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Hissing sound from right rear seat area at highway speeds - what is it?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by Scott1258, Apr 9, 2012.

  1. Scott1258

    Scott1258 Junior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 12, 2011
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    Location:
    Huntington Beach, CA
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Four
    After getting onto the freeway today I heard this hissing sound coming from the right rear passenger side of the car -seemed like it was coming from under the right rear passenger seat. It was a pretty loud hiss type sound.

    Anyone know what this is and what can you do about it?
     
    #1 Scott1258, Apr 9, 2012
  2. Erikon

    Erikon Active Member

    Joined:
    Dec 5, 2009
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    Location:
    Rochester, NY
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Snakes have nested in your traction battery! Sorry, couldn't resist!:p It might be the batteries cooling fan, the vent is in that position.
     
    #2 Erikon, Apr 9, 2012
  3. fotomoto

    fotomoto Senior Member

    Joined:
    Apr 22, 2009
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    Location:
    So. Texas
    Vehicle:
    Other Hybrid
    You should also notice there is a slotted vent in that location. It's the air intake to cool the HV (hyrbid) battery. As your owners manual states, it should NEVER be covered up or obstructed. As hot as it can get down here in the summer, I've have yet to hear my battery fan run but I do have the solar roof/vent option so maybe that helps.

    Also, from reports I've read here the vent/fan can get clogged due to animal hair.
     
    #3 fotomoto, Apr 9, 2012
    Clay2013 likes this.
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