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The USB is a real SOB....

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by The Electric Me, Feb 24, 2014.

  1. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    Does anyone know if they make a much, much smaller extension?
    Because I really don't want 3-6ft of cord.

    I really just want a few inch's to make plugging in my USB stick, easier. Kind of defeats the purpose if I'm plugging in easier, but leaving a big wad of bundled up extra cord, taking up space.
     
  2. bathala

    bathala Member

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  3. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    All 2010 and 2011 Prius liftbacks without navigation have no USB port .... then ALL 2012 and later models have USB ports, even Twos :rolleyes:
     
  4. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    Yeah....that would fit right in with what was said...the 2010's were released without a USB port.

    I remember when Toyota added the USB port. It was kinda big news....

    I think Toyota was embarrassed that their Halo, Flagship...To Go Before...mainstream technology vehicle was without something as basic as a USB port.
     
  5. cproaudio

    cproaudio Speedlock Overrider

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    Sienna has USB port a few inches off the floorboard. It has the same flap as the Prius. The flap attaches at the top. You'll have to lift the flap from bottom. When you lift the flap up, you can't see the ports because they are obstructed by the flap. Only a passenger would be able to plug anything in. Don't even try to plug a USB into the port while driving. It's almost a guaranteed car crash. Even I have a hard time plugging in the USB cable in my garage. It's a simple fix. All they have to do is change the way the flap is attached to the USB/audio jack. Instead of attaching the flap at the top and lift the flap up to use, the flap should be attached at the bottom and push down the flap to use. This way the flap doesn't obstruct your view of the port. You can easily see what and where you're plugging into.
     
  6. zhenya

    zhenya Active Member

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    I think it's ergonomically a poor location, but the reality of the matter is that I plugged in my cable once when I first got the car, and haven't removed it since. I like that most of the length of the cable is hidden in the console. If the port were say, down under the bridge, it'd be a lot more convenient if you were making frequent connections, but more cluttered with your charging cable.

    You know, USB is a common bus system. There is no reason, other than the cost, that they couldn't offer two ports!
     
  7. Hybrid Dave

    Hybrid Dave Member

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    I like where the USB is located in my 2010 Prius. It is out of the way. I did notice that they moved it to the other side of the compartment in the 2012 refresh, though. I could see that being more difficult to reach. With the 2010, it is at the rear and a straight shot down to plug it in.
     
  8. toyopri808

    toyopri808 Active Member

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    ok, kinda off topic here, but i've never been able to get my USB to work--seeking assistance!
    i too, have a 2012 camry, and its easier to use, plug it in, and select USB under audio source selection..

    in my 2011 prius IV, i have the USB plugged in, select AUX then press USB on the touchscreen and no response. is there something easy here that i'm missing??
    thanks in advance!!
     
  9. cproaudio

    cproaudio Speedlock Overrider

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    Must be FAT32 and less than 32GB.
     
  10. Technigogo

    Technigogo Member

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    Wrong. Mine has a 64Gb in there now.

    SCH-I545 ?
     
  11. toyopri808

    toyopri808 Active Member

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    hmm, yea mine is only 8gb. enough for music..
     
  12. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    Not exactly, I'll repeat .... I have a 2011 Prius Three w/o navigation, it has no USB port, same for the 2011/ 10 Two/II...

    Then for 2012, mid-cycle refresh, every trim of Prius liftback gained USB port, even Two.

    But, yes, some or maybe all 2010's with navi didn't have USB.
     
  13. Technigogo

    Technigogo Member

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    I have a 2010 with Nav and mine has a USB port.

    SCH-I545 ?
     
  14. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    The USB was not available upon the release of the 2010 in May of 2009 at all.

    Then, it was available as factory equipped ($230) on all models with navigation beginning in August 2009. People who had already purchased their 2010's could have it installed at their dealerships for $240.

    Read more from Toyota here: USB and Safety Connect Are Almost Here! | PriusChat
     
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  15. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    This is getting petty...but yeah, I know...they added the USB port across the board sometime after release. I actually thought it was before the official refresh BUT WHO CARES?

    I remember for a while you could go in and get a USB port installed retroactively.

    I think Paradox has the facts and timeline down, as much as I can remember it.
     
  16. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    There was an iPod adapter kit which may still be available, but as I understand, having the iPod adapter would disable the handsfree Bluetooth functionality in my car. So, it's not a slam dunk fix.

    Who would care about having USB or not? How about all the people looking as used 2010 and 2011 Prius base model Twos and Threes. It's the difference between using an AUX port (fiddling with phone to select songs and maybe having a hard time charging the device while driving) or having a proper setup (USB port).


    Could it be installed in 2010/11 without navigation? and can you confirm the iPod adapter kit disables the handsfree Bluetooth?

    Toyota Sunnyvale listed "Ipod Interface" accessory for $565 .. forget that.
     
  17. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    I agree with that...but that's not the point.
    Who cares about all this debate about the timeline of what had what when....as I originally said ALL original Gen 3 Prius were released without USB ports.

    The USB port was added later...some with a kit after purchase.

    I think Paradox has the facts and timeline available if anyone wants specifics.

    If you're buying a used Prius...it's still going to be your responsibility to look and see whether your Prius is USB port equipped or not.
     
  18. unterhausen

    unterhausen Junior Member

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    I was using my iPod and wanted to charge my phone, so I plugged an adapter into the cigarette lighter port next to the USB. I guess the adapter is dead, no charge. Has anyone tried a USB hub?
     
  19. cliffy1203

    cliffy1203 Junior Member

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    I hate the USB port location because I am a music collector... I have many terabytes of bootleg concerts and other stuff. I use several different USB flash drives, a couple of 32gb and a couple of 64gb. Being able to switch while driving is essential for me.

    I find that my larger USB drives get frozen, and stopping, turning off and then restarting the car is necessary to get the USB drive to work again. Very frustrating to say the least.

    I use a 12" USB extension cable. Some places online like NewEgg sell what is called an "up-angle" USB extension cable, where the plug is mounted perpendicularly to the cable and it protrudes much less into the center console's empty space. I've never found it in stores but I have seen it online.