Thinking of Buying a Used Prius

[Elfear]

Bought an '01 Outback last year and while it's been an excellent car I want something more economical around town. I'm averaging 20mpg right now and rarely have anyone besides myself in the car. I'd still like a 4-door though for the times I need to chauffeur my three kids.

I used to dislike the Prius because they epitomize the slow awkward-looking cars I've never wanted to drive. But my attitude has changed and I'd like to get something really economical for a DD. The Prius seems to be the most frugal 4-door that I can find for the money.

Anything I need to know about the different generations or the Prius in general? I'm looking for something in the 2001-2008 time frame depending on price. Don't want to spend more than $10k.

 

[ballmode]

If you need the utility and the MPG's I would look for a 06-07 Accord V6 Hybrid, or a Ford Escape Hybrid

 

[Ryan]

If you need the utility and the MPG's I would look for a 06-07 Accord V6 Hybrid, or a Ford Escape Hybrid

Um, because a Prius will rape each of these cars in MPG. I had a 2006 touring model - even with 116K miles, I could drive the car like a dog and still average 44mpg around town. It was a bulletproof car, with minimal maintenance and repair. Sure, the driving experience was a little...numb, but it was a perfect appliance. I also didn't think it was that terribly slow - I never had any problem staying ahead of traffic or passing people.

You really want to look at the 2nd generation, and don't be too concerned with mileage. Models with 100K miles have plenty of life still left in them. Consumer Reports tested a few 200K+ mile examples and compared them the new models - they performed almost as if they were new. Also - the batteries were original and had not been replaced.

Don't believe anyone when they say to watch out for the batteries - Toyota has some of the best battery management systems, and battery failures are rare. Anyone who says otherwise is talking out of their ass.

 

[Elfear]

Um, because a Prius will rape each of these cars in MPG. I had a 2006 touring model - even with 116K miles, I could drive the car like a dog and still average 44mpg around town. It was a bulletproof car, with minimal maintenance and repair. Sure, the driving experience was a little...numb, but it was a perfect appliance. I also didn't think it was that terribly slow - I never had any problem staying ahead of traffic or passing people.

You really want to look at the 2nd generation, and don't be too concerned with mileage. Models with 100K miles have plenty of life still left in them. Consumer Reports tested a few 200K+ mile examples and compared them the new models - they performed almost as if they were new. Also - the batteries were original and had not been replaced.

Don't believe anyone when they say to watch out for the batteries - Toyota has some of the best battery management systems, and battery failures are rare. Anyone who says otherwise is talking out of their ass.

Glad to know the batteries will last. I'd really like to stick with the 2nd gens since they seem to have more creature comforts and it sounds like the batteries are better.

Is there anyway to verify what condition the battery pack is in before buying?

 

[ballmode]

Reason why I mentioned the other cars is because of trunk space and the ability to seat 4 without issues

 

[Ferzerp]

Don't believe anyone when they say to watch out for the batteries

Batteries are a wear item, and a very expensive one at that. To dismiss all concerns about them outright is folly.

 

[Ryan]

Batteries are a wear item, and a very expensive one at that. To dismiss all concerns about them outright is folly.

They're a wear item that's designed to last 200K miles. Prius naysayers bring up the battery more often than warranted - nearly all real world owners with high mileage models prove that it is not something to be overtly concerned about. On top of that, used replacement batteries can be found for $500~.

http://news.consumerreports.org/car...ll-reliable-efficient-after-200000-miles.html

The initial concern for hybrid buyers was the pricey battery packs, but this has not been an issue for the vast majority of owners. In fact, Toyota told us that is has replaced very few batteries packs outside its warranty period. If the battery ever did need to be replaced, it would run between $2,200 and $2,600 from a Toyota dealer, but it’s doubtful that anyone would purchase a new battery for such an old car. Most owners would probably choose to buy a low-mileage unit from a salvage yard, just as they would with an engine or transmission. We found many units available for around $500.

 

[MagickMan]

Find a nice used diesel? My old aunt's Jetta TDI gets almost 45mpg and it's light as a feather, and not bad to drive.

 

[Doppel]

2004 was second gen Prius, but 2005 I seem to recall fixed some minor mistakes. First gen was small like a Toyota Echo and you'll have a hard time finding one anyway, the second gen is much, much better.

It may have been 2007 when the nav screen got a boost in resolution.

It's a fantastic vehicle and you can learn all you need at priuschat.com. Driving style definitely does affect fuel economy and I strongly recommend only using low rolling resistance tires with the vehicles.

They are extremely reliable, at least as much as any other robust vehicle, and very little time should be spent worrying about the power train or battery longevity. Time has shown such concerns to be unwarranted.

Reason why I mentioned the other cars is because of trunk space and the ability to seat 4 without issues

The accord's trunk space is certainly less usable than the Prius', which being a hatch back allows for surprising capacity when needed. It can also seat 5, even if the back is a little cramped. Its fuel economy is a solar system better than the Accord, and the accord was sold in such small numbers anyway you'd never find one.

It is beyond question that the second gen Prius dominated the market during its tenure insofar as fuel efficient people transportation is concerned. The Third gen built on a proven model and to this day is the best overall vehicle for those interested in fuel economy (in great part because it's not exorbitantly expensive), even though the rest of the market is gradually catching up .

Find a nice used diesel? My old aunt's Jetta TDI gets almost 45mpg and it's light as a feather, and not bad to drive.

Prius fuel economy prison rapes any VW TDI in the city, not to mention there are more of them around and they are more reliable and less expensive.

The Prius battery is not a "wear item" like brakes are. It's a wear-item like a normal car's engine is. Yes, each mile it gets worse and worse, just like an engine. Very few of them have had to be replaced and over two million Prii have been sold world-wide. It is invariably the first item brought up by people who actually don't realize how reliable the batteries are.

The Prius has been out for over a decade, sold over 2 million, but the Prius FUD continues to this day. Most people who don't like the Prius have never spent any time with one or bother researching them. Satisfaction of owners is high and you'll find many repeat buyers.

 

[MagickMan]

Yeah, but a decent used Jetta TDI is around $8k, if you figure in the TCO it takes a long time to realize any savings from buying the Prius. I didn't say a thing about the Prius batteries, I just think the cars are too expensive for what they are. Plus they're heavy and I don't really like the way they handle.

 

[Demo24]

I find them to be extremely uncomfortable, so might want to try and spend some time in one first. Also forget about putting anyone of decent height in the back, they'll hit the roof. I'm 6ft and my head basically rests against the ceiling if I sit in back.


The mileage is right, but I hate most everything else about it from the ride quality, to the driving, to the interior packaging, to the awful visibility ( at least in the third gen), the split rear window, and the overall feeling of cheapness when you sit inside.

It frustrates me as I know this car could be so much more, but its let down somewhere. The technology is mostly there, just seems they forget about the rest of the car.

 

[Black2na]

They're a wear item that's designed to last 200K miles. Prius naysayers bring up the battery more often than warranted - nearly all real world owners with high mileage models prove that it is not something to be overtly concerned about. On top of that, used replacement batteries can be found for $500~.

http://news.consumerreports.org/car...ll-reliable-efficient-after-200000-miles.html

I do agree with ryan but i dont agree with a used back being the best option currently rebuilding a battery cell in an 01 prius. were 3 cells and the battery harness were dead. if you are somewhat car savy and somewhat good with electrics. i say a higher mileage older prius is certainly the way to go because what can be a costly repair can be turned into one that anyone can afford with a few good tested replacement cells and some parts. and you can get a great car for very little money. but i would also go with the 2nd gen cars the hatch backs are more usefull!

 

[Doppel]

I find them to be extremely uncomfortable, so might want to try and spend some time in one first. Also forget about putting anyone of decent height in the back, they'll hit the roof. I'm 6ft and my head basically rests against the ceiling if I sit in back.


The mileage is right, but I hate most everything else about it from the ride quality, to the driving, to the interior packaging, to the awful visibility ( at least in the third gen), the split rear window, and the overall feeling of cheapness when you sit inside.

It frustrates me as I know this car could be so much more, but its let down somewhere. The technology is mostly there, just seems they forget about the rest of the car.

Honestly a lot of your criticisms are pretty valid and I've spent a lot of time in a third gen. This is not a "driver's car". I find that the A-pillar limits visibility when approaching a 4 way stop so severely that it's not at all difficult in some cases (if another car is approaching at juuuust the right speed) to be unaware that they are there.

The driver's seat also has no support and is the worst seat I've sat on since a 90's econobox (I'm not kidding, this thing sport-fvcks your lower back on a long trip if you don't put a towel there or something--though I know some people don't have this issue at all).

The engine revs/whines like an electrocuted squirrel under full throttle.

Still, it's a car that costs low 20's, still is technically a mid-size car, and gets combined 50 MPG. It also has great proven reliability, so despite some complaints with it I think it's a fine car. It is fantastically economical transportation and in a modern, safe package, but it's not going to drive like a Mini Cooper, that's for sure.

 

[Jumpem]

It's more than you want to spend, but I thought I would add the Ford C-MAX to the conversation. It's rated at 47mpg for both city and highway, and looks like it has more useful space behind the seats.

I'm thinking of trading in my Outback for one of these.

 

[ponyo]

I need to go drive a Prius. Never drove or rode in one. I wouldn't mind owning one. My cousin said the new Prius was the worst car he has ever driven. That's surprising to me because he has driven lot of different cars.

 

[foghorn67]

I need to go drive a Prius. Never drove or rode in one. I wouldn't mind owning one. My cousin said the new Prius was the worst car he has ever driven. That's surprising to me because he has driven lot of different cars.

From any enthusiasts point of view, they are terrible. Disconnected and icy sterile. But they are fine cars.
I think the C-max will be it's first real competitor. Not the same form factor, but nice mileage with more futility. - - - haha edit. UTILITY. DERP>.

 

[mmntech]

I need to go drive a Prius. Never drove or rode in one. I wouldn't mind owning one. My cousin said the new Prius was the worst car he has ever driven. That's surprising to me because he has driven lot of different cars.

Guess he's never driven a Smart Fortwo. From what I've heard the Prius is an okay car but it has no balls. Plus with the added up front cost, you're not really saving much buying one. The Prius V only gets 44city, 40 hwy. Not a whole lot better than the Hyundai Elantra, which is roughly the same size. It costs less fully loaded than the Prius V as well.

 

[Doppel]

Guess he's never driven a Smart Fortwo. From what I've heard the Prius is an okay car but it has no balls. Plus with the added up front cost, you're not really saving much buying one. The Prius V only gets 44city, 40 hwy. Not a whole lot better than the Hyundai Elantra, which is roughly the same size. It costs less fully loaded than the Prius V as well.

The Elantra is much smaller than the Prius V. The V has 50% the cargo capacity of the regular Prius, which has much more functional capacity than the Elantra. The V is a pretty decent sized station wagon.

Elantra:

V:

The C-Max is definitely worth considering.

 

[Ryan]

Did most of you forget the $10k price cap? We are not looking at new cars.

A quick autotrader search brings up plenty of Prius models around the $10k price point, many from 2005-2008, with mileage from 60-80k. There is very little price premium after this many years.

A search for VW diesel models with the same parameters shows virtually nothing.

 

[Doppel]

Did most of you forget the $10k price cap? We are not looking at new cars.

A quick autotrader search brings up plenty of Prius models around the $10k price point, many from 2005-2008, with mileage from 60-80k. There is very little price premium after this many years.

A search for VW diesel models with the same parameters shows virtually nothing.

lol of course we did. Garage tangent thread. Sorry, you know if you hadn't reigned us back in it wouldn't be long before somebody was telling you to get a 1988 lotus esprit turbo.

 

[Demo24]

The Elantra is much smaller than the Prius V. The V has 50% the cargo capacity of the regular Prius, which has much more functional capacity than the Elantra. The V is a pretty decent sized station wagon.

Elantra:

V:

The C-Max is definitely worth considering.

They bought us a V at work, it's a lot smaller in there than it looks. The problem being the floor is very high, and the ceiling slopes at such an angle that there really isn't much room back there. Couple that with the weird way the rear seats fit in, and nope not all that good. The numbers make it sound a lot better than it really is, as usability wise it's still terrible.

 

[Elfear]

Thanks for all the input guys. I think I'm going with the Lotus Esprit suggestion.:biggrin:

Seriously though the 2nd-gen Prius looks like just the car I want but I do want to see if the seats are going to be comfortable or not. My commute is only 14 miles round trip but I do plan on some road trips so comfort is a must.

I would love the Prius V with all the extra space it has but way above my price range right now.

VW diesel crossed my mind as well but not many I could find for a decent price. Plus city driving is 90% of what I'll use the car for and the Prius dominates in that category as someone else pointed out.

 

[Doppel]

Thanks for all the input guys. I think I'm going with the Lotus Esprit suggestion.:biggrin:

Seriously though the 2nd-gen Prius looks like just the car I want but I do want to see if the seats are going to be comfortable or not. My commute is only 14 miles round trip but I do plan on some road trips so comfort is a must.

I would love the Prius V with all the extra space it has but way above my price range right now.

VW diesel crossed my mind as well but not many I could find for a decent price. Plus city driving is 90% of what I'll use the car for and the Prius dominates in that category as someone else pointed out.

You can always experiment with a towel or something for your lower back if you think it's going to be a problem. Again, many don't have issues with them, though I sure did. I don't know how the 2nd gen seat compares to the 3rd (2010+).

 

[pauldun170]

Prius battery should be good for 200K-300K and 10 years
If the pack in the car isn't damaged or completely shot then you get a core exchange discount.
Cost of batteries after core exchange run anywhere from 1500-2500. You can go with used batteries from the junk yard or brand new from Toyota but if you are already dealing with a 10 year old car you are better off getting a used battery out of a newer wreck.
Labor to change it runs under 2 hours or you can do it yourself if you are mechanically inclined.

A VW diesel would also be comparable on fuel but a a VW diesel with comparable age and mileage to a Prius may not be all daisy's and boobs. You may end up spending the same if not more on repairing the VW than replacing a battery pack. Very dependent on year

Older Escape hybrids - I'm pretty sure these like to eat catalytic converters and shit engines. All for mediocre handling and poorly assembled interior.

 

[KIAman]

The Prius is actually a really roomy car, I was surprised when I test drove one. It will easily seat 4 comfortably. The only issue is that I don't find a lot of availability for used Pri (is that the plural form?!?) in your price range, unfortunately.