I purchased a used 2010 Prius III with 14,500 miles on it this week. So far, I have always driven in ECO mode and I have noticed that the battery meter always stays at 6 (or is it 7) bars. I've ridden around in the Prius of a friend of mine and his battery meter was constantly (or at least regularly) changing. When I've watched the energy flow display, it looks like the ICE, when on, is always (or perhaps almost always, not sure off the top) sending power to the electric motor, which in turn is always (or almost always, can't remember) sending electricity to the battery as well as the wheels. Is there something wrong with my battery meter? Would the battery meter indicator change if I used Power mode (or no mode at all?
I wouldn't worry too much about it. The Prius is well protected against faults and would throw a warning light if something was wrong. You will find that the battery will mostly be 1 or 2 bars from full (it will reach completely full only when going down long, steep hills) and will never go below 2 bars from empty before the engine comes on. This is normal as the car will try to keep the battery in a 'sweet' spot to allow for long term use. When the battery shows completely full it is only really 80%. Just enjoy your ride, make sure your tire pressures are correct and be prepared to save money p.s. Eco mode will resrict the a/c and heater output. Normal mode is when neither the green eco or power light is lit and this mode gives the best balance between economy and driveability.
Thanks Grumpy, FWIW, I just ran an errand and saw the battery level indicator move from six bars to seven, so I guess everything is working properly.
I think your OK, probably just a different (maybe better) driving style than your friend. If you wish to test it make sure it's warmed up and drive on the battery for a mile or two. Keep the speed below 45MPH (actually below 40 would be better) and keep the bar of the HSI display to the left of the center. That will draw enough current from the battery to cause it to drop 2 or 3 bars.
