Should i buy a 2005-2008 prius

welcome!

prius are one of the most reliable cars ever made.

that being said, what you are looking at will probably need a hybrid battery some day. $2-3,000.

if you can diy, that will save you a lot. most mechanics don't understand hybrids, and the ones that do charge commensurately for the skills and knowledge base.

other expensive repairs can include a/c compressor (electric)
brake actuator, and combo meter.

even simple repairs like waterpump can be $5-600. at a dealer. idk how that compares to non hybrid.

you can find average values for your zip at kbb.com

all the best!

 

What range are you willing to travel for a purchase?

 

Find private sellers and particularly ones that have had hybrid battery service. I’d say your better off with a 180-200k mile car with the service done versus a 140-150k car without it. Check for cracks in the roof area by the trunk and for water leaking into the 12v battery compartment and spare tire area (you can see my thread on that).

Hypothetical scenario, you find a 2007 with leather/nav, 180k miles but documented battery replacement, I think $4000 is a fine price assuming brakes and tires are good and the car seems well kept etc. Good luck!


iPhone ?

 

Can you do your own car repairs? If you cant I would suggest something like a corolla.

 

Hello fellow Virginian! I recently (April) purchased my Prius it's a 2005 and so far have loved all the tech. I would strongly recommend one especially if you travel a lot of miles as gas savings (even though currently cheap) is great. I wouldn't focus on leather or cloth but instead on the mechanical being right, test the battery out on the test drive, does the engine sound odd, when you press the brake does it make a weird groaning sound?

Looking at a 12-15 year old car expect some wear and tear. If you are half decent with wrenches changing seats is a breeze 16 14mm bolts and you can easily upgrade your interior. Or even do leather seat covers.

For reference I bought my Prius from Marshall, VA. It lived it's life in MD and had an awesome service record all done at the dealer. It had 140000 miles on it. It did not have a leather interior but will after this weekend. I prefer leather as well and to be honest I don't mind putting it in myself as you can find nice seats for them. Total out the door to buy the car was $4500. Leather upgrade was $400. I do wish it was an 06 as it has more durableand softer plastics.

Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.

 

Nothing personal but someone who has only owned their Prius for a month should not be giving advice. Come back in 2 years.

 

If it’s rust free and lower miles Gen II are among the most reliable Prius just plan for a battery and some wear items.

 

If you do, be sure to protect your catalytic converter. Otherwise, it will be stolen.

Cat Security™ 2004 - 2009 Prius (ALL ORDERS PLACED BEFORE NOON SHIP SAME DAY, excludes weekends)