Get INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR TOYOTA Guide for Toyota Prius 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2009)

SECTION

3

INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR

TOYOTA

Break−in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318

Fuel pump shut−off systemm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320

Operation in foreign countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320

Three−way catalytic converters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321

Engine exhaust cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322

Facts about engine oil consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322

Coolant heat storage system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324

Iridium−tipped spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324

Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325

Electric power steering system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329

Brake pad wear limit indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329

Your Toyota’s identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330

Theft prevention labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331

Suspension and chassis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 331

Tire information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 332

Vehicle load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342

Cargo and luggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342

Types of tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345

317

Break−in period

Fuel

Drive gently and avoid high speeds.

FUEL TYPE

Use of unleaded fuel with an octane num-

ber or rating lower than stated above will

cause persistent heavy knocking. If se-

vere, this will lead to engine damage.

Your vehicle must use only unleaded

gasoline.

Your vehicle does not need an elaborate

break−in. But following a few simple tips

for the first 1000 km (600 miles) can add

to the future economy and long life of

your vehicle:

To help prevent gas station mixups, your

Toyota has a smaller fuel tank opening.

The special nozzle on pumps with un-

leaded fuel will fit it, but the larger stan-

dard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will

not.

If your engine knocks...

If you detect heavy knocking even when

using the recommended fuel, or if you

ꢀ Avoid full−throttle acceleration when

hear steady knocking while holding

a

starting and driving.

steady speed on level roads, consult your

Toyota dealer.

ꢀ Avoid racing the hybrid engine.

At

a

minimum, the gasoline you use

ꢀ Try to avoid hard stops during the first

should meet the specifications of ASTM

D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB 3.5−M93

in Canada.

However, occasionally, you may notice

light knocking for a short time while accel-

erating or driving up hills. This is normal

and there is no need for concern.

300 km (200 miles).

NOTICE

GASOLINE CONTAINING DETERGENT

ADDITIVES

Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of

leaded gasoline will cause the three−

way catalytic converter to lose its ef-

fectiveness and the emission control

system to function improperly. Also,

this can increase maintenance costs.

Toyota recommends the use of gasoline

that contains detergent additives to

avoid build−up of engine deposits.

However, all gasoline sold in the U.S.

contains detergent additives to keep clean

and/or clean intake systems.

OCTANE RATING

Select unleaded gasoline with an Oc-

tane Rating of 87 (Research Octane

Number 91) or higher.

318

QUALITY GASOLINE

OXYGENATES IN GASOLINE

GASOLINE QUALITY

Automotive manufacturers in the U.S.,

Toyota allows the use of oxygenate

blended gasoline where the oxygenate

content is up to 10% ethanol or 15%

MTBE. If you use gasohol in your

Toyota, be sure that it has an octane

rating no lower than 87.

In a very few cases, you may experience

driveability problems caused by the partic-

ular gasoline that you are using. If you

continue to have unacceptable driveability,

try changing gasoline brands. If this does

not rectify your problem, then consult your

Toyota dealer.

Europe and Japan have developed

a

specification for quality fuel named

World−Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that

is expected to be applied world wide.

The WWFC consists of four categories

that depend on required emission le-

vels. In the U.S., category 4 has been

adopted. The WWFC improves air quali-

ty by providing for better emissions in

vehicle fleets, and customer satisfaction

through better vehicle performance.

Toyota does not recommend the use of

gasoline containing methanol.

NOTICE

GASOLINE CONTAINING MMT

z Do not use gasohol other than

stated above. It will cause fuel sys-

tem damage or vehicle performance

problems.

Some gasoline contain an octane en-

hancing additive called MMT (Methylcy-

clopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).

CLEANER BURNING GASOLINE

Toyota does not recommend the use of

gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel con-

taining MMT is used, your emission con-

trol system may be adversely affected.

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the in-

strument cluster may come on. If this hap-

pens, contact your Toyota dealer for ser-

vice.

Cleaner burning gasoline, including re-

formulated gasoline that contains oxy-

genates such as ethanol or MTBE is

available in many areas.

z If drivability problems are encoun-

tered (poor hot starting, vaporizing,

engine knock, etc.), discontinue its

use.

Toyota recommends the use of cleaner

burning gasoline and appropriately blended

reformulated gasoline. These types of gas-

oline provide excellent vehicle perfor-

mance, reduce vehicle emissions, and im-

prove air quality.

z Take care not to spill gasohol dur-

ing refueling. Gasohol may cause

paint damage.

319

Operation in foreign

countries

Fuel pump shut−off system

FUEL TANK CAPACITY

If you plan to drive your Toyota in

another country...

The fuel pump shut−off system stops sup-

plying fuel to the engine to minimize the

risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls

or an airbag inflates upon collision. To

restart the hybrid system after the fuel

pump shut−off system activates, press the

“POWER” switch to the “OFF” mode and

start it.

45 L (11.9 gal., 9.9 lmp.gal.)

First, comply with the vehicle registration

laws.

The given fuel tank capacity is measured

on EPA/CARB ORVR testing condition

which is approved for nominal capacity

measurement condition.

Second, confirm the availability of the cor-

rect fuel (unleaded and minimum octane

number).

The fuel tank capacity is decreased at low

ambient temperature. (decreased by about

5

L

(1.3 gal., 1.1 lmp.gal.) at −10ꢁC

CAUTION

(14ꢁF).)

Inspect the ground under the vehicle

before restarting the hybrid system. If

you find that liquid has leaked onto

the ground, the fuel system has been

damaged and it is in need of repair.

In this case, do not restart the hybrid

system.

320

Three−way catalytic converters

NOTICE

z To ensure that the three−way cata-

lytic converter and the entire emis-

sion control system operate proper-

ly, your vehicle must receive the

periodic inspections required by the

Toyota Maintenance Schedule. For

scheduled maintenance information,

refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance

Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supple-

ment”.

A

large amount of unburned gases

flowing into the three−way catalytic

converter may cause it to overheat

and create a fire hazard. To prevent

this and other damage, observe the

following precautions:

30p001d

z Use only unleaded gasoline.

z Do not drive with an extremely low

fuel level; running out of fuel could

cause the engine to misfire, creat-

ing an excessive load on the three−

way catalytic converter.

The three−way catalytic converters are

emission control devices installed in

the exhaust system.

z Do not turn off the ignition while

the vehicle is moving.

Its purpose is to reduce pollutants in the

exhaust gas.

z Keep your engine in good running

order. Malfunctions in the engine

electrical system, electronic ignition

system/distributor ignition system

or fuel system could cause an ex-

tremely high temperature.

CAUTION

ꢀ Keep people and combustible mate-

rials away from the exhaust pipe

while the engine is running. The

exhaust gas is very hot.

z If the engine becomes difficult to

start or stalls frequently, take your

vehicle in for a check−up as soon

as possible. Remember, your Toyota

dealer knows your vehicle and its

three−way catalytic converter sys-

tem best.

ꢀ Do not drive, idle or park your ve-

hicle over anything that might burn

easily such as grass, leaves, paper

or rags.

321

Facts about engine oil

consumption

Engine exhaust cautions

FUNCTIONS OF ENGINE OIL

ꢀ Keep the back door closed while

driving. An open or unsealed back

door may cause exhaust gases to

be drawn into the vehicle.

CAUTION

Engine oil has the primary functions of

lubricating and cooling the inside of the

engine, and plays a major role in main-

taining the engine in proper working order.

ꢀ Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust.

It contains carbon monoxide, which

is a colorless and odorless gas. It

can cause unconsciousness or even

death.

ꢀ To allow proper operation of your

vehicle’s ventilation system, keep

the inlet grilles in front of the wind-

shield clear of snow, leaves, or oth-

er obstructions.

ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION

It is normal that an engine should con-

sume some engine oil during normal

engine operation. The causes of oil

consumption in a normal engine are as

follows.

ꢀ Make sure the exhaust system has

no holes or loose connections. The

system should be checked from

time to time. If you hit something,

or notice a change in the sound of

the exhaust, have the system

checked immediately.

ꢀ If you smell exhaust fumes in the

vehicle, open the windows and

close the back door to ensure

plenty of fresh air enters the ve-

hicle. If you can smell exhaust

fumes even though there are no

other vehicles in the surrounding

area, have your vehicle checked by

your Toyota dealer. Continued in-

halation of exhaust fumes can lead

to death by gas poisoning.

ꢀ Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston

rings and cylinders. A thin film of oil

is left on the cylinder wall when

a

piston moves downwards in the cylin-

der. High negative pressure generated

when the vehicle is decelerating sucks

some of this oil into the combustion

chamber. This oil as well as some part

of the oil film left on the cylinder wall

is burned by the high temperature com-

bustion gases during the combustion

process.

ꢀ Do not run the hybrid system in a

garage or enclosed area except for

the time needed to drive the vehicle

in or out. The exhaust gases cannot

escape, making this a particularly

dangerous situation.

ꢀ Do not remain for a long time in a

parked vehicle with the hybrid sys-

tem running. If it is unavoidable,

however, do so only in an uncon-

fined area and adjust the heating or

cooling system to force outside air

into the vehicle.

322

ꢀ Oil is also used to lubricate the stems

of the intake valves. Some of this oil

is sucked into the combustion chamber

together with the intake air and is

burned along with the fuel. High tem-

perature exhaust gases also burn the

oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve

stems.

As an example, if a vehicle is used for

repeated short trips, and consumes a nor-

mal amount of oil, the dipstick may not

show any drop in the oil level at all, even

after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This

is because the oil is gradually becoming

diluted with fuel or moisture, making it

appear that the oil level has not changed.

For detailed information on oil level check,

see “Checking the engine oil level” on

page 400.

The amount of engine oil consumed de-

pends on the viscosity of the oil, the

quality of the oil and the conditions the

vehicle is driven under.

The diluting ingredients evaporate out

when the vehicle is then driven at high

speeds, as on an expressway, making it

appear that oil is excessively consumed

after driving at high speeds.

More oil is consumed by high−speed driv-

ing and frequent acceleration and decel-

eration.

IMPORTANCE OF ENGINE OIL LEVEL

CHECK

A new engine consumes more oil, since

its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls

have not become conditioned.

One of the most important points in prop-

er vehicle maintenance is to keep the en-

gine oil at the optimum level so that oil

function will not be impaired. Therefore, it

is essential that the oil level be checked

regularly. Toyota recommends that the oil

level be checked every time you refuel

the vehicle.

Oil consumption: Max. 1.0 L per 1000

km (1.1 qt./600 miles, 0.9 Imp.qt./600

miles)

When judging the amount of oil con-

sumption, note that the oil may become

diluted and make it difficult to judge

the true level accurately.

NOTICE

Failure to check the oil level regularly

could lead to serious engine trouble

due to insufficient oil.

323

Coolant heat storage system

Iridium−tipped spark plugs

CAUTION

Coolant flow control

valve

ꢀ The coolant in this tank is hot even

if the engine and radiator are cold.

ꢀ For replacement of the coolant,

contact your Toyota dealer.

30p103

ꢀ Do not touch bolts (9 pieces)

painted in yellow.

ꢀ In case the bolts are loosened,

there is a risk of hot coolant com-

ing out from inside the tank.

Electric water pump

Coolant heat storage

tank

ꢀ When this has any malfunction, the

surface of this tank gets hot. To

prevent burning yourself, do not

touch the tank.

The coolant heat storage tank system

stores hot coolant and feeds it via the

electric water pump automatically to warm

the engine as required. This system helps

generate clean emissions. To confirm the

coolant heat storage system check, the

pump may operate automatically with the

vehicle stopped (in the “IG−OFF” mode).

Your engine is fitted with iridium−tipped

spark plugs.

NOTICE

Use only iridium−tipped spark plugs.

Do not adjust gaps for engine perfor-

mance or smooth drivability.

INFORMATION

D In such cases as the time of engine

starting and a short trip after the

engine is stopped, the electric water

pump will work for a moment, but

this is no problem.

Although the pump may operate and

cause noise while the vehicle is stopped,

this does not indicate a malfunction.

D This is for the preparation for good

emission.

324

Brake system

REGENERATIVE BRAKE

HYDRAULIC BRAKE

The yellow brake system warning light

may stay on for about 60 seconds after

the “IG−ON” mode is enabled. It is normal

if the light turns off after a while.

When the brake is applied, the electric

motor used as a generator converts kinet-

ic energy into electric energy.

This brake system has 3 independent hy-

draulic circuits. If either circuit should fail,

the other will still work. However, the ped-

al will be harder to press, and your stop-

ping distance will increase. Also, the

brake system warning light may come on.

Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly

may turn on the red brake system warning

light and buzzer. It is normal if the light

turns off and the buzzer stops sounding

after a few seconds.

The regenerative brake works in the fol-

lowing operations.

1. When the accelerator pedal is re-

leased, the reduced speed equal to en-

gine braking in a gasoline−fueled ve-

hicle is obtained in accordance with the

running mode position of the shift le-

ver.

CAUTION

You may hear a small sound in the engine

compartment after the hybrid system is

started or the brake pedal is depressed

Do not drive your vehicle with only a

single brake system. Have your

brakes fixed immediately.

repeatedly. This is

a

pump pulsating

2. When the brake pedal is depressed

with the shift lever in “D” or “B”, the

regenerative brake works.

sound of the brake system, and it is not

a malfunction.

BRAKE ACTUATOR

In the following conditions, you may hear

a motor sound in the engine compartment.

The brake actuator uses brake fluid pres-

surized by the pump to power−assist the

brakes. If the brake actuator fails during

driving, the brake system warning light

comes on and buzzer sounds continuous-

ly. In this case, the brakes may not work

properly. If they do not work well, depress

the brake pedal firmly. If the brake system

warning light comes on, immediately stop

your vehicle and contact your Toyota deal-

er.

ꢀ The brake pedal is depressed when the

hybrid system is turned off.

ꢀ The driver’s door is opened.

ꢀ For

a

few seconds after the hybrid

system is “OFF” and about 90 seconds

have passed.

The brake pedal stroke may be short

when you press the “POWER” switch with

the brake pedal depressed.

325

ANTI−LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

Depressing the brake pedal on slippery

road surfaces such as on a manhole cov-

er, a steel plate at a construction site,

joints in a bridge, etc. on a rainy day

tends to activate the anti−lock brake sys-

tem.

CAUTION

The anti−lock brake system is designed

to automatically help prevent lock−up of

the wheels during a sudden braking or

braking on slippery road surfaces. This

assists in providing directional stability

and steering performance of the vehicle

under these circumstances.

ꢀ Do not pump the brake pedal if the

hybrid system is not operating.

Each push on the pedal uses up

your reserved brake fluid pressure.

When the anti−lock brake system is ac-

tivated, the following condition may oc-

cur. They do not indicate a malfunction

of the system:

ꢀ Even if the power assist is com-

pletely lost, the brakes will still

work. But you will have to push the

pedal hard, much harder than nor-

mal. And your braking distance will

increase.

Effective way to press the ABS brake

pedal: When the anti−lock brake system

function is in action, the slip indicator in

the instrument cluster flashes and you

will hear a noise. In this situation, to let

the anti−lock brake system work for you,

just hold the brake pedal down more

firmly. Do not pump the brake in a panic

stop. This will result in reduced braking

performance.

ꢀ You may hear the anti−lock brake sys-

tem operating and the vibrations of the

vehicle body and steering wheel. You

may also hear the motor sound in the

engine compartment even after the ve-

hicle is stopped.

The anti−lock brake system becomes op-

erative after the vehicle has accelerated

to a speed in excess of approximately 10

km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the

vehicle decelerates to

a

speed below

approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).

326

Anti−lock brake system is not de-

signed to shorten the stopping dis-

CAUTION

Do not overestimate the anti−lock

brake system: Although the anti−lock

brake system assists in providing ve-

hicle control, it is still important to

drive with all due care and maintain

a moderate speed and safe distance

from the vehicle in front of you, be-

cause there are limits to the vehicle

stability and effectiveness of steering

wheel operation even with the anti−

lock brake system on.

tance: Always drive at

a

moderate

speed and maintain a safe distance

from the vehicle in front of you.

Compared with vehicles without an

anti−lock brake system, your vehicle

30p002b

may require

a

longer stopping dis-

tance in the following cases:

ꢀ Driving on rough, gravel or snow−

covered roads.

ꢀ Driving with tire chains installed.

Vehicle sold in U.S.A.

ꢀ Driving over the steps such as the

joints on the road.

If tire grip performance exceeds its

capability, or if hydroplaning occurs

during high speed driving in the rain,

the anti−lock brake system does not

provide vehicle control.

ꢀ Driving on roads where the road

surface is pitted or has other differ-

ences in surface height.

Install all 4 tires of specified size at

appropriate pressure: The anti−lock

brake system detects vehicle speeds

using the speed sensors for respec-

tive wheels’ turning speeds. The use

of tires other than specified may fail

to detect the accurate turning speed,

30p007b

resulting in

tance.

a

longer stopping dis-

Vehicle sold in Canada

327

“ABS” warning light

A warning light turning on briefly during

operation does not indicate a problem.

BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM

When you slam the brakes on, the

brake assist system judges as an emer-

gency stop and provides more powerful

braking for a driver who cannot hold

down the brake pedal firmly.

The light comes on when the “IG−ON”

mode is enabled. If the anti−lock brake

system works properly, the light turns

off after the “READY” light comes on.

Thereafter, if the system malfunctions,

the light comes on again.

CAUTION

If the “ABS” warning light remains on

together with the red brake system

warning light, immediately stop your

vehicle at a safe place and contact

your Toyota dealer.

When you slam the brakes on, more pow-

erful braking will be applied. At this time,

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and

the brake system warning light is off), the

anti−lock brake system does not operate,

but the brake system still operates con-

ventionally.

you may hear

a

sound in the engine

compartment. This does not indicate

malfunction.

a

In this case, not only the anti−lock

brake system will fail but also the

vehicle will become extremely unsta-

ble during braking.

The brake assist system becomes opera-

tive after the vehicle has accelerated to

a speed in excess of approximately 10

km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and

the brake system warning light is off), the

anti−lock brake system does not operate

so that the wheels could lock up during

a sudden braking or braking on slippery

road surfaces.

Any of the following conditions may oc-

cur, but does not indicate a malfunc-

tion:

vehicle decelerates to

a

speed below

approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).

For an explanation of this system’s warn-

ing light, see “Service reminder indicators

and warning buzzers” on page 125.

ꢀ The light may stay on for about 60

seconds after the “IG−ON” mode is en-

abled. It is normal if it turns off after

a while.

If any of the following conditions oc-

curs, this indicates a malfunction some-

where in the components monitored by

the warning light system. Contact your

Toyota dealer as soon as possible to

service the vehicle.

ꢀ Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly

may turn on the light. It is normal if

it turns off after a few seconds.

ꢀ The light does not come on when the

“IG−ON” mode is enabled, or the

“READY” light remains on.

ꢀ The light comes on while you are driv-

ing.

328

Brake pad wear limit

indicators

Electric power steering system

The electric power steering system, us-

ing an electric motor, assists the turn-

ing of the steering wheel.

ꢀ When the 12 volt battery is discharged

Check the 12 volt battery’s condition.

If necessary, recharge or replace the

battery. For details, see “Checking 12

volt battery condition” on page 414.

In the following cases, you may feel the

steering becomes heavy. However, the

electric power steering system warning

light does not come on. (Because it is

not a malfunction.)

ꢀ When the steering wheel is operated

with the hybrid system not to be turned

on (with the “READY” light off)

30p003

ꢀ When maneuvering the steering fre-

quently or keeping the steering wheel

turned fully while the vehicle is stopped

or moving very slowly

The 12 volt battery capacity is de-

creased temporarily. The system re-

turns to normal some time after the

hybrid system is turned on.

The power steering effect will be re-

duced to prevent the system from over-

heating. Avoid turning the steering

wheel, or stop the vehicle. When you

leave the vehicle in the “IG−ON” mode

for a while, the system will become

cool.

If there is a problem somewhere in the

electric power steering system, the warn-

ing light comes on in the multi−information

display. For details, see “Multi−information

display” on page 132.

The brake pad wear limit indicators on

your disc brakes give a warning noise

when the brake pads are worn to where

replacement is required.

If you hear a squealing or scraping noise

while driving, have the brake pads

checked and replaced by your Toyota

dealer as soon as possible. Expensive ro-

tor damage can result if the pads are not

replaced when necessary.

When you move the steering wheel, an

electrical motor noise may be heard. This

is power steering motor noise, and is not

a malfunction.

NOTICE

If you repeat the operation which will

turn on the overheating prevention

function, the electric power steering

system may be damaged.

329

Your Toyota’s identification—

—Vehicle identification

number

—Engine and motor number

Engine number

Motor number

30p005c

30p004b

30p006b

The vehicle identification number (VIN)

is the legal identifier for your vehicle.

This number is on the left top of the

instrument panel, and can be seen

through the windshield from outside.

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is

also on the Certification Label.

The engine and motor number plates

are installed on the engine and trans-

axle case as shown.

This is the primary identification number

for your Toyota. It is used in registering

the ownership of your vehicle.

330

Suspension and chassis

Theft prevention labels

Your new vehicle carries theft preven-

tion labels which are approximately 47

mm (1.85 in.) by 12 mm (0.47 in.).

CAUTION

Do not modify the suspension/chassis

with lift kits, spacers, springs, etc. It

can cause dangerous handling charac-

teristics, resulting in loss of control.

The purpose of these labels is to reduce

the incidence of vehicle thefts by facilitat-

ing the tracing and recovery of parts from

stolen vehicles. The label is designed so

that once it is applied to a surface, any

attempt to remove it will result in destroy-

ing the integrity of the label. Transferring

these labels intact from one part to anoth-

er, will be impossible.

NOTICE

You should not attempt to remove the

theft prevention labels as it may vio-

late certain state or federal laws.

331

Tire information—

—Tire symbols (Standard tire)

This illustration indicates typical tire

symbols.

1. Tire size—For details, see “Tire

size” on page 336.

2. DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)—For details, see

“DOT and Tire Identification Num-

ber (TIN)” on page 335.

3. Location of tread wear indica-

tors—For details, see “Checking

and replacing tires” on page 407.

4. Tire ply composition and materi-

als—Plies mean a layer of rubber−

coated parallel cords. Cords mean

the strands forming the plies in the

tire.

30p101

5. Summer tire or all season

tire—An all season tire has “M+S”

on the sidewall. A tire not marked

with “M+S” is a summer tire. For

details, see “Types of tires” on

page 345.

332

6. Radial tires or bias−ply tires—A

radial tire has “RADIAL” on the

sidewall. The tire not marked with

“RADIAL” is a bias−ply tire.

7. “TUBELESS” or “TUBE TYPE”

—A tubeless tire does not have a

tube inside the tire and air is direct-

ly filled in the tire. A tube type tire

has a tube inside the tire and the

tube maintains the air pressure.

8. Load limit at maximum cold tire

inflation pressure—For details,

see “Checking and replacing tires”

on page 407.

9. Maximum cold tire inflation

pressure—This means the pres-

sure to which a tire may be in-

flated. For recommended cold tire

inflation pressure, see “Tires” on

page 429.

10. Uniform tire quality grading—

For details, see “Uniform tire quali-

ty grading” that follows.

333

—Tire symbols

(Compact spare tire)

This illustration indicates typical tire

symbols.

1. “TEMPORARY USE ONLY”—A

compact spare tire is identified by

the phrase “TEMPORARY USE

ONLY” molded into its sidewall.

This tire is designed for temporary

emergency use only. For details,

see “Compact spare tire” on page

362.

2. Tire size—For details, see “Tire

size” on page 336.

3. DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)—For details, see

“DOT and Tire Identification Num-

ber (TIN)” on page 335.

30p104a

4. Location of tread wear indica-

tors—For details, see “Checking

and replacing tires” on page 407.

5. Load limit at maximum cold tire

inflation pressure—For details,

see “Checking and replacing tires”

on page 407.

334

—DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)

6. Maximum cold tire inflation

pressure—This means the pres-

sure to which a tire may be in-

flated. For recommended cold tire

inflation pressure, see “Tires” on

page 429.

The “DOT” symbol certifies that the

tire conforms to applicable Federal

Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

21A009a

7. Tire ply composition and materi-

als—Plies mean a layer of rubber−

coated parallel cords. Cords mean

the strands forming the plies in the

tire.

8. “TUBELESS” or “TUBE TYPE”

—A tubeless tire does not have a

tube inside the tire and air is direct-

ly filled in the tire. A tube type tire

has a tube inside the tire and the

tube maintains the air pressure.

This illustration indicates typical DOT

and Tire Identification Number (TIN).

1. “DOT” symbol

2. Tire Identification Number (TIN)

9. Radial tires or bias−ply tires—A

radial tire has “RADIAL” on the

sidewall. The tire not marked with

“RADIAL” is a bias−ply tire.

3. Tire manufacturer’s identification

mark

4. Tire size code

5. Manufacturer’s optional tire type

code (3 or 4 letters)

6. Manufacturing week

7. Manufacturing year

335

—Tire size

—Name of each section of tire

30p102

21A007a

21A006a

This illustration indicates typical tire

size.

1. Section width

1. Bead

2. Tire height

2. Sidewall

3. Shoulder

4. Tread

1. Tire use (P=Passenger car,

T=Temporary use)

3. Wheel diameter

2. Section width (in millimeters)

5. Belt

3. Aspect ratio (tire height to section

width)

6. Inner liner

7. Reinforcing rubber

8. Carcass

9. Rim lines

10. Bead wires

11. Chafer

4. Tire construction code (R=Radial,

D=Diagonal)

5. Wheel diameter (in inches)

6. Load index (2 digits or 3 digits)

7. Speed symbol (alphabet with one

letter)

336

—Uniform tire quality grading

This information has been prepared

in accordance with regulations issued

by the National Highway Traffic Safe-

ty Administration of the U.S. Depart-

ment of Transportation. It provides

the purchasers and/or prospective

purchasers of Toyota vehicles with in-

formation on uniform tire quality grad-

ing.

Tread wear—The tread wear grade

is a comparative rating based on the

wear rate of the tire when tested un-

der controlled conditions on a speci-

fied government test course. For ex-

ample, a tire graded 150 would wear

one and a half (1−1/2) times as well

on the government course as a tire

graded 100. The relative performance

of tires depends upon the actual

conditions of their use, however, and

may depart significantly from the

norm due to variations in driving hab-

its, service practices and differences

in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA, A, B, C—The traction

grades, from highest to lowest, are

AA, A, B, and C, and they represent

the tire’s ability to stop on wet pave-

ment as measured under controlled

conditions on specified government

test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.

A tire marked C may have poor trac-

tion performance.

Your Toyota dealer will help answer

any questions you may have as you

read this information.

Warning: The traction grade assigned

to this tire is based on braking

(straight ahead) traction tests and

does not include cornering (turning)

traction.

DOT quality grades—All passenger

car tires must conform to Federal

Safety Requirements in addition to

these grades. Quality grades can

be found where applicable on the

tire sidewall between tread shoul-

der and maximum section width.

For example: Treadwear 200 Trac-

tion AA Temperature A.

337

Temperature A, B, C—The tempera-

ture grades are A (the highest), B,

and C, representing the tire’s resis-

tance to the generation of heat and

its ability to dissipate heat when

tested under controlled conditions on

a specified indoor laboratory test

wheel. Sustained high temperature

can cause the material of the tire to

degenerate and reduce tire life, and

excessive temperature can lead to

sudden tire failure. The grade C cor-

responds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must

meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B

and A represent higher levels of per-

formance on the laboratory test wheel

than the minimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grades for

this tire are established for a tire that

is properly inflated and not over-

loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-

tion, or excessive loading, either sep-

arately or in combination, can cause

heat buildup and possible tire failure.

338

—Glossary of tire terminology

Tire related term

Meaning

tire inflation pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours

or more, or it has not been driven more than 1.5 km or 1 mile under that

condition

Cold tire inflation pressure

the maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated and it is

shown on the sidewall of the tire

Maximum inflation pressure

Recommended inflation pressure

cold tire inflation pressure recommended by a manufacturer

the combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced)

of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, pow-

er seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as

factory−installed equipment (whether installed or not)

Accessory weight

Curb weight

the weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum

capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and addi-

tional weight optional engine

the sum of—

(a) curb weight;

(b) accessory weight;

(c) vehicle capacity weight; and

(d) production options weight

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

Normal occupant weight

68 kg (150 lb.) times the number of occupants specified in the second column

of Table 1 that follows

339

Tire related term

Meaning

the combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over

2.3 kg (5 lb.) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not pre-

viously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty

brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim

Production options weight

Vehicle capacity weight

(Total load capacity)

the rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kg (150 lb.) times the vehicle’s desig-

nated seating capacity

(A) the sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears

manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper

than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or

Intended outboard sidewall

(B) the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular

side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle

distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table

1 that follows

Occupant distribution

Rim

a metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads

are seated

Rim diameter (Wheel diameter)

Rim size designation

Rim type designation

Rim width

nominal diameter of the bead seat

rim diameter and width

the industry of manufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code

nominal distance between rim flanges

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle

its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two

Vehicle maximum load on the tire

340

Tire related term

Vehicle normal load on the tire

Weather side

Meaning

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle

its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight

(distributed in accordance with Table 1 that follows) and dividing by two

the surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire

Table 1– Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating capacities

Designated seating capacity, number Vehicle normal load, number of occu- Occupant distribution in a normally

of occupants

2 through 4

5 through 10

pants

loaded vehicle

2

3

2 in front

2 in front, 1 in second seat

341

Cargo and luggage—

—Stowage precautions

Vehicle load limits

NOTICE

Vehicle load limits include total load

capacity, seating capacity, towing ca-

pacity and cargo capacity. Follow the

load limits shown below. Total load ca-

pacity and seating capacity are also

described on the tire and loading in-

formation label. For location of the tire

and loading information label, see

“Checking tire inflation pressure” on

page 405.

When stowing cargo and luggage in

the vehicle, observe the following:

Even if the number of occupants

are within the seating capacity,

do not exceed the total load ca-

pacity.

ꢀ Put cargo and luggage in the lug-

gage compartment when at all

possible. Be sure all items are se-

cured in place.

Towing capacity

ꢀ Be careful to keep the vehicle bal-

anced. Locating the weight as far

forward as possible helps maintain

balance.

Toyota does not recommend towing

a trailer with your vehicle. Your ve-

hicle is not designed for trailer towing.

Total load capacity:

365 kg (810 lb.)

Total load capacity means combined

weight of occupants, cargo and lug-

gage.

Cargo capacity

ꢀ For better fuel economy, do not

Cargo capacity may increase or de-

crease depending on the size (weight)

and the number of occupants. For de-

tails, see “Capacity and distribution”

that follows.

carry unneeded weight.

CAUTION

Seating capacity:

Total 5 (Front 2, Rear 3)

ꢀ To prevent cargo and luggage

from sliding forward during

braking, do not stack anything

in the luggage compartment.

Keep cargo and luggage low,

as close to the floor as pos-

sible.

Seating capacity means the maximum

number of occupants whose esti-

mated average weight is 68 kg (150

lb.) per person. Depending on the

weight of each person, the seating ca-

pacity given may exceed the total

load capacity.

CAUTION

Do not apply the load more than

each load limit. That may cause

not only damage to the tires, but

also deterioration to the steering

ability and braking ability, which

may cause an accident.

342

—Capacity and distribution

Cargo capacity depends on the to-

tal weight of the occupants.

NOTICE

ꢀ Never allow anyone to ride in

the luggage compartment. It is

not designed for passengers.

They should ride in their seats

with their seat belts properly

fastened. Otherwise, they are

much more likely to suffer seri-

ous bodily injury, in the event

of sudden braking or a colli-

sion.

Do not load the vehicle beyond

the vehicle capacity weight giv-

en in Section 9.

(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capac-

ity) – (Total weight of occupants)

STEPS FOR DETERMINING COR-

RECT LOAD LIMIT

1. Locate the statement “The com-

bined weight of occupants and car-

go should never exceed XXX

pounds” on your vehicle’s placard.

ꢀ Do not place anything on the

luggage cover. Such items may

be thrown about and possibly

injure people in the vehicle

during sudden braking or an

accident. Secure all items in a

safe place.

2. Determine the combined weight of

the driver and passengers that will

be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of

the driver and passengers from

XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.

ꢀ Do not drive with objects left

on top of the instrument panel.

They may interfere with the

driver’s field of view. Or they

may move during sharp vehicle

acceleration or turning, and im-

pair the driver’s control of the

vehicle. In an accident they

may injure the vehicle occu-

pants.

343

4. The resulting figure equals the

available amount of cargo and lug-

gage load capacity. For example,

if the “XXX” amount equals 1400

lbs. and there will be five 150 lb.

passengers in your vehicle, the

amount of available cargo and lug-

gage load capacity is 650 lbs.

(1400–750 (5x150)=650 lbs).

Toyota does not recommend towing

a trailer with your vehicle. Your ve-

hicle is not designed for trailer towing.

Cargo

capacity

5. Determine the combined weight of

luggage and cargo being loaded on

the vehicle. That weight may not

safely exceed the available cargo

and luggage load capacity calcu-

lated in Step 4.

Total load

capacity

EXAMPLE ON YOUR VEHICLE

In case that 2 people with the com-

bined weight of 166 kg (366 lb.) are

riding in your vehicle with the total

load capacity of 365 kg (810 lb.), the

available amount of cargo and lug-

gage load capacity will be as follows:

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trail-

er, load from your trailer will be

transferred to your vehicle. Consult

this manual to determine how this

reduces the available cargo and

luggage load capacity of your ve-

hicle.

365 kg – 166 kg = 199 kg.

(810 lb. – 366 lb. = 444 lb.)

From this condition, if 3 more passen-

gers with the combined weight of 176

kg (388 lb.) get on, the available car-

go and luggage load will be reduced

as follows:

344

Types of tires

199 kg – 176 kg = 23 kg.

(444 lb. – 388 lb. = 56 lb.)

Determine what kind of tires your

vehicle is originally equipped with.

CAUTION

As shown in the above example, if the

number of occupants increases, the

cargo and luggage load equaling the

combined weight of occupants who

got on later must be reduced. In other

words, if the increase in the number

of occupants causes the excess of

the total load capacity (combined

weight of occupants plus cargo and

luggage load), you have to reduce the

cargo and luggage on your vehicle.

1. All season tires

Even if the total load of occu-

pant’s weight and the cargo load

is less than the total load capac-

ity, do not apply the load uneven-

ly. That may cause not only dam-

age to the tire but also deteriora-

tion to the steering ability due to

unbalance of the vehicle, causing

an accident.

All season tires are designed to pro-

vide better traction in snow and to be

adequate for driving in most winter

conditions, as well as for use all year

round.

All season tires, however, do not have

adequate

traction

performance

compared with snow tires in heavy or

loose snow. Also, all season tires fall

short in acceleration and handling

performance compared with summer

tires in highway driving.

For details about total load capacity,

see “Vehicle load limits” on page 342.

345

2. Summer tires

CAUTION

Summer tires are high−speed capabil-

ity tires best suited to highway driving

under dry conditions.

ꢀ Do not mix summer and all sea-

son tires on your vehicle as

this can cause dangerous han-

dling characteristics, resulting

in loss of control.

Since summer tires do not have the

same traction performance as snow

tires, summer tires are inadequate for

driving on snow−covered or icy roads.

For driving on snow−covered or icy

roads, we recommend using snow

tires. If installing snow tires, be sure

to replace all four tires.

ꢀ Do not use tire other than the

manufacturer’s

designated

tires, and never mix tires or

wheels of the sizes different

from the originally equipped

tires and wheels.

The details about how to distinguish

summer tires from all season tires are

described on page 332.

346

INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR TOYOTA for Your Toyota Prius 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2009)

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