Reliability information

[tleonhar]

Just signed up with an 05

[mkaresh]

Thanks, I appreciate it.

Because 38 owners have already signed up to help, the odds are good for a preliminary result for the 2008 in February.

Total for all years is now 293. 300 soon?

Details here:

Auto reliability research

[mkaresh]

The 300th Prius owner recently signed up. Thanks, guys.

40 of these are 2008s. However, only 18 of these have responded to the survey, for a total of 32 months of data. I only show a result at all if there are at least 45 months of data, and asterisk this result unless there are at least 75 months of data.

At this point, there's virtually no chance of a result without an asterisk. I think most people simply took delivery too recently.

But there could well be an asterisked result. Just need at least 13 more months of data (and the more, the better).

A follow-up email with links to the survey goes out tomorrow. If you've already signed up, please respond to it. If you haven't yet signed up, please consider doing so.

Details and link to the enrollment form here:

Auto reliability research

[dealerbadger]

I spent many years working in different sales capacities at dealerships. Because I was always around different cars, I was not brand loyal to anything. I viewed cars as transportation only, and had seen virtually every car have problems regardless of their overall reputation. While I was working at Toyota I purchased a new Prius and have really enjoyed the car. I have read some of the concerns and complaints, but I can tell you I have not had any issues with my vehicle. The lone concern I had about the vehicle was having to replace the hybrid system or components due to the high cost. However, the warranty will cover me up to 100,000 miles and I doubt I will still have the car at that point. If you are looking at a Prius you are making a wise decision.

[Genoz World]

if i remember the consumer reports for the 08 prius, the satisfaction, reliability and ?? forgot the third was the max that CR would rate.

that was good enough for me as i also had more than 5 friends own the prius - with zero problems.

as i said, good enough for me.

and further the point, when the batteries are green and you punch it, this little car has some impressive punch. so easy and effortless to run.

all this and my average of 47 mpg......good enough!

[mkaresh]

The third one would be for depreciation.

One correction, though. CR has no results for any 2008s, because until next October their results will be based on a survey conducted in the spring of 2007. Not many people realize how old their data tends to be.

TrueDelta posted a result for the 2008 back in February.

Now, for the Prius this isn't such a big deal, since their are four previous model years.

But when the Prius is next redesigned a quick result will be key. That's when prompt, quarterly updates will pay off.

Same goes if the Prius ever hits a point where reliability starts to drop off. Hasn't happened yet, but at some point (150,000 miles? 200,000?) it will.

[sleonardelli]

Just signed up myself. Since I just got the car Friday, I'll be sure to keep track of relevant data.

[lisaann]

Hello,
I have a Prius 2006 and I am getting ready to buy a new one.
I have two Questions:
2008 or wait for 2009? any opinions?
Second question, has anyone had trouble with a mildew or mold smell from the AC vents when car is first started?
Thanks,
Lisa

[Bill Lumbergh]

I just signed up my '05. I've done no unscheduled maintenance save replacement of the junk OEM tires.

[ctbering]

Originally Posted by mkaresh

The third one would be for depreciation.

One correction, though. CR has no results for any 2008s, because until next October their results will be based on a survey conducted in the spring of 2007. Not many people realize how old their data tends to be.

TrueDelta posted a result for the 2008 back in February.

Now, for the Prius this isn't such a big deal, since their are four previous model years.

But when the Prius is next redesigned a quick result will be key. That's when prompt, quarterly updates will pay off.

Same goes if the Prius ever hits a point where reliability starts to drop off. Hasn't happened yet, but at some point (150,000 miles? 200,000?) it will.

I find Consumer Report a frustrating magazine ..and on-line consumer guide.
They often compare apples and oranges like the comparison of the Prius base model and the Prius Touring model with all the bells and whistles. . I could not detect a real difference between the two models from a low package touring model I rented in AZ to my base Prius with package 6.
CR said Touring scored significantly better for handling and maneuver yet when you look at ther reliabity record its virtually the same. Seems strange to me. I didn't know how adding McPherson struts and wider tires could add that much difference to the Tourig Prius. Any thoughts about CR? Terry