The other night, went to start the prius and nothing happened except all the warning lights came on! So took the foot off the brake pedal and sat there for a minute trying to figure out what the heck happened?? Tried a couple more times and then suddenly it was fine and it started! Now I have to mention that the outside temp was around 16*,,, not sure if that could have caused this strange reaction?? Any ideas? I sure dont want to be stranded somewhere! This is northern ny and we get cold cold harsh winters!
Check your 12 volt battery, could be that. Entering Maintenance Mode (aka 12V Battery Check) without Switching Headlights ON/OFF | PriusChat
1. Press hard on the brake pedal while pressing the POWER button, when making the Prius READY. 2. If the 12V battery is more than four years old, replace it as a preventive move and make sure the new battery is fully-charged prior to installation.
I agree this is a classic symptom of a weak 12V battery. When it gets cold, batteries don't perform as well, a weak battery mixed with extremely cold weather will be a nearly dead battery. When you pressed the start button the second time (or however many), the stars aligned and the car made it thru the startup sequence. I highly advise getting a new 12V battery asap.
For now, if possible, put a battery charger on it, and at least get it as well topped off as it can be. Here on PC there are many who have used the Optima yellowtop replacement from Hybrid parts There are others, as well as the Toyota part, which is pricey. It depends on what is available locally vs. shipping costs.
Several here recommend Optima DS46B24R Optima battery direct fit replacement for Prius 2004 + , Prius V & Plug-in Prius with Instructions Other options are the OEM battery that is sold at the dealer. Also Exide makes a battery for it. O Reilly Auto Parts also stocks a drop in battery. Make sure you get a AGM type battery with the JIS reversed posts that is vented. File attached covers installation of the battery. Whatever battery you get, make sure it is fully charged before you install it. Just because it is new does not mean it is always fully charged.
Amazon has a good price with free shipping right now. Optima (8171-767) DS46B24R Yellow Top Prius Battery : Amazon.com : Automotive
Optima DS46B24R Yellow Top Battery for Toyota Prius with SmartKey System, $189 some places, but cheaper in others, Google's your best friend.
I had same problem. But I was out of gas. The mechanic said gauge shows 3/4 full but there was no gas in engine. He has to recalibrate the sensor I assume
