Advice on buying used

Long periods sitting are not good for the little 12V battery that starts up the computers. It may have already been replaced more than once.

There is little, if any, effect on the big high voltage battery, though. Even though it may have sat for months, as long as the engine starts, the hv battery computer quickly corrects the imbalances that may have occurred due to variation in self discharge.

 

You can register the VIN at Toyota Owners - Official Toyota Owners Website to get the dealer service history. It may have been driven by that proverbial little old lady from Pasadina who only drove it to church on Sundays or maybe not.

What's the option package & asking price? A low mileage Prius in great condition isn't going to be cheap.

 

Smart key is the nicest option, imho. This allows you to unlock, drive, and lock the car without ever taking the key out of your pocket.

 

It is not economically feasible to add smart key to a non-smart key car. But yours definitely has it, given the back-camera.

 

New 2011's start at about 23K, and the financing on a new car is generally cheaper, considering the warranty and all, have you given any thought to getting a new Package 2?

 

I just priced a base 2006 at kbb.com & got a price for excellent condition of $20860. The price you mentioned is between good & excellent for a private party sale. If the car is sound it seems to be priced fairly for condition.

Going from the 2006 to the 2010 was a bit of a culture shock and some things are definitely downgraded. After some time you don't notice. I haven't been in a Gen2 in a year & a half so suspect if i went back I'd grouse that things aren't in the right place & this or that is missing.

On the Gen2 the 3 door SKS & the diagnostic screen on the MFD are in the plus column.

On the Gen3 the more efficient powertrain & slightly higher fuel economy are in the plus column.

My 2006 was the best car I ever had until I got the 2010. Either car should make you happy. Your priorities & taste will determine which is a better fit for you.

Selling prices will continue to slide as production returns to normal. The auto industry overall is still in the toilet so if you can wait, doing so should save you a bit of money.