Here in the northeast, cars get dirty pretty quickly this time of year so I'm anticipating giving my new Prius a wash in an automatic car wash. I know the manual suggests unscrewing the antenna, but I was wondering if the Toyota reps or other experts here have any other suggestions. I've seen it suggested either here or on egroups that one should cover the driver's side battery vent with some duct tape. Is this really a recommended procedure?!<br><br>Thanks,<br>Rick

I took my Prius through a car wash today for the first time. The attendant unscrewed the antenna and handed it to me before I got a chance to ask him if it was safe to leave the antenna in place. This was in New York City just off the West Side Highway.

Rick,<br><br>Page 185 of the Prius Owner's Manual states: "Do not bring the tip of the nozzle of the highly-pressurized car wash closer to the air vent on you Toyota. If water enters, the hybrid vehicle battery assembly might be damaged"<br><br>I use an automatic "touchless" (high pressure) car wash and cover my vent up with duck tape before entering. However, I forgot the tape last time I went through and nothing bad seemed to happen.<br><br>Chuck

Those jets are pretty strong, I usually use a mobil car wash, why don't they supply a cover or something. <br><br>Priusman, what do you think about this one? Do we have anything to worry about at regular car wash places.<br><br>Peter

As Long as there are no prolonged, high- intensity<br>jets of water being sprayed into the vent, the battery is in no danger. Your finish however is a different story- keep a thick coat of wax on it if you must use those things( with the spinning rags)<br>high intensity means if you know it would hurt to spray yourself with it- then dont use it on or over that vent- Toyobri