Is it normal to always have to use the parking brake?

The Gen II manual refers to a "hill holder", but it's really just augmented automatic creep.

Tom

 

D'ohh!! Sorry.

 

A properly functioning passenger car doesn't need power brakes to be stopped by any able-bodied adult driver, or even a person of disability who has decent leg strength. The feather touch may vanish, but if the design meets federal requirements, then brute force on the brake pedal will still work even when no power assist is available.

But Gen3 Prii don't even need to be in Ready to turn on the brake's power boost. Is Gen2 different?

 

Gen2 does not need to be in ready for brakes power boost it auto boosts as system pressure reduces. It is also activated when the drivers door is opened.

 

I wouldn't worry about that either. You don't have to use it--only if you feel unsettled by the free-play on the pawl.

My Mom never uses the parking brake on her '07, even on hills. It feels a little funny to me, and I cringe at the "clunk" of shifting into drive after the pawl's been holding the car, but it's never been a problem.

If the others who drive your car park so close to things that it might roll into them in Park, (which is wayy too close!), it'll be such a gentle impact that it likely won't do any damage. If normal parking distances are used, there's nothing to worry about.