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Winter time vacation (Prius left in the cold)

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Richie-MA, Aug 5, 2014.

  1. Richie-MA

    Richie-MA Junior Member

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    there will be 2 occasions when I may need to leave my Prius in the cold weather this winter one for about 2 weeks and another for a month. Do I need to do anything special for this? I am new to the Prius, I have left my old car with no issues but want to check in here on this. Sorry if this was asked before. Thanks 2008 Prius
     
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    The main issue is that the 12V battery probably will be dead after one month, if it is not in perfect condition and fully-charged prior to your trip.
     
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  3. wjtracy

    wjtracy Senior Member

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    On a Gen2 the Smart Key System (SKS) can discharge the 12v on standing.
    There is a button under the steering column to turn off the SKS system, which I use for 1-week or two down times.
    Don't know what I'd do for a month, but some would disconnect battery or use a trickle charger.

    The other thing I seem to notice after standing one week, is my HV battery goes into purple right away, espically if air cond is on. In the future, I am going to try to remember to let the car idle to warm up after a long down period, before I drive off.
     
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  4. Richie-MA

    Richie-MA Junior Member

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    Thanks for your insights!!
     
  5. Easy Rider 2

    Easy Rider 2 Senior Member

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    Will it be inside or outside during these periods of non-use ?

    Either way, having both batteries near to full charge when parked will help.

    If it's inside, a ~$25 battery tender will ensure the 12 V is cared for and the traction battery should be fine without any special attention.
     
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  6. Richie-MA

    Richie-MA Junior Member

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    Thanks Easy Rider 2, the 2 week one it will be at an parking lot near an airport. The one for a month it will be in a carport, near an outlet.
     
  7. Easy Rider 2

    Easy Rider 2 Senior Member

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    IF.....the battery is fully charged when you park it, it should be OK for 2 weeks.
    That should be a good test though.
     
  8. Richie-MA

    Richie-MA Junior Member

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    Thanks, I appreciate it.