2008 toyota highlander hybrid, 245,000 miles,has difficulty starting.

sceiscei Member Posts: 3
edited July 2016 in Toyota
If the car has been used daily the engine starts without a problem. if it hasnt been used for a a day or two, i have difficulty starting the car. All lights and chimes come on, battery is okay. The monitor may say check ABS and/or airbags. After multiple unsuccessful attempts if I let the car sit for an hour or so and try again it turns on. My mechanic and dealer have no clue. Is it the brake sensor or hybrid battery?
Thanks

Answers

  • texasestexases Member Posts: 10,991
    How old is the 12V battery? While it doesn't start the engine, if low it throws the electrical system off.

    Has the dealer done a hybrid battery check?

    I'd post this on a hybrid car forum like Priuschat and see what you find out.
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    If the 12V is more than 5 years old, it is suspect.
  • thecardoc3thecardoc3 Member Posts: 5,828
    The 12v battery only has to provide enough power to operate the computers and the high voltage relays. A brake switch issue could be at play since the vehicle has to see a brake input to allow the push button start to put the vehicle in the Ready mode instead of just ignition on. When you attempt to start the car and fail, does the radio as well as other accessories that only operate with the ignition on such as the power windows work?
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