I recently bought a thule trunk mount bike rack for my 2012 Prius 2. when I installed it, the bottom portion doesn't rest near or on the bumper, but on the license plate area. Does anyone know if I need a larger rack, one that the bottom pads rest just above the bumper or is it not a problem?
I had a cheapie trunk mounted rack before I installed my trailer hitch - while it has been a while I believe that the bottom of it rested above the bumper so I think that you are OK.
From what you have posted, this is the normal mounting for a Thule trunk rack. Resting it on the bumper can cause dimples in the bumper according to some reviews I have read. I have pics in this thread: http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii...e-raceway-2-3-raceway-platform-2-gen-iii.html
If you can still return it, I'd advise getting a hitch - hitch mounted bike racks are just plain easy - with no worries of scratching your car...
