We just picked up our new '05 Prius, with the AM package (old #7, new #4). We'd like to add the electrochromic mirror, which was the only option we wanted that wasn't part of the AM package. However, the accessory book for '05 has a footnote for that mirror: "Conflicts with side airbags". Does anyone know why this is? Is it something to do with the wiring required for the mirror to get power not being present if side airbags are present? If so, how does the BC package (old #9, new #6) manage, as it has both the mirror and side airbags? Has anyone got any experience with this? I'd especially like to know if anyone has installed this accessory on an AM-equipped '04 or '05. We're reluctant to order a $250 part that we might not be able to install. Thanks!
My guess is the installation of the mirror. www.vfaq.net has a page that shows you how to install the mirror and that requires removing the trim pieces around the A pillar and driver's side trim where the airbags are situated. However, I noticed that his A Pillar had the "SRS Side Airbag" logo.. Odd. Anyhoo, here's the link http://www.vfaq.net/mods/ECMirror.html Take a look
It doesn't make any sense, the BC has both. Maybe it only applies if you want to add both air bags (if they can be put in after delivery) AND the mirror? Still, I can't understand why.
At this point, I'm guessing (purely a guess) that since the mirror installation involves going near the airbag wiring, they've declared that it conflicts in order to avoid any accidents. Since the mirror and airbags would both be installed at the factory in the BC package, this wouldn't be an issue. A more cynical view is that there is no technical reason for the conflict, and that it's an effort to get people who want the airbags and mirror to be forced to get the BC package.
Following up on my own topic: I spoke with the parts manager at Toyota of Palo Alto and he told me that the reason that the mirror is shown as conflicting with the side airbags is due to the radio signals emitted by the Homelink functions. Apparently the Homelink radio can cause interference with the airbag circuitry. The reason that the BC package can have both is that some shielding is installed around the airbag sensors at the factory. He said that he'd been curious about this exact issue (why the mirror is shown as conflicting with the side air bags) so he'd asked Torota directly, and this is what they'd told him. In summary, you probably can install the mirror on an AM - but it's not a good idea.
