Toyota Prius Check Engine Light and Grille Shutter Inoperative After Raccoon Damage on Toyota Prius

Some Toyota Prius owners report experiencing issues with the check engine light and inoperative grille shutters due to raccoon damage. This damage can lead to a "Grille Shutter Inoperative" message on the dashboard, indicating that the grille shutter system is unable to function properly. Owners may find physical harm to the grille shutter system, including broken or disconnected wiring connections. If no visible damage is apparent, the actuator motor for the grille shutters may have failed and require replacement. Repairing or replacing any damaged wiring connections can restore functionality, while replacing the actuator motor can resolve the inoperability. To prevent similar incidents, it is advisable for owners to secure their vehicles in a garage or use deterrents to keep wildlife away.