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Buying a Used Prius. Top questions to ask?

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by Grace Donaldson, Nov 11, 2020.

  1. Grace Donaldson

    Grace Donaldson New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 17, 2020
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    Location:
    Los Angeles
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    ----USA----
    Looking to buy a used Prius from a Toyota dealership. Modes from 2014-2017. What are some of the top questions I should ask?
     
  2. Moving Right Along

    Moving Right Along Senior Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2016
    685
    539
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    Location:
    USA
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    I’d ask if they have the maintenance and repair history of the car. You want to see if it was regularly maintained, if any needed recall work was performed, and ask about any unusual repairs done that may have indicated an unreported accident.

    You’re also looking at cars across 2 different generations. 2014 & 2015 models are 3rd gen, and should “have all the kinks worked out”, whereas 2016 and 2017 models are 4th gen. Generally, it’s better to buy the last year of a previous generation than the first year of a new generation, but it’s also going to depend on the specific cars.
     
  3. ETC(SS)

    ETC(SS) The OTHER One Percenter.....

    Joined:
    Oct 28, 2010
    7,669
    6,485
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    Location:
    Redneck Riviera (Gulf South)
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    Questions I would ask:

    Is this going to be my only car?
    Cash or finance?
    Am I going to trade or sell a car?
    Do I have a backup car if this one goes in the shop?
    Can I write a check with a comma in it if something goes wrong with the car?
    How much is registration, insurance going to cost?
    Who is going to maintain the car?
    What are the additional coverages for this car under CARB?
    What are the differences between an OEM Certified Pre-owned car and "other" certified pre-owned plans?
    Was the car ever used commercially? (Dealer rental, Uber, fleet, etc....)
    May I take the car to an off-site mechanic for a thorough inspection?