What is this thing under the drivers seat for?

[CrankyOldMan]

It looks like the bins under the rear deck are optional, since there's a latching point for the "locks" about 4" down from the ones level with the bin tops. That would mean that some models don't get a spare bin for the jack. Not sure where the tire iron and jack handle would go then... It could also be a safety thing: in a rollover or particularly energetic crash, any items not securely fastened become projectiles.

[Yaristeve]

Originally Posted by WeeYari

Stupidest place ever. Nothing easier than storing it in the side bin cubbies in the hatch.

That's a little harsh. Unless you have a concealed weapon permit, the space under the seat is wasted or gets cluttered with trash so sticking the jack under the seat frees up the space in the bin. Although, it is a small PITA to get to... Toyota should have gone one step further and figured out how to stow the jack handle under the seat as well...

Originally Posted by CrankyOldMan

It looks like the bins under the rear deck are optional, since there's a latching point for the "locks" about 4" down from the ones level with the bin tops. That would mean that some models don't get a spare bin for the jack. Not sure where the tire iron and jack handle would go then... It could also be a safety thing: in a rollover or particularly energetic crash, any items not securely fastened become projectiles.

I don't think the bins can be optional because they are what hold up the deck floor panel.

[jayeh]

Originally Posted by Yaristeve

I don't think the bins can be optional because they are what hold up the deck floor panel.

I was excited when I read that and then I went out to my car and made the same discovery. No sweet extra storage for me.

[CrankyOldMan]

Originally Posted by Yaristeve

I don't think the bins can be optional because they are what hold up the deck floor panel.

I agree that the deck hinges on the bins, but there is a second set of latch points below the upper set. There would have to be a different hinge point, and the spare wouldn't fit, so I'm not sure why they added them.