Totaled 2004 Prius

All gen 2 do have the same hybrid battery. 12V is also the same unless one is smart key one and other is not.

 

2003…2009 or 2004…2009 depending on are you talking about production or model year.

 

I have a couple of questions in return, since I recently faced a very similar situation.

1) How much would you pay for salvage? My insurance co. wanted $1800 for salvage value, which sounded reasonable. I didn't take it, but if it had practically new batteries in it, I probably would have. They gave me money in the settlement for the nearly-new tires. (The settlement was $8000, which was plenty of money to buy another Gen 2 in much better condition (and brand new tires) in this currently depressed Prius market.)

2) If you salvage the HV battery, how do you intend to store it and keep it charged? I suppose you could rotate it into the car once in a while, or buy an expensive charger.

 

Yeah, I'd take that salvage deal for sure, if just for the batteries. It's at most a couple hours of work to remove both, and you'll have months of charge on them so no rush to reinstall. Other valuable parts you see on eBay are the MFD and radio, easy to remove, store and ship. The inverter might be a good idea, if you have a way to capture the coolant. Maybe the airbag and switch modules from the steering wheel. Maybe some ECUs. Say a half day total stripping the car, mainly the electronics. Then a scrap yard will probably tow it away for free. It would be nice to get money for the tires, but that could be logistically harder.

 

$3900 for an 04 is more then they are selling for retail.....maybe I should total mine

 

If the damage is minor (drivetrain not damaged) just buy it back, do minimal repairs and drive it like you stole it.

 

Yeah, if you are SURE the damage is superficial....no frame damage, nothing that would hinder or make the vehicle dangerous to drive, I'd look into trying to buying it back from the insurance company.

Many years ago, my Grandfather had a newer Honda Accord that he took excellent care. He was side swiped by a large truck. It dented and damaged nearly every panel on one side of the vehicle. But the damage was all just cosmetic.

He settled with the insurance company that didn't want to invest into the cost of replacing all the side panels and probably repainting the entire vehicle.

But I wanted that vehicle.

It was almost "Two Face" or Frankenstein cool. And except for simply looking bad on one side, it was a great vehicle. I figured the body damage would of just been a great excuse for NOT having to wash and wax it or worry about appearance upkeep.

I think the key to buying it back or obtaining a salvage vehicle however is safety. You've got to be sure no damage was done that would compromise it's safety on the road. If that reality can be obtained, then I would consider buying it back.

 

Hmm, original owner, youngish genuine OEM replacement HV battery, newish tires. Terrible shame.

If you decide to go salvage, make sure you can get insurance, and only liability insurance. I have heard some insurance companies won't insure a salvaged vehicle.

Consider selling your salvaged vehicle to a rebuilder like Steve at Autobeyours, if you are near Indiana.

Pictures of the damage would be nice too.

 

$300 Salvage value? I'd buy it and sell it for $1000