REVIEW: Hybrid Effects Grille Block

[TheForce]

This is a short review of the Hybrid Effects Grille Block available at Hybrid Car Accessories by Hybrid Effects

Toyota Prius - Grille Blocks - Toyota Prius Hybrid Grille Block - Grille Blocking (Shipping Included)

I bought my grill block from bestmapman since he was wanting to sell his. He has the same color car as mine and he had it with him at MPG fest this year. He offered to sell it to me for a good deal. So I checked it out to see if I could modify it to fit my custom car front with the chin spoiler and camera. It looked to be a good fit but I would have to make some modifications. The only down side is that his grille block did not have any holes cut out so you can pop in and out plugs to let air in in the summer time and plug them up in the winter.

I called up Franklin from Hybrid Effects to see if I could buy some 3" plugs. He was happy to sell me 10 of the 3" plugs. Now I have that covered.

So today I decided I better start to block my grille because its getting too cold. I had to make some modifications to get the grill block to fit. Here is what I had to do.

I first had to figure out a way to mount it. I had some good ideas for mounting brackets but that was getting into fabrication and ugly wing nuts or 1/4 turn screws that would show up in the front. I decided to use 3M Dual Lock to attach it with. This stuff is like Velcro but MUCH stronger. They literally snap into place and are very secure. This grill block wont be coming off easily.

As you can see these things are a little thick. They make the grill block stick out about 3mm but that's OK.

I had to cut out a hole for my front camera.

I also had to cut out a section where I have my EBH plug.

As you can see I just put the grille block behind the license plate. The plate does stick out because of it but you don't really notice it at all. This also helps secure the grille block to the car.

You may notice that I don't have my ten 3" holes cut out and the plugs installed. Thats because I'm going to wait to install them when the weather gets warmer. Plus I don't have a 3" hole drill bit at the moment. I will update this review when I get the plugs installed.

The grille blocks start out at $135.00 shipped and unpainted. Add $65 for paint and if you want hole plugs they are between $10 and $35 more.

This product may be a LOT more expensive than the foam you buy at lowes but this sure looks a hell of a lot better.

I don't have any MPG numbers to give but I can tell you that this is a great product and grille blocking does improve your MPG. I highly recommend this product!

Pros
Get better MPG
Made to fit 2004-2009 Prius.
Easy to install

Cons
No product to block upper grille.
Price

[john1701a]

Originally Posted by TheForce

Pros
Get better MPG

The MPG benefit drops off at about 20°F degrees. When it's colder than that, there is basically no difference (with the exception of aerodynamics).

However, retention of heat to keep you warm is still a reason to do it anyway.
.

[TheForce]

Good point John! I don't see much below 20F here. There are a few days in the year that get colder than that but not many. Thank god. I hate cold weather in general.

[downeastah]

I was wondering how much DualLock was used. Where was it placed? I've got a block coming in soon and was wondering on the best/easiest install.

[TheForce]

1 package was used which made 4 pieces about an inch long. I am going to have to modify my attachment a little since they are not sticking well to the fiberglass. I'm thinking of attaching the dual lock with some JB weld on the fiber glass side and also get another box or two for more attachment areas.

[downeastah]

Originally Posted by TheForce

1 package was used which made 4 pieces about an inch long. I am going to have to modify my attachment a little since they are not sticking well to the fiberglass. I'm thinking of attaching the dual lock with some JB weld on the fiber glass side and also get another box or two for more attachment areas.

Yah, thanx. I have a 10' roll Dual Lock on order and was wondering how much to use.
I just received my block from Franklin. It has the fog light and small holes with the clear plugs. It still needs paint, but I guess I'll get it fit first.

[Doc Willie]

The unpainted one comes in "white". Does that match the Super White Prius paint?

[TheForce]

I dont think it does. I'm pretty sure its just a primer or maybe just the fiberglass its self.

[downeastah]

Originally Posted by Doc Willie

The unpainted one comes in "white". Does that match the Super White Prius paint?

I think it's just a generic gelcoat white, but you can email Franklin from his website.

[TheForce]

I just put some JB weld on the fiberglass side of my dual locks and it seems to be hold much better. I still plan on buying some more dual lock to make the grille block stay put better. I plan on adding 4 more attachment points.