I'm in the market to buy a new car and not too sure whether I should go with an electric car or a hybrid?

This is a really topical question right now, and the fear is that you could buy something today that would be technically obsolete next week. However, if you look at the way alternative powertrains (hybrids and EVs) have progressed over the years (and it’s been decades since the Toyota Prius introduced us to the hybrid principle) that hasn’t happened yet. Nor is it likely to. Obviously, the best way to future-proof your purchase is to buy the latest tech. So that would be an EV. But even then, future EVs will be better than today’s models. That’s just progress for you. The other factor is how you use your car. If you only drive in an urban setting and can recharge at home, then an EV makes plenty of sense. But if you live or drive in regional areas, then a conventionally powered car remains a valid choice. If your driving is mainly urban running with the odd long-distance trip thrown in, then a hybrid is the one that makes most sense. As to whether you wait a few months, if you plan to buy a popular make and model, you’ll be waiting anyway. The global shortage of silicon chips as well as manufacturing bottle-necks due to Covid and other factors means that car-makers are struggling to keep up with demand.

Toyota Prius: Key fob replacement

The cost will depend on where you get the replacement, sometimes there are more affordable options than your dealer. You can read more about how to replace your car keys here.

Prius slow to accelerate

The early Prius was a bit dozy from the lights but before you defect you should try the new model, which is more lively.

Toyota Prius park brake and spark noise

We haven't had any reports of the issues you complain about. I would be concerned about the noise from the rear of the car when slowing down, and would get that checked out. As for rolling on a slope after applying the park brake I'm thinking that's happening while the brake sets after you've applied it. That doesn't sound like it's anything to worry about.

Rust isn't a particular issue with the Prius any more than it is on any other Toyota. I would show it to your dealer and have Toyota inspect it with a view to repairing it.

Toyota Prius rust problems

Rust wasn't a particular issue with the Prius any more than it is on any other Toyota. I would show it to your dealer and have Toyota inspect it with a view to repairing it.

Toyota Prius 2013 Problems

No car is perfect, but we've gathered everything relating to the Toyota Prius 2013 reliability here to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

800,000 cars recalled in two days

30 Jun 2016 · by Joshua Dowling

Cars are either being built worse -- or companies are getting better at detecting faults.Almost every Mitsubishi model sold in Australia over the past 10 years -- close to 500,000 cars -- and 324,000 ...

Toyota recalls 1.9m cars, 5500 in Australia

12 Feb 2014 · by Karla Pincott

Another recall has hit Toyota, with the brand issuing a notice on the hybrid Prius for a defect that can see the cars suddenly lose power or stop, creating a safety risk for occupants and nearby ...

Toyota recalls more than 1600 Prius hybrids

8 Jun 2013 · by Malcolm Flynn

Toyota has issued a recall of the 2008-09 ZW30 third-generation Prius hybrid. The recall affects some 1,652 Australian models, and relates to a potentially faulty Brake Booster Pump Assembly --a key ...

Buyer beware

Answered by CarsGuide 13 Sep 2007

BUYING from auction leaves you little room to move if something goes wrong. It's a ``buyer beware'' scenario, and unfortunately you didn't show enough caution. The fact that it was a 1999 model -- when Toyota didn't start selling the Prius here until 2001 -- and the price was $10,000 should have tipped you off that something was amiss. Toyota's technical people say the earlier Prius is quite different to the car they sell here, with a different ECU and battery pack. The result is that Toyota dealers don't have the diagnostic equipment to determine what might be wrong with your car. Even though this is a grey import, Toyota is willing to help out if you call their customer hotline.

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Toyota Prius 2013 Problems

800,000 cars recalled in two days

Toyota recalls 1.9m cars, 5500 in Australia

Toyota recalls more than 1600 Prius hybrids

Buyer beware

Search from Over 8,000 questions Over 8,000 questions answered by CarsGuide

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