Just got back from the dealer for a diagnosis on the problem light and corresponding “car with exclamation point” icon in my 2007. I’m at 269,120mi and it’s on the original hybrid battery. Dealer said several hybrid battery codes were read and they suggest a replacement, quoted around $4k. I’m not planning to do this repair at the dealer, as I expected this at some point. I also would rather invest in a newer Prius (I like a lot of the new safety features that come standard) than replace the hybrid battery with an out-of-dealer option, even though many of them seem quite reliable. I’m wondering what a 2007 Prius would sell for, knowing that the hybrid battery and catalytic converter need replacing (CC not imminent). New tires less than a month old, if that affects potential price, and wheel bearings and brakes replaced very recently. I’d like to sell it on my own rather than trade it in, since I’m assuming I could get far more value this way. Hoping someone out there would be interested in this! Thanks for the advice!
Based on your avatar, is your real name Kevin? We’ve created an avatar switching monster . Always good to see your pic choices though. See what you’ve been missing .
Thanks! With the kbb value around 4K and the Toyota quoted cost of a replacement battery at 4K, that doesn’t leave much wiggle room!
Thanks for the advice! Since Tuesday, I’ve driven the car more and just this morning the problem light and “car with exclamation mark” icon turned off. Prior to the light coming on on Tuesday, the car had sat for two weeks without being used. Is it possible the bad cells in the battery were able to recharge? It would be great to not *have* to purchase a new one right now!
Depends on how fast you want to sell it. I'd say $2,000 and work your way down during negotiations. Be up front about the battery, provide pricing for rebuilt batteries. As a owner or a buyer, I wouldn't consider new for a 270k mile car but that's just me. Dealer will most likely offer you about $500. GOOD LUCK!
I paid $1500 for my 07 @ 280k perfectly good traction battery...needed AC compressor and possibly inverter I replaced the inverter, compressor, inverter pump, all fluids/filters etc, and I'm less than $2k You've either got a $500 parts car, or you've got yourself a nice charitable donation on your hands lol Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
Weird, this post wasn't here yesterday. Old, weak batteries commonly fail after sitting unused; especially in warmer weather so this isn't unexpected. You have one or more modules right at the failure point. The battery computer keeps a constant eye on voltages so once they drop again, it will throw the codes/lights again and if warranted the car will go into "turtle mode" using the gasoline engine only. You really don't want to go there. GOOD LUCK!
