I have a 2006 prius. A couple days ago, i turned on the power button, and approx. 10 seconds later the car started beeping four times. It has been happening ever since. Only after I start the car. Can someone help me? Thx.
Do you still have the original 12V battery? If so, yours is getting to that age where they often fail. Tom
As Tom wrote. A dying 12V battery is the happiest explanation for the beeping. You can check it yourself using the easy no-tools-needed procedure given here: http://priuschat.com/forums/newbie-forum/73400-weird-stuff-happening-mpgs-dropping-test-battery.html
It could also be the battery in your fob. Change that first to see if the beeps go away. It's cheaper than the 12v battery. You can also use your spare fob as a check.
Thanks to all who replied to my problem. I tried my spare fob yesterday and that wasn't the problem. And I just tested the 12v and the voltage was 12.3, so I'm 99% that is the problem My next question: Should I take it to the dealer to replace or can I have a mechanic at Sears do the job? You know how sensitive those Toyota mechanics are. Thanks again.
Sears will not have a battery to fit the Prius. I recommend getting the Toyota battery. The alternative is the Optima battery with a conversion kit. Those are your only alternatives without a lot of modifications. See this post ... http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-...eplacement-preemptive-strike.html#post1108339
Given the same data I would be more like about 1% certain (at best) on that conclusion. A 12.3 volt battery measurement does not necessarily indicate a problem.
+1 on the key fob battery running down. One relevant observation on a car with the smart key system on is that when you leave the car in READY mode, and then take the key out of the car, it will beep 4 times. If the battery is failing, the beeps may suggest that the fob signal may have been interrupted due to a dying battery (no power to transmit).
The dealer will just hose you, order the Optima battery with installation kit and have 4-8 years of peace of mind.(also change the fob battery)
