Frequently asked questions
Question
Answer
What are the series of clicks from
the cargo area when I first turn
the key in the ignition?
The high voltage battery is
electrically isolated from the rest
of the vehicle when the key is
OFF. When the key is turned ON,
high voltage contactors inside the
battery are closed to make the
electricity available to the
motor/generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the
sound of these contactors as they
close and open during start up and
shut down.
Why does the engine always start
at key-on?
Your engine is started at key-on
because the emission components
need to be warm in order to
minimize tailpipe emissions, and in
cooler climates for cabin heating
and windshield defrost
performance.
After I start my car in the
morning, why does it take a long
time before the engine shuts
down?
There are several reasons the
engine stays on for an extended
amount of time when it is first
started. One common reason is to
ensure that the emissions
components are warm enough to
minimize tailpipe emissions. As the
climate gets cooler, this
“engine-ON” time is extended.
Why does my engine never shut
down above 40 mph (64 km/h)?
The engine is required to turn on
above this speed to protect the
transaxle hardware.
2009 Tribute Hybrid
(thv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)
Introduction
10
