Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2001 Toyota PriusFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Taillight Relay
NOTE:
Taillight relay may also be referred to as tail relay or taillight control relay.
- Ensure ignition is off. Remove taillight relay. Taillight relay is located in fuse/relay box at driver's side of instrument panel. See Figure.
- Note identification of electrical terminals on taillight relay. See Fig 1. Using ohmmeter, check that no continuity exists between terminals No. 3 and 5 on taillight relay. Check that continuity exists between terminals No. 1 and 2 on taillight relay.
- Using jumper wires, apply battery voltage and ground to terminals No. 1 and 2 on taillight relay. Check that continuity now exists between terminals No. 3 and 5 on taillight relay. See Fig 1. Replace taillight relay if defective.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.