Considering a Prius

We like to know what state people (add to your profile) are from because CARB states have 150000 warraty on batt vs. 100000 otherwise. Yes lots of miles/yr is a winner for a hybrid.

 

Why not consider $24k for a new one with 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty? (Especially if you can find a zero percent financing deal.) Since they hold their value so well, the extra out-of-pocket or extra monthly payment seems like money well spent IMO.

 

Hello Evan. I recently purchased a used Blizzard Pearl 2010 Prius IV with 53k miles and JBL sound system and Navigation/backup camera, leather interior for $16,500. Its in near mint condition (was a lease return). Has 1 small dent on the rear driver side door and a few small paint chips on the front end from rocks hitting it I'm sure. But overall its in great condition. The 3yr/36k mile factory warranty was expired but it still had the 8yr/100k mile factory warranty on the drive battery. I also purchased the extended "platinum" warranty from Toyota this gives me 5yr/60k miles coverage of almost everything for $2,700. Below is what it covers:
http://www.toyotafinancial.com/consumer/ShowBinary/BEA Repository/tfs/en_US/document/TFS_Platinum.pdf

When I was looking I saw the prices for used 2010 - 2011 Prius' ranged from $12,000 to $20,000. First, I would decide what trim level and options you want and from there start looking for the best deals. I wanted a higher trim level / more options because when buying used you can get a $5000 upgrade when the car was new for a couple hundred dollars. Also, be sure to negotiate the price. You can use this tool to help you find a "fair" price. Just change the zip code to your location and modify the car with the trim level and options you're looking for.
Used Car Pricing for 2010 Toyota Prius Hatchback | Clearbook by TrueCar

 

Have a mechanic look at the car prior to purchase unless your buying a Toyota certified car which includes the Toyota Platinum warranty.

Be patient and let us know how you make out

 

they are really great cars. very reliable. we have two.

 

Anything will be better than what you have! I saved a lot of money and bought a used Prius and I've been pretty happy with it to a certain degree. I do miss having my Tacoma truck though once in awhile. Nothing like sitting up higher off the road. But the $180.00 savings in gas a month is not too shabby either.

 

I am saving ~$200/month from my previous car . got to love that...
My previous car: Hyundai Tiburon that I drove for 11 year and sold due to have no time to do fix/maintenance.

 

My only real concern is that after driving a supercharged anything, the Prius may seem slow and dull by comparison. Of course you could start banking the money you don't spend on gas and after a few years get a newer supercharged something or other for weekends.

 

My 2011 does and it is a model 2, so I'd say all 11's have it, not sure about the early 10's. By the way mine is for sale and listed in this forum, there is a for sale section in Priuschat, give it a look. I won't pitch mine to you cause I'm in California.

 

It is a well behaved, highly efficient and reliable car. I've had more struggles than expected with comfort and ergos being a 6'2" tall driver. The latest gadget is to use a pillow to rest my left arm on to hold the steering wheel about 9 oclock (the door armrest ends up about 4 inches below my left elbow otherwise). It's weird, but it helps so far. I'm no old out of shape geezer either, see avatar taken a few years ago.

 

...I don't see any abs in that avatar? But probably you are correct, if you have some extra (natural ) padding it helps.

 

Prius is a really dull boring car that just runs and runs with no issues, problems or drama. This 2011 is our second Prius. We average 53-55 mpg. We travel quite a bit. We're really happy with this super dull car.

I wouldn't drive any other car right at the moment, especially if I had that commute you have to drive. They are comfortable, easy driving cars that if kept long enough, will save significant fuel costs.

Right now with gasoline at "relatively" low price levels, you might be able to score a great deal on a Prius. If you can wiggle a zero percent loan, that's golden. You can still pay it off sooner if you wanted to.

If you go for a used Prius, see that it has been properly maintained and has not been involved in an accident. Carfax can help, but inspect the car carefully yourself or have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. One of the few cars that I wouldn't have a problem buying used!

 

Welcome to PRIUSchat!!
You are doing right, by shopping around !!
As time goes on; gas prices WILL get higher!!