In the market for a v, have a couple questions RE engine & moonroof

Discussion in 'Prius v Main Forum' started by tashaviaf, Apr 24, 2021.

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  1. tashaviaf

    tashaviaf New Member

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    Hi all!
    I've been doing a TON of research in preparation for finally joining the Prius club and I have a few questions. I plan on removing the back seats to camp/live in it while traveling.

    I've decided on:
    - Prius v (the larger 'v' model non-negotiable)
    - highest trim possible of course lol
    - 2012-15+ (leaning twrd 2013+)
    - Hoping 80k - 120k miles at most?
    - Strong preferences but not dealbreakers: Any color except white or red (BIG fan of the seafoam teal and dark gunmetal gray), darkest interior possible

    1. What would ya'll say is a fair/average price range? I'm seeing anywhere from $11k - 15k ! (I'm in NYC tho..)

    2. Does this year range of the larger v models have the same head gasket issues? Are they part of what is considered "3rd gen" or does being the 'v' model make it different?

    I'm VERY interested in the moonroof option as I think it would help a lot with feeling spacious and air venting, etc, soooooo..

    3. I am confused by the "solar roof / dual moonroof" descriptions: I am aware that there is a solar roof (the panel that helps keep it cool) and the moonroof which is a window. But some I see as solar / moonroof and others as dual moonroof - that's just two windows and no solar panel right? Or are they the same thing but the solar is also a window?

    4. Also, I recently read that the moonroof (window) doesn't open and is just glass, is that true?? I was hoping it opened fully or at least tilted up... if it stays closed the moonroof may no longer be a dealbreaker for me.


    Any help/advice would be great. I'm based in NYC for now but will travel if/when I find my gem! If you know of any for sale please send those ads my way :)

    Also wondering thoughts on just plunking down a few thousand for something I can flip again, as car shopping while being car-less is freakin' impossible!

    Thanks in advance!
     
    #1 tashaviaf, Apr 24, 2021
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    the only thing i know is that it is the same engine as gen 3, so you're better off with a 14, and 15 even better, due to new rings and new pistons.
    that being said, some have still reported egr clogging, which may lead to a blown head gasket eventually
     
    #2 bisco, Apr 24, 2021
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  3. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    2015-17 are the only years I would consider. Earlier years absolutely have oil burning, head gasket, inverter and brake booster issues. The jury is still out on the 2015-17 v's. All are gen3s.
     
    #3 rjparker, Apr 24, 2021
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  4. Tim Jones

    Tim Jones Senior Member

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    My Recommendation........ don't do it.
     
    #4 Tim Jones, Apr 25, 2021
  5. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    Yes. It’s essentially the same engine, intake and Exhaust Gas Recirculation system. The transaxle has different gear ratios I believe. That’s all.

    as long as you’re prepared to dive into EGR cleaning you should be ok, with mileage range you’re targeting.
     
    #5 Mendel Leisk, Apr 25, 2021
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  6. tashaviaf

    tashaviaf New Member

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    Gotcha. Thanks ya'll, this is the confirmation I needed. I may start looking for '15 and up but so far those are a little out of my preferred price range (as I'm trying to keep a bit in savings for maintenance/repairs).

    What's the EGR cleaning service generally go for?
     
    #6 tashaviaf, Apr 25, 2021
  7. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    Dealerships have NO clue, and if you manage to convince them to undertake it, will ONLY replace parts. Between the Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooler/valve AND intake manifold, I think you’d be looking at a grand. For parts. Before the labour charge. Don’t go there.

    if DIY is not in the cards, having a helpful Priuschatter nearby would be best bet. Everything CAN be cleaned out, restored to as new, with little or no $ outlay.

    Barring that, a savvy independent shop that’s experienced in this. Not many exist though.

    more info on the DIY process:

    Bad Flywheel | PriusChat
     
    #7 Mendel Leisk, Apr 26, 2021
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  8. tashaviaf

    tashaviaf New Member

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    Whoa geez. Thank you for the info. I may need to adjust my search parameters to finding a 2015 at the very least...
     
    #8 tashaviaf, Apr 27, 2021
  9. Tim Jones

    Tim Jones Senior Member

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    Just Say No......
     
    #9 Tim Jones, Apr 27, 2021
  10. Centerpunch

    Centerpunch Active Member

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    I'm considering selling my mint (but no sunroof) 2013 model 3 that has 31K miles, a transferable Toyota certified powertrain warranty that lasts until sept 2026 or 100K, and a couple grand in upgrades (17" RAV4 wheels, Michelin Cross Climate tires, TRD rear sway bar, Valenti LED tail lights, etc.) but it's white, one of your no-go colors.
     
    #10 Centerpunch, May 1, 2021
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