Buying A Used Prius With Over 100 000 Miles May 2026
If the engine rattles violently for 10 seconds when first started, the head gasket is likely failing. Pro Tip: Budget for "Day One" Maintenance
Most common on the used market. Best looking/driving of the older models, but watch for the head gasket and EGR issues mentioned above. buying a used prius with over 100 000 miles
This is the elephant in the room. If it hasn't been replaced, it’s likely nearing the end of its life (usually 12–15 years or 150k miles). Ask for a battery health test or use a Bluetooth OBDII scanner with the "Dr. Prius" app to check the blade voltages yourself. If the engine rattles violently for 10 seconds
Generation 3 models (2010–2015) are known for burning oil once they cross 100k miles. Check the dipstick; if it’s bone dry, the previous owner may have caused engine damage. 2. Service History Milestones This is the elephant in the room
On 2010–2015 models, the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve and cooler clog with soot, which can eventually lead to a blown head gasket.