Need help with purchase (2015 Prius v)

I'm looking to purchase a used 2015 Prius v (wagon). I have a few concerns and need advice.

1.) It is a 2015 model year and has 74,000 miles.
2.) The CARFAX report says it was used as a taxi.
3.) The price is $17,595.

The main reason I'm considering purchasing this Prius is because of the price, model year, and trim level (Five). I know Prii have the ability to run hundreds of thousands of miles, so the 74,000 miles don't scare me. I am, however, scared of how many miles were put on the car within such a short time frame. I also am somewhat concerned about it being used as a taxi. I realize Prii are designed for in-city driving primarily (which I presume this car mostly did), but I still won't know how bad the previous owner abused this vehicle. The price seems awfully low considering the area and market in which it's being sold. I wonder if it's because it was used as a taxi and maybe most people steer clear of vehicles like that. I'm going to contact a local mechanic to see if I can get it inspected before I buy, but I really wanted to read your opinions first before I do anything. With all that being said, the car has a clean title, had one owner, and seems to have been well maintained based on pictures and 5 maintenance records. For those whom are experienced with Prii (especially the V) please give me your opinions and/or thoughts on this situation. It will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 

I'll need to contact the dealer to see if it would be okay with me bringing a mechanic and finding out details about the original owner. I know how to do basic auto repairs/checks, so I'll definitely check out the condition of the brakes, tires, oil, etc. Thank you so much for the advice! I really do appreciate it!

 

The trim level is 5 with advanced technology package. Do you think it would be harmful to shoot a low ball offer after the mechanic and I assess the vehicle? KBB rates it anywhere from $20K-$24K.

 

Thank you all for the wonderful replies! It means a lot to be a part of this community. I'm going to check out the car myself to see if it can even pass my basic evaluation. I've been wondering also about two Prius v's that have a rebuilt title. I've read about the dangers, horror stories, and terrible experiences of people purchasing vehicles for dirt cheap (yet in seemingly good, almost brand new condition), but I'm balling on a budget and need a second vehicle. I plan on taking my next vehicle purchase (hopeful it'll be a Prius v) to the grave. I will keep it until it's no longer able to be driven.

 

My gut says "no," but my wallet says "yes!"

 

Does anyone know if these are factory weldings or repair weldings. The reason I ask is the rear bumper's paint coat is off. It's more of a matte color than a shiny. I'm suspicious this car was in a wreck, but the wreck wasn't reported. Any ideas?

 

View attachment 115333 View attachment 115334 Does anyone know if these are factory weldings or repair weldings. The reason I ask is the rear bumper's paint coat is off. It's more of a matte color than a shiny. I'm suspicious this car was in a wreck, but the wreck wasn't reported. Any ideas?

 

So with all things considered, I still might offer the dealer $10k. Does that seem too low of an offer? I really think this would be a wonderful second car. Although it has 74k miles, I still feel like it will last at least another 200k-300k miles (hopefully). What are your thoughts? Should I wait for another prius v Five with ATP and fewer miles? I'd prefer to have the panoramic moonroof and DRCC. I feel like now is the perfect time to buy a hybrid because they are cheaper now (low gas prices). I've just never bought one with anything over 40k miles. I'm not hurting for a car right now, but I would like it for transporting people and gear (I drive a Chevy coupe). I will see if I can borrow a friend's auto code reader.