Why Does My Toyota Prius Battery Keep Dying?

February 15, 2021

The Common Signs

With a hybrid, the signs are likely to include things like: 

If your Prius is less than ten years old and having none of these symptoms, you may be very confused about why your battery still keeps dying. You may be happy to know there is a likely culprit that could be causing your problem that is very easy and completely free to fix! Here is what is most likely making your Prius battery keep dying: the automatic lighting feature .

What’s Wrong With the Automatic Lighting Feature?

Most people use the automatic lighting feature these days. It’s easy and you never have to worry about forgetting. Who doesn’t like a feature like that?

The main problem with the feature is that it only works correctly with the proper sequence of events. You absolutely must turn the car off completely before you open your car door to exit the car or the lights will remain on and then you will have to deal with that dreaded dead battery scenario. 

For the most part, this is easy enough to remember and won’t cause too many headaches. However, there are always those unusual situations where you find yourself talking to someone when you pull in or finish a text sitting halfway outside your car with the door open, that will leave you susceptible to your lights staying on automatically if you do not reach in and manually turn them off. 

Another common situation that catches a lot of people off guard is when they go to the car and open the door and turn the car on, therefore turning on the lights, but for whatever reason, they fail to ever get into the car and turn it off and shut the door. In this case, the lights stay on and drain the battery. This can happen when you have gone to your car to retrieve something or perhaps have forgotten to roll up the windows and return to do so quickly before the rain starts.

Typically once this has happened to you and you understand why, you are not likely to let it happen again, however, if you find this is going to be an ongoing issue it is easy enough to not use this automatic feature and just turn your lights on and off manually each time that you drive. 

If You Need Auto Maintenance or Repairs

If you are in need of maintenance or auto repairs, please schedule an appointment with Taylor Co Automotive , a leader in Japanese auto service, proudly serving Pomona and surrounding areas for over 30 years!

By Super Service of Pomona Valley February 7, 2026
Discover expert tire services at Super Service of Pomona Valley in Pomona, CA. Ensure safety and longevity for your ride. Visit us today!
By Bob Cornwall January 31, 2026
Not sure when to get your brakes inspected in Pomona Valley? Learn the warning signs, inspection schedule, and expert tips to stay safe on local roads.
By Super Service of Pomona Valley January 29, 2026
Discover top-tier brake repair services at Super Service of Pomona Valley in Pomona, CA. Ensure your safety with our expert care. Visit us today!
By Bob Cornwall December 31, 2025
Learn how to perform Preventive Car Maintenance in Pomona Valley with this friendly, easy-to-follow guide. From a car maintenance checklist and DIY car inspection to expert auto service tips, get valuable Pomona Valley auto maintenance insights that help prevent costly repairs, improve vehicle safety, and extend vehicl
vehicle on a snowy road
By Bob Cornwall November 30, 2025
Learn how winter driving in Pomona Valley differs from other seasons and get tips to stay safe, prepared, and confident on the road.
Person using jumper cables on a car battery in an engine bay. | Super Service of Pomona Valley
By Bob Cornwall November 3, 2025
End 2025 on a high note with a complete vehicle check at Super Service of Pomona Valley. From batteries and brakes to fluids and filters, our ASE-certified team keeps your car safe, reliable, and ready for holiday travel. Schedule your late-year inspection today.
By Super Service of Pomona Valley October 28, 2025
Discover expert tire services at Super Service of Pomona Valley, Pomona, CA. Enhance your vehicle's safety today! Schedule an online appointment now.
Man looking under the hood of a car in snow, holding a phone.
By Bob Cornwall September 30, 2025
Find out if your vehicle is ready for cooler weather with essential maintenance tips that improve reliability, safety, and performance.
By Super Service of Pomona Valley September 30, 2025
Discover expert brake repair at Super Service of Pomona Valley in Pomona, CA. Ensure your safety with top-notch care. Schedule an online appointment now.
By Super Service of Pomona Valley September 2, 2025
Expert transmission service in Pomona by Super Service of Pomona Valley. Enhance performance and reliability. Call us today!