"New" 2008 Prius question

Mg1/2 are often used for braking and slow you down "as a normal engine does" when you take your foot off the accelerator, and as such will show negative power. When they are doing this they are not producing power they are using it to generate electricity.

John (Britprius)

 

That is not something to be concerned about at a steady 55mph (normal). I assume you had the cabin heater on and this would cause the engine to keep running to give heat, keeping the battery in a healthy state of charge.

John (Britprius)

 

Many here on PC would say yes, but I have found through test on a number of Prius that the reading on the MFD can be out by as much 0.5 volts. So I would check the voltage at the battery with a volt meter first to confirm the reading. You will then know how far out if any the MFD is and can adjust future readings taken with it accordingly. The Prius loads the battery somewhat if you use the single or double push of the start button without the brake pedal being pushed.

I would further charge the battery at leased overnight at a charge rate of between 2 and 4 amps (no higher as 4.5 amps is the maximum charge rate for the battery) Then let it stand and check again.

It is quite possible the car has been standing at the dealer you bought it from, and as the car discharges the battery when standing this could be the reason for the "possible" low state of charge.

If after this the battery still shows low then it is time to think about changing it. It "may" be possible to get the seller to change it for you.

I am sure there will be many more questions as you use the car. Do not hesitate to ask there are many helpful people here on PC.

John (Britprius)