The evaluation gremlin is that it's probably fair to say the cost of a new Hybrid Battery replacement, full out, with labor IS more than the overall value of the vehicle "as is". BUT.... I think you should evaluate it as what is the vehicle with a new replaced Hybrid Battery worth to you? Conceivably, a Prius in otherwise good condition, with only 100,000 miles on it, with what would then be a brand new Hybrid Battery, could offer double the continued life...or more. Where or how else could you get a Prius or Hybrid for the cost of that investment, with that pedigree? The key to me? Is how I feel about the rest of the vehicles condition. If suspension, engine, tires, brakes...all seem in good condition? I'd seriously consider making the investment into Hybrid Battery Replacement. If I felt other components were aging badly or on the verge of also needing replacement or repair? I might take it as time to exit.
Just finished replacing the battery with a refurbished one, and everything is back to normal, car is running great. Thank you everyone for the advice and input!
If you do a search about fixing the oil burning problem, there are a number of solutions available. The one I liked the most was draining the oil and oil filter or even splashing out for a new filter, fill the engine with auto trans fluid and very gently drive it around for an hr. Drain the oil while it is still hot and change the filter. The trans fluid seems to be a good option for dissolving the junk that traps the rings in the ring lands on the pistons, once they are free to move again the oil burning problem seems to go away. T1 Terry
If you think about the stress those tiny Torrington roller bearing have to cope with and all the slipper bearing in an automatic transmission, then the shear factors involved with the gear pump and all the planetary gears in an automatic transmission, that is very tough oil. Now add the fact it must be able to carry the material that is shed from the friction plates and fine metal particles yet has a very long service life compared to engine oil, what risks can you see? The oil properties include stuff to keep rubber seal soft yet not swell them, ideal for oil seal rejuvenation and the valve stem oil seals are part of that whole seal area that is often overlooked yet contributes to oil burning. If it wasn't so light weight it would be an ideal engine oil, that is the reason I recommend not stressing the engine, but it is brilliant cleaner and rejuvenator that has all the properties to protect any wear parts. T1 Terry
Number 2 diesel fuel mixed 50/50 with oil is a better cleaner and has better lubricating qualities. Instead of driving it though, run engine in maintenance mode 15-20 minutes at a time. That’s what I did for a friend that had SERIOUSLY neglected her oil changes (75k miles). She got 4 more years out of the car. Not in a Prius, just to clarify.
