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Possibly buying a used prius. What do I need to do?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by ThisIsMyName, Jul 23, 2013.

  1. ThisIsMyName

    ThisIsMyName New Member

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    It's a 2006 Prius IV with 41,000 miles for $13,000. It's had 2 previous owners and all the scheduled maintenance done (last one this past April.) It's in surprisingly good condition. Best of all, it's got an energy efficient plate, meaning I can drive in the HOV lane even if I'm by myself.

    What's the next step? Should I get a pre-purchase inspection? Where can I get those done? Is the price reasonable or should I try to negotiate (it's a private party seller)? Based on the details I've provided, is this a car you'd recommend?
     
    #1 ThisIsMyName, Jul 23, 2013
  2. NYPrius1

    NYPrius1 Active Member

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    Price Seems High. I was offered 10K with only 30K Miles. Mine is loaded with everything.
    Yes, always get an inspection - I would go to a Toyota Dealer.
     
    #2 NYPrius1, Jul 23, 2013
    Merkey likes this.
  3. ThisIsMyName

    ThisIsMyName New Member

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    According to KBB, "excellent" condition would be $13K and "very good" would be $12.5K. It honestly does seem to be in excellent condition. What grounds should I use to try and negotiate a lower price?
     
    #3 ThisIsMyName, Jul 23, 2013
  4. NYPrius1

    NYPrius1 Active Member

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    The Dealers Don't use KBB. Look at ebay completed sold auctions. Will give u a good idea. The 10K I was offered was a dealer so I guess I could get more privately.
     
    #4 NYPrius1, Jul 23, 2013
    Merkey likes this.
  5. dorunron

    dorunron Senior Member

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    KBB, Edmunds, and so forth are suggested prices. The dealers have their own prices.

    If I were to buy the car you are looking at, I would not give more than 10K for it plus TT&L If it was showroom new with no scratches, dings or flaws of any sort I might consider more. You just don't find that in a car of that age.

    Don't go by what you see or what a carfax says. Always have a used car checked out by a third party. You should select someone who is competent and familiar with the Prius to properly check it out. If your local mechanic is gun shy, take it to a local dealer and ask them to check it over for you. If the seller does not agree to this, look elsewhere.

    It really sounds like you want a Prius, so really the next step is to simply go through the process of check out and purchase. In the end, the final decision must rest upon your shoulders.

    Ron
     
    #5 dorunron, Jul 23, 2013
  6. ThisIsMyName

    ThisIsMyName New Member

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    Ah, darn, just found out it was sold :/ Back to the drawing board.
     
    #6 ThisIsMyName, Jul 23, 2013
  7. usnavystgc

    usnavystgc Die Hard DIYer and Ebike enthusiast.

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    You're gonna find that happening a lot in your area (esp the ones with HOV plates). Honestly that alone is easily worth $500 (to me). If you find another like that, you really need to jump on it.
     
    #7 usnavystgc, Jul 23, 2013
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