2008 Toyota Prius
Quick Reference Guide
This Quick Reference Guide provides a summary of basic vehicle operations, offering brief descriptions of fundamental functions to help you quickly and easily locate and use the vehicle's main equipment.
The Quick Reference Guide is not intended as a substitute for the Owner's Manual found in the vehicle's glove box. It is strongly recommended to review the Owner's Manual and supplementary manuals for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's capabilities and limitations.
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. and its dealerships wish you many years of satisfied driving in your new Prius.
! A word about safe vehicle operations
This Quick Reference Guide is not a complete description of Prius operations. Every Prius owner should review the Owner's Manual that accompanies this vehicle. Pay special attention to information highlighted in yellow boxes within the Owner's Manual, as these contain safe operating instructions to help prevent injury or equipment malfunction.
All information in this Quick Reference Guide is current as of the printing date. Toyota reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice.
Index
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BASIC HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
- Hybrid Synergy Drive System
- Keyless entry
- Key fob
- Parking & turning OFF the Hybrid System
- Shifting
- Smart Key system
- Smart Key unlock functions
- Turning the Hybrid System ON
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OVERVIEW
- Engine maintenance
- Fuel tank door opener and cap
- Hood release
- Indicator symbols
- Instrument cluster
- Instrument panel
- Light control-Instrument panel
- Rear hatch
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FEATURES/OPERATIONS
- Air Conditioning/Heating
- Audio
- Clock
- Cruise control
- Cup and bottle holders
- Garage door opener (HomeLink®)
- Lights & turn signals
- Luggage storage box
- Parking brake
- Power outlets
- Seat adjustments-Front
- Seat adjustments-Rear
- Seats-Head restraints
- Telephone controls (Bluetooth®)
- Tilt steering wheel
- Window wipers & washers
- Windows
-
SAFETY AND EMERGENCY FEATURES
- Door locks
- Doors-Child safety locks
- Emergency flashers
- Jump starting
- Rear air vent
- Seat belts
- Seat belts-Shoulder belt anchor
- Spare tire & tools
- Tire Pressure Warning System
BASIC HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
Hybrid Synergy Drive System
The Hybrid Synergy Drive System uses a computer-controlled gasoline engine and electric motor to provide the most efficient power combination for the vehicle. To conserve energy, braking force generates electricity, which is sent to the traction battery. The engine also shuts off when the vehicle is stopped. Benefits include better fuel economy, reduced vehicle emissions, and improved performance.
Note: Fuel consumption and energy information for the Hybrid System are displayed on the multi-information display. Refer to this screen for important driving information and feedback to maximize energy use/creation and conserve fuel.
Tips for improved fuel economy
- Ensure tire pressures are maintained at levels specified in the Owner's Manual.
- If possible, link trips to reduce engine cold starts.
- Avoid driving at speeds higher than necessary, especially on the highway.
- When possible, avoid sudden stops to maximize regenerative braking energy.
- Minimize use of the Air Conditioning.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for more details.
Key fob
The key fob includes a master key, a mechanical key (used to lock/unlock the driver's door only), and an ignition key (key fob) slot.
Instructions:
- Master key: The ignition key and wireless remote are combined.
- Mechanical key: Fits into the master key and can be removed to manually lock/unlock the driver's door.
- Ignition key slot: When inserting, push completely in. When removing, gently pull; the key will be pushed out by a spring. DO NOT FORCE THE KEY. If it cannot be removed, push it all the way in again, then pull it out.
- To remove or replace mechanical key: Slide the lock knob in the direction of the arrow.
Smart Key system (if equipped)
Carrying a Smart Key allows the vehicle to be locked, unlocked, and the Hybrid System engaged without handling the key.
Locking operation
Front door: Push the lock button on the door handle.
Rear hatch: Push the lock button on the hatch.
Unlocking operation
Front door: Push once for the driver's door, or push twice for all doors.
Rear hatch: Push the unlock button on the hatch.
Note: After unlocking, if a door is not opened within 30 seconds, all doors will relock for safety. Refer to your Owner's Manual for Smart Key unlocking programmable options.
Smart Key system cancel switch
A switch is available to turn the Smart Key system OFF. Push the switch to toggle between ON and OFF.
Note: To conserve battery power, turn the Smart Key system "OFF" when not using the vehicle for prolonged periods. Refer to the Owner's Manual for more battery saving information.
Smart Key unlock functions (if equipped)
The Smart Key unlocking function can be programmed to operate in three different modes:
- In all modes, grasping the front passenger door handle will unlock all doors.
- To unlock the driver's side door only, grasp the driver's side handle.
- To unlock all doors, grasp any door handle except the rear doors.
- To unlock the driver's side door or hatch independently, grasp the respective handle.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for more information on this feature and how to change modes.
Keyless entry
Locking operation
Push the lock button on the key fob.
Unlocking operation
Push the unlock button on the key fob ONCE for the driver's door, or TWICE for all doors.
Note: After unlocking, if a door is not opened within 30 seconds, all doors will relock for safety.
Panic button
Push and hold the panic button on the key fob to activate the alarm.
Turning the Hybrid System ON
Start function
- Insert key (if applicable).
- Depress the brake pedal and push the "POWER" button briefly and firmly.
- The "READY" light will blink. After a few seconds, when the light remains ON and a beep sounds, you may begin driving.
Note: The brake pedal must be depressed to turn the Hybrid System on.
It is not necessary to insert the ignition key (key fob) if the Smart Key system is installed and activated.
Changing operation modes
Pressing "POWER" without depressing the brake pedal while the Hybrid System is OFF will change the operation mode in succession:
- ACCESSORY: Accessories such as the radio will operate.
- ON: Ignition is on; Hybrid System is not engaged.
- OFF: All systems OFF.
Shifting
The shift lever controls the vehicle's gear position. The positions are P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), and B (Engine brake).
Note: The brake pedal must be depressed when shifting to or from the Park position. If the brake is not applied, a beep will sound, and the vehicle cannot be shifted. The shift lever always returns to its original position after shifting. Always confirm the shift position by checking indicator symbols on the instrument cluster.
The engine brake is the equivalent of downshifting. Shift to "B" when engine braking is desired (e.g., for downhill driving or coasting to a stop).
Parking & turning OFF the Hybrid System
- When the vehicle is at a complete stop, keep the brake pedal depressed and push the Park button above the shift lever.
- Push the "POWER" button to turn off the system.
- Fully depress the parking brake.
- Remove the key fob if inserted.
WARNING: If the "POWER" button is held for longer than three seconds while the vehicle is moving, the Hybrid System will shut off.
It is not necessary to insert the ignition key (key fob) if the Smart Key system is installed and activated.
Information: In some instances, when the engine starts or after a short trip when the engine is stopped, the engine water pump may continue operating for a short time. This is a standard operation of the vehicle to ensure optimum performance and should not be a concern.
OVERVIEW
Instrument panel
The instrument panel contains various controls and displays:
- 1 Headlight, turn signal, and front fog light controls.
- 2 Wiper and washer controls.
- 3 "POWER" button.
- 4 Clock.
- 5 "AUDIO" switch (multi-information display control).
- 6 "CLIMATE" switch (multi-information display control).
- 7 Multi-information display.
- 8 "DISPLAY" switch (multi-information display control).
- 9 "INFO" switch (multi-information display control).
- 10 Mph or km/h button.
- 11 Trip meter reset.
- 12 Emergency flasher button.
Instrument cluster
The instrument cluster displays vehicle information:
- 1 Service indicators and reminders.
- 2 Speedometer.
- 3 Fuel gauge.
- 4 Odometer and two trip meters.
Indicator symbols
BRAKE: Brake system warning.
Driver seat belt reminder: Alarm sounds if speed is over 12 mph.
Front passenger seat belt reminder: Alarm sounds if speed is over 12 mph.
Charging system warning.
Malfunction/Check Engine indicator.
Low engine oil pressure warning.
Low fuel level indicator.
Master warning.
High coolant temperature warning.
Open door warning.
Airbag SRS warning.
Low Tire Pressure Warning.
VSC: Vehicle Stability Control warning.
Engine oil replacement reminder.
Traction battery warning.
For details on service reminder indicators and warning buzzers, refer to “Instrument cluster” Section 5-2 in the 2008 Owner's Manual. If the cruise control light flashes, see “Cruise control” Section 2-4 in the 2008 Owner's Manual.
Additional Indicator Symbols
P/S PS: Electric power steering system warning.
Smart Key system warning.
Turn signal indicator.
Headlight high beam indicator.
Headlight indicator.
Slip indicator.
Automatic headlight leveling system warning.
CRUISE: Cruise control indicator.
Hybrid System warning.
Running mode position indicator.
READY: Driving ready light.
A/C AUTO: Automatic Air Conditioner indicator.
Recirculate mode indicator.
Windshield airflow indicator.
Rear window and outside rearview mirror defoggers indicator.
Hybrid vehicle immobilizer/Theft deterrent system indicator.
Front passenger occupant classification indicator.
ABS: Anti-lock Brake System warning.
For details on transmission, refer to “Transmission” Section 2-1 in the 2008 Owner's Manual.
Fuel tank door opener and cap
To open: Pull the fuel tank door opener located near the driver's seat.
To close: Turn the cap until one click is heard. If the cap is not tightened enough, the Check Engine indicator may illuminate.
Note: MAINTAIN GASOLINE IN THE TANK AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HYBRID SYSTEM CAN OCCUR IF THE VEHICLE RUNS OUT OF GASOLINE.
Rear hatch
To open the rear hatch, grasp the handle and pull up.
Light control-Instrument panel
Use the controls to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel lights.
Hood release
Locate the hood release lever inside the vehicle. Pull it to release the hood latch, then pull up the latch under the hood to raise it.
Engine maintenance
Under-hood components include:
- 1 Windshield washer fluid tank.
- 2 Engine oil filler cap.
- 3 Engine coolant reservoir.
- 4 Engine oil level dipstick.
Note: Regularly scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, will help extend the life of your vehicle and maintain performance. Please refer to the "Owner's Warranty Information Booklet," "Scheduled Maintenance Guide," or "Owner's Manual Supplement."
FEATURES/OPERATIONS
Lights & turn signals
Headlights
AUTO: Headlights turn on/off automatically.
Parking light: Activates parking lights.
Low beam: Standard low beam headlights.
High beam: High beam headlights.
High beam flasher: Flashes high beams.
Automatic light cutoff system: Automatically turns off lights when the driver's door is opened with the Hybrid System "OFF." (If equipped)
Front fog lights (if equipped)
Front fog lights operate only when the headlights are on low beam. Turn the control to activate.
Turn signals
Right turn: Activates right turn signal.
Left turn: Activates left turn signal.
Lane change: Lightly move the lever for a three-blink lane change signal.
Window wipers & washers
Front
Single wipe: Pull the lever towards you for a single wipe.
Adjust interval: Rotate the ring to adjust wiper interval speed.
Pull to wash and wipe: Pull the lever towards you to activate washers and wipers.
Rear
Wash and wipe: Push the lever away from you to activate rear washer and wiper.
Wipe: Push the lever away from you for a single wipe.
Interval wipe: Rotate the ring to adjust wiper interval speed.
Garage door opener (HomeLink®) (if equipped)
HomeLink® garage door openers, manufactured under license, can be programmed to operate garage doors, estate gates, and security lighting.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for more details. For programming assistance, contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331, or visit http://www.homelink.com.
HomeLink® is a registered trademark of Johnson Controls, Inc.
Seat adjustments-Front
Adjust the seat position and seatback angle using the controls.
Seats-Head restraints
Adjust front and rear head restraints by pulling up or pushing down. Use the lock release button to adjust.
Seat adjustments-Rear
Fold down the rear seats by pushing down and folding.
Tilt steering wheel
Hold the steering wheel, push the lock release lever down, set the desired angle, and return the lever.
Note: Do not attempt to adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion.
Windows
Driver side window operation
Automatic operation: Push the switch completely down or pull it completely up and release to fully open or close. To stop the window midway, lightly push the switch in the opposite direction.
Window lock switch
This switch deactivates all passenger windows. The driver's window remains operable.
Note: If the 12V battery is disconnected, the window may need to be reinitialized. Refer to the Owner's Manual for more details.
Air Conditioning/Heating
Controls for Air Conditioning and Heating are accessed via the central display. Functions include passenger compartment temperature, outside temperature, airflow vents, fan speed, automatic climate control, fresh/recirculated air, rear defogger, windshield airflow, and climate control ON/OFF.
For details, refer to the "Navigation System Owner's Manual."
Cruise control (if equipped)
Turning system ON/OFF
Use the "CRUISE" button to turn the system ON or OFF.
Setting a speed
Use the "Set/Decrease speed" button to set the desired speed. Use the "Resume/Increase speed" button to resume a set speed or increase it. The "Cancel" button deactivates cruise control.
The set speed may also be cancelled by depressing the brake pedal. If vehicle speed falls below 25 mph, the set speed will not be resumed.
Audio
The audio system allows control of radio, CD player, and other audio sources.
RADIO
To preset a station, tune to the desired station and touch a station selector icon (1-6) until a beep is heard. To scan for stations, push "SCAN." Push again to hold selection.
CD PLAYER
To scan tracks on a disc, touch the "SCAN" icon on the display. Push again to hold selection.
CD changer (Type 2 only)
- To load one disc: Push "LOAD" and insert one disc.
- To load multiple discs: Push and hold "LOAD" until a beep is heard. Insert one disc. The shutter will close and then re-open for the next disc.
To select a file (MP3/WMA only): Turn "TUNE•FILE."
Steering wheel switches
- "- +" switch: Controls volume.
- "MODE" switch: Push to turn audio ON and select an audio mode. Push and hold to turn the audio system OFF.
- "∧ V" switch: In radio mode, push to select a preset station; push and hold to seek the next strong station. In CD mode, push to skip up or down to the next/previous track.
AUX audio jack (if equipped)
By inserting a mini plug into the AUX audio jack, you can listen to music from a portable audio device through the vehicle's speaker system.
Luggage storage box
The luggage storage box can be unlocked using the provided mechanism.
Telephone controls (Bluetooth®) (if equipped)
Bluetooth® technology allows you to place or receive calls hands-free using the steering wheel controls or by connecting a cable to the system.
Controls include volume adjustment, voice command button, end call, and start call.
Refer to "Hands-free phone system (for cellular phone)," Section 3-4 in the Owner's Manual for more details.
Cup and bottle holders
The vehicle is equipped with cup holders in the front and rear, and a bottle holder in the front door.
Power outlets
12V power outlets are located in the instrument panel and the center console box. The Hybrid System must be in "ACC" or "IG-ON" to use the power outlets.
Parking brake
Set: Depress the parking brake lever.
Release: Depress the parking brake lever again.
Clock
The clock can be set using the H-Hour and M-Minute set controls.
SAFETY AND EMERGENCY FEATURES
Door locks
Controls for locking and unlocking the vehicle doors are located on the driver's door panel.
Doors-Child safety locks
On the rear doors, a lever can be moved to the "LOCK" position. This prevents the door from being opened from the outside.
Seat belts
Wear seat belts low on the hips. Take up any slack to ensure a snug fit. If a belt is fully extended and then retracted even slightly, it cannot be re-extended beyond that point unless fully retracted again. This feature helps hold child restraint systems securely.
To find more information about seat belts and how to install a child restraint system, refer to the Owner's Manual.
Seat belts-Shoulder belt anchor
Adjust the shoulder belt anchor height by pushing up or squeezing the lock release to lower.
Emergency flashers
Push the emergency flasher button to activate hazard lights.
Rear air vent
Note: The air vent on the right side of the rear seatback is designed to assist in cooling the Hybrid vehicle battery. DO NOT BLOCK OR COVER THIS VENT, as it may cause overheating, resulting in reduced vehicle performance.
Tire Pressure Warning System
The indicator illuminates if tire pressure becomes critically low on any tire (excluding the spare). Pushing the "SET" button should not turn off the light. Correctly adjusting tire inflation will turn off the light after a few minutes. Initialization is required after replacing or rotating tires or wheels.
Refer to the Owner's Manual for details on system reset initialization.
Jump starting
The jump start terminal is located in the fuse box. To access it, open the fuse block cover and the jump start terminal cover.
Connecting jumper cables
- Connect the positive (red) jumper cable to the jump start terminal.
- Connect the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the booster battery.
- Connect the negative (black) jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal on the booster battery.
- Connect the negative (black) jumper cable to the recommended connecting point of the vehicle with the discharged battery.
- Depress the brake pedal and press the "POWER" button to start the vehicle.
Refer to the "Owner's Manual" for more details.
Spare tire & tools
Tool location
Tools include a wheel nut wrench, jack handle, jack, and spare tire.
Removing the spare tire
- Remove the luggage storage box.
- Loosen the bolt and remove it.
- Remove the jack box.
Refer to the "Owner's Manual" for tire changing and jack positioning procedures.
