Buying used Gen II

I think the hybrid battery has 150k warranty in CA, so that shouldn't be a problem. Other than the regular carfax, maintenance history reports, I am not sure what you should look for especially in a Prius. You can ask the owner/dealership how old the 12V is. If it is around 5 years old, perhaps you can request they put in a new 12V for free. Some Gen IIs had recalls (accelerator pedal, water pump), so check to see if they have been done. I cannot think of anything else right now, other folks will pitch in.

Welcome to PriusChat!

 

if the carfax shows the car was ever registered in another state it is possible you don't get the california hybrid system warranty.

 

I sold my 2006 a couple months ago, and this is what I had to offer:

- complete maintenance receipts from dealer
- compliance with all service bulltetins from Toyota
- replaced batteries in both electronic key fobs 2 years ago
- replaced 12v aux battery 2 years ago
- new tires at 50k, still had 30k worth of life on them
- fresh wash and interior detail
- new front windshield; rock chip in front of driver

hope this helps.

 

I would look for a 2006 or newer. Several improvements were included at that point.

Tom

 

just be aware that on a very very small percentage of these cars, an expensive repair can pop up outside of hybrid warranty.

 

But they took a step backwards with the HID bulbs for 2006-2009.

2007 has the problem with melting rubber on the liftgate release.

2004 is really the only year that may have significant issues, while 2009 has the fewest bugs.

One thing to check on 2004-2008 is the engine water pump. A leak can go unnoticed for many months. Look for pink crusty splotches on top of the A/C compressor and on the lower part of the water pump housing, especially inside the pump pulley.

Low trip MPG on the Consumption page of the display is often an indication of a failing 12V battery, or potentially more serious problems. Reset this and take a 10 mile, round trip test drive. You should see at least 40 MPG.