Issues starting Prius in the cold

they were wrong, you need a new battery. is it original?

 

Agree, it's the 12v battery probably. Mine did the same, wouldn't go into gear so when I pushed the start button ghain to turn it off gave me a "low accessory battery" warning....and then allowed me to put it into gear.

 

Is this the original battery?

If so, it's a little surprising that a dealership would tell you a 6~7 year old battery is still fine. By that age it's hardly worth testing if you're having problems.

 

This is an easy one.

Only the incompetence of some (most?) supposed mechanics makes it difficult.

You need a new battery. The battery capacity temporarily goes down when cold.
It comes back up as the temp comes up.

Leaving a small load on it for a minute or two often warms it enough to gain more capacity back than the current drain uses.

 

Change the 12v battery.

 

+1 to all

no further questions your honor

 

What Bisco said.

 

a new battery is around $200., install is all over the board. are there any other dealers close enough, or a local mechanic?
some auto parts stores will install, and they all do a free test. is there a pep boys near you?

 

We're like the TV show "The View" in here sometimes; we all speak but no one listens to each other. Typical car batteries will last 3 - 5 years under normal driving & parked conditions. In your shoes, it's lucky 7 so symptoms of battery failure has reared it's ugly head. Before throwing thousands of dollars of parts at it, begin by replacing the 12v battery first, and make sure have the store measure the shelf batteryit in front of you that it's above 12.6 volts. Voltage lower than 12.6 volts, you'll be right where you started.

 

Battery retailers now often have a pro-level electronic load tester, should be willing to test your prospective battery. The voltage is a clue, but running a CCA test with the aforementioned tester gives a more complete picture to battery's overall health. For example, it's voltage may be down a bit, but it's in very good shape, will bounce right back with a charge. On the flip side, a freshly charged battery that's near-death may show high voltage, but will go off fast.

Google Solar BA9, for one DIY level tester.

 

Go with the Optima Yellow Top battery. For 2013, use Model DS46B24R. Price around $200. It is located in the trunk area, on the right near the tail light. No need to pay dealer for installation. Just roll up your sleeves and do it yourself. It takes less than 30 minutes to complete. Remember to take the old battery back for your core charge deposit.

 

And where the vehicle spends its operating life helps determine where it will be on that scale.

 

There is no "typical".
But I think it is generally accepted that you are on borrowed time after 5 years.

 

Can't agree with that recommendation.
Optima has had some quality problems in the near past.
And you don't need the extra CCA in a hybrid.
Seems like I remember that PEP boys and some others have good ones for around $160 USD.