Greetings, I have a 2008 Toyota Prius with 208,800 highway miles. I went to move my car a bit ago, and it won't start. I press my foot on the brake, and press the power button... The normal lights come on the dash board, but it doesn't go to READY, and all the dash lights stay on. I am thinking I may have left a dome light on. I've read some of the posts on here, but they're way over my head. I'm hoping someone can help give me some advice on where to start. Do I jump it? Should I have it towed to a mechanic? Ideas?? EDIT: Now all the gear lights (D, N, R, B, P) and gas level lights are flashing. Thanks in advance! -Nate
Well, if you did you would have turned it off, right? First things first. Use a voltmeter to check the 12 V battery voltage at either the charge point under the hood, or directly at the battery at the back. Both positions are detailed in your owner's manual.
I have the same problem for my 2008 prius. I use my car every day and sometimes i have to connect a portable charger to the 12v battery just to start it. Earlier this week i was driving on the highway and i heard a loud beep and the dashboard read "transmission" then turned off on me. I had to pull over and as soon as plugged in the charger my car started normally. Now these past two days it only works when i have the charger connected to the 12v battery im not sure why. Help please
The 12v battery is dead and needs to be changed? They don't last forever. Why did you think you had to jump start the car? The battery is dead
In addition to what JC said above, with what you have reported, I'm wondering why your 12 V battery is toast. I'm thinking you may have a DC/DC converter on the fritz. Change the 12 V battery and then take a voltage reading with the car in READY. Report back with that voltage reading.
I also, have the same problem with my 2008 Toyota Prius. I was worried I may have to replace the hydrid battery. This is a great car but I might have to let it go. I don't want to have to take it in.
