I ordered PriusXM from Jon on Sunday, it was shipped on Monday, and I received it Tuesday (not because I paid for overnight, but because Jon doesn't live very far away from me). I installed the XM kit in the afternoon on Tuesday and it took me about an hour. I've done an XM radio installation (and other car stereo stuff) before, so it didn't seem very daunting. However, I noticed that those vents are a PAIN IN THE nice person to remove. Some are easier than others, but I discovered a sure-fire super-easy way to pop them off: a plastic pot scraper. The $1.50 plastic pot scraper can be purchased from any kitchen store and it consists of a single piece of plastic in a wedge shape that is the perfect shape for wedging between the top of the vent and the dash. The reason I say use the pot scraper is because it's made out of plastic (like the dash) so it's unlikely to scratch anything. Also, it's just wide enough to distribute pressure very evenly along the edge of the vent making it pop right off in a few quick wiggles. So far, I'm loving the PriusXM kit. The DVD was priceless (love the hat Jon!) and the integration into the Prius is beautiful. I could've saved a lot of money and installed a cheaper kit, but I think the extra $200 is worth it for the DVD and the MFD integration.
I almost forgot to mention that when I called the XM people to switch my subscription to the new radio ID, I convinced them it was a new car with "integrated XM" so they gave me 3 months free. Some of you existing customers might want to give it a try (tell them that you accidentally threw out the XM packet that came with the car).
appreciate the tip. is there a specific order to removing the vents and panels, as i have read in some places, or does it really matter? jed
Yes, there's a specific order. Also note that in order to remove some vents, you need to remove other panels and screws. It's best to watch Jon's video =)
If you look at the PDF for installing the EV mode button that Evan authored, it has details on how to detach the side vents - should be fairly straightforward to work your way into the dash from there. Dave
What kind of pot scraper are we talking about? Somthing like this? http://shop.store.yahoo.com/celebritycookw...ware/43142.html Or something like this? http://www.gsioutdoors.com/products/misc/74120.html
Just curious whether you installed that unit in the trunk (antenna on the roof) or in the glove box (antenna up forward on the dash). I've gotten a lot of inquiry as to how far north one can be and still have the dashtop antenna work satisfactorily with my 10-minute installation. Seems to me that San Jose would be at an iffy latitude unless there are terrestrial repeaters.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Eisenson\";p=\"58592)</div> I put it in the trunk with the antenna on the roof.
Here is how I pull off those vents, just grab hold and pull like there is no tomorrow. Works every time.
Can someone post a link to john's video for removing the panels. I've searched his site and cant seem to find it...
Heya Joey, Just making sure you know that was a thread from 2004. Not sure if it's the same for a 2008. Best of luck.
ahhh, good observation... Well does anyone have any tips for taking these vents off, ive tried a taped up scredriver, a plastic spatula, ive tried pulling and squeezing... i finally went to an audio installer and he said hed help me run the sgII wire for $50, but id much rather do it myself.
It may only apply to right hand drive cars but when removing any dash panels on the drivers side of the MFD start by removing the vent panel near the drivers door, then 2 screws under the dash, door side of steering column then remove the bottom then top dash panel and then the vent panel beside the MFD. Remember there are release tabs to press to remove electric connections. Be very careful when installing the drivers door side vent panel, there is a fragile square "hoop" that a peg goes into, it is very easy to break if you don't line up the peg properly.
