After reports of growing incidents of battery theft, I am interested in replacing the stock bolts with security bolts of some kind (e.g. pin-head Torx). Has anyone done this? (could not insert link to article. See abc7news website, 5/15)
this won't do much for you after they've cut all your wires and then realize they can't take the battery....the damage would already been done.
JC: At least the battery is still there!!! It's 12mm bolt for sure, even the news says it is. rebuilt hybrid batteries prius hybrid battery But I don't know the thread pitch. Gorilla lock seems good for this, but just don't know the pitch. Gorilla 24631 Bolt Locks Hex Socket Style Cone Seat, Chrome 12mm x 1.50 Thread
Its ridiculous how easy it is to scare people now adays. Consider the total number of Prii on the roads. Then consider how many have had batteries stolen. Now is that fraction of a fraction of a fraction of a percent even worth your time to consider? The news is just scaring people because fear sells and keeps you coming back after the break. And JC is correct. If that wire is cut, you are looking at $3K to $4K in damage. That's an insurance claim at least. So isn't it better that they take your 3 year old battery too so you can get a new battery and new wiring rather than go through all that hassle to get exactly what you had?
I'm actually glad this made the news.....when my battery gets old and crappy, I would just park it in some dark alley and not lock the door. Maybe somebody will steal my battery and I can put in an insurance claim for a new battery.......and it would be believable that it was really stolen.
That's when I hope your insurer's fraud squad is on the ball, so my premiums don't go up to pay for your battery.... -Chap
My battery is old and crappy now, I don't think I have to go to extreme measures.......so everyones insurance premiums are safe