1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

All set to buy a used Prius this weekend but unsure 2005-2006-2007?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by srossnz, May 6, 2010.

  1. srossnz

    srossnz Junior Member

    Joined:
    May 6, 2010
    6
    0
    0
    Location:
    New Zealand
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    Hi All,

    I'm all set to get a used Prius this weekend but am unsure about year. 2005 prices would be better financially speaking but slightly higher k's, 2006 prices with low k's is our upper limit, 2007 low k's would be pushing it but maybe spending an extra 2k for a 2007 is worth it? My main questions of the 2005-2006-2007 is any far more superior than the other overall bang for buck wise? I want side curtain protection but unsure the 2005 has it but I believe the 2006 does? Thanks for any tips!
     
  2. halpos4

    halpos4 "Taxi"!

    Joined:
    Aug 13, 2008
    377
    24
    5
    Location:
    Ireland
    Vehicle:
    2006 Prius
    There were problems with the MFD on 04-05 models as reported by members here on PC,I have a 2006 with 290,000km and i have had no problems other than usual wear and tear items,
    Depending on mileage moreso than year,check that service intervals have been adhered to and in particular to higher mileage cars that you might be viewing,there's a wealth of info here so you can go "armed" and not have to listen to the usual salesman/woman patter.
     
  3. johnjamis

    johnjamis Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 4, 2009
    79
    13
    0
    Location:
    KY
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    The MFD problem was fixed in March of 2005 I believe. Side curtain air bags were available on the 2005 model.

    The 2006 has HID headlight issues.
     
  4. sktn77a

    sktn77a Member

    Joined:
    Apr 28, 2007
    294
    13
    0
    Location:
    NC
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Was this cars manufactured after March 2005?
     
  5. srossnz

    srossnz Junior Member

    Joined:
    May 6, 2010
    6
    0
    0
    Location:
    New Zealand
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    ok, well I found one but it was a 2004. A single old man owner bought new from local Toyota dealer, and he kept it immaculate.. full service history etc. Only reason he traded it in was his hip surgeries and he bought a new Rav. The car was so immaculate and 8k cheaper than the 2006 models in decent condition. I drove it back an hour and managed 3.9kms per 100kms! amazing machine I really love it. I also got a full 3yr Toyota warranty. My only reservation is that it does not have side air bags. I couldn't justify the cost at this time to get one with side bags. I doubt bags are something that can be added later. Have I botched up by not opting for side bags? We live on a small peninsula that doesn't even have intersections so I figured we'd be alright for a while..
     
  6. spitinuri

    spitinuri Member

    Joined:
    May 23, 2008
    317
    13
    0
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Generally speaking a 2004 = a 2009 with a few exceptions.

    As long as the TSB's have been fixed you will be fine. Check with the dealer and make sure that the steering column has been repaired per the TSB. Also make sure your Prius has the latest firmware installed.

    To me the biggest difference in an 04 vs an 06 and later is in the quality of the display unit.

    Good luck with your purchase! I know you will enjoy the car.
     
  7. qbee42

    qbee42 My other car is a boat

    Joined:
    Mar 2, 2006
    18,058
    3,075
    7
    Location:
    Northern Michigan
    Vehicle:
    2006 Prius
    The MFD and traction control were improved for 2006. I would buy a 2006 or newer.

    Tom