Remote Air Conditioning System - Toyota Prius Manual

Remote Air Conditioning Systems (2012 Model)

Remote Air Conditioning System

The remote air conditioning system is similar to a remote engine start system
used in a conventional gasoline vehicle to precondition the vehicle interior
while the vehicle is parked. Unlike a conventional gasoline vehicle, the Prius
Plug-in hybrid does not start the gasoline engine. Instead it utilizes the energy
stored in the High Voltage HV battery pack to operate the high voltage air
conditioning compressor to cool the vehicle interior. The system is activated
remotely by pushing the smart key A/C button and will operate for up to 10
minutes when certain conditions are met.
Safety Concerns
Since the operation of the remote air conditioning system allows high voltage
electrical flow, it is important to recognize how the system is activated,
deactivated, and disabled.
System Activation:
When the remote air conditioning system is activated, high voltage cables are
energized and high voltage electricity flows from the HV battery pack to the air
conditioning compressor. The system is operating when all of the following
conditions occur:
•
All doors are closed.
•
The instrument cluster lights are on, but the READY indicator light is
off.
•
Air is flowing from the interior vehicle vents, and the blower fan noise
may be heard.
System Deactivation:
When the system is deactivated, the high voltage cables are de-energized and
high voltage electrical flow stops from the HV battery pack. The system is
deactivated when any one of the following conditions occur:
•
After about 10 minutes of operation.
•
When the HV battery pack charge level is low.
•
When a door is opened, the hood is opened, or the brake pedal is
depressed.
•
When the smart key A/C button is pushed twice within 3 seconds.
•
When conditions for operation are not met.
System Disabling:
To disable the remote air conditioning system, first shut off the vehicle by
pushing the power button if necessary and ensuring that the READY indicator
and instrument cluster lights are off. Second, disconnect the 12 Volt auxiliary
battery. After performing these two steps, the remote air conditioning system
will be disabled and will not activate even if the smart key A/C button is pushed.
Optional Remote Air Conditioning System A/C Button
Air Conditioning
Compressor
Remote Air Conditioning System Operation (READY Indicator Off)
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A/C Button
High Voltage Flow
HV Battery
12 Volt Auxiliary
Battery