Understanding the Charging Process
This guide provides essential information for charging your Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid. It covers the necessary equipment, step-by-step instructions for connecting and disconnecting the charging cable, and details on utilizing the charging timer function for optimal battery management and cost savings.
Charging Equipment and Components
Familiarize yourself with the key components involved in the charging process:
- Charging Indicator: Signals the status of the charging operation.
- Charging Inlet: The port on the vehicle where the charging cable connects.
- Charging Port Lid: Covers and protects the charging inlet.
- Charging Cable: Includes the charging connector, CCID (Charging Circuit Interrupting Device) with indicators and buttons, and the power plug.
How to Charge Your Prius
Follow these steps for a safe and efficient charging experience:
- Prepare the Charging Cable: Ensure the parking brake is applied and all lights are switched off. Connect the charging cable plug firmly into the external power source outlet. Verify the power indicator on the CCID is illuminated.
- Test the Safety Function: Press the test button on the CCID to confirm the electrical leakage detection function is working. The error warning indicator should illuminate. Reset the indicator by pressing the reset button. If the function does not work, contact a Toyota dealer.
- Connect to the Vehicle: Open the charging port lid. Remove the charging connector cap and attach it to the cable. Insert the charging connector into the vehicle's charging inlet until it clicks, ensuring the latch release button is not pressed.
- Confirm Charging: Check that the charging indicator on the vehicle illuminates. Charging status and estimated completion time can be viewed on the energy monitor by turning the "POWER" switch ON.
After Charging
Once charging is complete:
- Disconnect the charging connector by pressing the latch release button.
- Attach the charging connector cap.
- Close the charging port lid.
- If the charging equipment will not be used for an extended period, remove the plug from the outlet and store the cable properly. Regular inspection of the plug and connector for dirt or dust is recommended.
Using the Charging Timer Function
The charging timer function allows you to schedule charging to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates and help manage hybrid battery health. You can set a charging start or finish time.
Setting the Timer:
- With the vehicle stopped, press the charging timer switch to access the charging timer display.
- Press and hold the switch to make the time display flash, indicating it's ready for adjustment.
- Press the switch again to cycle through setting modes (Start Time, Finish Time).
- Use the time adjustment buttons (H for hours, M for minutes) to set your desired times. Note that minutes are rounded to the nearest hour.
- Press and hold the charging timer switch again to confirm the set time. The time display will become solid, and the charging timer indicator will illuminate.
- Turn the "POWER" switch OFF. The charging timer indicator will flash, indicating the timer is active.
Canceling the Timer: Press the charging timer switch while the indicator is active to cancel the function. Charging will begin immediately if the cable is connected.
Understanding Display Information
The multi-information display provides crucial charging-related information:
- Time until charging is complete: Shows the estimated remaining charging time.
- Charging messages: Displays status updates, results (e.g., "CHARGE COMPLETE"), or warning messages if an operation cannot be performed.
Refer to the display for guidance on any necessary actions.
Routine Inspection of Electrical Leakage Detection
For safety, it is recommended to inspect the charging cable's electrical leakage detection function at least once a month. Follow the steps outlined in the charging procedure to test and reset the CCID.
