Electric Power Steering System; Brake Pad Wear Limit Indicators - Toyota 2006 Prius Owner's Manual

Electric power steering system

The electric power steering system, us-
ing an electric motor, assists the turn-
ing of the steering wheel.
In the following cases, you may feel the
steering becomes heavy. However, the
electric power steering system warning
light does not come on. (Because it is
not a malfunction.)
D
When maneuvering the steering fre-
quently or keeping the steering wheel
turned fully while the vehicle is stopped
or moving very slowly
The power steering effect will be re-
duced to prevent the system from over-
heating. Avoid turning the
wheel, or stop the vehicle. When you
leave the vehicle in the "IG−ON" mode
for a while, the system will become
cool.
NOTICE
If you repeat the operation which will
turn on the overheating prevention
function, the electric power steering
system may be damaged.
D
When the 12 volt battery is discharged
Check the 12 volt battery's condition.
If necessary, recharge or replace the
battery. For details, see "Checking 12
volt battery condition" on page 414.
D
When the steering wheel is operated
with the hybrid system not to be turned
on (with the "READY" light off)
The 12 volt battery capacity is de-
creased temporarily. The system re-
turns to normal some time after the
hybrid system is turned on.
If there is a problem somewhere in the
electric power steering system, the warn-
steering
ing light comes on in the multi−information
display. For details, see "Multi−information
display" on page 132.
When you move the steering wheel, an
electrical motor noise may be heard. This
is power steering motor noise, and is not
a malfunction.
Brake pad wear limit
indicators
30p003
The brake pad wear limit indicators on
your disc brakes give a warning noise
when the brake pads are worn to where
replacement is required.
If you hear a squealing or scraping noise
while driving, have the brake
checked and replaced by your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible. Expensive ro-
tor damage can result if the pads are not
replaced when necessary.
pads
329