I have an 04 with HID and am wondering if the auto leveling system works properly in mine. I've had Lexus models before and still have a couple and they all do the same "bow down and aim right" beam start-up protocol when first turning on the HID. Also, when going uphill on the Prius, I don't notice the aim of the beams lowering slightly. It's very noticeable on the Lexus. Since I suspect the Toyota-Lexus systems are somewhat identical, do you fellows think my Prius auto-leveling system is not working as it should? The aim of the beams looks ok to me- it does not blind oncoming traffic- but I just don't see it "auto-leveling" when first turning it on and when the Prius is on incline/decline travel.
The Lexus have projector lenses that allow it to move and swivel. The Prius doesn't so I don't think it will do the "dance" at startup.
The auto leveling system on the Prius is designed for load. In other words, the more weight you have in the back, the more the auto leving comes in to play. You will not see a difference when driving, i.e., going over a bump, or up and down a hill. Since you have an 04 model, there have been problems with the 04-05 auto levelers. They tend to corrode and freeze in a position. There is a TSB to replace the auto-levelers. There are also several threads here and on PriusOnLine which describe the repairs you can do yourself.
The Lexus GS400 and GS430 do not have projector type HIDs but they do "dance" at startup. Does your Prius HID dance at startup?
Try shining your headlamps on a flat wall, get out, and stand on the back bumper. Your weight will press down the back of the Prius and make the lamps aim higher. In about two seconds the leveler should kick in and bring the aim spot back down. Climb off and the process will reverse. It's a simple test of basic function. Tom
