I have had three incidents of hitting objects while backing up my 2005 Prius. I have a lot of difficulty seeing out the back windshield and find that the side mirrors do not assist with the blind spots. When I asked Toyota about installing a backup TV system that is included with the new models, they said it could not be done. They also advised me not to buy an offmarket product, so I am frustrated. Anyone else have this problem? Any suggestions?

 

Barbara,

http://www.coastaletech.com sells an aftermarket backup camera system for the 2004-2006 Prius.

JeffD

 

Take every opportunity where someone else can help you back in to a spot even if you don't feel you need it. It will teach you the size of your car so you can judge how far you can go when you're backing in alone, without having to depend entirely on seeing what the Prius rear view blocks off.

 

When in doubt backing up (in any vehicle) don't back up too far. As soon as you are out of your comfort zone in terms of how close you are to an object behind you; put the car in drive and move forward and reposition yourself for another go at it. If you have to make 3 or 4 reverse/forward maneuvers before you are free to navigate, that is certainly better than running into something behind you.

 

I have an aftermarket rear camera system installed in mine. A good car audio installer can intall it in a few hours. Don't believe the stealership

 

I back out very slowly and keep looking around. Sometimes I turn on my radio with windows cracked, as people and cars never seem to hear the Prius.

 

I'm certain people can hear the Prius in all electric mode they just don't seem to associate it with "There's a car coming." Maybe the Low Rolling Resistance tires play a role - because I've heard quiet non-hybrids roll by and the main sound I heard was the tires against the pavement, not the engine - and I still thought to myself "Uh oh, car." But you're right, often if I'm driving during the day (no headlights on) in all-electric people simply don't look, get out of the way, or anything you'd do when there's a car coming your way. It's strange. I guess I'll have to hear a Prius's tires go by to really judge.