2019 Prius LE: Plastic shield under driver seat grinding on floor

tough to tell, can you get some better light under there?

it's not the oil change flap, is it?

 

Who’s doing your oil changes?

if it’s the main piece, not just the small panel at the oil pan, replacement could be pricey.

 

See catalog Figure 58-01, Floor Pan & Lower Back Panel; click View More Images and then select the second illustration, which shows the Front Floor Cover LH, 58166-12040; three clips, 90467-07220; and two bolts, 90109-06388 (90109-A0061).

It’s not an emergency, but I’d have the cover replaced: it’s not only for aerodynamics but also protects against road debris and water spray.

 

maybe salvage if you can find it

 

The shield was almost certainly dragging due to their negligence.

 

I’d respectfully disagree. If the damaged part is indeed the cover “under the driver’s seat,” not one under the engine, it wouldn’t usually be removed for maintenance. The Repair Manual (more info) mentions removing the Front Floor Cover LH only when replacing the engine assembly, exhaust manifold, or frame wire.

Several dealers offer the part online for $200 or so, but due to its size, the shipping cost might be high.

Good idea; any shop with a vehicle lift should be able to replace the cover in a few minutes. The Repair Manual says the torque specification for the bolts is 7.5 N·m (66 in.-lb.).

Not for a part like this, since the old one would just be discarded. So-called core charges—extra fees that are refunded when the old part is returned—are applied to parts that can be rebuilt or have substantial scrap value, or in some cases, to encourage recycling, as with lead-acid and HV batteries.

 

Any time plastic is dangling, I’d try anything but “cutting off the dangling bits”. Better to just push it back up, use some kind of twist ties to secure it; it might be mendable. Might need a few surgical holes, but that’s not as damaging.

 

that's quite a rupture. i can't tell where the seam is that came loose