I'm weighing the pros and cons of a 2005 with 128k with a new dealer-installed hybrid battery at 124k or a 2010 III with 138k. Both in excellent condition with service records. I had a 2007 and the 2010 certainly feels like a step up from Gen 2 but I'm wary of the battery going out. I'd like to keep the car for 4-5 years and will drive about 20k/year. Any thoughts? Thanks so much.
Definitely the 2005! They are tanks especially with a new battery. The 2010's are known for high oil consumption and headgasket issues. Usually both. We've had a 2005 and a 2010. The 2005 has over 315k without almost any repairs. The 2010 has 250k but it's engine had to be replaced at 195k. The 2010 doesn't get much better mpg anyway
Thanks for the feedback Aaron, I appreciate the info. I'll contact the seller and see if we can make a deal.
The 2005 will be my choice. But keep in mind the exterior paint will probably wear out soon along with other parts on a 13 year old car. AND there's a chance the brake actuator will need replacing in the near future
Thanks Bisco. The 2005 has not had the actuator replaced so now I'm wondering if it's worth spending the money to have it checked (I read in the Gen II forum that it's about $120 at the dealer).
No mention of prices- how do the prices compare with KBB values? If these cars are offered at the same price, then the '10. Paying for the previous owner's new hybrid battery isn't a good deal, unless you're the seller.
This is an unpopular opinion for those who call it the Turd Gen, but I bought a high mileage (150K miles) Gen 3 a couple years ago, and I'd still do the same. This is assuming the car's condition checks out. If you do go with it, be sure to get ahead of potential issues by doing a complete EGR system cleanout and add an oil catch can. That should prevent potential head gasket issues. Having worked on my 2010 (with the help of Priuschat), I actually have lot of confidence in it's future longevity. The battery is performing great, and it can go 10,000 miles without needing to add oil (though I check every fillup). I also bought my 2010 in the Bay Area, so people from out of the area need to be aware that prices for Priuses (and used cars in general) are very high there. On the plus side, they likely won't have rust.
MelonPrius-- Good point about not paying for the seller's new battery. The car seems overpriced. PokerMunkee-- Both cars look really good but yeah the Gen 2 design looks a bit dated (I actually like it though). Lightning Racer- Good tips, I'll keep them in mind if I go with a Gen 3. Thanks all for the great feedback, it's really helpful.
I'd take a good look at the '05. If from a private seller, check out the maintenance records to see if the car has been maintained as per the schedule. Call Toyota NA customer service to verify the car has a dealer installed OEM battery which will have a 3 year warranty but should last 10 years. $1000 over kbb isn't bad if it looks and drives like a lightly used vehicle. Plus, you can try to negotiate down a bit.
