Above Average Reliability

2016 Toyota Prius Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

4th Generation (ZVW50) · 1.8L 4-cylinder + electric motor (121hp combined) · $13,000 - $18,000

Known Issues — 2016 Toyota Prius

MODERATE

High-voltage battery degradation — first model year of this gen

CRITICAL

Inverter cooling pump failure

CRITICAL

Brake actuator failure causing soft brake pedal — recall issued

MINOR

Wind noise from windshield A-pillar area

MINOR

Headlight water intrusion on some early production units

What to Inspect

  • Verify brake actuator recall completed (critical)
  • Test hybrid battery health via scan tool
  • Test brake pedal feel for firmness
  • Check for wind noise at A-pillar
  • Test headlights for water intrusion signs

Expected Maintenance Costs

ServiceIntervalCost
Oil changeevery 5,000 miles$40-$60
HV battery inspectionevery 30,000 miles$80-$150
Coolant flush (inverter loop)every 100,000 miles$120-$200
Brake pads (regenerative)every 80,000 miles$100-$160
Cabin air filterevery 15,000 miles$15-$30
12V auxiliary batteryevery 5-7 years$150-$220

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