Just bought a Prius - What kind of maintenance things should I do?

I would suggest you do some research on what folks have done to get 300,000 miles out of their Prius. I am referring to actual repair/replacement costs.

299,999+ Mile Club | PriusChat

I believe you will find that some of them have replaced traction batteries, as well as done other expensive work such as new struts, shocks, wheel bearings and so forth. There are also reports of transaxles being replaced. Usually that is because no one changed the fluid regularly. Toyota doesn't specify it, but most here on PC recommend it every 60,000 miles. I am aware of one poster who has over 500,000 on his, but he has also replaced the engine.

No car is 100% bulletproof. At some point you are going to have spend money on it for repairs. And some of those repairs can easily get into the four digits range. The farther you drive any vehicle including the Prius, the more money you will have to spend over time keeping that car in proper working order.

 

"I was under the impression that Priuses could last well over 300k miles"

Yes, some could. But not all will. Also, some will require substantial repairs to get there.

It is just like the concept that some American men can live to age 100. However it would not be reasonable to think that all men will get there, especially not if they are in poor health, overweight, drink or take drugs excessively, etc.

You looking for a salvage Prius which may have been through multiple accidents and owners including a repossession (which may imply lack of timely maintenance, at minimum) and thinking you are going to get 300K miles on the odometer without a lot of effort is like taking a derelict off the street and expecting that individual to live to age 100. Neither is likely to happen.

 

Well said Patrick. That is what I like about you. You know your stuff, tell the truth, and don't mince words.

Ron

 

Ed, a suggested alternative for your signature: Science flies you to the moon. Religion takes you much further...

If your religion isn't giving you good performance, try another model. Like leaving behind other vehicles to drive a Prius...