Should I Buy a Used Prius?

so, you will pay $3,000. for the car? you need a car fax, no if's and's or but's. make sure it wasn't in any serious accidents. reset the trip meter/average mpg's and take it for a long drive to see if it get's around 50mpg. battery usually lasts 2-300,000 miles, but if it does die, a rebuilt is a couple grand to replace. lastly, be prepared to spend $3-5000. in the rare event that the 'tranny' (which only has 3/36 warranty) goes. all the best!

 

For about $100 I think you can have a Toyota service shop run a diagnostic inspection on the Prius and give you an idea if any problems are lurking with the hybrid drive train. Ask the lot if they will let you take the Prius to the Toyota shop and get it evaluated and give you credit for the diagnostic $s if you purchase the vehicle, or maybe they will pay for the diagnostic.

 

Of course with these kinda cars Toyota Stealerships tend to be more interested in making money on super lucrative repairs rather than making your decision to buy easier. Cost of repair at a dealership is going to be hugely inflated compared to a repair by a reputable mechanic sourcing quality used parts. So if they do say something major is wrong get as much info as possible from them and then bring that info back to this thread and see what the experts on here say.

 

Also, if you get the VIN from the Prius you should be able to check and see what the Toyota service history is for the vehicle. Any problems already repaired or identified should be visible.

 

Those answers are great, but lets talk about you!

Here is my generic "who should not own a Prius" post:
considering a Prius | PriusChat
As examples, we have current threads about towing, gravel roads, and not driving one's Prius for 8 months. Best to realize these are problems before you buy.

 

I, personally, would pass on it.

Do you have the money for a transmission or hybrid battery should you buy the car and one of those components goes bad next week?

In my area (you didnt fill out where you are from in your profile), you can get Prius with low miles for pretty cheap, comparatively speaking. For example, 2005 Toyota Prius 77k Miles

And if you wanted to spend a little more with real low miles, 2005 TOYOTA PRIUS

 

If you think you will have a dependable auto that could haul your wife and your kids safely, then go for it. But, be prepared with a lump sum just in case the your Prius has issues.

 

Not sure about the new prius. I have a gen 1 and it has 135k a bad hybrid battery and a bad ecu.
I would be wary and be sure to have a pre-buy inspection done at Toyota. It will be the best $100 ever spent. Plus they have access to the cars complete service history and factory recalls that have been performed or should be completed.