Prius Won't Start: Causes & Fixes (2023)

Updated on August 17, 2022

The Toyota Prius has been setting the hybrid standards for years, but it’s still got an internal combustion engine at its core, and these are prone to issues.

To figure out why your Prius won’t start, check the ignition system first. If your push-button start system is not operating, check whether it can be reset or replaced. During hot weather, make sure to keep your battery clean and charged so that it does not lose its charge.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of a Prius that won’t start, and some possible fixes. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent your car from not starting in the future.

Why Doesn’t My Prius Want to Start?

If you’re like most Prius owners, you probably don’t give much thought to your car’s starting system. After all, it’s just a button push away whenever you need it.

However, if your Prius does have trouble starting, it could be due to a number of reasons. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common ones.

One reason why your Prius may not want to start is that the battery is weak or dead. If the battery is more than three years old, it may simply need to be replaced.

Another possibility is that the battery terminals are corroded, which can prevent proper electrical contact and cause starting problems.

Another potential issue is the electromotor itself. If it’s not working properly, it could be due to a number of things, including a faulty solenoid or worn-out motor. In some cases, the motor may need to be replaced.

Another possibility is that the engine’s ignition system is not working correctly. This could be due to spark plugs that are fouled or damaged, or it could be an issue with the ignition coil.

If you’re having trouble starting your Prius, it’s a good idea to have the ignition system checked by a qualified mechanic.

Finally, keep in mind that if your Prius is equipped with a push-button start, there is a chance that the problem lies within the system itself.

If you’re having trouble starting your car, it’s a good idea to take it to your local dealership or a qualified technician who can diagnose and fix the problem.

What Causes Prius Battery Problems?

The main causes of Prius battery problems are corrosion and age. Over time, the battery terminals can become corroded, which prevents proper electrical contact and can cause starting problems.

In some cases, the entire battery may need to be replaced.

How Do I Fix Battery Problems?

If your battery is more than three years old, it may simply need to be replaced. However, if the battery terminals are corroded, you can clean them with a wire brush or similar tool.

If the corrosion is severe, you may need to replace the entire battery.

How to Test a Prius Battery?

If you think your battery may be the issue, there are a few ways to test it. One is to use a voltmeter to check the voltage across the battery terminals.

If the reading is 12.6 volts or less, the battery is probably dead and needs to be replaced.

Another way to test the battery is to try starting the car with jumper cables. If the car starts, the battery is probably weak and needs to be replaced.

Finally, you can take the car to your local dealership or a qualified technician who can perform a more thorough diagnostic test.

How to Clean a Prius Battery From Corrosion?

If you own a Prius, you know that battery corrosion can be a real problem. The good news is that there are some things you can do to clean your battery and keep it from corroding. Here are some tips on how to clean a Prius battery from corrosion:

1. Use distilled water when cleaning your battery. This will help to remove any impurities that could be causing the corrosion.
2. Remove the battery from the car and disconnect it from the power source. This will allow you to access the battery more easily.
3. Use a soft cloth or wire brush to gently scrub away any corrosion that you see on the surface of the battery. Be sure to not use anything abrasive as this could damage the battery.
4. Once you have removed all of the corrosion, rinse the area with distilled water and dry it off completely.
5. Reconnect the battery to the power source and test it to make sure it is working properly.

Following these tips should help you to clean your battery and keep it from corroding in the future. If you have any concerns, be sure to take your car to a qualified mechanic for further assistance.

How Do I Fix an Ignition System Problem?

If your ignition system is not working correctly, it could be due to spark plugs that are fouled or damaged, or it could be an issue with the ignition coil.

If you’re having trouble starting your Prius, it’s a good idea to have the ignition system checked by a qualified mechanic.

How Do I Fix a Push-Button Start Problem?

If your Prius is equipped with a push-button start, there is a chance that the problem lies within the system itself. You can easily test the push-button with a multimeter by checking for continuity between the two terminals.

If there is no continuity, the push-button start system may be the issue. You can also try resetting the system by pressing and holding the button for 5 seconds.

You can easily replace it by using a screwdriver and installing a new one.

If you’re still having trouble starting your car, it’s a good idea to take it to your local dealership or a qualified technician who can diagnose and fix the problem.

How Can I Prevent Battery Problems?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent battery problems. First, make sure to keep the battery clean and free of corrosion.

Second, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, be sure to keep the battery charged during periods of extended cold or heat.

Finally, avoid letting your car sit for long periods of time without starting it. This can help prevent the battery from becoming discharged.

How Does a Hybrid Car Work?

A hybrid car is a vehicle that uses two or more different power sources to move. The most common type of hybrid car uses an internal combustion engine (ICE) combined with an electric motor and battery.

Other types of hybrids may use diesel engines or fuel cells in addition to the ICE and electric motor.

The ICE powers the car when it is started, and also kicks in when the electric motor is not providing enough power, such as when the car is accelerating or going up a hill.

The electric motor powers the car at lower speeds and also provides power to the ICE when it is running. The battery stores energy that can be used by the electric motor.

Hybrid cars get better gas mileage than traditional ICE cars because they use less fuel. They also emit less pollution because they use less fuel.

Hybrid cars are more expensive than traditional ICE cars, but the extra cost is offset by the savings in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of the car.

If you are considering buying a hybrid car, it is important to do your research to find the right vehicle for you. There are many different types and models of hybrid cars on the market, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses.

Be sure to test drive several different hybrids to find the one that best suits your needs.

What Are the Different Types of Hybrids?

There are three main types of hybrid cars: mild hybrids, full hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.

Mild hybrids are the most common type of hybrid car. They use a small electric motor to assist the ICE. The electric motor cannot power the car on its own, so the ICE must always be used.

Mild hybrids typically get better gas mileage than traditional ICE cars, but not as good as full or plug-in hybrids.

Full hybrids can run on either the ICE or the electric motor, but they use both power sources to move the car. Full hybrids typically have larger batteries than mild hybrids, which allows them to store more energy.

This extra energy can be used to power the car for short periods of time without using the ICE. Full hybrids typically get better gas mileage than mild hybrids, but not as good as plug-in hybrids.

Plug-in hybrids are similar to full hybrids, but they have a larger battery that can be plugged into an outlet to recharge. Plug-in hybrids can run on either the ICE or the electric motor, but they use both power sources to move the car.

The battery can be used to power the car for short periods of time without using the ICE. Plug-in hybrids typically get better gas mileage than mild or full hybrids.

What Are the Advantages of Hybrids?

Hybrid cars have many advantages over traditional ICE cars. They get better gas mileage, emit less pollution, and are more efficient. Hybrid cars also have a lower carbon footprint than ICE cars.

What Are the Disadvantages of Hybrids?

The biggest disadvantage of hybrid cars is the initial cost. Hybrid cars are more expensive than traditional ICE cars. However, the extra cost is offset by the savings in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of the car.

Another disadvantage of hybrid cars is that they can take longer to accelerate than traditional ICE cars. Finally, hybrid cars may not be available in all areas.

How Does a Hybrid Start the ICE?

The ICE in a hybrid car is started by the electric motor. The electric motor turns a generator, which produces electricity to power the ICE. The ICE is then started by the generator.

FAQs

How Does a Hybrid Charge Its Battery?

The battery in a hybrid car is charged by the ICE. The ICE powers the electric motor, which charges the battery. The battery can also be charged by plugging it into an outlet.

How Do Hybrids Work In Cold Weather?

In cold weather, hybrid cars may not get as good gas mileage as they do in warm weather. This is because the battery will not work as well in cold weather. However, hybrids will still emit less pollution than traditional ICE cars.

How Long Do Prius Batteries Last?

The average Prius battery will last for about 100,000 to 150,000 miles. However, if you take good care of your car and the battery, it could last even longer.

If you’re having trouble with your battery, be sure to take it to a qualified mechanic or dealership for service.

Can You Drive a Prius Without a Battery?

Yes, you can drive a Prius without a battery. However, it’s not recommended as the car will not be able to start without one. If you do find yourself in this situation, you can push-start the car by following these steps:

First, turn off all of the lights and accessories to reduce the load on the engine.

Next, put the car in second gear and release the parking brake. Have someone push the car while you hold down the brake pedal and start the engine.

Once the engine is running, slowly let off of the brake pedal and allow the car to idle for a few minutes.

Do Prius Brakes Last Longer Than Regular Cars?

Yes, Prius brakes typically last longer than those in regular cars. This is due to the regenerative braking system that charges the battery while you’re driving. Over time, this can help to extend the life of your brakes.

Conclusion

If your Prius won’t start, there are a few possible causes and fixes.

First, check the ignition system for problems. If the push-button start system is not working, you can try resetting it or replacing it. If your battery is having trouble holding a charge, be sure to keep it clean and charged during extreme temperatures.

You can also try driving the car without a battery, but this is not recommended.

Finally, remember that Prius brakes typically last longer than those in regular cars. If you’re still having trouble starting your car, take it to your local dealership or a qualified technician for help.

For more related Toyota Prius topics, here are our other posts:

Prius Check Engine Light Reset Guide

Toyota Prius Key Battery Low Warning Message

Differences Between The Prius C 1 2 3 4 Explained