FIXONICBefore you begin
Jumpstarting a hybrid can be confusing, especially if the 12V battery isn't under the hood, but it's not impossible! Here's a step-by-step guide on jumpstarting a Toyota Prius, so you can rest assured that you're perfectly capable.
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2009-2015 Toyota Prius Technique
Jumpstarting a hybrid can be confusing,...
iFixit Library 2009-2015 Toyota Prius
Easy
10 - 20 minutes
Guide 169538
Licensed iFixit integration
This attributed iFixit guide is displayed through Fixonic's recorded commercial API permission. iFixit remains the independent source and author of the procedure.
Repair step
- Open the hood of the car and locate the fuse box.
Repair step
- Remove the fuse box cover, and find the emergency jump point, which is red and labeled. Remove the cover.
Repair step
- Attach the positive clamp of your jumper cables to the jump point, in the fuse box.
Repair step
- Connect the second red clamp to the positive terminal of the car you're using to jump-start the Prius
Repair step
- Connect the black clamp to the negative terminal on the car being used to jump-start your car
Repair step
- Connect the remaining black (negative) clamp to the ground located on the left side of the Prius engine.
Repair step
No step image supplied by iFixit.
- Start the engine of the second vehicle, press the gas pedal slightly, and keep that speed for around 5 minutes, to give the car a chance to recharge your dead battery.
Repair step
No step image supplied by iFixit.
- While the second car is still running, turn your Prius on, making sure it's both on and a ready light is illuminated. Consult your owner's manual on how to engage the vehicle without starting the hybrid system if needed, then engage the hybrid system after the power turns on.
Repair step
No step image supplied by iFixit.
- Do not turn the Prius off! Remove the jumper cables while the vehicle is running. Then, turn the second car off, and remove those cables.
- Remember, you need to drive the car you just jump started for at least 30 minutes to give the 12V battery time to recharge. Get your battery checked right away and replace it if needed so this doesn't happen again.