Peeling film or whatever it is(tint??)— see picture

Wax is like oil. Headlights causes heat and wax doesn't really evaporate, it stays there and will keep heating up and will harm the plastic over time. Kind of the same caution when changing light bulls to use gloves so finger oil doesn't transfer to the bulb. Megauir's Ultimate Wax is technically a sealant, there's actually no carnauba in that product. While true, you should not be using a Carnauba based wax on headlights for reasons mentioned above, a sealant is fine.

 

Found this video for those still interested in DIY wrap for this side panel:

 

Thank you.

 

Got my 2016 a bit over a year ago. At time of purchase it did not have this issue. Then just a few months later it started to. And it has progressively crept over the last few months. Park it outside, haven't been to a car wash in over half a year. Got sick of looking at it last time I was at the gas station, so just recently put in an order for replacement panels on ebay. Should get here in a few weeks. Wish me luck.

 

a hybrid dealer here in Tampa is doing that exact thing -- wrapping those problem panels in carbon fiber wrap -- it actually looks good -- thinking about trying it on my '19 and hubby's '16, same issue on both cars -- the Florida sun is brutal on paint & trim. Amazon also has replacement panels and there's some YouTube videos regarding replacement, pretty straightforward -- If the link doesn't work, just look for "prius trim quarter panel" Amazon.com: KITONLA Rear Quarter Moldings Left & Right, Fit for Toyota Prius 2016-2021, Rear Triangular Cover Plate, Replace# 62505-47012 62506-47012 : Automotive

 

Or just spray paint them? Though to have a body shop do it would very likely cost more than replacement panels. Too bad Toyota didn’t step up on this.

 

I sometimes help out at the shop I think you refer to and I've wrapped several gen 4 problem panels. Those sharp triangles are a little tricky but it's not that bad. And way cheaper than paint when you figure primer and clear coat into the deal. Just be sure to sand it well before wrapping or the edges of the blisters will show through the vinyl.

 

You can find them on ebay all day. It cost me $98 for the right side. It's defective paint. When i was buying my 2017 all the Prius i looked at had it on the right side. They pop right off. There is a video on youtube for it. No skills necessary to take off and reinstall.