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starting problem

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Arrallen, Apr 1, 2016.

  1. Arrallen

    Arrallen Junior Member

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    2010 Prius If the car sits for a couple of days I cannot start the car unless I recharge the 12v battery. If I drive the car everyday I have no problem. It seems to me that there is a slow drain on the battery. I have checked to make sure all the lights are off and the doors and rear hatch are properly closed. Any other suggestions?
     
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Simple solution - Change the 12v battery. They don't last forever
     
  3. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk EGR Fanatic

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    There is a small parasitic drain; you can measure it by putting digital multimeter in series, between the negative battery cable and car body.

    Shut the hatch and let everything sit, and monitor milliamperes. In my experience it was around 16~18, with regular spikes to around 40. Not sure what that was, maybe that little security icon on the dash, though it didn't seem to be in sync.

    Anyway, 2010, original battery? Likely best to change it.
     
  4. mrbigh

    mrbigh Prius Absolutum Dominium

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    If it was never replaced, you are in luck having such an old vehicle with the original Aux Battery.
    Replace that "thing" for a brand new one an all the existing electrical problems will disappear
     
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    you could put a quick disconnect on the negative post, or a treacle charger.