Due to a large measure of carelessness and dollop of stupidity I managed to break the spoiler on my 2005. At first glance it appeared no big deal as it is, after all, merely a piece of plastic. To my dismay I found that Toyota wants $700 plus applicable taxes, plus painting, plus installation for this piece of plastic. I have decided to repair instead of replace and am well along in that project at this time. My question is: What is the electronic devise under the spoiler what looks like an array of LCD's inside a lens? What is its purpose and can I live without it? If it must be replaced I shudder to think what the replacement costs will be on an item that isnt merely plastic!! Any information would be appreciated.
If this device is located in the center of the spoiler it is the center brake light. You might try some of the people that sell used Prius parts for a quote.
I remember reading "theforce" replaced his. Oh here it is, http://priuschat.com/index.php?showtopic=21246&hl=spoiler Maybe you can ask him to sell you his old one?
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(islander2 @ Aug 23 2006, 10:59 AM) [snapback]308249[/snapback]</div> Dude, chill... he was simply pointing out that electronics can be dangerous and difficult to work with, and that making a mistake with them could lead to unforseen consequences. You might luck into getting it right, but you might also luck into electrocuting yourself. Or you could create a short and kill your battery every day. The simple thing is: those who don't know about electricity, circuits, and the like really shouldn't be playing with them. it's just too dangerous. You'll find me at home playing with them, definately... but then again, i spent 5 years at school learning about them... what you won't find me doing are things i have no training in, like auto repair (i'm not talking cosmetic repair here, i mean replacing brake pads, etc) because i really know nothing about them. The point is, you question indicated that you didn't know what the electronics did, how they hooked up, or what effects it may have on your safety and the safety of those around you (personally, i find that having a brake light really does increase safety for everyone...). Now, it's entirely possible you do know how to handle circuits and were just having a "blonde" moment, but don't go jumping down people's throats for pointing out the obvious, especially when you're new to the boards and we don't know what your abilities and talents are.
