Looking used and need advice

I was in the same position as you a few months ago. I also work at a manufacturing facility, a paper mill. I had always bought used cars and drove them until the wheels fell off. I decided to go ahead and buy the 2010 Prius and I am really glad that I did.

I decided to put a sealant on the car and wash it every weekend. So far so good.

I know this is not the answer to your original question but I thought I would give you some help if you were still thinking at all about the 2010 Prius.

 

1. Why would older be better? Maybe from an economic view as far as price. I would stay away from 2004s, as that was the first model year, and there were a few issues, e.g. traction control, that were later corrected.

2. The battery warranty is probable a non-issue. The batteries on retired Priora are lasting 200,000 - 300,000 miles. The batteries do not wear out. There are, as with any complex part, occasional bad ones. Ask the dealer to about whether certification extends the warranty. I doubt it.

Get a Carfax report at least. If you can find an independent experience Prius mechanic, have the car checked over. You should be good to go.

 

Here is what comes with a Toyota Certified car:
3 month/300 mile comprehensive warranty
7 year/100000 limited power train
7 year/100000 roadside assistance
+ + +
Get the info direct from Toyota here.

 

Get a 2006 onwards model. There was an upgrade in 2006 to some of the works like the display and traction control.