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Driver Seat and Recliner out of alignment

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by CAdriver, Jun 20, 2021.

  1. CAdriver

    CAdriver New Member

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    Hello,

    I have a 2008 Prius, I feel that the seat tracking or the recliner is out of alignment. It is causing some bad back pain while driving. Has anyone had experience with this, or insight on what might cause this to happen? I am wondering what options I have to fix.
     
    #1 CAdriver, Jun 20, 2021
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    generally, it's just poor seat design and construction. some have had luck with an auto upholstery shop.
    others have used small pillows behind their backs and/or pads under the thigh.
    others have used pillows on the outside of the knee, and still others have replaced the entire seat with something better, even a power seat.
    last resort, and it has happened is to sell the car and drive something else.
     
    #2 bisco, Jun 20, 2021
  3. dolj

    dolj Senior Member

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    Do you have a photo that shows the alignment of the seat currently?
     
    #3 dolj, Jun 21, 2021
  4. CAdriver

    CAdriver New Member

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    Hello dolj,
    It is hard to see but it feels like the left side is lower than the right.. causing back pain.
    Hi bisco,
    Thank you for the advice. I sometimes use a pillow and this helps mediate it some. I can try auto upholstery shops or look more into replacement chair options. I have spent a fair amount of money on the car, so I feel like the best option might be to get a new one when financially feasible.
     

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    #4 CAdriver, Jun 24, 2021
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  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    all the best!(y)
     
    #5 bisco, Jun 25, 2021
  6. CAdriver

    CAdriver New Member

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    Thank you!
     
    #6 CAdriver, Jun 25, 2021
  7. Kenny94945

    Kenny94945 Active Member

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    Diagnosing over the 'net is difficult.
    You "feel" the tracking or recliner is out of alignment.
    Then add left side is lower than right side.

    My first thought is to ascertain if the framing is broken.
    That may require removing the seat from the vehicle.

    My second thought is seat bottom cushion wear.
    The foam has compressed.
    Again with the seat out of the car, rebuild or replace the foam.

    If nothing is broken and all the framing bolts/ rivets are secure, the seat doesn't rattle and the foam is not damaged,
    a pillow may be the best answer.
    An option, that I could be hesitate to do because of collisions, would be to place shims under/ between the left side seat rail and the floor which would raise the left side of the seat.

    Good luck.
     
    #7 Kenny94945, Jun 26, 2021
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