Has anyone gotten a warning message before? Four days ago I got a message that said something like "Warning. Battery will not charge unless placed in neutral". When placed in neutral the screen showed the battery was charging and when placed back in drive the warning came on again. I then turned off the A/C and turned off the car. When I turned it on again and placed it in drive, the warning came on again. I drove a short distance with the warning on and then parked it for an hour. That seemed to solve the problem. I usually get about 54 mpg but my mileage dropped into the high 40s a couple days. The mileage appears to be heading up again. I have a 2005 with 6,000 miles on it. Over all this has been a great car.
warning message
Aug 12, 2006
5 Replies
Is it the warning shown on page 14 of my 2004 US Prius Owner's Manual, Section 1-2 Features on New Toyota Vehicle: Toyota Hybrid System, Precautions for use? There's a picture of the MFD which states 'CAUTION: Shift the position into range "P" when parking. The batteries will not charge if the transmission is in Neutral "N".' This warning will come up if the Prius is on, in gear, and the driver's door is open. Not very informative, but the dash door open light should be a clue.
And the screen doesn't tell you the whole truth. Neutral ("N" on the PRNDB display) is an electric neutral - there is no charging to the hybrid battery, nor will the electric motors, or gasoline engine, provide any power to the wheels.
Why did you put it in "N"? Just trying to get a complete picture of the situation.
page 14 of my 2004 US Prius Owner's Manual, Section 1-2 Features on New Toyota Vehicle: Toyota Hybrid System, Precautions for Use.
Join the Discussion
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Didn't find your answer?
Ask the community — no account required