Hi All! I have been looking forward to a Prius now for about 5 months & finally bought one 3 days ago! Its 2006 in excellent condition, except the a/c & a funny issue with the key, where the key will activate the car from inside the house or if I am nearby. The key will unlock the car or start it up for a drive. Any advice here would be greatly appreciated! I look forward to learning more about how I can keep my o6 in good shape. Happy travels*
Regarding the key issue, I assume your Prius is equipped with the Smart key system. To verify, the Toyota emblem on the backside of the key fobs are chrome, there is a black square button on each of the front door outside handles and on the liftgate, and there is a "KEY" button at the bottom of the instrument panel, below the steering column. Normally, the button would be in the OUT position, enabling the Smart key functions. Pushing the button IN disables the Smart key and requires using the lock/unlock buttons on the fob and to insert the key fob into the dash slot to start the car. If there is another smart key somewhere inside the vehicle, it can be started. To check, have your smart key with you, close all the doors and liftgate, and try to lock the car by pressing the black button on the front door outside handle. If there is another smart key inside the car, it will sound a prolonged beep and not lock. You will still be able to lock the car using the lock button on the key fob.
What's wrong with the AC? Where do you live? The AC is pretty much essential to keeping the battery cool in warmer temperatures.
