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Newbie with used questions

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by Liz M, Aug 21, 2014.

  1. Liz M

    Liz M Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jun 9, 2014
    8
    1
    0
    Location:
    Albany, NY
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    IV
    I recently bought a 2010 Prius IV with only 22k miles on it.
    Not sure why it wasn't driven much, but it was dealer maintained and
    had all its records. Only problem was the battery died the week before
    the last owner traded it in, but dealer tested battery and said it was healthy.
    I've had the car for 2 months now with no issue (*knock on wood*).

    My questions (answering any is appreciated!):
    1.) How do you know what a "bad" sound is coming from the engine?
    My BF calls it my "hippie rocketship" because it's either really quiet, or
    making high frequency "hybrid sounds". None sound alarming to me,
    just different, but I realize that I wouldn't know what a bad "hybrid sound"
    would be. I'm just hoping when it's whisper quiet or engine turning on its
    doing it when it should. Any guidelines for this?

    2.) I've been told I'll "never" have to replace the brakes. While I assume that
    is a mild exageration, it raises the question of what other parts on a Prius
    should I be suspicious if a mechanic wants to replace? And what needs
    changing on a Prius that might not in a regular car? (I've seen several posts
    about transaxel fluid but there seems to be disagreement about that)

    3.) Are the 2010's known for any particular issues I should watch out for?

    4.) Aside from the low ground clearance, will I DAMAGE the Prius if I have to drive it through deep snow? (Upstate NY, might not always be able to avoid it)

    5.) Am I hurting the car when I floor it? I'm a total lead foot, and I like how the Prius
    still lets me do that while getting good mileage, but it always sounds strained when the bar is is in full POWER mode (display screen, not hitting the power button). I'm not going to burn anything out am I? (any more than I would on a non-hybrid)

    6.) Any way to update the Navigation system? It's so terrible......(I'm assuming not)

    Btw, this community is awesome and it's comforting to know there's a support group
    for taking the plunge.
     
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2013
    16,463
    8,377
    0
    Location:
    Los Angeles, CA
    Vehicle:
    2008 Prius
    Model:
    II
    1. Go test drive a new 2014 so you can compare the sounds. I don't think a car with only 22k miles would have early issues.
    2. Yes the brakes will need to be replaced but they last much longer than a regular car. Not sure where you heard that nonsense of it never needing brakes.
    3. The 2010 models should be just as reliable as a 2014 model.
    4. Snow should not damage your car.
    5. Flooring the car won't hurt the car, just your mpg
    6. Not sure there's an update to make it any better. You can simply just not use it and use your phone.