If the “Check Hybrid System” warning light on the dashboard comes on, it may indicate that your Prius has an engine or electrical problem, or it may simply be a system error. There are various reasons why the light is on and the fix depends on the source of the problem. We'll answer some of the most common questions about how to check the hybrid system on a Prius to help you understand the problem and find the best solution.
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Question 1 of 6: Why does the “check hybrid system” warning light come on on a Prius?
Step 1. This light indicates a problem with the car's hybrid system
Your Prius may have a full hybrid system that uses an electric battery-powered motor and a gas-fueled engine to run it. When the “Check Hybrid System” light is on, it indicates that the warning system on your car has detected a problem. The problem can be something as trivial as a faulty spark plug, or something more serious like a problem with the alternator.
Sometimes, a system error can also cause the light to come on even if there's really no problem at all. If this happens, you just need to restart the car to solve the problem
Question 2 of 6: Is it okay to drive a Prius with the warning light on?
Step 1. No, you must not ignore the warning light
Even if the car can still be driven when the lights are on, you can cause more damage to the car. If the light goes out after you restart the car engine, contact a towing service or drive the car to the nearest authorized repair shop as soon as possible. If there is a problem, faster handling can save a lot of time and money in the long run.
Question 3 of 6: How do I reset the warning light on a Prius?
Step 1. Try to stop the car and turn off the engine for a few minutes
If the hybrid warning light comes on while you are driving, pull over in a safe area. Turn off the car and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. After that, try to restart the car to reset it. If the warning light is off, it may be due to a system error and there is no damage to your car. However, if the light is still on, there may be a problem with your Prius.
Step 2. Check for a faulty fuse that might be the source of the problem
If the fault warning light is still on after the reset, check the car's fuse to make sure it doesn't burn. Check under the hood or dashboard for the fuse box. Look for damaged or discolored filaments. Replace the faulty fuse with a new fuse of the same type and check if this fixes the problem.
Step 3. Take the Prius to an authorized repair shop to scan the code
If you can't find the source of the problem with your Prius, ask a mechanic for help. They can access the computer system in the car and scan it for the source of the problem.
Question 4 of 6: How do I check the Prius hybrid battery?
Step 1. Connect the OBD2 adapter to the Prius car
The OBD2 adapter is specially designed to read the computer system on the Prius and find the source of the problem in the battery. Remove the small panel under the lower right dashboard near the steering wheel to access the connector ports. After that, connect the adapter with that port.
Step 2. Use the Dr Prius app to check battery status
Visit the app store on your smartphone or device and download the Dr. app. Prius for free. Connect the app to the OBD2 adapter via Bluetooth or WiFi. After that, enter the application to check if the OBD2 adapter detects a problem or damage to the battery.
- If the battery is working fine, the problem may lie elsewhere.
- Take the Prius to a repair shop if there is a problem with the battery.
Step 3. Take the Prius to an authorized dealer or mechanic as the easiest option
If you can still drive a Prius with a problem, take it to a repair shop to check the system and find the source of the problem with the battery. If you can't drive a Prius with a problem, you can call an authorized repair shop for an in-house battery check service.
Diagnostic tests usually cost around IDR 1,200,000
Question 5 of 6: Why won't my Prius start?
Step 1. Usually, this problem is caused by the alternator, starter or battery
Problems with these three devices are a common cause why your Prius won't start. Fixing the problem can be done by replacing the parts, cleaning the connections, or repairing the system. Because there are many things that can cause damage, you should do a total inspection through the services of a mechanic at an authorized Toyota repair shop.
Step 2. The engine oil may be too full
The Prius owner's manual is very useful in helping you figure out what type of oil to use in your car. However, because the Prius is very sensitive to the amount of oil added, the engine will automatically shut down if you add too much oil. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the car engine is not damaged. If no other problems are detected on your Prius, it may be due to oil. Try to suck it up and refill the car's oil or ask an authorized mechanic to change the oil.
Question 6 of 6: Is my Prius a Toyota recalled car?
Step 1. You can find the information via
Visit the website and enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) in the search field. Check the results to find out if your Prius got a recall order. If so, contact your dealer to find out what steps you need to take next.
