2010 Prius: Headgasket issue - should I fix it or get engine replaced

Hello,
I was told by my local Toyota dealer that my 2010 Prius has a head gasket failure and quoted me $3,200 to fix it. Because of the high price I decided to see if I could find a mechanic who would replace the engine.
But so far, most of them have declined to fix the Prius. The only one I found willing to do it in San Jose, California is quoting me $6000 (or $3600 if I bring the engine myself).

What would you advise I do? Is there a chance that I could find a good mechanic around the Bay Area who would be able to replace the engine at a way cheaper price? Or should I just do the head gasket fix with an independent shop for about $2700? Or just buy another used car? I live near Stockton, California

Thanks,

 

Thank you for your responses.

The mileage on the Prius is about 177,000. When I did my regular maintenance early this year, I was told that the washer reservoir tank is broken and in fact that liquid leaks. I think coolant level looks normal.

Initially, the car would vibrate when I was about 20 miles in my commute drive in the mornings. Then it became more intense and happens whenever I start the car. Eventually, I got the Check Engine Light and I took it to a local mechanic, who only changed the spark plugs and we thought things were back to normal for a few days but the vibration returned and upon second diagnostic check, I was told the head gasket is the problem. This was also confirmed by my Toyota dealership so that's the second opinion.

And yes, the Prius is consuming more engine oil since about a year ago. I just notice that the engine oil no longer lasts for the 5,000 mile maintenance period and I always have to top-up the engine more oil (0W-20).

I tried calling Toyo of Stockton but no one picked up. I read somewhere that the shop may be permanently closed. But I'll call Luscious and Arts and see what they tell me.

 

Hello folks,
I just called both Auto repair shops. The one in San Francisco quoted me about $5000 while the other wouldn't even change it for first time customers.

I guess I'm out of options hunh?

 

How I wish I could get my Prius there..

 

How can I tell for sure if the coolant stable and there's no odor to the oil? Either way, I would be glad to come to Lafayette tomorrow if you'd be available to take a look.

As an update for anyone interested. I did call Hybrid 911 and I was quoted $2000 to rebuild the engine and $3500 to replace my engine with a low-mileage one (plus water pump). All with 1 year warranty.

 

I had already been told by a Toyota dealer that the head-gasket is the issue some few days ago. I will check the coolant levels..

 

Thank you for your suggestion. I desire to have the engine replaced since the costs of fixing the headgasket is not too far from changing the engine itself.

 

Thanks for your comment. I looked this morning and yes, the coolant in the reservoir is low. But the oil doesn't appear to be milky (I checked using the dip-stick).