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So your thinking about purchasing a Gen 2

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by ToyotaGal, Mar 1, 2024.

  1. ToyotaGal

    ToyotaGal Member

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    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
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    These are great cars but they are not for everybody.

    1. They like to be driven. If you don't drive a lot, the battery will die.

    2. Don"t panic if you get the dreaded triangle of death. Keep a scanner in the dar that can read the codes. If you get a check engine light, pull over and check the code. Make sure you can drive it so you are not doing more damage.

    3. Check oil every thousand miles.

    4. The hybrid battery, brake actuator are the two most expensive things to replace.

    5. Look for a car that has documented oil changes

    6. Find a hybrid specialist or google toyota master technian. They should not be afraid to work on hybrids.

    7. Down load dr Prius and run it evey so oftern.

    8. Watch you tube videos on how to repair it. Most of the stuff isnt complicated.
     
    bisco likes this.
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    Plug-in Base
    Well said. Like any older vehicles, they require proper maintenance and occasional repairs.
    Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find a mechanic if you have a hybrid issue
     
  3. MCCOHENS

    MCCOHENS Member

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    Good stuff. Number 6 is the most important. I don't understand why the high volume of hybrids has not created more shops specializing in them.
     
    bisco likes this.
  4. alanski

    alanski New Member

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    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    ----UK----
    I was considering buying a 2007 1.5 Spirit with a full service history and excellent MOT (uk roadworthy test) 186K. Only thing that puts me off is the battery condition - hiow do you know / check if the battery is still serviecable? Are there dashboard indicators or do you need some specialist tests? tia
     
  5. MCCOHENS

    MCCOHENS Member

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    II
    Dr prius app has a battery test, torque pro can be configured to show cell voltage, battery temp and several other parameters. Both connect via a USB interface which is normally bluetooth. But many here will argue of the validity of these tests. I lean towards torque pro, seeing a big voltage variance between cells is not a good thing.