I'm looking at several 2010 Prius II's on Craigslist. Since this will be my first hybrid, I don't trust myself for even a rudimentary mechanical inspection. Regardless, I think it would be foolish not to have a pro inspect the car as well. So here's my question: Should I take it to a dealer or an independent shop? Normally I would choose independent, but I'm worried that a Prius will be beyond their grasp. On the other hand, I don't trust dealers much. p.s. I'm located in Los Angeles. Any advice or other tips are appreciated!
If you don't know an independent shop that you havealready vetted in some way, go to a dealer and don't chance it. If you want to know exactly what is wrong with the car, Toyota is the place to go. However, this is coming from someone with little hybrid experience and a good dealership, so perhaps my opinion is skewed. I guess I feel like if I were going to buy a car off of Craigslist, through which is be completely on my own, I'd want to at least take my car to a place that I know will have my back.
