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Looking to buy Gen 1 Prius

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by Camille087, Apr 16, 2008.

  1. Camille087

    Camille087 New Member

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    Hey guys - I've posted a few times asking questions about the Prius, but since I've considered that a new Prius would cost too much for me (college student), I still want to buy an old Generation 1 Prius since I could get that for maybe under $10,000.

    I came across a Gen 1 2001 Prius in Forest Green for $6,900, 78,000 miles, and it looks really nice. I'm a little concerned since it's at one of those small, independent car dealerships and I'm weary of the cars there since they're not certified.

    Does it sound like it would be a good deal to you guys? Is it worth going to check out? I've heard that Gen 1's had some problems, that they were stalling because Toyota was still working out the electric/gasoline engine shifts. Anyone experience that? Please let me know if you have any info. Thanks, guys - Camille
     
    #1 Camille087, Apr 16, 2008
  2. SuperDave

    SuperDave Member

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    Camille In my quest for a good buy on a used Prius, I looked at many. I would say that if the car is in decent shape it is well worth the asking price.
     
    #2 SuperDave, Apr 16, 2008
  3. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    It would be a very good idea, before buying, to take the car to a certified Prius technician (most but not all of them are at dealers) and pay them to make a thorough inspection and assessment of the car's condition. Even if the seller is completely honest and forthcoming these cars are just too unusual to expect any non-Prius specialist to know everything that should be checked out or to have the necessary Toyota-specific diagnostic equipment.
     
    #3 richard schumacher, Apr 16, 2008
  4. G_Force

    G_Force New Member

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    And spend $20 on a carfax report. If it's been in an accident (my '01 was hit twice) then they are never quite the same afterwards, IMHO.
    For that amount of miles that sounds like a great deal to me.
     
    #4 G_Force, Apr 16, 2008
  5. Michou

    Michou Member

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    Hello Camille,

    To answer your question about known issues with the Gen I Prius, I will speak from experience in having personally replaced two Gen I Prius transaxles. At roughly $2000 for the cost of parts and labor, be sure to take the car to a mechanic/shop that is familiar with the inner workings of the Prius. If you are Northern California, I would recommend Luscious Garage, as we are considerably cheaper than the dealership, and are very familiar with inspecting Prius transaxles.

    Best,

    Michou
     
    #5 Michou, Apr 17, 2008
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