New Owner's FAQ - Page 2 - GreenHybrid

talmy · #11 (**permalink**) 01-09-2008, 08:34 AM

I haven't seen the other FAQs, but virtually anything that applies to Prius would also apply to the TCH, and to a lesser extent the FEH information would apply because it is a similar system.

haroldo · #12 (**permalink**) 01-09-2008, 09:08 AM

haroldo · #13 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 01:23 PM

I've added a few new items to the list.

mikieboyblue · #14 (**permalink**) 01-18-2008, 05:18 PM

Customizable Features:

JHSmith · #15 (**permalink**) 01-18-2008, 11:54 PM

Concerning Note 6 (Jump Starting):

I recommend a caveat to give the BIG item about NOT jump starting OTHER cars.

(Or doing it with extreme caution.)

Also (in the same note), add an item that the 12 V Power Outlet plugs (a.k.a. cigarette lighter outlets) are disabled when the car is powered off (unless a mod has been performed). Therefore, one of the cheap, low power units that supply power by plugging into these outlets will not work.

I can expand on these recommendations, if desired.

haroldo · #16 (**permalink**) 01-19-2008, 01:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikieboyblue

Customizable Features:

Quote:

Originally Posted by JHSmith

Concerning Note 6 (Jump Starting):

I recommend a caveat to give the BIG item about NOT jump starting OTHER cars.

(Or doing it with extreme caution.)

Also (in the same note), add an item that the 12 V Power Outlet plugs (a.k.a. cigarette lighter outlets) are disabled when the car is powered off (unless a mod has been performed). Therefore, one of the cheap, low power units that supply power by plugging into these outlets will not work.

I can expand on these recommendations, if desired.

Thanks! I'll edit these in.

haroldo · #17 (**permalink**) 01-19-2008, 03:02 AM

I edited the FAQ. I'd like to clean it up some more and add a few other items. Eventually, I'll repost it as a new thread (version 2.0).
Please feel free to provide input, ideas, links and corrections, thanks!

mikieboyblue · #18 (**permalink**) 01-20-2008, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wavern

Part one is done! The pulse generator works perfectly though it does have a few drawbacks in real world testing. It unlocks all functionality instantly and I set it up with a switch so I can turn it on and off easily. Unfortunately it seems our NAV system relies very heavily on the car relaying speed to it so the car's position is somewhat erratic. I'm 100% ok with that though since I don't always need access to the screen.

Will have the ipod kit from Scosche on Monday or Tuesday.

BTW, for those that didn't know this already. There's a fun debug / diagnostic mode available in the NAV. Hold down the INFO button then cycle the headlights on, off, on, off, on, off then let go of the INFO button. Voila, a new screen pops up with lots of interesting information.

UPDATE: See next post.

Larry,
Add that debug mode in here somewhere.

mikieboyblue · #19 (**permalink**) 01-20-2008, 02:48 PM

UPDATE: All information has been worked into original post.

I hope some of this helps...sorry if it needs some additional work...I am running a little late.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Are there any hidden diagnostics menus (NAV users only)?

Debug mode:
"There's a fun debug / diagnostic mode available in the NAV. Hold down the INFO button then cycle the headlights on, off, on, off, on, off then let go of the INFO button."
Display screen hidden menu:
There is an hidden display screen menu. To access this menu, see this post.
Override menu and other diagnostics:
If you have NAV disc 5.1 or a hacked version of a later disc, you may access the navigation lockout override by:
"Press Menu
(menu screen appears)

Press Volume
(volume screen appears)

Press upper left corner
Press lower left corner
Press upper left corner
Press lower left corner

(Service Menu will appear)"

-------------------------------------------------------------

How do I install a backup camera?

For instructions on installing a backup camera (with pictures), see this post.

-------------------------------------------------------------

How do I remove the air filter?

For instructions on removing the air filter (with pictures), see this post.

-------------------------------------------------------------

How do I installing a heater block?

For instructions on installing a heater block (with pictures), see this post.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Is there a way to make changing oil less messy?

Yes! Install a quick drain oil valve -- they work great. Visit the YM International Web site to purchase the part (F-103).

-------------------------------------------------------------

Why is my oil filter on so tight?

If this is your first oil change, the filter will be on extremely tight. This is because Toyota dealerships use an air gun to screw in the filter. This makes it difficult to get off and often requires you to take it to a shop.

Tips for attempting the removal yourself:
1. Before starting your oil change, make sure you have an oil filter wrench that fits the TCH filter.
2. Before attempting to remove the filter, remove the black plastic splash guard below the filter location. This will allow you to access the filter with both hands.

-------------------------------------------------------------

What oil and filter should I use?

This question has been asked many times, and, there is no one answer.

Many people have used a traditional oil (dino) 5w-20 (could also purchase a synthetic flavor), while others use a full synthetic 0w-20. See 5W-20 or 0W-20??? for further discussion.

As far as the oil filter is concerned, there has been less discussion on this topic. Some have noted that Purolator might manufacture the Toyota filters and feel they are the best choice.

-------------------------------------------------------------

How much should my oil change cost?

These are rough estimates and should not be used for exact pricing guidance.

If you desire to have your oil changed at your dealer, the price will be between $25 and $75, depending on the type of oil you choose to use. Some people have reported dealerships charging close to $100 for synthetic oil.

If you do not mind going to a local shop, the price will be between $25 and $50, depending on the type of oil you choose to use.

If you do not mind doing an oil change yourself, the price will drop to between $20 and $40, depending on the type of oil you choose to use.

I, mikieboyblue, change my own oil at a cost of about $35 for Mobile 1 0w-20 and a Mobile 1 filter (M-103).

-------------------------------------------------------------

Buying an extended warranty?

Some dealerships increase the price of the "extras" (such as a warranty) to make additional money. You will find most dealerships will offer you a 7 year / 100,000 mile / $0 deductable warranty for almost $2000. If you are like the rest of us, this will leave you in shock!

Good news. You can purchase an extended warranty from any Toyota dealership in the country (U.S. -- unsure about other countries). Because of this, there are a number of dealerships that offer extremely discounted warranties.

Two popular dealerships:
- Midwest Toyota Superstore (Kansas) - (620) 662-6631
- Toyota of Greenfield (Massachusetts) - (413) 772-0231 [ask for Troy Dietrich]
  http://www.factorydiscountwarranty.com/
Others mentioned:
- Dan Porter Motors (North Dakota) - (800) 626-3231
- McGeorge Toyota (Virgina) - (866) 360-1042
- Mechanicsville Toyota (Virgina) - (804) 559-8000
- Toyota of Iowa City (Iowa) - (877) 267-0225
For additional information on this subject, see the full thread.

-------------------------------------------------------------

haroldo · #20 (**permalink**) 01-20-2008, 03:13 PM

thanks!
I edit the full content of your post into the FAQ,