2005 Toyota Prius Consumer Discussions

New Prius Owners - Give Us Your Report

• 2011 Prius IV 2000 mile report

  Written by: lowflyer1 on Jan 10, 2012 6:25:16 PM

  We bought our Prius back in November 2011 and now have just over 2000 miles on it. So far, it's a mostly good report. We love the car, it's amazingly smooth riding for such a small car -- heck, it's a better ride than the 2005 Odyssey we traded in on it, which was a far better ride than the Cadillac I had before that. I am very impressed with the ... Read More

Extended Warranty Opinions

• EXTENDED SERVICE WARRANTY FOR PRIUS

  Written by: shay2 on Apr 6, 2010 3:10:43 PM

  MY 2005 PRIUS HAS 69k MILES. RECENTLY NEEDED NEW WATER PUMP $600 AND NOW NEW ECU $2,000. i WOULD LIKE TO KEEP THE CAR BECAUSE CAN NOT AFFORD SOMETHING ELSE AND AM AFRAID OF GETTING ANOTHER TOYOTA. WOULD YOU TRY TO GET A SERVICE WARRANTY AT THIS STAGE OF THE GAME? WOULD ANYONE GIVE IT TO YOU? HOW MUCH DO THEY RUN? I AM JUST AFRAID OF MORE THINGS GOING OUT. ... Read More

Toyota Prius Engine Problems

• extended service warranty

  Written by: shay2 on Apr 6, 2010 3:07:47 PM

  MY 2005 PRIUS HAS 69k MILES. RECENTLY NEEDED NEW WATER PUMP $600 AND NOW NEW ECU $2,000. i WOULD LIKE TO KEEP THE CAR BECAUSE CAN NOT AFFORD SOMETHING ELSE AND AM AFRAID OF GETTING ANOTHER TOYOTA. WOULD YOU TRY TO GET A SERVICE WARRANTY AT THIS STAGE OF THE GAME? WOULD ANYONE GIVE IT TO YOU? HOW MUCH DO THEY RUN? I AM JUST AFRAID OF MORE THINGS GOING OUT. ... Read More

Toyota Prius Dash & Instrumentation Questions

• Re: 05 prius-which computer? [shay2]

  Written by: lleary on Apr 5, 2010 7:30:00 AM

  Our 2005 Prius with 79K miles has twice now popped up with all the warning lights which direct us to have it towed to the nearest dealer. Only the last time we were in heavy traffic going very slow for over 30 minutes and as soon as the problem cleared and we could accelerate, all the lights went on and the car wouldn't go over 45 mph. We had to pull ... Read More

• BRAKE, ABS & VSC lights on dash - Dealer can't figure out!!!

  Written by: snee16 on Aug 7, 2008 2:34:42 PM

  I took my (2005 & 35K miles Prius) car in yesterday at 2pm (Phx time). It is now over 24 hours and the Dealer still hasn't figured out the problem. This is a relatively new dealership and I'm guessing their Prius technicians/mechanics aren't very much up to speed. My service person told me that they replaced the low voltage battery and still the dash warning lights are on (all 3- BRAKE, ... Read More

• Re: dim display [rhutcheon]

  Written by: glouderback on Mar 22, 2010 10:08:48 AM

  I realize that I am replying to a 2008 Message. My 2005 Prius which I bought new has a touch screen display that is slowly getting dimmer as it ages. I used to work on touch screen displays that had the same problem. The answer is to replace the small florescent bulb that no longer is outputing the same lumens as it once did. Unfortunately, Toyota doesn't have a part number ... Read More

• Re: Failure of display screen [jshrieves]

  Written by: metro5 on May 21, 2008 5:16:09 AM

  Hi JS. You're right , there is a defect on the multi-display unit. Toyota detailed it in their Technical Service Bulletin EL002-05, January 10, 2005. A clever fellow has dissected a non-functioning Prius display unit and compared it to a working unit. Check out his website: http://techno-fandom.org/~hobbit/cars/mfd. He shows that part of the circuit board was re-engineered in order to remedy the problem. The article goes on to show how the ... Read More

Toyota Prius Navigation System Questions

• Re: Foodbob [joannabob]

  Written by: frank_n_ann on Mar 20, 2010 6:24:19 PM

  I'd save your money!..call the toyota dealership here in Burlington washington and order it for delivery. I just bought the newest update for my 2005 prius for 199.00 plus tax. sounds like hiway robbery, no pun intended.

Toyota Prius Brake Problems

• Re: STILL CONFUSED Re: Spoiled Food for Thought [masterpanda]

  Written by: hal_cat on Feb 28, 2010 10:21:10 AM

  I called my dealer and got an appointment the same day - my computer has now been reflashed. Motivation? After feeling the symptoms just once since I got the car last August, this past Friday I felt it twice. I wish I could feel complete confidence in the upgrade, since I know that most software is not written from scratch but modified from previous versions, and I am convinced that eventually ... Read More

Toyota Prius vs VW Golf TDI

• Re: 2010 Prius vs. 2010 TDI Jetta [gagrice]

  Written by: winter2 on Feb 23, 2010 7:50:14 AM

  I have been driving clean diesel since 2005 and welcomed the change to ULSD in 2006. In the meantime, I never had any issue with smelly or smokey exhaust, never had any issue with finding diesel fuel or biodiesel blend, never had any issue with starting in cold weather. My Jeep Liberty CRD gets me 29 - 31 MPG on the road with a 2.8L four cylinder turbo diesel. The Liberty ... Read More

Toyota Prius Brake Problems

• Food for Thought

  Written by: 07prius on Feb 22, 2010 6:05:11 PM

  Interesting message post from http://reviews.cnet.com/coupe-hatchback/2005-toyota-prius/4864-10867_7-31352228-- 2.html?ord=creationDate+desc&tag=rtcol;uo: ""High Rate of Low Speed Brake Failure in 2004-2009 Prius" by ganderc on April 7, 2009 Pros: Great car except for the brakes. Cons: Has a rate of low speed brake failures 31 times that of a traditionally-braked car (Corolla). Many result in rear-ending the car ahead with no injury. Summary: I read that they redesigned the braking systems for the 2010 Prius. That appears ... Read More

Prius and filling the tank

• Re: Toyota States NO FIX for Bladder defect [priusdar]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Jul 23, 2008 6:25:58 AM

  I have my 2005 at 83000 mi plus. I too have experienced the 'bladder variability issue' on rare occasions. But going over the top on such a silly inconsequential issue is silly. HINT: Use your common sense. I'm sure that you didn't have this explained to you when you took delivery of your Prius. If it had been explained to you up front then you'd be able to deal with the ... Read More

Toyota Prius Engine Problems

• Re: Dealer suggesting battery & possible inverter replacement... [jonnied]

  Written by: davidwc on Feb 15, 2010 11:35:05 AM

  My 2005 Prius with 80K miles has done the same thing (same symptoms, always on the freeway) four times starting in Dec 2009. It is at the dealer now. The last time I took it in (Jan 10) this dealer consulted Toyota and they "recommended" replacing the the fuel pump, which requires replacing the gas tank and costs $1000+. The dealer's service supervisor offered that they were not sure it was ... Read More

Toyota Prius Brake Problems

• 2005 Prius Sudden brake problem too

  Written by: phydo on Feb 13, 2010 9:34:23 AM

  Might as well add my two cents worth here. My 2005 Prius (bought new) acts as if I have slammed on the brakes with only a very light touch on occasion. Mostly mornings. This since the very first year I had it. Toyota of Tampa Bay says they know nothing unless they see the problem. Even just an amateur search on the web shows this is fairly common problem. I filled ... Read More

• Toyota Prius braking issues may predate 2010 model; other problems reported

  Written by: revit on Feb 9, 2010 11:26:15 AM

  Toyota Prius braking issues may predate 2010 model; other problems reported Toyota Prius braking issues may predate 2010 model; other problems reported Could the apparent braking problems reported on the Toyota Prius – which Toyota admits was an issue on the current model prior to being resolved earlier this year – extend past the recently released 2010 model? According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the answer is a resounding... maybe. The third generation of ... Read More

• Re: Report brake problems to NHTSA [tigergary]

  Written by: ddemarco on Feb 4, 2010 5:35:26 AM

  I have 110,000 miles on a 2005 Prius, with braking problems which I attempted to report within a month or two after my purchase but was led to believe there was no problem they could find. Today, I just avoid braking over bumps or pot holes because of the surging it creates. At least now I know I am not losing my mind. Don't get me wrong I love my Prius ... Read More

Toyota Prius MPG-Real World Numbers

• low gas mileage in winter..

  Written by: mac98 on Feb 3, 2010 10:15:08 AM

  I have a 2005 prius..Nothing was or is mentioned about cold weather decreases gas mileage..I live in PA and I can count on it dropping to 28-32 miles per gallon..The pruis would be great down south and no hills..then it may get the mileage Toyota claims...Also, Toyota sent me a letter about the floor mats in Nov...told me to take out the front mat and I will hear again from them...next ... Read More

2010 Prius - Next Generation

• Re: '10 Prius IV fuel gauge miles left [sas9]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Nov 2, 2009 7:49:54 PM

  When you get down to '0' on the DTE indicator .... you then have about 2 gallons left in reserve. Yes your assumption is correct. All Toyota's have this reserve. It's the same on my 2005 Prius. You can drive another 100 miles or so searching for the perfect refill at that time ;) .

Toyota Prius vs VW Golf TDI

• Re: November poll - voting results are in [bwilson4web]

  Written by: gagrice on Dec 14, 2009 4:30:27 PM

  We had XM in our 2005 GMC PU and enjoyed the Classical stations and the Christmas stations. If our Toyota CD player was able to play without skipping I would have been fine without XM. I took it into the dealer we bought it from and they said it tested OK. We did not use it until we got a new album and first time we tried it the thing it ... Read More

Toyota Prius Engine Problems

• Re: Lost of power while diving [cathie2]

  Written by: jonnied on Nov 2, 2009 2:50:55 PM

  Hey Cathie 2...I just posted for the first time for I had the same exact issue and I was trying to see if any other ppl had the same issues. If you read my post earlier, I have a 2005 Toyota Prius w/ 158k miles on it. The first time I got it diagnosed, they told me that it was the inverter and that it would cost $4k for a new ... Read More

• Dealer suggesting battery & possible inverter replacement...

  Written by: jonnied on Nov 2, 2009 11:32:37 AM

  Vehicle: 2005 Toyota Prius Current Mileage: 187,000 Miles Dealer Proposed Action: Replace the recharable battery ($4,300), run diagnostic and possible replace Inverter for another $4,200) Here’s my predicament… Where do I start...? I purchased a 2005 Toyota Prius New...it currently now has 157,000 miles on it. Was driving through the desert to Vegas and my light on the dash turn on (check engine light, vsc, red (!) ) and then my ... Read More

Prius ECM problems! Please advise!

• Prius ECM Problems

  Written by: brokerbiker on Sep 26, 2009 7:38:07 PM

  My wife has a 2005 Prius- the last 6 weeks have been pure hell for her due to problems with her Prius and the incompetence of Toyota of Boerne and the Toyota zone staff. At about 50k miles, the car starting generating random error messages and the warning lights all started to go on. The dealer has replaced a variety of components, after having the car for a week this time, ... Read More

Toyota Prius vs VW Golf TDI

• Re: toyota Diesel [banditboy]

  Written by: diezelha on Sep 7, 2009 1:29:23 PM

  Unfortunately they won't because market research shows that it would not sell here. I am kinda surprised that they wouldn't even take a chance, but I guess it would erode their hybrids sales if it was successful. I own an old Mercedes diesel (mid 80's) and a 2005 Prius. The Merc just won't die but I haven't the heart to retire it.

Toyota Prius Navigation System Questions

• Re: 2004 PRIUS GPS [dwight5]

  Written by: navguy1 on Sep 1, 2009 3:40:59 PM

  Toyota just released the new V9.1 DVD map disc. I picked up mine for $199! I bought one 2 years ago for $265. I also got the part numbers for all of the Prius years: Toyota Part # Part # disc Year 86271-GEN04-09 86271-33049 2004-2005 86271-GEN05-09 86271-53024 2006-2009 86271-GEN06-09 86271-73011 2010-2011

Toyota Prius vs VW Golf TDI

• Re: Pricing [gagrice]

  Written by: backy on Aug 23, 2009 7:56:07 AM

  Keep in mind the Prius has been redesigned for 2010--just like the Golf has been. So picking on the 2004-9 Prius (like picking on a 2007 Toyota truck) is not really pertinent. The Gen 3 Prius has more power and a tweaked suspension. So before trashing it for lack of power, handling, comfort, and also too much noise, it might be a good idea to drive it. I got the 2007 ... Read More

• Re: cargo space prius [john1701a]

  Written by: gagrice on Aug 29, 2009 9:47:42 PM

  I did not change the subject Toyota Prius Stalling is the issue. They are not all listed under one complaint topic or one MY. CNN reported, "A software problem is causing some Toyota Prius gas-electric hybrid cars to stall or shut down while driving at highway speeds." A Toyota press release states: Approximately 75,000 2004 and 2005 model year Prius vehicles may be affected by this condition. You are the one ... Read More

Prius Safety & Crash Test Ratings

• Re: prius fire [whitey9]

  Written by: spinning on Aug 5, 2009 4:23:00 PM

  this was a 2005 factory orginal no modification. all orginal factory parts with like 16,000miles or less on it. it has been verified by the fire marshall and toyota it was the prius that was at fault.and his wasnt the 1st one.

• prius fire

  Written by: spinning on Aug 2, 2009 5:41:53 PM

  that is exactlly happened to my friends 2005 prius on march 28th 2007 He lost everything he got out with his pants and shirt and that is all he lost his house there was nothing left to it.. it has been confirmed that it was the prius that caused the fire ,started by the battery, so it does happen and his was not the first one. in doing some research. there ... Read More

• Re: Prius on Fire? [feffer37]

  Written by: spinning on Apr 2, 2009 8:43:21 AM

  i have a friend who had a 2005 toyota prius and it caught fire during the night and burnt his house to the ground, he got out with just his pants and shirt and that was it, he lost all. Yes it was the prius. Have you taken this mattert o court and what was the out come?. It was proven by the fire marshall it was the prius that was ... Read More

• Re: 2009 Prius Fire [whitey9]

  Written by: gagrice on Aug 2, 2009 5:30:43 PM

  I am not familiar with anybody having a Prius fire in their garage. That is exactly what was posted. A Prius exploding and burning inside a garage. On Sunday July 26 2009 at 2am my 2005 prius (fully loaded model) caught fire in the garage. The neighbors said that they heard 2 explosions (probably batteries blowing up from heat) and then the garage burst into flames. The prius, the garage and ... Read More

• Re: Prius on Fire? [feffer37]

  Written by: 2shocked on Jul 26, 2009 7:02:32 PM

  On Sunday July 26 2009 at 2am my 2005 prius (fully loaded model) caught fire in the garage. The neighbors said that they heard 2 explosions (probably batteries blowing up from heat) and then the garage burst into flames. The prius, the garage and my wife's car were all totally destroyed. The firemen all said that in their opinion the genesis of the fire was with the prius. They said that ... Read More

2010 Toyota Prius or 2010 Ford Fusion?

• Re: 2010 Toyota Prius or 2010 Ford Fusion? [freakintoddles]

  Written by: jeff_h on Jul 24, 2009 6:38:22 PM

  I was one that was undecided 2010 FFH vs 2010 Prius. I drove a Prius for over 100,000 miles, I now have a FFH. The term "fun to drive" is subjective, I'm over 40 and find less and less fun in feeling all of the bumps in the road as I'm driving. For this category I've driven both and would take the Fusion hands down. As for MPG, if the Fusion ... Read More

Toyota Prius Dash & Instrumentation Questions

• Re: New 2005 Prius Owners [majors2000]

  Written by: hihostevo on Jul 4, 2009 1:27:12 PM

  Eric, are you still working for Toyota? My wife and I have an '08 Prius and are looking at purchasing a very low mileage '05 Prius. Are there any "issues" with the '05 that we should be aware of?? I tried to send you a private email for this question, but you are listed as private so I am posting it here in hopes that you see it. For the rest ... Read More

Toyota Prius Brake Problems

• Re: 2004-2009 Prius Brake Failure Rate is High [jpeters1970]

  Written by: nanster630 on Jul 4, 2009 7:57:38 AM

  I just bought a certified used 2005 three weeks ago, and since then I have had this happen TWICE, which is why I'm on the Internet searching for information about it. Fortunately, so far, the break has eventually engaged just in the nick of time but it has made this usually very confident driver more than a little squeamish about driving in Chicago area traffic. I love every other aspect of ... Read More

2010 Prius - Next Generation

• Re: Buyers began taking delivery of the 2010's yesterday [wvgasguy]

  Written by: 107main on May 30, 2009 9:44:35 AM

  I took a look at the prices and could not justify the Prius..loaded nearly $35 K! I have driven several of the 2nd generation ones and did not like them near as well as a Honda Civic Hybrid and I have driven many of them doing dealer transfers. Prius does get a little bit better mileage. I wonder did Toyota get rid of the dumb bladder type fuel tank on the ... Read More

• Re: May-2009 Hybrid Sales

  Written by: gasout on Jun 3, 2009 1:44:49 PM

  We traded 2005 Prius for 2010 Insight. We loved the Pruis but Insight is a great car. It gets over 53 MPG (mostly highway) very consistently. I don’t know why the EPA rating is so low. We were getting close to 50 MPG with 2005 Prius and I can’t wait to get the new Prius for my wife so we can compare the two over the same route. The Toyota dealer ... Read More

Does the current situation affect hybrid sales more?

• carried over from a Diesel News post thread

  Written by: larsb on May 11, 2009 8:47:21 AM

  Gary says, "Toyota has put all its marbles into the wrong markets. The US buyer is fickle. And the meager Prius sales when gas is cheap, attests to my belief." Gas prices and Prius sales do not have a direct correlation: Sales in 2004: 53,991 Avg gas price 2004: $1.895 Sales in 2005: 107,897 Avg gas price 2005: $2.314 Gas prices went up, and so did Prius sales. Sales in 2006: ... Read More

Toyota Prius Electrical and Lighting Questions

• 2005 Prius battery falure = brakes failure

  Written by: aleknit on May 19, 2009 8:37:53 PM

  /Lets start at the top.. I was on the freeway in the fast trak doing about 65mph. All of a sudden the hybrid engine failure light came on, an then almost all the other lights came on. I figured it was time to pull over first chance I get. At the end of the fast trak cars were slowing down. When I pressed my brake pedal I found out I had ... Read More

Does the current situation affect hybrid sales more?

• Re: carried over from a Diesel News post thread [gagrice]

  Written by: larsb on May 12, 2009 3:46:52 PM

  How many times I have to post this? Gary says, "Toyota has put all its marbles into the wrong markets. The US buyer is fickle. And the meager Prius sales when gas is cheap, attests to my belief." Gas prices and Prius sales do not have a direct correlation: Sales in 2004: 53,991 Avg gas price 2004: $1.895 Sales in 2005: 107,897 Avg gas price 2005: $2.314 Gas prices went up, ... Read More

Toyota Prius Dash & Instrumentation Questions

• PRIUS cover-up?

  Written by: maxx124 on Apr 26, 2009 8:10:08 AM

  I have a 2005 prius with 160 K ..Did the dealer find the problem with your prius , I've had this problem happening 5 times or more every week. with no power, or the alarm going off. or it reboots itself . I have to reset the clock at least 10 times a week. I seem to find new ways to get it running ..the latest fix is opening and closing ... Read More

Toyota Prius Electrical and Lighting Questions

• Re: Can't start 2004 Prius [jfbohn]

  Written by: irwing on Mar 26, 2009 3:16:03 PM

  Same thing happens to my 2005 Prius. Twice, I had to have the 12 volt charged. Dealer said the battery was fine. The other day, in a grocery parking lot, I tried to start the car and all of the lights flashed and I could not get FOB out. Waited and pressed power button and car powered off. Started again and it was fine. It seems that it had to recycle ... Read More

Does the current situation affect hybrid sales more?

• Re: Prius at highest levels on the lots [boaz47]

  Written by: gagrice on Nov 28, 2008 8:26:10 PM

  With Toyota and Ford lots busting at the seams I think a person with patience could cut a good deal on a Hybrid. I like to start at invoice and go down from there. After riding in my friends 2009 Prius, I would never buy one. Just too rough around the edges comfort, noise and ride. I test drove a Yaris while my Sequoia was being serviced. It was Yugo time ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Buying Out my Prius Early

  Written by: flagg2 on Aug 11, 2008 8:46:50 AM

  OK, here is my scenario. I have a 2005 Package #6 Prius on a 48 month lease. The lease is due March 2009. Yes, I know I shouldn’t have leased it but at that time gas wasn’t quite $2 yet. The residual value (payoff) is $9750. I only have 44,000 miles on it and will be way under the mileage restriction of 15K/year. The Blue Book value on this car is ... Read More

Article Comments - 2008 Honda Fit vs. 2008 Toyota Prius

• Re: Makes sense to me ... [danbeau]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Aug 8, 2008 5:47:28 PM

  Disregarding the unusual resale market over these last 3 months the Prius has gone down in value about 10% pa each year. A $23000 MSRP vehicle in 2005, mine for example, with normal miles of say 36000-45000 miles normally should be retailing for about $16000 right now ( 70% of $23000 ). The whole concept of this original article was a 5 yr driving cycle of about 75000 miles. Add 75000 ... Read More

What to expect from the next model year Prius

• A lowend Honda hybrid will never be serious ...

  Written by: maribago on Jul 9, 2008 8:25:11 AM

  "A lowend Honda hybrid will never be serious competition to a Prius simply because it will be too basic and too small. It will probably be at least equal if not better in FE as compared to the current Prius but maybe not so competitive to the Gen 3." kdhspyder, I see you are a 3-posts-a-day heavy forum user, so I want to defer to you. But help us out here: ... Read More

Toyota Prius Basic Care & Maintenance

• Prius Steering Wheel Control Malfunction

  Written by: priusluvr on Jun 7, 2008 10:13:14 AM

  I have a 2005 prius and just recently noticed a "crunching" noise when I turned the wheel. Now NONE of my controls on my steering wheel work, my airbag light is on, and my horn doesn't work. Anyone else have this problem? I took it to toyota and they said they needed to keep it all day and had no idea what it would cost to fix. I have no idea ... Read More

What to expect from the next model year Prius

• Re: seats [kdhspyder]

  Written by: bigmclargehuge on May 21, 2008 4:55:06 PM

  Corolla ACTUAL tire specs: P195/65R15 P205/55R16 P215/45R17 Yup, all bigger than the Prius tires. And we're on Gen. 10 actually. Maybe thats where you got the wrong numbers quoting the car that was built in 2005. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Corolla_E140

• Re: seats [kdhspyder]

  Written by: bigmclargehuge on May 21, 2008 12:25:18 PM

  You don't make any sense. If you claim NHTSA is out of date, but that IIHS does it differently, yet both agree that Subaru tops the list for all models. Lets see this Safecar.gov quote that all CURRENT government ratings are useless. Why are YOU quoting data from the 70's and 80's and saying I'm 30-years behind? They said no such thing in their 2005-2009 Plan, Through the combined efforts of ... Read More

Toyota Prius Hybrid System Questions

• Re: It happened last night [stevegold]

  Written by: annettes on May 7, 2008 11:55:01 AM

  May 6, 2008 at 8:50pm. AAA towed to Toyota and they started working on the car before they called me. It started up for them but with the engine light on. I got a free rotation and oil change out of that because no one called me until 8am when I was already on my way in. Anyway, the air filter was heavily dirty and after running a computer check, nothing ... Read More

• It happened last night

  Written by: annettes on May 7, 2008 4:00:55 AM

  The one night I didn't bring my cell phone to church!!! System failure on my 2005 Prius going about 65 mph on country highway. It slowed down in speed and I pulled over where I could. If there was an "update on the software" I was never notified. AAA came out and dropped it off to Toyota..on my way there this morning armed with the CNN article. What is this? I ... Read More

Prius Owners w/50K - What We Think Now

• Thanks, everyone!

  Written by: rick294 on Apr 21, 2008 2:37:20 PM

  I just found this site last week and I surely do enjoy all of your comments. I know that my new Prius is a very complicated machine and it is a bit scary to think what "could" happen. But so many of your comments are reassuring as to reliability and longevity of the Prius that my mind is now at ease. I can fully relax and enjoy our new car. Love ... Read More

Prius and filling the tank

• Re: Bladder issue really worth getting upset over? [sherry9]

  Written by: sergelbergeron on Mar 28, 2008 12:55:51 PM

  HI I live in Canada and I own a 2005 Prius and a new 2008 with about 8,000 miles. I think I am having the same problem with both cars. It hit me worse this week because I ran out of gaz with my 08 nodel. Everytime I get down to the flashing light I do 10-15 miles and then tanl up and I find that I still had 3-4 gallons ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2002 prius 8,998? should I buy? need help asap [dmhull]

  Written by: fallabel on Feb 10, 2008 4:39:30 AM

  You can use the Edmunds appraisal calculator to get a gauge on how much the car should actually cost. I did this for a 2002 Prius, 130,000 miles, White, no additional options installed, and in my zip code in Maryland. It would of course be more accurate if you changed everything to represent the car you're looking at. http://www.edmunds.com/used/2002/toyota/prius/18967/options.html?tmvaction=vdpre- - sult That calculator says that the Dealer Retail price is over ... Read More

Toyota Prius MPG-Real World Numbers

• Re: mileage [rockpsl76]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Jan 12, 2008 1:58:00 PM

  ONe of the biggest drains on all vehicles, hybrid or not, is having to accelerate from a dead stop. Overcoming the inertia of standing still is a HUGE waste of fuel. There is no way to obviate Newton's Laws. I did a similar test on the streets of NYC where I used to live and work. Going across town from stop light to stop light to stop light I was only ... Read More

Toyota Prius Electrical and Lighting Questions

• Battery Problems

  Written by: lnm on Jan 10, 2008 3:06:30 PM

  I hope I can describe our situation accurately as I was not the driver when the problem occured. My husband drives our 2005 Prius approx. 50 miles daily. One snowy morning, he left the house and proceeded normally to the freeway on-ramp, about 3 miles from our house. As he got on the freeway, the Prius dropped to about 20 mph. The car wouldn't go any faster no matter how much ... Read More

Toyota Prius Basic Care & Maintenance

• Prius and low mileage

  Written by: vdindia on Dec 4, 2007 2:31:19 PM

  In May I bought 2005 used Toyota Prius. In October I bought brand new cooper tires for the car, since then I have noticed low mileage. The mileage drop to 36mpg, then in cold weather, now I see 26 mpg. I called the dealer and they told me that it is very normal for cars to give such mileage in winter. Also I work only one mile away from home, so ... Read More

Toyota Prius

• Prius a no go in China

  Written by: gagrice on Nov 25, 2007 7:39:23 AM

  The Chinese are not as easy as the US buyers. I wonder who they sold the remainder of their 3000 per year production to? Toyota also suffered huge losses in China with its Prius. The Toyota Prius had half-year sales of only 176 units. Such low sales numbers were primarily due to, one its prohibitive price and two China’s lack of a truly eco-friendly automotive consumer population. But with a 300,000 ... Read More

Toyota Prius Hybrid System Questions

• 2006 Prius repeated loss of power at high speeds

  Written by: docglenn3 on Nov 13, 2007 9:34:58 PM

  On 3 separate occasions in the past 6 months my wife's Prius has lost power while operating at high speeds in the commuter lane on the freeways in Southern California.It is amazing that she was not involved in an accident on any of these occasions.Each time, She had her car towed to a Toyota dealership.The warning signs all came on with each episode.The Toyota dealership has never told us that this ... Read More

Toyota Prius Basic Care & Maintenance

• Re: 2005 Toyota Prius Maintenence [eunicek]

  Written by: 210delray on Oct 28, 2007 7:20:38 PM

  Typical dealer ripoffs. 1. Completely unnecessary. 2. Might be needed, but only if the gasoline engine is not running smoothly or making unusual clattering noises, especially when cold. If you have no symptoms, do not bother. Way overpriced though for what you've quoted. 3. Not a bad idea, but again way overpriced. I just had it done for my Nissan Frontier pickup at my local independent shop. They used synthetic brake ... Read More

• 2005 Toyota Prius Maintenence

  Written by: eunicek on Oct 28, 2007 6:46:49 PM

  When I took my Prius to the dealer for its 95k maintenence they recommended some expensive services which I declined. I said I wanted to think it over. This is what they recommended: - $249 Fuel Injection service - $452 valve adjustment service - $160 Brake flush My car runs fine. Are these services truly justifiable? Thanks, Eunice

Prius Safety & Crash Test Ratings

• Re: My mom had a 70s era Pontiac GTO that caught on fire.... [suzikn]

  Written by: larsb on Jul 3, 2007 6:53:08 AM

  Completely agree with all your posts in regard to the serious nature of car fires and how they should be taken seriously. But my point is that there is nothing inherent to the Prius that makes it more flammable than other cars. I did this research a couple of years ago and there are TONS of incidents of cars catching on fire that were not hybrid cars, and VERY VERY few ... Read More

Toyota Prius Accessories & Modifications

• Toyota navigation systems in Hawaii

  Written by: bstevenson on Jun 23, 2007 3:46:28 PM

  I just imported a 2005 Prius to Oahu, only to discover that the stock navigation system does not provide any map or destination functions. Is there any update on whether Toyota is going to address this problem? Thanks. Bruce

Prius a good first car?

• Prius= Great first car

  Written by: mulligan672 on May 26, 2007 7:13:08 PM

  k4thrynnn, A Prius would be a great first car. I, too, am 5'0" and fit in the Prius very comfortably. My husband is 5'10" and he's comfortable behind the wheel, too. Not that you want your friends driving your car! ;) The transmission is quiet and very easy to operate. It took me about two days to get used to turning it on. If you do decide to get one, the ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• used prius, 2005 w/package 6

  Written by: mofizur on Apr 28, 2007 4:06:25 PM

  hello everyone, our local dealer has a 05 Prius with 33.6K miles Toyota certified,Package 6 (Nav,smartkey,TSC) the car is in excellent shape with new tires, I have offered 17K and they have offered me 18.5K, is this a great,good,fair or bad deal? should I do it?

Toyota Prius Test Drive - What Do You Think?

• Toyota Prius Experience

  Written by: msindallas on Apr 19, 2007 1:11:42 PM

  I test drove the Prius twice - once in 2005 Aug, and again in 2007 March. Driving experiences are the same. In 2005, I rejected it outright because the dealer wanted a $6,000 mark up over MSRP (that's Toyota of Dallas) - trying to justify it with market conditions and tax breaks. I said "No thanks, I'll keep driving my Camry for a few more years" and left. In 2007, they ... Read More

Prius Safety & Crash Test Ratings

• Pirus Fire:

  Written by: feffer37 on Apr 10, 2007 8:29:03 AM

  We're investigating a house fire, which we suspect the vehicle in the garage caused. That vehicle happened to be a 2005 Toyota Prius. So yes, we have seen a fire which a Prius was present, and are trying to rule out all possibilities of the source of ignition. In this case, I am trying to find out if anyone else has actually seen or heard of a Prius actually being the ... Read More

• Prius on Fire?

  Written by: feffer37 on Apr 9, 2007 2:33:59 PM

  I'm looking for any information anyone may have in regards to a Toyota Prius being on fire, or more specifically, a 2005 Toyota Prius (or any other model year) catching fire. I would appreciate anyone's information. Sincerely, Ted

Package options for Prius

• Re: need advice on packages [an110475]

  Written by: carlstraub on Mar 15, 2007 6:33:24 PM

  Hi, We recently bought 2, pkg #2 Prius cars. We added a Toyota in dash 6cd changer to both about $650 installed. No Nav or Bluetooth. I have a Garmin portable Nav unit if needed. Actually almost NEVER use it. The #2 has smart key, backup camera, VSC, MP3, aux audio. We paid 22K each (two different dealers) which is the edmunds invoice price. So. Cal invoice is $22.3. Very good ... Read More

Toyota Prius Suspension/Steering Problems

• Prius rear wheel alignment

  Written by: jimdemaine on Mar 2, 2007 4:19:46 PM

  At 31,000 miles my 2005 Prius factory Goodyear tires needed replacement because they were unevenly worn, expecially on the outer portion. They have been rotated by the dealer every 5000 miles. I've had new Michelin tires installed at COSTCO and then had a wheel alignment check at reputable shop. The front wheel alignment was fine, but both rear wheels showed too much toe-in: R rear was 0.35 and the L rear ... Read More

Toyota Prius Accessories & Modifications

• Re: Dealer won't install XM Satellite module [momsageek]

  Written by: williamt1 on Feb 22, 2007 5:03:26 AM

  I'm in Jacksonville too. Call Keith Pierson Toyota service center. They did the xm factory receiver installation on my 2005 prius package 7 (nav system). They know how to do the job correctly.

Toyota Prius

• Re: cruise control and gas mileage [dlddvm]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Feb 14, 2007 10:17:25 AM

  Both good questions. A) Cruise: It's a personal choice. I find that using my own inputs that get very very slightly better fuel economy by using pulse and glide. On a very long trip cruise is very helpful though. You mentioned putting it on at 35 mph. I definitely wouldn't do this because the HSD is set up so that when you let off the pedal at 41 mph and less ... Read More

New Prius Owners - Give Us Your Report

• Re: Prius sales down from 2005 to 2006?? [jetfish]

  Written by: malaan on Feb 6, 2007 5:09:16 PM

  c2rosa, I believe was referring to an article in Auto Week, where to quote "Toyota USA is looking at ways to move it's backlog of Prius Hybrids. 7 of Toyotas 12 U.S sales regions were offering a low lease payment, cut rate finance deals or cash back to the dealership for each unit sold" Hope this helps clarify

• Re: Prius sales down from 2005 to 2006?? [c2rosa]

  Written by: jetfish on Feb 5, 2007 8:06:54 PM

  c2rosa, it sounds interesting... Can you provide more details about your saying "Toyota quietly puts first incentives on Prius". So far I don't know Toyota provides any incentives on Prius.. thank you.

• Prius sales down from 2005 to 2006??

  Written by: c2rosa on Feb 5, 2007 6:50:42 AM

  Toyota quietly puts first incentives on Prius ...... Toyota sold 106,971 Prius models in 2006, down from 107,897 sold in 2005, according to the Automotive News Data Center.

Toyota Prius Engine Problems

• Stalling problems at startup from complete stop

  Written by: priusrik on Dec 29, 2006 8:25:09 PM

  I have a Toyota Prius 2005 (which I love) - with 19,000 miles - which has had a "stalling" problem at take off - on three occasions. It happens like this: I'm stopped at a light. It turns green and I try to take off - but the Prius won't go faster than about 10 miles an hour - and a Yellow "car shaped" icon lit up (just below the temperature ... Read More

New Prius Owners - Give Us Your Report

• Prius Rocks!

  Written by: rosi02 on Nov 26, 2006 8:53:47 AM

  I'm sure lots of you have heard accolades like this before, but after 20 months and 63,000 miles I have to say it: The Toyota PRIUS is probably the best vehicle I have ever owned! It has simply been an awesome car. Comfortable with lots of room, fun to drive, and as reliable as they come. I drive 63 miles to work one way each day of the work week. And ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2007 Prius Package 2

  Written by: Guest on Nov 16, 2006 5:00:47 PM

  I went to a Toyota dealership after talking to the internet manager about price on a 2007 Prius package 2 + carpeting and 1st aide kit MSRP $24,300+ for 23000 + TTL + 100 processing fee. After readying to pay for the car(no trade, they want to give me too little for my 2005 Accord :( ), they told me the car has Lojack which will be another $499 . But ... Read More

What to expect from the next model year Prius

• Re: Other engines for a Prius body [allcarsrcool]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Dec 18, 2006 9:31:27 AM

  so you did read the article, so if i am wrong about the price, what is the actual price of the kit added to a new prius, i believe it would make the prius over $40000. This a faulty conclusion. The reason the price is $10000 extra is because it's a one of a kind aftermarket kit. It's not an OEM option manufactured right into the vehicle. To put this to ... Read More

• Re: Other engines for a Prius body [allcarsrcool]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Dec 18, 2006 5:22:53 AM

  Up until now I took your posts as coming from someone who is unfamiliar with the HSD system. Now it seems you are making things up.... have you even read the latest magazines? In either motortrend, automobile, or car and driver, they had a little article about a plug in prius costing well above $40000 dollars. So who now is the one with their head not being in the "auto world" ... Read More

Toyota Prius Accessories & Modifications

• wheel cover

  Written by: lday on Sep 26, 2006 2:40:26 PM

  Where can I find a cloth wheel cover for a 2005 Toyota Prius?

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Changing rides every 4-5 years is nice, but $$$ [cruising7388]

  Written by: pathstar1 on Sep 2, 2006 7:44:38 PM

  Further to your "tax rant" ;) if we eliminated alcohol and tobacco a lot more people would be living well into retirement years - yet another drain on the tax dollar (at least here in Canada, not sure what your pension situation is federally). I went for another test drive today, this time in a 2005 "B" package Prius with 22,000 km+ on it. Took a good long test drive this ... Read More

Toyota Prius Accessories & Modifications

• Re: Hybrid Hacks!!! [audioshybrid]

  Written by: pathstar1 on Aug 19, 2006 8:58:06 AM

  They work. There is also CanView. It can display lots of data on the MFD from the "CAN bus". Works on 2004 and 2005 Prius, but not yet on 2006 (display has gone to higher standards). Do a Google search for it. Several posters on other Forums have reported the EV mod was installed and their Toyota dealer didn't comment on it. It's standard in Europe anyway, so shouldn't cause any ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Where is the cost cutting by Toyota?

  Written by: gagrice on Aug 6, 2006 6:58:43 AM

  Toyota Motor Corp., the world's largest seller of gasoline-electric autos, raised the starting price of the Prius hybrid car 2.1 percent for the 2007 model and will add a new version to help boost sales. The increase is $450, to $22,175, the company's Torrance, California-based U.S. sales unit said in a statement today. The new Touring Edition begins at $23,070 and has larger wheels and a stiffer suspension. The 2007 models ... Read More

Toyota Prius: Problems & Solutions

• starting problem on incline

  Written by: jude4 on Jul 7, 2006 2:03:33 PM

  My prius(2005) was parked on an incline, the parking brake was not engaged. When I unlocked and tried to start the car, all the lights on the dash came on (except the ready light), then they began flashing. I could not put the car into a gear.....all gears were flashing with a square. I tried to start a few times and the same thing happened. I called AAA, they came out, ... Read More

2004-2009 Toyota Prius Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Buy in Boston or San Francisco? [hybridturtleg]

  Written by: cruising7388 on Jul 27, 2006 9:26:23 PM

  #119 of 119 Re: Buy in Boston or San Francisco? [hybridturtleg] by cruising7388 Jul 27, 2006 (1:44 pm) Replying to: hybridturtleg (Jul 27, 2006 2:40 am) See the comparison below between the Federal Warranty details vs the warranty that is mandated for all states that have incoporated CARB (California Air Resources Board) criteria into their warranty standards. Note that Mass is a CARB state so you can get the same warranty ... Read More

Hybrid Prius that gets over 100 Miles per Gallon

• Plug-in Priuses

  Written by: idele on Jul 24, 2006 10:12:49 AM

  When Jim Press announced that Toyota was working on plug-in hybrids it was treated as something new. Actually in 2005 the Toyota Dream House (mine too) that was exhibited for 6 months at that time had a complete Prius plug-in setup. Particularly interesting to me, since I get power from a rural electric coop which has its downtimes, is the use of the Prius to supply electricity to the house if ... Read More

What to expect from the next model year Prius

• Re: Waiting for the 2009 Prius? [dramades]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Jul 19, 2006 4:22:16 PM

  The original Prius debuted in Japan in 1997. They hit the States here in 2000. The Gen2 ( current model ) hit the market in late Oct 2003 as a 2004 model. The warranty issue is one which is personal but as noted above there are parts, not the hybrid or drivetrain part, but the normal car part that are covered by the 3/36 Basic warranty that are really expensive to ... Read More

Toyota Prius Recall - Special Service Campaign "60C" Steering Shaft Assembly issue

• Re: Prius Recall Loss of control? [tmsusa]

  Written by: c2rosa on May 31, 2006 11:52:30 AM

  According to the following article, "The recall follows more than 30 complaints filed with Toyota since March 2004" Here's the article in its entirety. Toyota Recall Hits One Million Vehicles The Associated Press May 31, 2006 WASHINGTON – Toyota Motor Corp. said Tuesday it is recalling nearly 1 million vehicles across the globe to replace faulty parts that could cause drivers to lose control of the steering wheel. The recall affects ... Read More

Toyota Prius: Problems & Solutions

• Re: Prius brakes [lwinter]

  Written by: shirleyone on May 29, 2006 8:16:58 AM

  Tricraig, I hope I can be of some help. First, I have heard of brake failures in some Priuses. I think I would first "Google" Prius Brake failures. Before I bought my Prius, 2005, in October of last year I did that and found out about the brake failures. I don't remember exactly what I read, but it seems there was a problem with some cars and it had to do ... Read More

• Prius brake failure

  Written by: lwinter on May 25, 2006 9:48:51 PM

  Last week the brakes on my 2005 Prius failed- the pedal went to the floor, and the ABS and emergency brake lights went on. Twenty minutes later, the brakes worked again. The local Toyota dealer was unable to diagnose the problem, and insisted that no changes were needed. The service manager is insisting that the car is safe to drive, but offers no evidence. This logic seems warped, because regardless of ... Read More

New Prius Owners - Give Us Your Report

• New (used) Proud Prius Owner

  Written by: jaxsol on May 24, 2006 2:41:23 PM

  Hi! I have owned my 2005 Prius for 1 month now. I absolutely love this car! I bought it with 10,200 miles on it. It has package 4. In the past two years I have gone through a LOT of cars (99 VW New Beetle, 97 Honda del Sol, 00 Toyota Celica, 02 Mini Cooper, 00 Honda S2000, 00 Chevy Tracker, and an 05 Ford Escape...whew!) It is the running joke ... Read More

Toyota Prius

• Tax credits confirmed

  Written by: kdhspyder on Apr 8, 2006 8:36:31 AM

  Toyota confirmed to us that the IRS confirmed to them that the tax credit on the 2006 deliveries is actually $3150, subject to your personal tax situation. Through March 31 Toyota/Lexus has delivered 42175 hybrid vehicles, thus the 60,000 limit should be reached right around May 1st. All 2nd qtr and all 3rd Qtr deliveries will qualify for the full credit - again subject to your personal tax situation. Prius .. ... Read More

Toyota Prius Owners Meet the Members

• Re: toyota prius????? [seeko]

  Written by: cruising7388 on Apr 29, 2006 1:56:40 PM

  Remember that anyone with 100,000 miles on a Prius probably has a first generation vehicle. The second generation now in production (2005 and later) is substantially improved. That's the performance and repair history you want to concentrate on.

Prius Safety & Crash Test Ratings

• Re: IIHS testing - finally. [gagrice]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Apr 17, 2006 8:02:01 AM

  Why does Toyota continue to be Cheap Charlie's? I would think they would include the side airbags as standard like the competition. If the EU testing for crash worthiness is good enough? Why isn't the Euro4 emissions acceptable? Did Toyota/Lexus get caught off guard on the rear crash tests? Their whole lineup got an overall poor to marginal rating. As did many automakers It's a 'generational design' situation. The prior generations ... Read More

Toyota Prius

• Re: Prius sales 2005 - 2006 [kdhspyder]

  Written by: gagrice on Apr 5, 2006 11:43:21 AM

  Why are the Prius sales are down 22% for March? No problem for Toyota to keep the supply of big trucks and SUVs coming. Green company, bah humbug.... The Japanese automaker said its sales were up 7 percent in March compared with a year earlier, driven by a 15 percent jump in truck and SUV sales. But Prius sales were down 22 percent as production problems slowed down Toyota's effort to ... Read More

Toyota Prius Software Problems

• Re: LCD screen and Navigation problem [jrct9454]

  Written by: bri4 on Apr 12, 2006 5:38:10 PM

  I took the car to the dealership and they observed the condition. The service manager called the Toyota Service Rep. and responded back to me that they are aware of the problem. The dealer service department could not help me. An appointment was made with the Toyota Manufacturing Service Rep. We drove my car and another used 2005 Prius. The Rep. concluded that both systems have the same characteristics and I ... Read More

• LCD screen and Navigation problem

  Written by: bri4 on Apr 10, 2006 6:05:36 PM

  I purchased a 2005 Prius with the navigation package version 04.2 on 6-22-05. On February 23, 2006; I witnessed the screen lose half the brightness, and road lines, instead of being smooth, are now segmented(jagged).The colors in other displays have also changed color and darkened. I would like to hear from anyone that has experienced this and what remedy Toyota offered.

Toyota Prius

• Re: Prius sales 2005 - 2006 [clethro]

  Written by: gagrice on Apr 5, 2006 2:57:11 PM

  You know, I just don't get it. It's not that tough to figure out. The Prius was developed for two basic reasons. To save fossil fuel and lower emissions. Japan was hot on their number one auto maker to do something so they could try and meet the obligations signed with the Kyoto Treaty. When the Prius hit our shores with it's advertised 48 MPG folks were skeptical. Some of us ... Read More

• Re: Prius sales 2005 - 2006 [gagrice]

  Written by: kdhspyder on Apr 5, 2006 12:16:04 PM

  Silly wabbit.. Tundra -8.9% m/m Sequoia -21.8% m/m Highlander -12.8% m/m Some products are up and some are down for different reasons. Besides how are you going to buy a hybrid Tundra or diesel Tundra when they come out if Toyota isn't in the truck business.

Toyota Prius: Problems & Solutions

• 2005 Toyota Prius Navigation System Problem

  Written by: bri4 on Apr 4, 2006 6:07:21 PM

  I purchased a 2005 Prius with the navigation package version 04.2 on 6-22-05. On or about February 23, 2006; I witnessed the screen lose about half the brightness, and road lines, instead of being smooth, are now segmented (jagged). The screen has also darkened and changed color in other modes. I would like to hear from anyone that has experienced this and what remedy Toyota offered.