Help for a newbie buying a prius?

Welcome to PriusChat! Let's see...

1. It really depends. A Gen 2 Prius is pretty reliable (both engine stuff and hybrid stuff). The higher mileage models may have had hybrid batteries replaced so always ask if it's on the original or if it's been replaced. A higher mileage model with a newer battery will net you better mpg since the battery is newer. One on the original battery is fine but like any older/high mileage car, always budget for repairs (for a HV battery, it's about $2-4k depending on your local taxes and technician hourly rates). Again, don't be afraid about "oh I gotta replace the battery". If you do, hey, you got a lightly used Prius for less money (the engine isn't as worn as the mileage suggests since it's not running for all of those miles + the new battery = new-ish car in terms of driving performance)
2. Not necessarily. I find Toyota technicians are starting to rely a bit too much on diagnostic tests. Sometimes, it may not throw a code. (e.g. a fray wire because a mouse chewed on it). If there's a more complete one (e.g. a 155-point inspection), that would be more worth it as they will check stuff like the brakes, suspension parts, steering wheel parts etc
3. It's reliable so yes. Other hybrids may be newer but they'll be first generation (e.g. 1G Sonata Hybrid/Optima Hybrid or Fusion Hybrid) which will not be as refined in the hybrid operation as the Prius. However, somewhere in the back of my mind, I recall Hyundai having some sort of lifetime warranty for the battery. I can't remember if it's transferable to subsequent owners or only available for the initial owner - that's something worth considering. But in terms of hybrid mpg, cost of maintenance and practicality (hatchback), the 2G Prius is a good combination.

Sidebar: Two recommendations when looking for a 2G Prius...

1. I would strongly recommend looking for one with side & side curtain airbags. Those models fared better in side crash protection than those without. 2007-2009 models have it as standard equipment but 2004-2006 models were optionally available.
2. I would avoid models with HID headlights as they tend to be problematic.

 

I would’ve thought a dealership would do it (in Canada, they’re done as part of the CPO program). Also, when we move provinces, we’re required to do a vehicle inspection so any tire/brake/lube place in Canada can do inspections. I don’t know about the US.

 

Is there a reason you keep creating new threads on the same topic?

 

Ahh ok. I approved the first one and deleted the second.