I am looking at 2005 Prius Pk 6 with 36k miles for $13k. I am not sure about the difference between this generation and 2007 model, I am also looking at. Is the battery very different? How much does it cost to replace both batteries? What should I be worried about from the different years. I hope to make the purchase this afternoon.
Very low miles, nat'l average is 12K/year. Price is maybe a little high, not a real deal. No substantive difference between the '05 and '07. Both the High Voltage, "traction," battery and 12V batteries are identical in the two years. If "they" say its a Touring model, they're lying. You really should have either car looked at by a qualified Prius tech -- at a different dealer if that's where they are -- before signing anything/buying. And see a CarFax report, and get a service printout on the car from a dealer. Take it for a long test drive; surface roads and highway. Be certain. Don't be bullied or rushed. CYA. You can always walk away if there's anything that you don't like. You haven't said anything to cause doubt as to the HV battery. It is reasonable to expect it to last for 150K - 200K miles. However, a used-but-good one can go for as little as $1K on eBay, maybe $2,500 new from a dealer. Typical service life on the 12V battery is ~4 years. The low mileage suggests it was driven for shortish trips and/or sat for longish periods unused. Both can lead to reduced 12V battery capacity over a long period. All in all, a new 12V battery is an anticipatable expense; about $160 from the dealer and $100 to install. It's an easy DIY install. You can find a number of threads on doing it using the search function. Good luck. Be careful out there. Let us know how this turns out.
The traction battery should still be under toyota warranty (8years/100,000miles) as is the rest of the hybrid drive system maybe 150,000 miles in some states,
The 2007 has a higher reolution MFD (screen). This only applies if the car has NAV. The 2007 also has a backup camera.
I just purchased a 2006 with 19,500 kilometers on it. What a car! If your happy with the deal then go for it.I would not worry about the pack. Hasn't been a issue with the Prius. H
Did you get the 05 Package 6? I have the same package on my 05. The only difference between the 05 and 07 is leather was not offered in 05 or back up camera. Also, the nav update on the 07 will show roads that may not be visible on the 05. I need to update mine as well (another topic though). Good Luck! Where are you in MD? I am in the same state. Is this a dealer? The traction battery (the big one) shoudl last you a loooonggg time! I have 210,000 on mine right now. If the 12V battery hasn't been replaced, it should be done soon on your terms instead of a cold morning in December.
The 2007 also has less sensitive traction control. Earlier Prius were known for being stopped by traction control on slippery surfaces. It's likely the 2007 will do better in snow than the 2005. Tom
