Here is an article that describes how Toyota fixes NiMH batteries for resale at one quarter the cost of new. It also describes how 100% of the NiMH batteries are recycled. However, not many batteries are likely to need to be recycled soon, as this article reports Prius going over 200,000 miles without needing to be replaced. Here is the link ==> http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/09/23/063663.html
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(etyler88 @ Oct 4 2007, 11:04 AM) [snapback]521281[/snapback]</div> Maybe you should consider $0 deductible Comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Tideland Prius @ Oct 4 2007, 01:33 PM) [snapback]521258[/snapback]</div> It would be good if someone would research more on this battery replacement method (at one quarter the cost of new) and post on Priuschat how to take advantage of this program. Since so many Prius owners review this site that could be a helpful resource.
The increase in premiums for a $0 deductible would probably negate the cost. I have actually thought about this, since metal theft is rampant in my area. (A closed fast food place down the street had its air conditioners ripped apart to get the copper coils.)
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(alanh @ Oct 4 2007, 09:17 PM) [snapback]521565[/snapback]</div> It probably varies by insurance company (I have State Farm, and the premium difference is something like $10/6month for the $0 deductible option vs. $100 deductible). Depending on where you live and the relative prevalence of Comprehensive type losses, a $0 deductible can make sense. My last black car had birds**t etchings on every body panel except the rear trunk and the roof (some panels were etched more than once). A $0 deductible came in very handy over the three years that I had the car.
between $100 & $0 is probably negligible, however those of us who have much higher deductables, $500, or $1000 it's quite a stretch.
