Prius Rattles

This is probably what was making the noise in my 2016. The dealer said they placed some felt somewhere to fix it. Whatever that means. I didn't really ask.

The guy in the service department seemed to be aware of the problem and had dealt with it before. I've driven about 200 miles now and haven't heard it rattle again so I'm happy.

 

This VPNS warning sound has been discussed before. I'll stand correction on this but think it might void your insurance cover as the feature is mandated in USA regs.

 

It is not yet mandated in the US. It ill be in a couple of years though, They just released the noise specifications late last year,

Manufacturers have until Sept. 1, 2019, to equip all new hybrid and electric vehicles with sounds that meet the new federal safety standard. Half of new hybrid and electric vehicles must be in compliance one year before the final deadline.

From NHTSA sets 'Quiet Car' safety standard to protect pedestrians | NHTSA

 

Thanks for clarifying.

 

Until I saw the update late last year, I thought it was currently required too. Just like running lights that are apparently not currently required. This is the first car I have had that lets you turn off the running lights.

 

My insurance company USAA is not up to speed on changes in the newest safety features like pre collision control, dynamic radar cruise control, intelligent clearance sonar, blind spot monitoring, etc. it would be nice because I am a safe driver w perfect record and would love a premium reduction. I called them and tried to explain TSS-P they had no idea what I was talking about. So I'm sure their lawyers don't know about VPNS. yet. I'm not going to hit a pedestrian or run over a blind man, so I ask again - where is that damn noise maker speaker?

 

Try this.

Disable Pedestrian Alert Help! | PriusChat

 

search noise maker

 

Thanks guys, I read through the link above, and searched related threads. But I still don't know where it's located. There are two speakers in front of the radiator, one to the left and one to the right. I am guessing one is the VPNS and the other the horn. If I can determine which is the noisemaker I'm just going to slap a piece of duct tape over the face. It'd won't elimate the sound, b should muffle it. Simple!

 

They only say that till you make a claim.

 

Just tape the first one and if the noise stops you won't need to try the other!

 

You have two horns. The blue plastic thingy is the noise maker

 

I think the blue plastic T badge on the front bumper is part of the radar or pre collision system. If that's what you're referring to.

 

Just an update on the spoiler rattle. This week the dealer installed the replacement spoiler and so far so good. I asked to have the mechanic show me the defect on the old spoiler, and when he brought me back to look at it he couldn't really point to any problems. He just said that Toyota recommended that if tightening the old one didn't fix it it had to be replaced.
The new one feels much more solidly attached than the old one. Only time will tell if this is really fixed or if this one will also loosen up. The first one didn't start rattling until it was about 6 months old and it got cold outside. At least I've got another 2 years of warranty. So, 2 of the biggest rattles are now gone, still no idea how to fix the B pillar seat belt rattle.

 

I'm almost afraid to ask, but what is the b pillar seat belt rattle? I have an issue with buzzing in my door. It sounds like it's coming from pieces of the door panel rubbing against each other, or the window frame or even the window. The buzzing is intermittent I can make it stop for awhile if I bang my elbow against the door panel and crack and window then roll it back up. Very annoying. I want to have it looked at next service. Anyone have more info or a fix?

 

If you crack the window, perhaps it is a loose piece of glass?

 

No, I meant open the window I little bit. Then close it tight. The buzzing will stop for awhile.

 

The B-Pillar rattle I'm talking about seems to come from the height adjustable seat belt retractor in the B-pillar. usually I can put pressure on the pillar near that spot to stop the rattle/buzz. I think there is something in the retractor itself that buzzes. My last 2008 Prius did it too.