all - I'm in LA, and have done a boatload of looking for my perfect used Prius. I let one get away a couple of weeks ago but just finally found another that meets a lot of my criteria. I just have some basic q's: If I'm buying from a Toyota dealer, do I need to take it to a mechanic? I'm thinking no. This is my main concern. It's a 2012 Three with the Solar/Moonroof Package - anything to know about this model or that feature? It's got 90k, regular oil changes, and our Cali warranty on the battery, but... WHAT AM I FORGETTING? I feel like I've done so much reading and research over the past months and now that I've gotten the offer, my head is a jumble and I'm freaking a bit. Your wisdom is welcome. Thanks!
I once purchased a used car from a dealer, and my mechanic found 6 issues (a couple were significant) that had to be fixed before purchasing. Sorry, but my motto is never trust a dealership, or anyone for that matter when buying a used automobile.
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Yeah get an independent mechanic to check it over, the little and big stuff. Tires for example: all the same make/model/size, spare present and in good shape, 12 volt battery condition. Does it have 2 working fobs with functioning mechanical keys, owner's manual and warranty booklet. Oil level and condition. Filters (2) condition. Engine bay general appearance. Anything dangling or missing on underside. And on and on.
Thanks, all. Had a well-reviewed mechanic look it over, and also ended up with dealer-side extras I didn't know I was getting, so all looked good, and I went forward with the purchase.
Enjoy your new car, but don't let it distract you from keeping us up to date with your progress. That is to say, with your consent of course, you're one of us now.
Oops... I am too late....Sounds like a great vehicle! you should be good. OK what I was going to say is to check to see if this car was originally owned in a CARB state. If so, that means your extended warranty is 150000 milles and 10-years. If the car is orig sold say in non-CARB AZ, then you might only get the standard warranty which is 8-years and 100000 miles.
