Hello, I recently purchased a 2006 Prius from a Toyota dealership. I noticed that the brake light comes on when I start it, even if the brake isn't on. I took it back to the dealership, and they worked on it for a day, drove it around, and apparently certified it as in normal working condition. They said something about cleaning the cables and harnesses (or something like that). Anyway, I took it home, and noticed that every time I start it WITH my foot on the brake, I have no issue; the light stays off. Every time I start it WITHOUT my foot on the brake, the light comes on, and I don't get the ready light - the car won't go into drive. This situation occurs without fail, which leads me to believe it may be designed like this. Is this normal, or do I have a defective car? Tomorrow my exchange period expires, so should I bring it back for this, or is it a normal function of the 06 Prius? Thank you!
If you press the Power button one time without your foot on the brake you go in to ACC or accessories mode. This gives you the instrument panel lights, radio, NAV, etc. This is similar to turning a key switch to the first position. If you press the Power button the second time without your foot on the brake you go in to IGN-ON mode. This gives you power windows, AC, etc. This is similar to turning a key switch to the second position just prior to the start position. If you press the Power button a third time without your foot off of the brake you go back to the Off position. You have to have your foot on the brake to go to Ready mode and to be able to move the car. This is like the start position for a key switch auto. There is nothing wrong with your car if it behaves this way. Toyota did a good job of making the Prius behave like a "normal" car.
Wow thanks jdcollins5, it's definitely a relief to know I don't have a defective car. I really like it and didn't want to have to exchange it. LOVE the way it drives too... Last Sunday on a trip to PA (from DC) I averaged about 53.7 mpg. Can't beat it. So essentially, when I pushed the button for the second time without the brake depressed, it was NOT technically started, like I thought - instead it was more like when a normal car's ignition is one, prior to cranking the engine? I think that's how I understood your post? Sorry I'm clueless about cars in general.
Yes. You are understanding it correctly now. I'd highly recommend taking a little time to read through the Owner's Manual that came with the car. There is a lot of good information in there. (including descriptions of what happens if you press the power button without pressing the brake pedal.
If your 2006 did NOT come with an owners manual, the chapters are here: Toyota Online Owners Manuals and Technical Manuals ( you have to tell it you have a 2006 Prius in the upper right)
Danny Hamilton - thank you, that makes total sense. Jimbo - thanks, good info. My Prius does have a hard-copy manual, but it's good to see a digital copy as well for quick reference. Thanks guys - glad to find a place where people are Prius-savvy.
