I have a 2003 Prius that needs a new hybrid battery and the 12 volt battery as well as a catalytic converter. Toyota wants $5,827.22 to fix it. Should I bother? What are my other options? Thank you! Linda who loves her Pruis and cannot bear the thought of taking it to a junk yard...
How many miles do you have on the car? Seems very expensive to fix, the blue book value should be less than that amount.
Linda you can get a new hybrid battery for around 1500 with a 12 month warranty from Ted The Battery Boy tell him Mark sent you the info: 707- 694-4092
If you choose to go the route of a "reconditioned" battery (probably what battery boy is selling), make sure it's reconditioned with GenII battery cells. Many experts have recommended AGAINST recondition batteries from Gen1 cars. They all recommend getting a NEW battery from Toyota, if the battery option is what you are choosing to do.
Let's break this down. First, you should be able to do the 12v battery yourself. Even your local auto parts store could help you there. Or any mechanic can do that part. Next if there is a reliable independent mechanic/muffler shop in the area willing to do the catalytic converter. Call around for pricing. How much of the quoted price is the hybrid battery alone? That's the trickiest part. If there is someone willing to put in the battery, I can help you get a good price and have it shipped. At the very least I may be able to help point you in the right direction. I sell batteries with 3 year warranties, unlimited miles during the warranty. Post back the hybrid battery cost and we can go from there. Happy to talk on the phone as well.
Linda this is a Second Generation Cells in a first Generation case. I've have one in my 2001. Battery Boy ships all over the world and has never had one fail.
No one, except maybe the very frugal or unqualified junkyard packs, use the very first gen cells because they leak too much. Not worth the effort for a reputable rebuilder to use those leaky cells because they will go bad rather quickly.
12 volt battery for 2001 to 2003 Prius $186 Optima battery and installation kit for Prius 2001 to 2003 2001 to 2003 catalytic converter $180 2001-2003 Toyota Prius Catalytic Converter - Exhaust - Eastern Catalytic 01-03 Prius Catalytic Converter - 8124-05033611 - PartsGeek Both would need install labor (could be you, could be any mechanic)
