2003 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 173

Winter driving tips124. D Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do not drive over 140 km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle has high-speed capability tires. Driving over 140 km/h (85 mph) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high-speed capability tires or not before driving at such speeds. Make sure you have a proper freeze protection of coolant. Your coolant must contain ethylene-glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. Use "Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant" or equivalent. See 215 page in Section 8-2 for details about coolant type selection. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold weather. See 213 page in Section 8-2 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call your Toyota dealer-he will be pleased to help. Keep the door locks from freezing. Squirt lock de-icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from freezing. Use a washer fluid containing an anti- freeze solution. This product is available at your Toyota dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much to mix with water. NOTICE Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone. When it is extremely cold, we recommend to use 60% solution for your Toyota, to provide protection down to about -50°C (-58°F). Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant performance. Check the condition of the auxiliary battery and cables. Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any auxiliary battery, so it must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter starting. Section 8-3 tells you how to visually inspect the auxiliary battery. Your Toyota dealer will be pleased to check the level of charge. D Do not continue normal driving when the brakes are wet. If they are wet, your vehicle will require a longer stopping distance, and it may pull to one side when the brakes are applied. Also, the parking brake will not hold the vehicle securely. NOTICE Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute as washer fluid because it may damage your vehicle's paint. 166