Good afternoon. Recently I pulled my interior panels under the hatch to access the Hybrid battery. While I'm working around there I'm trying to tighten down any loose Nuts and Bolts. Driving around without the interior panels, I hear the sound of rushing air. I know that the air equalization vent is one source, (the one that's on the driver side). Wondering if the hatch seal could benefit from revitalizing. There are no visible splits or cracks. Is there any benefit to treating the rubber hatch seal with revitalizer? Thank you.
Probably can't hurt. Might want to see what Toyota wants for a new one- just to see what you are working against. I usually just replace it if I have any concern about it not sealing due to damage or being squashed. Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
You sure the hybrid battery fan is not running. with those panels removed the road noise is quite high may sound like rushing air. I have driven around with that area disconnected and did not hear wind. Have someone drive you around while your in the back so you can check it out.
I do hear the fan ramp up when using Hybrid Assistant, Those ducts open-and-close in conjunction with either fan speed of the environmental controls, and whether Fresh air (open) or Recirculate (close) is selected.
It is always good to treat rubber seals/ weather-strips. Di-electric grease is a proven product to use as is a specialized product named Gummi Pflege. Is it worth it? Yes. Will it help with wind noise/ leaks? Maybe. Maybe, because the WS may already be dried out/hardened or the WS is not making a good seal/ contact as is. If dried out, replacement is best. Sealing can be tested with a piece of paper between the WS and hatch and one feeling for tension/ drag. Many techniques for closing that tension gap, if any, are possible. Good luck and have fun with your project.
