How To LIVE in a PRIUS | Climate Control
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- čas přidán 26. 08. 2019
- Learn how to live in a Prius! This is the first of a series of ‘How To’ videos that cover the nitty gritty details of how to live comfortably in 117 CUBIC FEET. This video is all about climate control, particularly with regard to car camping and full-time car dwelling in a hybrid vehicle.
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#howtoliveinacar #vanlife #tinyliving #prius #climatecontrol #carlife #cardwelling #livinginaprius #priuslife #toyota #liveinacar #nomad
This is the chief reason I'm considering buying a Prius. It seems such a natural decision for a wanderer.
did you get it? any advices for a new buyer? :O
Get the Prius Prime.
Great video. I’ve been living in my Prius for the last SIX years and always looking for new faces to follow. Honestly, I feel like I struck gold with this lifestyle.
You really did!! It’s such a great lifestyle and I am happy that so many people are getting into it! 😄
Hello, what year is your prius? and from what year do you recommend me to buy it?
@@igorrosales1799 I myself have a 2016 Prius. I recommend getting 4th Generation and newer (2016 and newer) but if you’re trying to save some money, the 3rd Gen Priuses are amazing too and will last you a long time.
@@LivingBigInAPrius Hello thanks! why is the 4th generation better than the 3rd? besides of appearance of course
@@igorrosales1799 The gas mileage is better. With the 2015 Prius (last of the 3rd Gen), I averaged about 52 mpg. With the 2016 Prius, I average about 60-65 mpg. If you’re a more aggressive driver, then you’ll average about 58. The only thing I would say is better about the 3rd Gen Priuses is that you get the under-floor storage in the trunk and the cargo area is a bit wider. With the 2016, you don’t get under-floor storage unless you take the spare tire and tire kit out.
Recirculate is to get the temperature up to desired temp quicker. Leaving a/c recirculating may cause mold to occur. That applies to any vehicle.
I’m living in one for a month now. 2010 model. traveling across US. I can tell you this is luxury compared to Van dwelling which I did 3 years. No matter what climate it is outside I just didn’t care. Sleep in comfort at night was a surprised to me and since you can have the climate control running all night and windows up it’s much quieter inside.
engine on off noise won't cause you bad sleep?
@@fdsaffff I woke up when the engine kicked on the first few nights. By Day 4, it didn’t wake me. You just get used to it. But as with everyone, your results will vary and everyone’s sleep patterns are different. Only way to know is to try it.
What did I do wrong that my 2021 prius L Echo temperature control would only run for 45-50 minutes then the car will completely turn off automatically. I had to physically turn on(ready) the car several times per night. It is not helping me at all especially trying to sleep in the prius in Texas weather.
@@hmoobs1 i don’t like the priority air con. forgot what that feature calls but. its better to have the whole car conditioned. otherwise you need the air to blast at you to cool and then u get sick
@@hmoobs1 Need a 2018 or earlier my work fine in Texas Alabama
I'm proud at #toyota for caring for its costumers ❤
alexis casanova Me too! Toyota keeps making the Prius better and better! The newest one has ELECTRIC ALL-WHEEL DRIVE. That’s freaking amazing!
Amazing!! Thank you for sharing
This is so amazing-- thanks for demonstrating the unique benefits of a hybrid for car campers! Ive been reading online that the Prius Prime-- being a PHEV, has a significantly larger battery (13kw) which allows the climate control (ac/heat) to stay on with the battery for many hours (6.5hrs) before the engine turns on to recharge it! Just wanted to share-- what are ur thoughts?🎉🎉
We own a Toyota Alphard Hybrid van (sort of a luxury minivan with reclining captain seats, ottoman, etc) and while we were on our way home from a trip, a massive storm hit which prompted the port to stop ferry rides to our destination.
We had to stay inside our Alphard for-as far as I can recall-around 53 hours or so...
Honestly speaking it was a scary experience witnessing all the chaos going on outside the van while the storm hit but the next day, we felt thankful that we used that instead of our SUV since the Alphard was so much more comfortable, quiet, and efficient.
The engine only ran for a few minutes every hour with the AC on and it was a dream sleeping inside because even with the engine on you hardly hear it due to the insane noise insulation.
The built in entertainment system with TV tuner kept us up to date with the news despite the loss of cellular reception and data, we were able to plug in our laptops to watch movies as well.
We took baths at a nearby gas station and throughout the whole ordeal (the vehicle was on 24/7) our driver was so impressed because in a span of 53 hours he estimated that the Alphard consumed roughly 13-16 litres of gas.
Yes, with the AC and various electronics plugged into the power outlet (including a Makita cooler) 24/7.
Needless to say, my Dad was really impressed when I told him about it the moment we arrived.
If you guys plan on doing camping and stuff without sacrificing space and comfort (albeit a bit less efficient in terms of mileage) then the Toyota Alphard is the way to go.
I wouldn’t mind getting stuck in the middle of nowhere as long as I’m inside this awesome minivan, it’s like riding a business class flight for a few days lol-fun and comfortable.
That’s totally awesome!!! 😃😮✌️ Thanks for sharing!
Good video. I have the 07 prius so a little older. I'm thinking about car living in sf and having a go at it. Worst thing is I drive home knowing I gave it a shot. I could probably double my income
Nicholas Cherry Good for you! I say go for it! Once you get used to the lifestyle, you’ll find things become much simpler and cheaper. 👍
@@LivingBigInAPrius I'm confused why keep it lower temperature in the winter and higher temperature in the summer? Summer would be my biggest worry. Shouldn't it be opposite? Also do any of the the new Toyota 4 runners have climate control?
NorthlandDWJ It’s all about conserving energy. You apply the same concept to saving energy in a home. The higher the temperature you maintain on your house’s thermostat in the summer, the less energy you burn through. The colder the temperature you maintain in the winter, the less energy you burn through. It’s the same thing with a hybrid car. But there are no rules, just preferences. You can certainly set the temperature to whatever you feel comfortable with regardless of season. You will just use more gas if you increase the disparity between the inside temperature and the outside temperature because the car has to work harder to maintain that temperature. When you’re living in your car, gas becomes precious, so you tend to find ways to conserve it. That’s why I gave that advice. 🌻 Thank you for your question! 😃
You are awesome! Thanks for the great video
You are very welcome, and thank you!! :D
RAV4 hybrids , or Prius V ,will be the next ride I get. I want to hack it pop-up roof installed ,want to make it where I can hang a hammock inside.
Not sure I will ever do that. Own my place $12K half mile from all I need, Google Morgan city Jr high 70380 look around you will see what I mean.
l don't need the car I own $2K 2001grand Marquis . Tax I mean insurance $504 a year or $1.38 a day . That is what it costs me to smoke when I was a teen ? ,
Got a prius 3 and it's so spacious and amazing mileage plus camping.
Awesome!!! Enjoy it! 😎
Best explanation I have seen. Thank you.
Thanks!! :)
This has been around for over a decade and I never heard of it on any of the van life channels. This seems like a game changer. Comfort > space
If you leave recirculate on all the time you’re gonna have a lot of moisture buildup in the car and you might start getting some olden places. I have a suburban and I had to use recirculate because the car is so big to heat or cool so I was researching that and heard that. They said at the end of your drive maybe the last few minutes or 10 minutes of your drive have your windows open or turn it to vent to get that moisture out. So I thought I would apply that to my brand new Prius! Can’t wait to hit the road first night sleeping in it last night can’t wait to get a mattress LOL
As long as I have the air conditioning on (which I always do), I don’t have any moisture issues. But I do occasionally open a window just to get some fresh air flowing. 😊 Thanks for watching and CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW PRIUS!! 🎉 😃✌️🌻🌎💜
My next video will be How to SLEEP in a PRIUS so that should help you in your transition as well! Stay tuned! ✨
Hello! could you tell us how was your experience with your prius adventure ? What year is it? thanks
@@igorrosales1799 yes I’d love the Prius for the whole six weeks I had it somebody hit me and it totaled it I was so excited watching the mileage getting 50 miles a gallon I was already sleeping in it for those six weeks cause my intention was to travel in it and I was downsizing from my suburban to the Prius well maybe there’s another Prius in my future. I shifted over to a Toyota sienna which is a big change from the suburban and I love it I loved my suburban I loved my Prius and I love my minivan! I hope you all have wonderful travels in your Prius and when I get a Prius again I’ll get back online with you all… Happy travels
@@karenanderson6323 I’m so sorry to hear your Prius got totaled! 😱 But good to hear you’re alright and moving forward! I’ve heard wonderful things about the Toyota Sienna and I’m glad that’s working out for you! Enjoy your travels! 🏞🌄🌌
The Road goes on Forever..... Good rundown!
Excellent series!
I really need to try this if I ever take a solo trip away from the fam. My Prius Prime has a higher trunk floor due to the larger battery pack, but I bet I could still make it work.
I noted your piano back trim looks like mine did until I bought a couple small microfiber car clothes.
Just wipe down the whole dash with a dry one and it'll look like new again! (88¢ in Walmart's auto section for a 2pk).
David Martin Thank you! ✨ You have a Prius Prime! Awesome! Yes, you can totally pull it off. I’ve seen a few Prius Prime owners convert it into a comfortable setup, despite the extra space the battery takes up. You can go even farther between fill ups and charges with the Prius Prime. You should definitely give it a try! :)
I love microfiber cloths! I keep several in the Prius and I’m always wiping down the dash since it only takes about a day for the dust to gather again.
Thanks for joining the party! I have many more How-To videos in the pipeline so hit that notification bell! 😄
Thanks for sharing
I just picked up my second Prius and have an answer for your mystery about the recirculation mode turning off. I am pretty sure it starts in the off mode by default like the A/C button. Those settings can be changed with the Carista app. I just used it to turn off the constant beeping when in reverse and to turn off the seat belt chime for both front seats. It does require a bluetooth or wifi OBDII dongle.
Nice! Good to know! Thanks! 😊
This is gold! Specially for the back up beeping lol
Thanks!
Awesome show us the tour!:,-)🚗
Great video Prius rule !
How are you doing out there in it . Doing ok I hope?
Looking forward to seeing an actual video of spending the night in a Prius using climate control. Going to subscribe to this channel hoping for such a video.
Will do! Thanks for watching and subscribing! ✌️
I cannot wait to see the tour of your car, when ur fulltiming in it. With all your stuff in there already😁
gypsy girl Seriously...I cannot wait either! I want to be on the road already and am doing everything I can to make that happen ASAP.
Great share thnx u
Good video
Thanks for watching! 😊
Typically it turns to vent to cool itself off :)
I have the smallest Prius (the C) so don’t get quite as many mpg or have as much space, but it’s definitely still nice traveling and camping. I’m going to try to keep track of how much gas it uses overnight on my next trip, but it’s definitely very little. I never worry about it.
I like to blast my air really cold all day until I settle down for the night. I raise the temp to 76-78 after sundown. I also have battery-powered fans that last 8 hours on high (~16 on low), so sometimes it gets too cold. When it’s below 75 outdoors, I usually use the fans alone.
Do you a set up of your prius C? Like videos or pictures?
I have a Prius C too awesome car
Thanks for the video.
RECIRC: it turns off most likely to protect the windows, most importantly the windshield, from fogging up, which will happen at certain combinations of temperature and humidty IF the A/C is OFF. If the A/C is ON, the A/C will keep the air dry and prevent fogging. It's a safety issue to protect folks who don't understand that temp/humidity principle, who might then have an accident because the windshield fogs up (abd reduces visibility), and then sues the manufacturer for having a "defecting" defrost/defog system.
And it's no problem to keep the A/C ON, because the Prius has a "variable" compressor and only uses it as much as needed, form zero to 100%, depending on the temperature setting as compared to the outside.
GAS USED: A non-hybrid car will use about .25 to .35 gallons per hour when idling. So over 8 hours, that's a total of 2-3 gallons (they won't run out of gas if they are prepared for those numbers), as compared to the Prius, which uses less than a half gallon over those same 8 hours, depending on climate control settings of course, etc.
I hope you are doing well through this pandemic...
Nice saving tip..
alexis casanova Thank you! 😄
Just bought the 2019 AWD prius. Can't wait to use it for camping soon. Thanks for the info on the climate control!
Torrey Blake Congrats!! 🎈🎉Best wishes on your travels!
Rudasha King Yes it works on all years of the Prius. A 2018 sounds great! Good luck!
Cool set up! 👍🏼 i am about to buy a used Prius and travel in it. Torn btwn a gen 3 model 2011-2015 or a gen 4 model like you have either 2016-2017. I love the fact that you can climate control in the prius. I see so many vanlifers spending tons of money on insulation and still freezing in the winter or melting in the summer. That is so great about the prius! The only other thing i think i want in the used prius model i buy are the imitation leather seats. They just seem like they’d be easier to keep clean...especially if living in your prius.
Hi ! I'm exactly in the same position as you (doubting between a 2015 gen3 or a 2016 gen4) which one did you pick? any advice for a new used prius buyer? :O and you're right leather seats seems easier to clean
In my 2015 Prius Plug-in, the engine comes on for about 1 minute, then stays off for about 9, then repeats, depending on climate settings (15-20 degree difference - when COOLING). If the outside and inside temp are close, ithe gas engine will run much less, and vice-versa. I'n not sure about HEAT, as I haven't tried that yet.
Just want to say thank you for your series on the climate system. Is the Facebook Prius camping group THE place to go for detailed info?
SC Thank you, I’m happy to help! 😊 Yes, I highly recommend the ‘Prius Camping’ Facebook group and also the ‘Rubber Tramp Rendezvous’ (RTR) Facebook group. I have learned so much just from those two groups! ✨
Love this video. Was thinking of going van life. But lately I've been watching living Prius. The the gas is convince me to get a Prius.
What is width and length dimension to sleep in the back?
KEAWE7 I will measure and get right back to you! Thanks!
@@LivingBigInAPrius thank you
@@LivingBigInAPrius .
Great info! Do you happen to know about "climate control" in a Hybrid Pacifica? Might you compare/contrast? Brand new & tying to decide- quick! PS- the Pacific is claiming 84 mpg highway- different Prius videos mention 50- any insights would help.
Hey Shelley! I’ve done a bit of research and I am going to give a tentative ‘yes’ that the Hybrid Pacifica would work in a similar way to the Prius while sitting still, meaning it would use mostly electric energy while stationary with the climate control running, with the gas coming on when it needs to. A hybrid van is what a lot of nomads have been wanting and it looks like the Pacifica fits the bill. I look forward to trying it out myself sometime! Best of luck to you in your decision! 😃
Thanks for the video! They say the Toyota van will be hybrid in 2021. Would u buy that???
Thank you!! I would certainly consider the hybrid van for the gas mileage, space, and self-containedness of it, but for now, I’m sticking with the Prius. I am currently considering towing a mini trailer with it so that both myself and my partner can comfortably travel together. Down the road, we may upgrade to a van or bus but for cost’s sake for now, we are eyeing a mini trailer for the Prius. 😃 Thanks for watching!! ✨
Does it switch bc of eco. I think circulation uses more energy. Since eco is on it switches back to vent.
Can I do this with any hybrid car from other brands?
Thats wat im looking for
I’m so glad you found what you were looking for and that I was able to help! 😄 Thanks for watching!
How do you lock the doors from inside. Manually? I think using the fob from inside the car leaves the drivers door unlocked but I’m not sure about that. Your thoughts?
Great question! When the car is on, you simply lock the doors from the button on the window like you normally would, or lock them with the fob, so you don’t need to do anything special when you’re about to sleep and the car is on. If the car is off and you try to lock the car with the fob inside the car, when you close the door, the car will give a long BEEP and unlock the driver side door to keep you from locking the fob in the car. Same if you try to lock it from the outside with a second fob and the first fob is still inside the car. The car will not lock. Also, if the car is on and you’re trying to lock it with the fob outside the car, the car will just not lock at all when you hit the button on the fob. In that case, you’d have to crack the window and move the lock manually if you really wanted all four doors locked with the car on while you’re gone. I figured that out at the RTR when I wanted to charge my laptop with the Prius but wanted to walk around the camp. 😆
Have you heard anything about inverters of the hybrid system wearing out faster due to frequent camping and use of climate sys off the hybrid battery?
SC No, I haven’t heard anything like that. Just keep up with the maintenance and you’ll still get the usual life years out of the Prius. Many Prius owners I’ve spoken with have had theirs for 10-15 years. For power and charging your devices, you’ll be buying your own power inverter. Check out my Bestek 300w power inverter video for some information on power in the Prius. If you want to be able to use more than 120w though, you’ll need to connect an inverter directly to the 12-volt battery. I will do a video as part of this How To Live in a Prius series on all things power, but you can learn the exact wiring steps in the mean time on the Prius Camping Facebook group. That process will allow you to draw over 1,000 watts from the 12-V battery without wearing it out, and the Prius gas engine will simply kick in as needed to recharge it.
Little of topic, but how complicated Is it to install a electric converter/power inverter in this modern prius with the 12v battery under the hood?
Not complicated at all! David Swanson of the Prius Camping Facebook group has a detailed tutorial of how to do it and lots of people have used his method. The inverter pulls from the 12V battery, the 12V pulls from the Hybrid battery, the gas engine kicks in when the Hybrid battery needs recharging, and everything is happy.
Hi great video! I just want to verify that you can have the Prius on in ready mode with AC running all day over 8 hours without it getting over heated or the engine auto shutting down by itself??? I heard that in the the 2020 rav4 hybrid, the engine cuts off in one hour automatically? I m thinking about buying the Prius just because you can run the ac all day/night! Because I’ll be sleeping in my car in hot Florida weather. Stay safe. Thanks.
Yes you can! Since the gas engine only kicks on when it needs to recharge the hybrid battery, it's highly unlikely it will overheat, even in 100+ degree weather. I have tested this myself. I think the longest I ran it was 26 hours and it was fine. Of course it helps when the sun sets. :)
1 hour automatically shut down is an option u can choose, to avoid engine on unexpectedly all night. All Toyota hybrid is like that, just turn it off, no worry
@@lizhaohou Please help. My 2021 L Eco turns off automatically at 1 hour. Tell me how to turn that feature off please because I can not find it in the manual and the Toyota place where I bought mine was not helping either. TIA
@@hmoobs1 the option menu only appears on your driver's display, u can choose with steering wheel control, either turn off 1h or never turn off.
How does your Prius drive up and down mountains? I really want one but I was reading that Prius isn’t the best car to take in the mountains. How do you drive in the mountains?
I've had no problems in the mountains at all. Haven't tried it in Eco mode in the mountains, but in Normal and Power modes I can attest the 2016 Prius works great! Now if you're towing something, of course it's going to go slower, but that's expected of any vehicle.
Can confirm. Washington to Vermont and back, zero problems. Just don’t drive like a clueless normie and drive 70 mph up a super steep grade. Be really easy on the fuel pedal. In the mountains passes.
I also made a video about this, I didn't know there was another video on CZcams about it
I recently got a 2012 Prius V and I’m about to go on my first car camping trip but one thing I’ve noticed is that I am having a difficult time being stealthy about it because I will turn the headlights off or I will adjust my lights, and for some reason even if my headlights are off, it seems like there is some light that is still on the whole time. Does anybody know how to fix that or am I just not adjusting my lights appropriately?
Does cool AC work when car is stationary???? Or you have to be in motion? It appears that the air coming out of my Prius 2009 AC os cool only when I actually drive
Yes, the AC still cools fine even when stationary. It could be the age of your Prius or your AC may just need a tune-up.
Wow..
Does the generator activate when the car is off? Can he engine start when you are not in the Prius, etc.?
I don’t have any experience with that, but I only have the base model (Prius Two). You may be able to turn on the engine while outside the Prius with the higher models, but I would check with Toyota to be sure. I know you can get the solar panel in the roof which will run your A/C with the car off without you in it so that once you get in it, the car is cooled down. I believe that specific feature starts with Prius models Three or Four. I don’t believe the combustion engine is involved in that feature, just the solar panel, which is pretty awesome. 😎 Great question!
So just to clarify the car is fully on the whole time? (Pressing the break and starting the car, not just the start button alone?)
thanks från sweden......
TheDynarc My pleasure! 😇
this button means that the
air is circulating inside your vehicle without entering new air. in other words, if something stinks outside you won't feel it inside (if the button is turned on)
Does this car have daytime running lights? If so is there a way you can turn them off while sleeping at night?
Yes it has Daytime Running Lights and yes you can turn them off completely. You just switch them off with the handle on the left side of the steering wheel. 👍
Question can you only do this with a prius ? or will it work with the kia hybrid ?
The Kia Sorrento Hybrid uses a gas engine and electric battery but I couldn’t find out if the gas engine actually turns off at any given time. I would ask your local Kia dealership or Kia forums to get the answer to that specific question because that will determine whether or not you can keep it running all night long safely. 👍
Do the headlights and taillights come on when the engine turns on to recharge the battery? 🤔 Also, I would love to hear your opinion on the 2023 or 2024 Prius and whether it has any drawbacks like loss of features compared to your Prius model. You seem to have common sense combined with being down to earth - really cool person 😄
Do you have a curtain behind the drivers seat? What are the measurements? Width and height?
Kathleen Johnson I do not have a curtain, but I might get one later on. I just put the sun shade up inside the windshield so I don’t really need it at this time. If you like though, I could take some measurements for you to see how big one would be for the Prius.
Doez this work with 2010 prius? Or is it only newer models?
RoarieMay Yes this works with all models of the Prius. Your results will just vary depending on the year.
The 2001-2003 Prius models don't have electric A/C compressors. The compressor is driven by the engine.
Heard the Lexus CT200h has the same engine. Curious to know if the climate control works the same....
Any news after 2 years ? I can't find something clear... I'm asking also for the Lexus RX450H 2010-2011
Yes it does. Ct200h is just a luxury prius
THIS NEWS IS LESS THAN 24 HOURS OLD. Toyota is going to be selling a van called TJ cruiser will be sold in hybrid ,odds are that will be the vehicle I wind up buying eventually. That vehicle will be customized making two passenger RV it will be the world's most efficient practical camper for stealth and boondocking.
I don't believe Toyota has committed to seeing the TJ Cruiser in North America, however, as of October 2019.
@@michaeljrussell there is a Prius V I can get but I am afraid of debt. I can hunker down and be safe and stack it up till I have enough for a debt free ride who knows in a few years i might be able to to find the ride I want already converted .
I tried that and it killed the 12v battery. Gas engine never kicked on.
I have seen some Prius dwellers having a co2 alarm because of the risk of the monoxide build up with all the windows up, can you tell me where you found there's no risk of that? I was under the impression it was safe but now im questioning, thank you for your sharing!
A CO2 alarm is good to have in any vehicle. But I’ve spoken with plenty of full-time Prius dwellers who sleep with their windows up and they are fine. The gas does not run long enough throughout the night to be a problem. It only kicks into the gas engine for a few minutes at a time to recharge the battery when it gets low. If you’re nervous, just crack a window. 👍
Yes, as a former ER nurse, a $10 CO detector would make me feel more secure. Mine fits vertically on a shelf; I don't even see it. Pick Labor Day to change batteries, if required.
I did not go either! Maybe next year😁
Tried this last night but the car would turn off completely after a while? not sure why
I was looking at a 2017 today and where the hatch meets the folded over back seats there is about a 4-6 inch difference. In other words, it didn't lay flat. What do you do about that or do you just sleep in the back seat? I didn't see the how to sleep in a Prius video haha
What most people do with that gap is simply fill it with gear, supplies, fold-up tables, etc, basically anything flat, and just stack them until there is no longer a gap. Then they just cover it with the mattress and blankets. Some others get fancier with it and actually build a small platform that levels out the back seat/hatch area completely and then lay down the bed from there. Best of luck to you! 😎
@@LivingBigInAPrius yep. I ended up getting a new Prius and has the same difference. I bought some plastic containers at Walmart that have lids so I can store stuff and like you said makes it level to sleep on 👍
That bump is just in the prime.
@@grahamstefaan its also in the L Eco due to no spare tire
Does it wake you up when it turns on? wonder how often it would turn on if you set to 70F and it's 80F outside. Shame the front passenger seat does not fold flat. How much space from back of passenger seat to the very back.
The car rocks some when it turns on I liked it when it did that. Some don't they set the parking brake.
It woke me up when I first started sleeping in the Prius but I got used to it after a few nights and then it stopped waking me up. The front passenger seat does go back mostly flat. I’ve heard some people just take the headrest off and they are able to fold it back completely flat. Or, you could just sleep in the front passenger seat just slightly reclined. I will do a whole video on the many ways to sleep in a Prius soon! As for how much space is from the back of the front passenger seat to the very back, I will measure and get back to you, but I know for sure that a 6’2” man can sleep comfortably. :)
Do you need to change the battery in your key fob more often since it’s always in communication with the car? That’s one of the main reasons not to leave the key in the car when it’s not in use as the battery is in constant communication with the car if it’s within a certain distance of the car.
Not really. I’ve changed the battery in both key fobs only once, and I’ve had the car for 4 years and 160,000 miles. It only cost $5 for each battery. I don’t know how often key fob batteries in other cars are changed, so I can’t really compare them to Prius key fob batteries, but on its own, it’s a good deal. 👍
Great job. You seem like a lovely young lady. I was just wondering what the "Econ Heat/Cool" button did?
Cracking a window is smart not paranoid so you don’t become a victim of the silent killer poisoning.
I want to get one pretty bad.
What do you do with the head lights on??
I just turn them off. I also dim the display inside the car to help save a bit of energy and to help keep the inside relatively dark for sleeping.
Next time you deal with cold use electric blanket or a heating pad. You will be plenty warm enough to sleep . When you wake up run heater.
I think the Prius detected the amount of moisture in the air and seeks the least wet air to protect the computers.
I did 2 weeks in the 2017 RTR I had pretty much same experience but not as good mpg each new model Prius gets more roomy and economical.
So I can do this in my 2013 Prius??
Yes! 😊
You have to set auto and not mess with the fan setting. Or it won’t be automatic anymore .
Can you leave a Prius on all night if you go camping??
Yes absolutely! Just make sure you have enough gas in the tank to get you through the nights you plan to camp, as well as enough to get to the nearest town with a gas station and you’re good to go! When I was camping in Arizona, I was there for 2 weeks and I went through just half a gallon of gas per night. I filled up at a gas station after the first week to be safe. Happy car camping! 😃
Please help. Why I can not let my 2021 prius running all night? My car will stop completely after about 45-50 minutes so I have to restart or put on ready mode again several times per night
The engine dis started up afew times as well but why it will not goes on after less than an hour
I will look into this. This is the first time I’ve heard about that happening. Could be a new feature to save energy or something, but there may be a way to turn that feature off. I’ll see what I can find out!
@@LivingBigInAPrius Thank you
Because the climate control system feature ended with the 2020 model year.
What's the fuel consumption for A/C?
It varies, based on a lot of factors. But like I said in the example, I used only half a gallon of gas per night, with the AC on, set at 68-70 degrees, with it being 40-45 degrees outside. Of course, if it's super hot outside and you have the AC set lower than 76, you will use more fuel. Hope that helps!
How do you turn your fob off to make sure it don't drain your battery
I haven’t heard anything about that being an issue and I haven’t had that issue myself so I don’t think the fob drains the battery. Even if it does, the battery will just recharge itself through the gas engine.
Whats the version/model of your prius? I only know it's 2016
It is a 2016 Prius Two, the base model (there is no Prius One, in case you were wondering). :)
@@LivingBigInAPrius I think there might be a 2016 Prius One, but it is only sold to fleet car people, i.e., rentals, corporate cars, etc.
Is this for all prius or plug in only?
All Prius
Do all models and years of Prius allow the climate control to start the engine? Are any model years better for camping than others?
Michael Holloway Yes, but later models are more efficient overall. 3rd Generation Prius are slightly wider in the back than 4th Generation Prius but 4th Gen get better gas mileage by far. Also, 3rd Gen Prius have the under-floor storage in the back which is huge for camping, whereas the 4th Gen Prius make you choose between the under-floor storage and having the spare tire. There is also the Prius Prime to consider which is the plug-in Prius (you fill it with gas AND plug it in). Less storage space in the back but you get 143 MPG and the battery lasts much longer. In short, all Priuses are great for camping!
@@LivingBigInAPrius what about 2nd generation?
epoen2012 Yes, second generation too.
@@LivingBigInAPrius so the prime is not good for campering? no place to plug. what if no place to plug... how the prime work?
fdsaffff better off with normal prius
My 2021 only stays powered on half hour to an hour. I can't live in it for that reason. Can someone give me a shout out and let me know if only the older Priuses stay on continuously with climate control? I am so frustrated.
Hmmm, this is the first time I’m hearing about this issue. I’m wondering if the 2021 model was designed the same way that a lot of other cars/trucks have begun to be designed in that they turn off after a while to ‘save energy’. There may be a way to reprogram this function. Will look more into this and thanks for bringing it to my attention!
What about using auto mode? Does it consume energy more?
In my experience, Auto mode does consume more energy than just leaving it off; because in Auto, the car is trying to maintain the set temperature throughout the entire cabin, which - unless that is really important to you - isn’t going to be necessary. In Auto, the vents are usually pushing out air full blast in an attempt to maintain that set temperature. So I think you’re better off just leaving Auto mode off because you will use a lot less gas. :)
@@LivingBigInAPrius thank you! Great video by the way
ilker erol Thank you!!! 😄😃😁
@@LivingBigInAPrius Actually auto mode adjusts fan speed according to what is needed to maintain temp. When first turned on, auto will allow engine to get “warmed up” then the fans will typically engage to almost full speed until temperature set is reached. Then with my 2020 the fan speed stays fairly constant at low speed whilst car is on, because maintaining temp doesn’t require the fan to go to a higher speed. The only thingI think the difference with auto off is fan speed stays at a constant (whatever you have set). In auto off mode the car is still trying to maintain the temp you set. Auto on is just a maintenance of both temp and fan speed. I think a test would be in order to make a definite claim or not as to whether auto on or off is best for gas mileage and amount of battery used.
can you do this in any hybrid?
My same question.
Don't forget to tell people that the previous lurches when i It needs to recharge the battery which is every 10 or 15 minutes and it wakes me up
Terry Storzieri Yes, the Prius does lurch a bit when the gas engine kicks in to recharge the battery and I did notice it the first few nights, but I soon got used to it and then it didn’t even wake me up when it happened. In Arizona in the winter, the gas engine kicked on only once every hour or so, and stayed on for about 2 minutes before going off. Newbies take note! The length of time between gas engine rechargings is going to depend on a lot of factors, including outside temperature, what you have the inside temperature set to, what year and model Prius you have, age and maintenance on the car, etc..
I'm glad you could get used to that period I never could. Good luck on your travels.
I found the emergency break helps with the lurching.
Terry Storzieri Thanks! You too! ✌️
do you know if this is same climate control ability in Toyota RAV4 hybrids or Highlander hybrids,too ?
SC That I’m not sure about but I can find out.
@@LivingBigInAPrius Yes, please let us know if you're able to confirm this. This is super important to many of us. Thanks.
@@michaeljrussell did she ever find out ?
Do you use the "AUTO" feature when you're talking about using the climate control? With Auto feature on it keeps the temp adjusted accordingly. The fan speed will increase or decrease depending on the temp it's trying to keep the vehicle.
I personally do not use the Auto feature at all because I find it uses more energy than I would like. Just setting the temperature and fan speed manually does exactly what I need it to do. But that’s a matter of preference. 😊
@@LivingBigInAPrius Thanks for your reply, I’m thinking of a RAV4 hybrid maybe at some point. Would it work the same as the Prius?
@@craig9843 Not sure it works the same but I can look into it!
@@LivingBigInAPrius thank you but don’t go to any extra trouble. I was just curious.
How long will a Prius battery hold out living in it (long term)?
There isn't much wear on the batteries leaving it on all the time.
The Prius hybrid battery is supposed to last 300-400,000 miles before it needs to be replaced. New hybrid batteries cost $1000-$3000 nowadays I've heard.
What does the P mean is happening when the light is green?
Road Runner That’s just telling you you’re in Park. Those letters on the right side of the dash screen represent the gears: Park, Drive, Neutral, Reverse, and Back Braking (engine braking)
When you are inside the car and have the car turned on during the night, how do you prevent someone from just touching the sensor on handle bar (hoping that the car can be opened like that) from outside and opening the car? Since the car key is inside the car, I assume car naturally thinks that its ok to open the doors?
Good question. the Smart key system wont allow someone outside to unlock a door with the smart key inside. You also can not lock the door and close the door from the outside with a smart key inside the vehicle.
@@tbirdracefan thanks
@@dileepcm I have seen videos of owners placing their key into a foil pouch while inside car so the car cannot detect the key. This prevents anyone outside to touch drivers door and unlock vehicle. Very few dwellers understand that even though they are locked in their car at night,someone can just touch drivers door and it will unlock ,so this was a good question.
@@rubberducky6411 thanks!
How do u change your cloths in the prous?
gypsy girl There are a few ways. You can change both tops and bottoms in the back with the seats down (as they will be if you slept with them down) but I must say it is easier to change tops in the front seat since you have more room above your head. For bottoms in the back seat I just lay on my back and draw my legs up as needed. This is easier the more flexible you are. Some people may find it easier to change bottoms in the front seat in a sitting position. Whatever works for you, but that’s what works for me. 👍 Thanks for the question!
@@LivingBigInAPrius thanks for the answer i live in a 1998 full size van but i was thinking to downsize to a toyota prius, specially for my dog so i can leave the AC on for her
Since i have a regular 9 to 5 job right now and making decent money i would like to get me a newer vehicle, and i was thinking about a prius cuz of the climate settings and the good gas mileage.
gypsy girl Go for it! I think the only thing you will miss is being able to stand up but the benefits definitely outweigh the downsides in my opinion. If you can afford it, get at least a 2016 year Prius since there’s a huge jump in gas mileage between the 2015 and 2016. If you can’t afford it, an older Prius will still serve you and your pooch well! 🐾
@@LivingBigInAPrius thanks i will get me one!🐾and i hope to see u at the 2020 RTR🌹
Because the humid go up & u need to keep the windows from fogging up when ur driving.
Do any Prius models before 2011 get climate control like this?
Yes! 😊
I think this way will destroy the battery faster. If you want camping with a Prius, you should buy a prime Prius.
I’m confused. You talked about the danger of gas and climate control camping and using the battery but then mention it uses gas overnight. So wouldn’t that be dangerous? I watched a video of the Prius Prime which uses half the battery of overnight climate camping.
The Prius uses gas but it’s using battery most of the night. It only kicks into the gas engine to recharge the battery when it gets low. So the fumes don’t build up and is perfectly safe. The Prius Prime is awesome though! 😎
How do you lock the doors when you are inside with the key?
you hit the lock button on one of the doors. The Prius has the smart key system and it has to detect the presence of the key inside when you hit the lock buttons.
@@tbirdracefan Thanks for that. I had been thinking I may have to wrap the smart key in foil but it seems the system is smarter than me. Although I am now thinking its not a good idea to lock the door while driving incase you had an accident and needed some one to be able to open the door from outside to rescue you.
@@andrewwalker1377 Overall, the smartkey system works pretty well. I changed the default setting on my door locks to not automatically lock the doors. You can also change the setting to lock when put in drive, or when it reaches a certain speed. I dont mind wearing a seatbelt, but automatic door locks make me feel uneasy. Also, if you needed rescue, breaking a window would be easy decision to make.
90s hot? Lol. I live in az. 115 degrres brutal. Not sure if u can live in a prius at that temp?
RoarieMay Sure you can! Actually, I was being generous about the temperatures in Atlanta. It’s been over 100 most days this summer. If I could go anywhere in my Prius right now, I would avoid the desert in the summer. Most nomads chase the 70-degree weather throughout the year. But yes, full-time car-dwelling can be done in extreme temps, especially with a Prius! :)
Personally I would NOT "live" in the back seat of a car, but IMO I think its okay sleep in a car at night and cook and eat out of the back of a car while standing. But just sitting in the back of a car in the middle of a hot day with the engine off sounds rough. I would find something to do from 11am to 4pm like hiking or swimming. Why not chase a better climate? something stealthy and closer to an urban center lets you mix in some city fun. Spending the days in the mountains and nights in the city is something I've done many times.
I'm gonna get the rav4 hybrid. Same thing just more space
And a lot less Mileage
Great for camping though
Does any other hybrid do this with climate control??
@@shawn4917 have you found something ?
I haven’t noticed that it switches to vent except when you turn it on defrost.
Interesting...no defrost needed with mine. It just automatically switches from recirculate to vent after driving normally for an hour or so, especially if the doors and windows are closed that whole time, which leads me to believe that it’s an oxygen or humidity factor.
Living Big In A Prius oh, that doesn’t mean mine doesn’t. Just that I haven’t noticed.