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Does the Prius "recharge" in Park?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by LulzChicken, Oct 21, 2009.

  1. LulzChicken

    LulzChicken Prius Enthusiast

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    Hey guys, I have a quick question for you. Say if I keep my car on for an extended amount of time in park and the battery gets low, will the engine kick in and re-charge its self or is this only in Drive? I thought I read somewhere that it will not charge in Park. Thanks for any information!
     
    #1 LulzChicken, Oct 21, 2009
  2. TonyPSchaefer

    TonyPSchaefer Your Friendly Moderator
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    The quick answer is "YES".

    Some of the guys at car shows and hybrid events leave their cars on all day. The ICE cycles on and off as needed to keep the battery at a decent state of charge.

    A few here have admitted that they might have left the car ON overnight in the garage. Oops! No harm no foul. Just don't make it a habit.
     
    #2 TonyPSchaefer, Oct 21, 2009
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  3. pinzvidz

    pinzvidz Junior Member

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    Yep as above. An example of the one we had in our yard (which was sold recently) in park, A/C set to 21 degrees, on a warmish day about 26 degrees, ICE would kick in approx. every 8-10 mins, run for about 1-2 mins, and repeat the cycle.
     
    #3 pinzvidz, Oct 21, 2009
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  4. Blind Guy

    Blind Guy New Member

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    David (aka Blind Guy)
     
    #4 Blind Guy, Oct 21, 2009
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  5. LulzChicken

    LulzChicken Prius Enthusiast

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    Thanks guys, I appreciate the quick and friendly answers! As to David^^ your probably right that I read about it being in Neutral and wont be able to charge. Thanks!
     
    #5 LulzChicken, Oct 21, 2009
  6. patsparks

    patsparks An Aussie perspective

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    As above, Yep!

    I slept in my Prius on a trip to Townsville (3000km) and left the car in ready mode in park and the heater on to reduce chill factor. The engine cycles when needed to warm the engine and charge the battery.

    To stop any surge when the engine kicks on engage park brake, apply some throttle in drive but not enough to start the ICE then hit park. This loads the park pawl against the park brake and prevents the car from moving when the ICE starts.

    Happy camping!
     
    #6 patsparks, Oct 21, 2009
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  7. LulzChicken

    LulzChicken Prius Enthusiast

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    ahhh okay, good tips! I was wondering if anyone could estimate how much gas leaving the car in park for lets say.. 12 hours would consume? I just don't want to wake up and be out of gas! Of course, I could just make sure I fill up before I leave it on for a long amount of time but I would still feel better if I knew how much gas it would burn. I know certain circumstances would differ the gas usage but, any input would be greatly appreciated. :)
     
    #7 LulzChicken, Oct 21, 2009
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