The car battery in a Toyota Prius is not under the hood like in most cars. You'll find the 12-volt auxiliary battery in the trunk or cargo area. To access it, open the liftgate and look on the right-hand side (passenger side) behind a trim panel. The main hybrid battery pack, which powers the electric motor, is located under the rear seat.
It's crucial to know which battery you're dealing with. The smaller 12V battery starts the car's computer systems, while the large high-voltage hybrid battery (often called the traction battery) is what makes the Prius a hybrid. Due to the extreme danger of the high-voltage system, you should never attempt to service the hybrid battery yourself.
Accessing the 12V Battery:
- Open the rear liftgate.
- On the passenger side, you'll see a rectangular trim panel.
- This panel is usually held by clips or a screw. You may need a trim tool or screwdriver to remove it carefully.
- Once the panel is off, the 12V battery will be visible. You'll see the positive and negative terminals for jump-starting or replacement.
| Battery Type | Location | Primary Function | Voltage | Professional Service Required? |
|---|
| 12V Auxiliary Battery | Trunk/Cargo Area (Right Side) | Powers computers, lights, radio | 12V | No (for jump-start/replacement) |
| Hybrid Traction Battery | Under the Rear Seat | Powers electric motor for propulsion | 200V+ | Yes, absolutely |
If you need to jump-start your Prius, you use the 12V battery terminals under the hood, but the physical battery is always in the back. Consult your owner's manual for the exact procedure and safety warnings.
