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Looking at 05 Prius, please advise

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by YeaBuddy, Jun 11, 2012.

  1. YeaBuddy

    YeaBuddy New Member

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    So I am seaching for a Gen II Prius and I looked at one and test drove one (Private Owner) this weekend. It has 93K miles and it has been dealer maintained every 5k miles, as the Toyota website verifies. However, I noticed the digital display said it was only getting 40 mpg. I live in Philly and I was driving on a decently flat surface. Is this 40 MPG normal in aging Prii? Or is this a sign of something? Note, I did not check tire pressures and the two front tires have very little tread. Thanks in advance for any advice!
     
  2. alekska

    alekska Active Member

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    and welcome here!

    40 mpg is definitely less than '05 prius is capable off, but could be fine for certain conditions. Here is what can be resulting in these numbers:

    1) old worn accessory (12V, small) battery. Engine runs extra time trying to recharge it. Costs ~ $150 to replace.
    2) low tire pressure
    3) overfilled engine oil
    4) extended use of air conditioning or heat while parked
    5) short trips of less than 5-7 miles, so engine does not warm up completely
    6) driving style with often brick accelerations and braking, or driving at excessive speeds (70+)
    7) something else i'm forgetting....

    I would say Prius at 93k miles is not anywhere near being old.
    There is a lot of info here on PriusChat on gas mileage, just use the search button!

    Best,
    - Alex
     
  3. Oldwolf

    Oldwolf Prius Enthusiast

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    Before I bought my father in law's 2005 Prius from him he usually got 38-40 mpg. Most of his driving was just to Walmart and back, hardly letting the engine warm up. I am averaging 52 mpg with it now. Probably something like that is going on with the Prius you are looking at.
     
  4. eliteconcept

    eliteconcept 700 mile club, top tank mpg 69.5

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    Second the style of driving suggestion. When my wife drives my '10 she'll only get like 48 mpg when i drive it i'll easily get 55 or so. We are seeing the same thing with our new used 2005 as well. driving style has a lot of impact
     
  5. YeaBuddy

    YeaBuddy New Member

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    Thanks for the responses!
     
  6. tdelker

    tdelker Junior Member

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    I would reset the mpg display and take a 20 mile easy drive on flat roads below 60 mph before you buy it. If it isn't in the mid 40's you might think twice.
     
  7. alekska

    alekska Active Member

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    I agree, but check the tire pressure and engine oil before the drive :)

    -Alex