I have a question for the knowledgable among you. I have seen the snowflake warning flag pop up during cold weather driving. From what I have seen in other threads, it is a warning to the driver. I'm wondering if maybe the Toyota engineers are also using the temperature data to modify how the hybrid system behaves. Does the computer have a "cold weather mode" it goes into below a certain temperature? I know the ICE seems to run longer and more often, presumeably to keep warm. Anybody know for sure?
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Dan Ramirez @ Jan 19 2007, 03:46 PM) [snapback]377920[/snapback]</div> I believe the HVAC might have different functions based on the ambient temperature (someone said something about 'recirc' being used more or less, I can't remember), but I don't think there's a 'cold weather mode' specifically built into the car's hybrid power system. The ICE does run longer during the winter, 'cause the car is likely using more power and depleting the battery more quickly; also, it's so that the engine stays warm for emissions reasons, I believe (and maybe so it starts right up when needed?) I thought the snowflake was more of a warning of potential ice conditions on the road...? I've got an '06, and it doesn't have the snowflake, but does seem to flash the temperature if it's nearing freezing.
I saw this indicator for the first time ever last week. Ihave had the Prius for 2 years now. I had to pull over and read the manual. Not to typical in Los Angeles, but this past week sure was cold
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Dan Ramirez @ Jan 20 2007, 04:46 AM) [snapback]377920[/snapback]</div> Lots of folks, including me, have installed foam pipe insulation into the grills of their cars to reduce the influx of cold air over the ICE which allows it to stay warmer and run less. Some claim mileage increases of 5 mpg. It's incredibly easy to do as the lengths out of the package are a perfect fit. B
My 2007 Touring Edition does not use the "Snowflake" but does pop a message up across the top of the MFD briefly indicating the OAT is at or below 37º F.
I have never seen the snowflake warning sign in my 06 prius though the temp is way below 0 degree. Is this feature avaliable in 2006 models?
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(coolfire74 @ Jan 24 2007, 05:12 PM) [snapback]380302[/snapback]</div> Yes, it's in the '06. It pops up on the MFD screen next to the tempeerature. It's only there for a few seconds, usually when the temp hits 37 deg. F. You have to be looking at the right time to see it. I guess I'm going to have to dig out the owner's manual to see what it has to say. Dan
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Dan Ramirez @ Jan 24 2007, 05:57 PM) [snapback]380358[/snapback]</div> Same for my '06. It has it, but you have to be looking at just the right time because it's gone pretty quickly.
