D.
Release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelerator pedal. 
Release the parking brake.

■

When starting off on an uphill

The hill-start assist control will activate. (



P. 502)

■

For electricity-saving and fuel-efficient driving

Understand the system characteristics of the vehicle to use the functions of
the hybrid system. Also, keep in mind that hybrid vehicles are similar to con-
ventional vehicles, and it is necessary to refrain from activities such as sud-
den acceleration. Refer to “Plug-in hybrid vehicle driving tips” (



P. 105).

■

Driving in the rain

●

Drive carefully when it is raining, because visibility will be reduced, the win-
dows may become fogged-up, and the road will be slippery.

●

Drive carefully when it starts to rain, because the road surface will be espe-
cially slippery.

●

Refrain  from  high  speeds  when  driving  on  an  expressway  in  the  rain,
because there may be a layer of water between the tires and the road sur-
face, preventing the steering and brakes from operating properly.

Parking the vehicle

Starting off on a steep uphill

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

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5-1. Before driving

■

Restraining the hybrid system output (Brake Override System)

●

When the accelerator and brake pedals are depressed at the same time, the
hybrid system output may be restrained.

●

A warning message is displayed on the multi-information display while the
system is operating. (



P. 689)

■

“ECO Accelerator Guidance” (



P. 228)

It is easier to drive in an Eco-friendly manner by driving while referring to the
“ECO Accelerator  Guidance”  display. Also,  by  using  the  “ECO Accelerator
Guidance”, it is easier to increase the Eco score evaluation.

●

When starting off:
While  staying  within  the  “ECO  Accelerator  Guidance”  range,  gradually
depress the accelerator pedal and accelerate to the desired speed. If exces-
sive acceleration is avoided, the “Eco-Start” score will increase.

●

When driving:
After accelerating to the desired speed, release the accelerator pedal and
drive  at  a  stable  speed  within  the  “ECO Accelerator  Guidance”  range.  By
keeping the vehicle within the “ECO Accelerator Guidance” range, the “Eco-
Cruise” score will increase.

●

When stopping:
When stopping the vehicle, early releasing the accelerator pedal will cause
the “Eco-Stop” score to increase.

■

Restraining sudden start (Drive-Start Control)

●

When the following unusual operation is performed, the hybrid system out-
put may be restrained.
• When the shift position is shifted from R to D/B, D/B to R, N to R, P to D/

B

*

,  P  to  R

*

  with  the  accelerator  pedal  depressed,  a  warning  message

appears on the multi-information display. If a warning message is shown
on the multi-information display, read the message and follow the instruc-
tions.

• When the accelerator pedal is depressed too much while the vehicle is in

reverse.

●

While  Drive-Start  Control  is  being  activated,  your  vehicle  may  have  trou-
ble escaping from the mud or fresh snow. In such case, deactivate TRAC
(



P.  502)  to  cancel  Drive  Start  Control  so  that  the  vehicle  may  become

able to escape from the mud or fresh snow.

*

: Depending on the situation, the shift position may not be changed.

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5-1. Before driving

5

Drivin

g

■

Breaking in your new Toyota

To extend the life of the vehicle, observing the following precautions is recom-
mended:

●

For the first 200 miles (300 km): 
Avoid sudden stops.

●

For the first 600 miles (1000 km):
• Do not drive at extremely high speeds.
• Avoid sudden acceleration.
• Do not drive at a constant speed for extended periods.

■

Operating your vehicle in a foreign country

Comply with the relevant vehicle registration laws and confirm the availability
of the correct fuel. (



P. 732)

■

For efficient use

●

Shift the shift position to D when driving.
In the N position, the gasoline engine operates but electricity cannot be gen-
erated. The hybrid battery (traction battery) will discharge, requiring unnec-
essary engine power to charge.

●

Drive your vehicle smoothly.
Avoid abrupt acceleration and deceleration. Gradual acceleration and decel-
eration  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 acceleration. Battery power can be restored by driving with
the accelerator pedal slightly released.

●

Shift the shift position to P when parking.
In the N position, the hybrid battery (traction battery) does not charge. Leav-
ing the shift position in the N position for an extended period of time may
discharge the hybrid battery (traction battery). The vehicle cannot run if the
hybrid battery (traction battery) is discharged.

324

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5-1. Before driving

WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

When starting the vehicle

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the “READY”
indicator is illuminated. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Do not drive if you are unfamiliar with the location of the brake and accel-
erator pedals to avoid depressing the wrong pedal. 
• Accidentally  depressing  the  accelerator  pedal  instead  of  the  brake

pedal will result in sudden acceleration that may lead to an accident.

• When backing up, you may twist your body around, leading to a diffi-

culty in operating the pedals. Make sure to operate the pedals properly.

• Make  sure  to  keep  a  correct  driving  posture  even  when  moving  the

vehicle only slightly. This allows you to depress the brake and accelera-
tor pedals properly.

• Depress  the  brake  pedal  using  your  right  foot.  Depressing  the  brake

pedal using your left foot may delay response in an emergency, result-
ing in an accident.

●

The driver should  pay extra attention to  pedestrians when  the  vehicle  is
powered only by the electric motor (traction motor). As there is no engine
noise,  the  pedestrians  may  misjudge  the  vehicle’s  movement.  Even
though the vehicle is equipped with the vehicle proximity notification sys-
tem, drive with care as pedestrians in the vicinity may still not notice the
vehicle if the surrounding area is noisy.

●

Do not drive the vehicle over or stop the vehicle near flammable materials
such as leaves, paper or rags. 
The exhaust system and exhaust gases can be extremely hot. These hot
parts may cause a fire if there is any flammable material nearby.

●

During normal driving, do not turn off the hybrid system. Turning the hybrid
system off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control,
however, power assist to the steering will be lost. This will make it more
difficult to steer smoothly, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as
soon as it is safe to do so.
In the event of an emergency, such as if it becomes impossible to stop the
vehicle in the normal way: 



P. 665

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

325

5-1. Before driving

5

Drivin

g

WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Use engine braking (shift position B instead of shift position D) to maintain
a safe speed when driving down a steep hill.
Using the brakes continuously may cause the brakes to overheat and lose
effectiveness. (



P. 346)

●

Do not adjust the positions of the steering wheel, the seat, or the inside or
outside rear view mirrors while driving. 
Doing so may result in a loss of vehicle control.

●

Always check that all passengers’ arms, head or other parts of their body
are not outside the vehicle.

●

Do not drive across river crossings or through other bodies of water.
This  may  cause  electric/electronic  components  to  short  circuit,  damage
the hybrid system or cause other serious damage to the vehicle.

●

Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit per-
mits it, do not drive over 85 mph (140 km/h) unless your vehicle has high-
speed capability tires. Driving over 85 mph (140 km/h) may result in tire
failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer
to  determine whether the  tires on your  vehicle are high-speed capability
tires or not before driving at such speeds.

■

When driving on slippery road surfaces

●

Sudden  braking,  acceleration  and  steering  may  cause  tire  slippage  and
reduce your ability to control the vehicle.

●

Sudden acceleration, engine braking due to shifting, or changes in engine
speed could cause the vehicle to skid, resulting in an accident.

●

After driving through a puddle, depress the brake pedal to make sure that
the  brakes  are  functioning  properly.  Wet  brake  pads  may  prevent  the
brakes  from  functioning properly.  If the  brakes on  only  one  side are  wet
and not functioning properly, steering control may be affected.

326

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

5-1. Before driving

WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

When shifting the shift position

●

Do  not  let  the  vehicle  roll  backward  while  a  forward  driving  position  is
selected, or roll forward while the shift position is in R. 
Doing so may result in an accident or damage to the vehicle.

●

Do not shift the shift position to P while the vehicle is moving.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.

●

Do not shift the shift position to R while the vehicle is moving forward.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.

●

Do not shift the shift position to a driving position while the vehicle is mov-
ing backward.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.

●

Changing the shift position to N while the vehicle is moving will disengage
the hybrid system. Engine braking is not available with the hybrid system
disengaged.

●

Be  careful  not  to  change  the  shift  position  with  the  accelerator  pedal
depressed. 
Changing the shift position to any position other than P or N may lead to
unexpected rapid acceleration of the vehicle that may cause an accident
and result in death or serious injury.
After  changing  the  shift  position,  make  sure  to  confirm  the  current  shift
position displayed on the shift position indicator inside the meter.

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

327

5-1. Before driving

5

Drivin

g

WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

If you hear a squealing or scraping noise (brake pad wear limit indica-
tors)

Have the brake pads checked and replaced by your Toyota dealer as soon
as possible. 
Rotor damage may result if the pads are not replaced when needed. 
It is dangerous to drive the vehicle when the wear limits of the brake pads
and/or those of the brake discs are exceeded.

■

When the vehicle is stopped

●

Do not depress the accelerator pedal unnecessarily. 
If the shift position is in any position other than P or N, the vehicle may
accelerate suddenly and unexpectedly, causing an accident.

●

In order to prevent accidents due to the vehicle rolling away, always keep
depressing the  brake  pedal while stopped with the  “READY” indicator  is
illuminated, and apply the parking brake as necessary.

●

If the vehicle is stopped on an incline, in order to prevent accidents caused
by the vehicle rolling forward or backward, always depress the brake pedal
and securely apply the parking brake as needed.

●

Avoid revving or racing the engine.
Running the engine at high speed while the vehicle is stopped may cause
the exhaust system to overheat, which could result in a fire if combustible
material is nearby.

328

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5-1. Before driving

WARNING

Observe the following precautions. 
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

When the vehicle is parked

●

Do not leave glasses, cigarette lighters, spray cans, or soft drink cans in
the vehicle when it is in the sun. 
Doing so may result in the following:
• Gas may leak from a cigarette lighter or spray can, and may lead to a fire.
• The  temperature  inside  the  vehicle  may  cause  the  plastic  lenses  and

plastic material of glasses to deform or crack.

• Soft  drink  cans  may  fracture,  causing  the  contents  to  spray  over  the

interior of the vehicle, and may also cause a short circuit in the vehicle’s
electrical components.

●

Do not leave cigarette lighters in the vehicle. If a cigarette lighter is in a
place such as the glove box or on the floor, it may be lit accidentally when
luggage is loaded or the seat is adjusted, causing a fire.

●

Do not attach adhesive discs to the windshield or windows. Do not place con-
tainers such as air fresheners on the instrument panel or dashboard. Adhe-
sive discs or containers may act as lenses, causing a fire in the vehicle.

●

Do not leave a door or window open if the curved glass is coated with a
metallized film such as a silver-colored one. Reflected sunlight may cause
the glass to act as a lens, causing a fire.

●

Always apply the parking brake, shift the shift position to P, stop the hybrid
system and lock the vehicle.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended while the “READY” indicator is illumi-
nated.
If the vehicle is parked with the shift position in P but the parking brake is
not set, the vehicle may start to move, possibly leading to an accident.

●

Do not touch the exhaust pipe while the “READY” indicator is illuminated
or immediately after turning the hybrid system off. 
Doing so may cause burns.

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

329

5-1. Before driving

5

Drivin

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WARNING

Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

■

When taking a nap in the vehicle

Always turn the hybrid system off. Otherwise, if you accidentally move the
shift lever or depress the accelerator pedal, this could cause an accident or
fire due to hybrid system overheating. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked in
a poorly ventilated area, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle,
leading to death or a serious health hazard.

■

When braking 

●

When the brakes are wet, drive more cautiously. 
Braking distance increases when the brakes are wet, and this may cause
one side of the vehicle to brake differently than the other side. Also, the
parking brake may not securely hold the vehicle.

●

If the electronically controlled assist function does not operate, do not fol-
low other vehicles closely and avoid downhill or sharp turns that require
braking. 
In  this  case,  braking  is  still  possible,  but  the  brake  pedal  should  be
depressed more firmly than usual. Also, the braking distance will increase.
Have your brakes fixed immediately.

●

The  brake  system  consists  of  2  or  more  individual  hydraulic  systems;  if
one  of  the  systems  fails,  the  other(s)  will  still  operate.  In  this  case,  the
brake pedal should be depressed more firmly than usual and the braking
distance will increase. Have your brakes fixed immediately.

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5-1. Before driving

NOTICE

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Do not depress the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time during
driving, as this may restrain the hybrid system output.

●

Do  not  use  the  accelerator  pedal  or  depress  the  accelerator  and  brake
pedals at the same time to hold the vehicle on a hill.

■

When parking the vehicle

Always set the parking brake, and shift the shift position to P. Failure to do
so may cause the vehicle to move or the vehicle may accelerate suddenly if
the accelerator pedal is accidentally depressed.

■

Avoiding damage to vehicle parts

●

Do not turn the steering wheel fully in either direction and hold it there for
an extended period of time. 
Doing so may damage the power steering motor.

●

When driving over bumps in the road, drive as slowly as possible to avoid
damaging the wheels, underside of the vehicle, etc. 

■

If you get a flat tire while driving 

A flat or damaged tire may cause the following situations. Hold the steering
wheel firmly and gradually depress the brake pedal to slow down the vehi-
cle.

●

It may be difficult to control your vehicle.

●

The vehicle will make abnormal sounds or vibrations.

●

The vehicle will lean abnormally.

Information on what to do in case of a flat tire: 



P. 692

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

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5

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NOTICE

■

When encountering flooded roads

Do not drive on a road that has flooded after heavy rain etc. Doing so may
cause the following serious damage to the vehicle:

●

Engine stalling

●

Short in electrical components

●

Engine damage caused by water immersion

In the event that you drive on a flooded road and the vehicle is flooded, be
sure to have your Toyota dealer check the following:

●

Brake function

●

Changes in quantity and quality of oil and fluid used for the engine, hybrid
transmission, etc.

●

Lubricant condition for the bearings and suspension joints (where possi-
ble), and the function of all joints, bearings, etc.

If the shift control system is damaged by flooding, it may not be possible to
shift the shift position to P, or from P to other positions. When the shift posi-
tion cannot be changed from P to any other position, the front wheels will
lock, and you will be unable to tow the vehicle with the front wheels on the
ground, as the front wheels may be locked. In this case, transport the vehi-
cle with both front wheels or all four wheels lifted. (



P. 667)

332

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5-1. Before driving

Cargo and luggage

Cargo capacity depends on the total weight of the occupants. 
(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capacity) — (Total weight of occupants)

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 



(1) Locate  the  statement  “The  combined  weight  of  occupants  and

cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s
placard. 

(2) Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that

will be riding in your vehicle. 

(3) Subtract  the  combined  weight  of  the  driver  and  passengers  from

XXX kg or XXX lbs.

(4) The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and lug-

gage load capacity. 
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be
five  150  lb  passengers  in  your  vehicle,  the  amount  of  available
cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 



 750 (5



150) =

650 lbs.) 

(5) Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded

on  the  vehicle.  That  weight  may  not  safely  exceed  the  available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 

(6) If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be

transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how
this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your
vehicle. (



P. 335)

Toyota  does  not  recommend  towing  a  trailer  with  your  vehicle.  Your

vehicle is not designed for trailer towing.

Take  notice of the following information about storage  precau-
tions, cargo capacity and load.

Capacity and distribution

PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

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5-1. Before driving

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Cargo capacity
Total  load  capacity  (vehicle
capacity weight) (



P. 730)

When  2  people  with  the  combined  weight  of A  lb.  (kg)  are  riding  in
your vehicle, which has a total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight)
of B lb. (kg), the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity
will be C lb. (kg) as follows: 
B

*

2

 lb. (kg) 



 A

*

1

 lb. (kg) = C

*

3

 lb. (kg)

*

1

: A = Weight of people

*

2

: B = Total load capacity

*

3

: C = Available cargo and luggage load

In  this  condition,  if  3  more  passengers  with  the  combined  weight  of

D lb. (kg) get on, the available cargo and luggage load will be reduced

E lb. (kg) as follows:

C lb. (kg) 



 D

*

4

 lb. (kg) = E

*

5

 lb. (kg)

*

4

: D = Additional weight of people

*

5

: E = Available cargo and luggage load

As  shown  in  the  example  above,  if  the  number  of  occupants
increases, the cargo and luggage load will be reduced by an amount
that equals the increased weight due to the additional occupants. In
other  words,  if  an  increase  in  the  number  of  occupants  causes  an
excess of the total load capacity (combined weight of occupants plus
cargo and luggage load), you must reduce the cargo and luggage on
your vehicle. 

Calculation formula for your vehicle

1
2

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5-1. Before driving

WARNING

■

Things that must not be carried in the luggage compartment

The following things may cause a fire if loaded in the luggage compart-

ment:

●

Receptacles containing gasoline

●

Aerosol cans

■

Storage precautions

Observe the following precautions.

Failure to do so may prevent the pedals from being depressed properly,

may block the driver’s vision, or may result in items hitting the driver or

passengers, possibly causing an accident.

●

Stow cargo and luggage in the luggage compartment whenever possi-

ble.

●

Do  not  stack  cargo  and  luggage  in  the  luggage  compartment  higher

than the seatbacks.

●

When you fold down the rear seats, long items should not be placed

directly behind the front seats.

●

Never  allow  anyone  to  ride  in  the  luggage  compartment.  It  is  not

designed for passengers. They should ride in their seats with their seat

belts properly fastened.

●

Do not place cargo or luggage in or on the following locations.
• At the feet of the driver

• On the front passenger or rear seats (when stacking items)

• On the luggage cover

• On the instrument panel

• On the dashboard

●

Secure all items in the occupant compartment.

■

Capacity and distribution

●

Do  not  exceed  the  maximum  axle  weight  rating  or  the  total  vehicle

weight rating. 

●

Even if the total load of occupant’s weight and the cargo load is less

than the total load capacity, do not apply the load unevenly. Improper

loading  may  cause  deterioration  of  steering  or  braking  control  which

may cause death or serious injury.

335

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Vehicle load limits

◆

Total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight): 



P. 730

Total load capacity means the combined weight of occupants, cargo
and luggage. 

◆

Seating capacity: 



P. 730

Seating capacity means the maximum number of occupants whose
estimated average weight is 150 lb. (68 kg) per person. 

◆

Towing capacity

Toyota does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle.

◆

Cargo capacity

Cargo capacity may increase or decrease depending on the weight
and the number of occupants. 

■

Total load capacity and seating capacity

These details are also described on the tire and loading information label.

(



P. 623)

Vehicle load limits include total load capacity, seating capacity,
towing capacity and cargo capacity. 

WARNING

■

Overloading the vehicle

Do not overload the vehicle.

It  may  not  only  cause  damage  to  the  tires,  but  also  degrade  steering

and braking ability, resulting in an accident.

336

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5-1. Before driving

Trailer towing

Toyota does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle.
Toyota also does not recommend the installation of a tow hitch
or the use of a tow hitch carrier for a wheelchair, scooter, bicy-
cle, etc. Your vehicle is not designed for trailer towing or for the
use of tow hitch mounted carriers.

IO51PH002

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5

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Dinghy towing

Your vehicle is not designed to be dinghy towed (with 4 wheels
on the ground) behind a motor home. 

IO51PH003

NOTICE

■

To avoid serious damage to your vehicle

Do not tow your vehicle with the four wheels on the ground.

338

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5-2. Driving procedures

Power (ignition) switch

Check that the charging cable is disconnected. (



P. 146)

Check that the parking brake is set. 
Firmly depress the brake pedal. 

 and a message will be dis-

played on the multi-information dis-
play. 
When  the  shift  position  is  N,  the
hybrid  system  cannot  start.  Shift
the shift position to P when starting
the hybrid system. (



P. 346)

Press  the  power  switch  shortly
and firmly.

When  operating  the  power  switch,
one  short,  firm  press  is  enough.  It
is not necessary to press and hold
the switch.
If  the  “READY”  indicator  turns  on,
the hybrid system will operate nor-
mally.
Continue depressing the brake pedal until the “READY” indicator is illumi-
nated.
The hybrid system can be started from any power switch mode.

Check that the “READY” indicator is illuminated.

If the “READY” indicator changes from a flashing light to a solid light and
the buzzer sounds, the hybrid system is starting normally.
The vehicle will not move when the “READY” indicator is off.
The vehicle can move when the “READY” indicator is on even if the engine
is  stopped.  (The  gasoline  engine  starts  or  stops  automatically  in  accor-
dance with the state of the vehicle.)

Performing  the  following  operations  when  carrying  the  elec-
tronic key on your person starts the hybrid system or changes
power switch modes.

Starting the hybrid system

1

2

3

4

5

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339

5-2. Driving procedures

5

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Stop the vehicle completely.
Set the parking brake. (



P. 352)

Shift the shift position to P. 
(



P. 346)

Check that the shift position indica-
tor shows P. (



P. 345)

Press the power switch.

The hybrid system will stop.

Slowly release the brake pedal  and check that the display on the
instrument cluster is off.

The meter display sequentially turns off after the hybrid system stops. 
(



P. 342)

Stopping the hybrid system

1

2

3

4

5

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PRIUS PRIME_OM_OM47D71U_(U)

5-2. Driving procedures

Modes can be changed by pressing the power switch with the brake
pedal released. (The mode changes each time the switch is pressed.)

Off

The  emergency  flashers  can  be
used. 

ACCESSORY mode

Some  electrical  components  such
as the audio system can be used.
“Accessory”  is  displayed  on  the
main display.

ON mode 

All  electrical  components  can  be
used.
“Ignition  ON”  is  displayed  on  the
main display.

■

Auto power off function

If the vehicle is left in ACCESSORY mode for more than 20 minutes or ON
mode (the hybrid system is not operating) for more than an hour with the shift
position in P, the power switch will automatically turn off. However, this func-
tion  cannot  entirely  prevent  the  12-volt  battery  discharge.  Do  not  leave  the
vehicle with the power switch in ACCESSORY or ON mode for long periods
of time when the hybrid system is not operating.

■

Sounds and vibrations specific to a hybrid vehicle



P. 96

■

Electronic key battery depletion



P. 278

■

When the ambient temperature is low, such as during winter driving con-
ditions

●

When starting the hybrid system, the flashing time of the “READY” indicator
may be long. Leave the vehicle as it is until the “READY” indicator is steady
on, as steady means the vehicle is able to move.

●

When the hybrid battery (traction battery) is extremely cold (below approxi-
mately -22°F [-30°C]) under the influence of the outside temperature, it may
not be possible to start the hybrid system. In this case, try to start the hybrid
system again  after  the temperature of the  hybrid battery increases due  to
the outside temperature increase etc.

Changing power switch modes

1

2

3

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5-2. Driving procedures

5

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■

Conditions affecting operation



P. 295

■

Note for the entry function



P. 296

■

If the hybrid system does not start

●

The immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. (



P. 83)

Contact your Toyota dealer.

●

The charging cable may be connected to the vehicle. (



P. 142)

●

If a message related to start-up is shown on the multi-information display,
read the message and follow the instructions.

■

If the “READY” indicator does not come on

In the event that the “READY” indicator does not come on even after perform-
ing the proper procedures for starting the vehicle, contact your Toyota dealer
immediately.

■

If the hybrid system is malfunctioning



P. 99

■

If the electronic key battery is depleted



P. 647

■

Operation of the power switch

●

If the switch is not pressed shortly and firmly, the power switch mode may
not change or the hybrid system may not start.

●

If attempting to restart the hybrid system immediately after turning the power
switch off, the hybrid system may not start in some cases. After turning the
power switch off, please wait a few seconds before restarting the hybrid sys-
tem.

■

Automatic hybrid system shut off feature

●

The vehicle is equipped with a feature that automatically shuts off the hybrid
system when the shift position is in P with the hybrid system operating for an
extended period.

●

The hybrid system will automatically shut off after approximately 1 hour if it
has been left running while the shift position is in P.

●

The  timer  for  the  automatic  hybrid  system  shut  off  feature  will  reset  if  the
brake pedal is depressed or if the shift position is in a position other than P.

●

After  the  vehicle  is  parked,  if  the  door  is  locked  with  the  door  lock  switch
(



P. 283) from the inside or the mechanical key (



P. 711) from the outside,

the automatic hybrid system shut off feature will be disabled. The timer for
the automatic hybrid system shut off feature will be re-enabled if the driver’s
door is opened.