Hybrid Fan Service 2016 Prius

yes, if you know how to get to it, just wipe it out. if you don't carry pets, there's probably just a little build up.

what symptoms are the rats presenting?

 

They're probably only cleaning the filter - once you get that out, shine a flashlight inside to see if there's any dust (etc) buildup behind. I've taken mine off twice to have a look - was so clean that I didn't need to clean it - just put it back.

But check that you never have stuff on the back floor near/blocking the vent(s) - the NiMH has a centre vent too.

 

Ask them to show you the damage to the wiring harness before you say yes to that too. Stealerships, regardless of brand, will always try to sell you service you don't need.

 

if there are no symptoms from the rats, proceed with caution. anyone that would try to charge $400. for fan cleaning can't be right in the head

 

There's a lot of media on rodents chewing on Toyota soy-based wire insulation. When I was looking at 2020 Prius Prime's I popped the hood on a Prime on a dealership lot. There were pieces of chewed insulation with mouse droppings in it lying behind the area where the spark plugs are. I passed on that one, but I guess it's fairly common.

But I would definitely want to see the actual damage before paying a stealership, and I would only use them as a last resort.

 

Not just TOYOTA - found this on GOOGLE:

"growing volume of online stories about rodents chewing up expensive wiring looms that keep Audis, Hondas, Toyotas and Volvos running. Owners of some European makes have reportedly paid upwards of $8,000 for repairs." Also mention of Hyundai, TESLA, Subaru, Mercedes and other VW group.

Another article mentions "Honda ... sell(s) electrical tape infused with spicy capsaicin, which vehicle owners can wrap around their engine wiring to repel rodents. The 20-metre roll (Honda part 4019-2317) is available on Amazon.ca for an eye-watering $84."

This article lists just about every make and model. A quick scan had the most expensive a PORSCHE BOXSTER (AU)$22,000. And a number of write-offs including another quite old PORSCHE

Incredible Edible Car (synlube.com)