Prius - Power to hybrid system

[trumpetmike]

Re brake shoe replacement - manual says - "be sure power to the hybrid system is turned off". How do I do this? Do I have to pull the safety plug?

Also - is the "brake hold-down spring tool" specific to toyota or prius - or is it same for all cars with drum brakes - ie will I find one at any auto parts store?

Thanks

[admin]

Hi trumpetmike,

Well, no, you don't have to remove the safety plug. Just make sure the key is not in the ignition (or if it's a "smart key" move it at least 20 feet from the vehicle). This is just a precaution to make sure someone doesn't get in the vehicle and depress the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is up on jackstands while you're working on it. As for the brakes, there's no voltage to worry about down there.

Thanks for using Haynes manuals!

[admin]

Hi again trumpetmike,

Sorry, I forgot to address the second part of your question! That brake hold-down spring tool is a universal tool that is available at most any auto parts store. It's handy, and makes removal easier, but you can get by with a normal pair of pliers, too.