So I was removing the MFD in my 2009 Prius to get it fixed by Autobemine.com and as I was taking out one of the two 10mm bolts that secure it to the dash, the bolt slipped out of my hands and fell... landing, well, somewhere behind the dash. I didn't see where it fell and I can't see where it is now so here's my question. If I just go buy another bolt to replace it at the home depot or something so I can rescure the MFD properly, is there any risk to having an errant bolt hiding out somewhere in my dash? Should I try taking apart the whole radio and front panel to look for it? (I was hoping that I could hear it rattling around when I'm driving, but I've yet to hear anything...) Sorry if this is a stupid question... Thanks in advance! John
hard to say for sure, but i don't see where it could be a problem. did you try one of those magnet thingy's?
it's a long springy arm with a magnet on the end, to fish out metal objects from places you can't reach.
You can get them at auto parts stores or even Home Depot....the magnet "thingny," I have the magnet wand, as well as a claw wand, with a small LED... Magnetic Pick Up Tool at AutoZone.com - Best Magnetic Pick Up Tool Products for Cars, Trucks & SUVS
I got one of these magnets and tried to find the missing bolt for about 5-10 minutes before giving up. Steve Woodruff at AutoBeMine.com said I'm not the first person that has happened to and didn't seem overly concerned. I don't hear the bolt rattling around when I drive so I doubt it'll be easy to locate beyond taking the whole dashboard apart. Since it doesn't seem like it'll cause any damage, I might just leave it alone now that I have a properly functioning MFD installed.
