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Special head screw

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Mina Botrous, Feb 15, 2023.

  1. Mina Botrous

    Mina Botrous Junior Member

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    Hi all,

    Last week we purchased a Gen 3 Prius and yesterday I was replacing the head unit to find that two of the screw has these 2023-02-15 012.JPG special head screws - I assume as an anti-theft, any idea what is this called or how to take it out?

    Thanks
    Mina
     

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  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Some tool stores sell a collection of anti-theft bolt remover attachments for most every type... But I've never seen that shape. Maybe you could zoom out and show what part of the dash this is? My first impression is you can work around it, but would need more picture to be certain.

    If all else fails mark the center with an automatic center punch and drill the head off.
     
  3. Todd Bonzalez

    Todd Bonzalez Active Member

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    Hi Mina,
    Cut a slot down the center with a Dremel and remove it with a regular flat head screwdriver, or use an angle grinder to grind down two sides so you can use a spanner to turn it.
     
  4. Mina Botrous

    Mina Botrous Junior Member

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    this is holding the head unit - I think as anti theft.
     
  5. Mina Botrous

    Mina Botrous Junior Member

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    I tried that also with my Dremel but it is in an awkward tight position, I'm leaving the drilling as a last option.
     
  6. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    Have you tried a universal socket?

    The spring-loaded pins push into any recess they find in the screw head, and they don't care about shape or symmetry.

    Screen Shot 2023-02-17 at 3.37.42 PM.png
     
    Mendel Leisk and PriusCamper like this.
  7. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    I tried one of these when I guy I was installing a pack for had one. Was impressed with its durability... But I'd probably break it sooner than later...

    For this specific challenge I suspect it might work if it's wide enough in diameter, but likely not that wide.
     
  8. Mina Botrous

    Mina Botrous Junior Member

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    this is a good idea, I will look for it in bunnings and see how it goes.

    thanks mate :)