"B" shifting disables the cruise control?

I'm not trying to be rude, but, if you shifted into "B" mode how did you think the car would get out of "B'' mode?

Things like this are why people are getting 31 MPG out of their Prius, and then complaining about it.

 

The car is so smart we sometimes expect it to be a mind reader.

Tom

 

I can see how the confusion could occur. The shifter always snaps back to it's base position when you let go. It is possible that someone new to the Prius, and with a misunderstanding of the purpose of "B", might think that it works like a brake pedal. Such an assumption would lead one to believe that while holding the knob in the "B" position the vehicle would be regenerative braking, and that when you let go and it snaps back, the braking is released and the vehicle resumes drive mode.

One also might assume that since "B" is for braking, the vehicle must shift back to "D" when you press the accelerator, since you are no longer braking.

Obviously such assumptions require a misunderstanding of how "B" works, but on the other hand, the question wouldn't be asked in the first place if there wasn't a misunderstanding.

It is great that a resource like PriusChat exists to help clear up the many misunderstandings that are common when someone is new to the Prius. If only more sales people had better knowledge of the vehicle, they might be able to prevent these misunderstandings in the first place.

 

Although not really new to driving a Prius, a couple of months ago I somehow slipped the shifter into "B" instead of "D."

I drove about 15 miles on the interstate, but didn't really notice anything until I tried to set the cruise control - nothing. Of course I panicked and became convinced that the cruise control was shot, it would cost several thousand dollars to fix or replace, and that I would die friendless and penniless in a trailer with 37 cats (I tend to get a little carried away with my imaginings).

Anyway, it was at that point I noticed the slight "whine" from the engine and looked at the shift display. Stopped the car, restarted, PUT IT IN "D," and cruise worked fine.

Stuff happens.

Nick

 

Of course it is not necessary to stop the car or restart it to shift from "B" to "D". While traveling down the expressway at speed, you can simply move the shift lever to the "D" position and release it. Voila! Your vehicle is then in "D".

 

I guess I do tend to learn most things the hard way and this was no exception...:noidea:

Nick

 

So when do most of you use the B mode? Moderate and long downhill driving that charges the batteries without braking?

Too few miles on my "work" Prius to know much about it yet.

All of my car repair forums that I belong to...I learn how to perform my own repairs, this is the first that teaches me how to drive a car :rockon:

--Hugh

 

You are best of to use light braking than B mode unless you will have a full green battery before the bottom of the hill in which case select B in time to allow a full green right at the bottom of the hill. Just another aspect of the Prius arcade game on wheels.

 

That sounds like a defect. I would at least talk to your dealer about it and if necessary take it in.

 

I use B mode frequently; I live in the hills and mountains. It is quite useful for long downhill stretches as well as short, snappy pitches and tightening curves. I know you will find it quite useful on trips over the hill and in the Santa Cruz Mountains. B mode saves the brakes!

If you remember whatever "gear" you shift into that's where it stays until you shift to another "gear" life will be less stressful. You might practice shifting back and forth between D and B simply to become accustomed to the pattern. Even try N just to learn. I do not recommend N for the Santa Cruz Mountains!

Toyota thinks like GM when it comes to parts; parts you do not put in do not cost you money and do not break. B mode is there for a purpose. Take the time to find that purpose. Try not to listen to folk who tell you it wastes fuel to use B mode. Your travel, and learning to drive a Prius, will be more rational and enjoyable that way.

When you are in either B or D mode and you wish to apply the brakes do so gently to get the feel for what happens. Under most braking conditions, pressing the pedal simply increases regeneration forces rather than applying the friction pads. The friction brakes automatically apply below seven miles per hour or under emergency braking.

Time spent reading the Prius manual is time well spent; many questions are answered there.

If you enjoy knowing how things work:

Hobbit's techie-rants

John's Stuff - Toyota Prius and more

http://www.ecrostech.com/prius/

These sites almost completely satisfy most seekers.