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Instructions to replace antenna and base

Discussion in 'Prius c Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Mendwell, Nov 26, 2012.

  1. Mendwell

    Mendwell New Member

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    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    Unfortunately, the antenna on my C two met the garage door and needs to be replaced. The dealer has quoted me nearly $800 to repair and I feel that this is something I can likely do myself and save a lot of money.

    I have seen these instructions (Replacing the Antenna Base in a 2nd Generation Prius) for the 2nd gen prius, but wasn't sure if they applied to Prius C Two.

    Can anyone help me out? Many thanks in advance.:)
     
  2. bielinsk

    bielinsk Gremlin

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    If it is still functional, then just hot glue it down and get a shark fin to cover it up. Looks a hell of a lot nicer also.
     
  3. KaliforniaKid

    KaliforniaKid 2013 Prius v Five 2012 Priuc c Four

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    Vehicle:
    2015 Prius c
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    Four
    $78 for a shark fin vs $800 to R&R the antenna is 722 reasons to go the shark fin route. Unless there's damage to the roof panel - if so, hopefully just cosmetic.
     
  4. Mendwell

    Mendwell New Member

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    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    The base did separate a little bit from the roof, but is still attached. What kind of hot glue would you use? I'm assuming something stronger than craft grade!

    I have been contemplating the shark fin as well. Can the shark fin slide over (or screw into) the stock antenna base that is already on the roof?

    With the antenna mast no longer connected, I can still receive some radio signal but it is not very strong and not all stations are able to be picked up.

    The roof panel is purely cosmetic -thankfully- I am planning to buff out the paint scratches.

    Thanks you guys! :love:
     
  5. KaliforniaKid

    KaliforniaKid 2013 Prius v Five 2012 Priuc c Four

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    Vehicle:
    2015 Prius c
    Model:
    Four
    Here's the link to Visual Garage's Shark Fin installation instructions (with photos).

    VG Shark Fin Antenna - Installation

    I got it for $78 from juicedprius.com in the summer (now at $84) but it looks like buying it directly from Visual Garage is only $69.

    I have a C4 with the stock XM radio so the antenna base is slightly larger than non XM vehicles. The shark fin is basicaly a hollow cup with tape on it's base to press & mount on top of your roof and over the existing antenna base. You remove the mast from the existing base and replace it with a coil of wires within the hollow shark fin.

    There are other makes of the shark fin which are smaller for the non XM vehicles.