Used Prius Pre-purchase Checks?

[eat_th1s]

I was wondering if any forum members could give me advice for things to check on a used Prius which I am considering buying from a Toyota dealership. Its a Feb 05 model with 55k on the clock (any idea if there is a big or little service coming up?) and I have negotiated a price of 8500. They offered me a great price for my used Aclass so I am happy with the price.When we test drove the car the aux Battery was flat, they said because it had been on the forecourt for a few weeks but this could be an indication that it needs replacing? I asked them and they said this would be covered under the warranty.

I was going to stump up the £450 for an extra 2 year warranty just for piece of mind due to the cars age. If this worthwhile?

Are there any specific parts of the car I should be checking related to its age and milage?

Many thanks, I'm looking forward to being a Prius owning and contributing to these forums for many years to come!

[Chris Dance]

Check the service history of the car it should be complete and show all servicing since the car was new. I also keep all records of repairs and safety checks these should be with the car. By checking this out you will know what service is due. With regard to extended warranty if you can afford it it will give you peace of mind but ensure it covers all you want it to. (Read the small print). If you do very low mileage it is not essential.

Ensure they sort out the Battery problem you mention.

One chap never got all the manuals with his car so ensure they are ALL there. Also the special wheel nut for removing the wheel lock nuts.

There is not a lot more I can tell you except get a full explanation of the SAT/NAV and ensure it operates OK. Ensure the car has not been involved in any major accidents. Look for signs of respray. Any dents scratches etc should be sorted out before the car is handed over to you. Ensure it has good tyres. Toyotas are usually very reliable especially the Prius.

Happy motoring. Let us know how you get on. Is it a T-Spirit?

[eat_th1s]

Its a T3. Thanks for the info, I'll be sure to check them all out.

[david j starkie]

I was wondering if any forum members could give me advice for things to check on a used Prius which I am considering buying from a Toyota dealership. Its a Feb 05 model with 55k on the clock (any idea if there is a big or little service coming up?) and I have negotiated a price of 8500. They offered me a great price for my used Aclass so I am happy with the price.When we test drove the car the aux battery was flat, they said because it had been on the forecourt for a few weeks but this could be an indication that it needs replacing? I asked them and they said this would be covered under the warranty.

I was going to stump up the £450 for an extra 2 year warranty just for piece of mind due to the cars age. If this worthwhile?

Are there any specific parts of the car I should be checking related to its age and milage?

Many thanks, I'm looking forward to being a Prius owning and contributing to these forums for many years to come!

Also try and get the extra year added to the deal i did its extra piece of mind just make sure you get the service done on time

good luck

[Habu]

I was wondering if any forum members could give me advice for things to check on a used Prius which I am considering buying from a Toyota dealership. Its a Feb 05 model with 55k on the clock (any idea if there is a big or little service coming up?) and I have negotiated a price of 8500. They offered me a great price for my used Aclass so I am happy with the price.When we test drove the car the aux battery was flat, they said because it had been on the forecourt for a few weeks but this could be an indication that it needs replacing? I asked them and they said this would be covered under the warranty.

I was going to stump up the £450 for an extra 2 year warranty just for piece of mind due to the cars age. If this worthwhile?

Are there any specific parts of the car I should be checking related to its age and milage?

Many thanks, I'm looking forward to being a Prius owning and contributing to these forums for many years to come!

Hi mate. Prius service intervals are 10,000 miles so it would be due at 60k. Get 'em to through the 60k in as intervals of 20k are bigger services. Insofar as Toyota warranties they are generally bullet proof. I've had lots of Toyotas over the years and replacing items under warranty has never been an issue unlike some other mainstream manufacturers I could mention. ;) Toyotas hybrid system including the main Battery are covered for 100,000 miles so there's no problem there. If you're talking about the 'normal' car Battery then, yes, it could be little flat after spending some time parked up. If it's knackered they will sort it out for you.

Keep us up to date and welcome to TOC. :D