Toyota Prius V jumps into park from neutral during car washes, causing potential collisions on Toyota Prius V

Some Toyota Prius V owners report experiencing issues during automatic car washes, such as the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into Park from Neutral, which can lead to collisions or other complications. This problem arises because the Prius V has specific requirements for being in Neutral, and the traction battery only charges in Drive and Park. Some owners have noted incidents where their vehicles shifted into Park during the wash cycle, often due to misunderstandings about how to properly engage Neutral. To prevent these sudden shifts, it is recommended that owners ensure the Prius V is correctly set before entering the car wash and understand the vehicle's behavior in different modes. Additionally, monitoring the hybrid battery levels is advised to avoid drainage issues when the vehicle is in Neutral. Following proper procedures can help ensure a smooth and safe car wash experience for Prius V owners.