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DIY for higher trim level features?

Discussion in 'Prius c Accessories and Modifications' started by highroller, Jan 29, 2020.

  1. highroller

    highroller Junior Member

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    I have a Prius c base model 2013, recently i realize that i can spend $20 in ebay to buy parts to install cruise control which is a higher trim level feature, the software is already in the base model. Are there other higher trim level features that are inexpensive to install myself?
     
  2. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    I've heard that it isn't too bad to replace the rear seatback with the equivalent split folding version from the higher trims. You wind up changing several large parts so it looks like a lot, but it isn't actually that hard.

    The hard no-go stuff would be pushbutton start / smart key.

    There was a discussion about the 16" wheel kit option for the Four. Apparently you have to swap the steering rack to get one with shorter limits to keep the big tires from rubbing, and it significantly widens the car's turning circle.

    I would never suggest replacing a Toyota stereo with another Toyota stereo; it just isn't enough of an upgrade. However, it is quite easy to put a full aftermarket deck in these, and that is a massive upgrade over any of the units Toyota offered.

    I've occasionally been curious if the late-model combination meter and HVAC control panel can be retrofitted into the older models. You don't get any extra functionality but the updated versions look nicer.
     
  3. highroller

    highroller Junior Member

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    One regret i have is not getting the smart key. The ability to add cruise control myself is nice. Too bad it's impossible to add adaptive cruise control, i don't think prius c has adaptive cruise control in highest trim anyway.

     
  4. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    Yeah, radar cruise would be nice. Our 2018 has radar and cameras but not the right version to support that feature, so it's just a regular cruise + auto emergency brake.
     
  5. topshot

    topshot Member

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    The Push-start/3-door SKS was the reason I only wanted the Three - got spoiled with our full-size.

    I'm thankful it doesn't have adaptive cruise though. I recently had to drive a new Corolla with it and was quite relieved once I figured out how to disable it. I'm sure they will make it std on newer cars but I hope they retain the ability to turn it off because I hate it.
     
  6. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    I guess we're right in the middle... I like radar cruise, would've paid extra for it but we picked the Two because it was the nicest one that still used a real twist key.
     
  7. topshot

    topshot Member

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    LOL. I guess so. I can't imagine why anyone would still WANT to keep digging a key out of a pocket/purse. ;)
     
    Danny13pruisc3 likes this.
  8. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    Can only speak for myself there- because I didn't want it in my pocket in the first place. I rent a ton of cars for work; many have pushbutton start. I like the ones that have a slot or hook or something to store the key so I don't have to keep them in my pocket.

    My complaint would evaporate if they could make that key as small as the classics:

    [​IMG]

    Once it's more than 1/8" thick I'm out.
     
  9. Danny13pruisc3

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    i like wearing my sks key fob on a lanyard around my neck.. won't drop or lose it.. don't have to dig it out.. it's nice.