We have a 2005 Prius with 140k. Replaced the HV battery 2 years ago (1 year left on warranty). It's been usable, though not in great shape, but a couple nights ago our (unprotected) catalytic converter was stolen. Given the cost of cc replacement, and that this car is quite long in the tooth with many minor flaws** at this point, I am inclined to not indulge the sunk-cost fallacy of having renewed the battery recently, and retire it instead. The car outside the battery likely has negligible value, particularly with the missing cc. What practical options do I have to sell the healthy HV battery? I'm not inclined to bend-over-backwards to capitalize on it, but figured I'd ask for advice on easier options if any. ** fyi, stuff like: - struts are functional but rumbly - rear bumper partly broken and, yes, held together by duct tape - door speakers cones buzz - etc
Hi and welcome to PriusChat. If the hybrid vehicle battery was a Toyota new supplied and installed then it might be worth a bit ($1,200 - $1,600), but if it was a rebuilt/remanufactured/reconditioned/repaired battery then it has no real value.
Welcome to PriusChat!! Though I could be mistaken about the smog requirements in DC, you may be able to install an aftermarket bolt on cat for around $130. You will need a new oem/denso upstream A/F sensor (100ish), since it was likely stolen as well.
Yes, the replacement was done at the Toyota dealer. What I naively don't know is the easiest way to potentially get anything for it. Just list the car locally emphasizing that particular part? What's the value proposition to such a buyer - the value of the battery minus the cost of handling and scrapping the car themselves? Or is paying a mechanic to remove the battery to sell to a buyer, then donating the rest as scrap, the likeliest sequence?
put the whole lot on c/l and see what comes of it. mention everything in the ad. car has a lot of life in it, you might be surprised at the offers. mosthere wouldn't hesitate to buy a running 05 prius with cat, so, it's just one thing to be done.