I have a little over 300 miles on my 2007 Prius. I noticed today, that the driver's side of the center console is scratched! Imagine the horror when I looked down and saw a dozen or so scratches. I have attached photos so you can see the evidence. So, the question is WHERE did they come from? You'll notice in the images that the seat belt latch is near the area, but I don't think that I am missing the latch that much when I attach the seat belt. Is this a design flaw with the seatbelt? I can't check the other side, since I don't have a passenger w/ me most of the time so I wanted to turn to you guys for your thoughts. Needless to say I am pretty ticked off. Anyone have any ideas? Or better yet, how can I buff them out? I have not tried anything yet, pending consultation from you all. Should I try for warranty replacement of the center console and claim it's the seatbelt since I don't have any other working theories yet.
I actually took delivery of mine with a fairly deep scuff/scratch exactly in that same spot. I think it's inevitable that these scuffs will show up from the seatbelt. Since it's textured, you won't be able to buff it out, and as far as warranty goes, normal wear and tear is excluded. I know it stinks, but I'd bet just about everyone has scuffs there.
I noticed two small scratches around the area where the key goes, even though I never put the key in to operate the vehicle. It seems the plastic gets scratched rather easily. I had some luck just rubbing it really hard with my thumb. I'll bet that one of those Mr. Clean Magic Eraser things might help reduce their appearance, but I'd try testing it on an inconspicuous spot first.
I'm guessing at some point you had your keys in your hand while buckling or unbuckling your seatbelt. Why do you think Toyota should pay for replacing the console for you?
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(BORNGEARHEAD @ Feb 3 2007, 08:01 PM) [snapback]385018[/snapback]</div> The Smart Key is always in my pants pocket.....so it's not keys. If it is the seat belt, then it's a bad design. I don't really know...that's why I am posing it to the group here.
Judging by the angle of the scratches and the location its either the seatbelt that caused them or maybe a watch or ring that you may have causing the scratches. Remember nothing will stay perfect forever.
I don't wear a watch...and while it could be my wedding ring (I only wear the one ring) I am starting to think it's the seat belt. If that's the case...then perhaps I can get a rubber cover for the metal part to prevent the scratching.
If it's not getting scratched when you insert the buckle, then it's getting scratched when you hit the release button and the buckle flies out. I had to train myself to hold the buckle as I release it so that it won't fly around.
I always assumed the scratches on my console were from my work keys, since I don't use the seatbelts. I keep the keys clipped on my belt on my right side. But after reading all these replies, it is most probable that my wife puts the scratches there when she uses the seatbelt. She rarely drives my car, but I will begin to pay attention now to see if my problem gets worse after she's been 'touring around'.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Pinto Girl @ Feb 6 2007, 11:29 AM) [snapback]386197[/snapback]</div> The scratches you save on the car, could end up on your face.
