Prius II Owner FAQ


Just getting started folks!


How much gas can you squeeze in after completely draining the tank?
A: About 11.4 gallons. The tank is officially supposed to hold 11.9, but I haven't heard of anybody stuffing that much in. The tank has a flexible bladder, and several variables (like temperature) can affect the available volume of the tank.

What is "Pulse and Glide" and why doesn't every body do it and get 100mpg?
A: It is a technique that avoids use of the HV battery, and uses the small ICE at its most efficient. To do it "right" means driving slower and more erratically than you'd normally want to on public roads. However, many pieces of the technique can safely be accommodated in everyday driving to increase efficiency. A good description of the technique is here.

How do I get better mileage when I'm on the highway - driving too fast for real Pulse and glide?
A: Several things to try. See here.

How much do you have left when the E bar begins flashing?
A: It would seem that everybody's car is different in this regard. The lowest I've heard is one gallon. I'd assume half of that to avoid being one of many who've assumed otherwise.

What Yakima racks fit the Prius II?
A: Q towers and #124 pads with 58" Cross-bars.

Is there a Trailer Hitch that fits the Prius?
A: Yes, from Coastaletech. Or this one from Curt.

What is the coefficient of drag?
A: 0.26 cd. Better than most cars, nowhere near as good as the 0.19 of the EV1.

What is the factory wheel/tire size?
A: 15x6.5" rims, 5x100 bolt pattern, 45mm offset (weighs just about 13 pounds). Tires are Goodyear Integrity 185/60 15". The wheels are held on with lug nuts that require a 21mm socket.

What the hell does the "B" position on the shifter do?
A: Hobbit has done a fine job of explaining it here.

How do I reset the "Maintenance" light (oil change reminder)?
A: The oil change light will start flashing 4500 miles after the last reset to remind you that an oil change is coming up. Once at 5000 miles after the last reset, it stays on. If you change the oil yourself, or the dealer forgets to turn the light off, rather than taking it back to the dealer, do the following:

How do I get rid of the annoying beeps in reverse and when the seatbelts are not fastened?
A: See here.

Oil change. How do I do it, and what is the correct oil filter part number? Drain valve numbers?
A: Great instructions for the oil change. Filter number: YZZF2. Previous to 2006, the part number was YZZA2. The F2 has replaced the A2 and has 20% more filter area in a smaller package. Fumoto drain valve #F103 fits the Prius II. Fram #SD-3.

How do I get a new fob? How do I program it?
A: The 2006 Smart Key fob is Toyota PN 8999447061, and the lowest price was found at toyotadiscountparts.com for $150.58 (shipping included) MSRP is $200.77. The fob then needs to be programmed at the dealer, and dealer pricing for that varies widely from $35 to $125.

Good place to by Prius accessories?
A: Ebay has some great dealers, and toyotapart.com is another popular go-to place for good prices. Steve at Deland Toyota (Parts Department Toll Free at 1-800-883-2645 ext 441) has been fantastic to deal with. For a huge list of Prius-specific parts, check AutoAnything.

What light bulbs does the Prius use?
A: Bulbs

Why does my iPod hum when played through the stereo?
A: The most likely problem is ground loop feedback. Quick way to check: Play the iPod through the stereo (with a 1/8" terminated stereo cable) and just use the iPod's internal battery for power. Next try to power the iPod with a 12V power adapter plugged into the car. If the hum only happens when powered by the car, then you have a ground-loop situation. The solution is to purchase a ground loop isolator like this one from Radio Shack... or this more appropriate one from Crutchfield ....or to just play the iPod from its own battery.

What's the "start hole cover" problem, and how do I fix it?
A: Hobbit shows the problem and fix on his page here.


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