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Transmission (P) lock message

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Fuel Economy' started by howdi, Aug 29, 2012.

  1. howdi

    howdi New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 29, 2012
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    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    II
    Occasionally, when I try to start my 2005 Prius (196K mi), it does not start, and on the screen I get this message:
    "Transmission (P) lock mechanism is erratic. Park vehicle on level surface and fully engage parking brake." The dashboard lights go on, but there is no square around the "P".
    Since I am usually parked on a level surface, and can't start the car to change its position, I keep pressing the start button. After trying for 10 - 20 minutes, the control panel shuts off, and then the next time I press the start button, it starts and I can drive with no problem.
    Sometimes this happens when I have left the dome light on for 15 minutes or so. I have original batteries. Might this be a battery problem?
     
    #1 howdi, Aug 29, 2012
  2. dhanson865

    dhanson865 Expert and Devil's advocate

    Joined:
    May 24, 2011
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    Location:
    TN, USA
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    #2 dhanson865, Aug 29, 2012
    PriusCamper likes this.
  3. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    Mar 27, 2004
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    Location:
    United States
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
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    N/A
    #3 richard schumacher, Aug 29, 2012
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