Of course, the fear for used hybrid shoppers lies mainly in the relatively un-proven reliability of the expensive hardware at work behind the scenes. Additional wiring, power inverters, computers and motors are all facts of life when driving a hybrid. Since the Prius is a machine, its components will eventually wear down, break and require replacement.
Thankfully, the last-generation Prius seems to be fairly reliable. In a check of common online car complaint forums, Prius owners were more likely to gripe about sporadic interior electronics issues than anything related to the powertrain. As such, shoppers on a test-drive are advised to first check for proper operation of all cabin electronics, the air conditioner, the stereo, the navigation system and the digital instrument display. The latter three items aren’t entirely trouble-free according to some Prius owners in the online community-- and they’re likely expensive to replace.
Another potential issue is the Prius’s inverter coolant pump, which was addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB). It’s unclear if there are any warning signs that this part is on its way out, and repair costs out of warranty could total up to $600. Some owners indicate that a scan of the Prius’s ECU may reveal a problem with the pump, if one exists.
Finally, be sure to note any ‘check engine’ lights, and be sure both headlights are working properly. Some owners report sporadic headlamp problems that seem to be caused by faulty wiring.
When it comes to the battery pack, transmission, electric motors and engine, problems reported by owners online are few and far between-- albeit a possible issue with a sticky shifter mechanism caused by a broken spring.
In all, despite the somewhat limited number of owner reviews online, the Prius looks to be a fairly safe used car bet. Like its rival the Honda Insight, this used hybrid’s problems mainly affect components not related directly to its advanced hybrid drivetrain. That said, hybrid drive technology is still, in many regards, unproven in the used car market. As such, an inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic practiced in Toyota hybrid models is a good idea before agreeing to purchase.
While you and your used Prius candidate visit the dealership, be sure to have it checked for any outstanding recall work required to correct potential safety issues with a steering component and brake-light failure.
Remember-- Prius isn’t a car for everybody, and a hybrid is far from the only way to cut your fuel bill if downsizing out of a smaller vehicle. If you’ve decided that a well-maintained Prius will be joining your family soon, you shouldn’t expect any serious issues.
Thankfully, the last-generation Prius seems to be fairly reliable. In a check of common online car complaint forums, Prius owners were more likely to gripe about sporadic interior electronics issues than anything related to the powertrain. As such, shoppers on a test-drive are advised to first check for proper operation of all cabin electronics, the air conditioner, the stereo, the navigation system and the digital instrument display. The latter three items aren’t entirely trouble-free according to some Prius owners in the online community-- and they’re likely expensive to replace.
Another potential issue is the Prius’s inverter coolant pump, which was addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB). It’s unclear if there are any warning signs that this part is on its way out, and repair costs out of warranty could total up to $600. Some owners indicate that a scan of the Prius’s ECU may reveal a problem with the pump, if one exists.
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| 2009 Toyota Prius (Photo: Toyota) |
Finally, be sure to note any ‘check engine’ lights, and be sure both headlights are working properly. Some owners report sporadic headlamp problems that seem to be caused by faulty wiring.
When it comes to the battery pack, transmission, electric motors and engine, problems reported by owners online are few and far between-- albeit a possible issue with a sticky shifter mechanism caused by a broken spring.
In all, despite the somewhat limited number of owner reviews online, the Prius looks to be a fairly safe used car bet. Like its rival the Honda Insight, this used hybrid’s problems mainly affect components not related directly to its advanced hybrid drivetrain. That said, hybrid drive technology is still, in many regards, unproven in the used car market. As such, an inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic practiced in Toyota hybrid models is a good idea before agreeing to purchase.
While you and your used Prius candidate visit the dealership, be sure to have it checked for any outstanding recall work required to correct potential safety issues with a steering component and brake-light failure.
Remember-- Prius isn’t a car for everybody, and a hybrid is far from the only way to cut your fuel bill if downsizing out of a smaller vehicle. If you’ve decided that a well-maintained Prius will be joining your family soon, you shouldn’t expect any serious issues.
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