2004 Toyota Prius used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Headlights failing or too dim175 owner complaints, usually around 105,000 miles, owners paid about $650

  Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.

• Engine stalls while driving94 owner complaints, usually around 12,500 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Sudden loss of power60 owner complaints, usually around 15,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Hybrid propulsion systemRecall number 12V536000, Nov 14, 2012
• SteeringRecall number 12V537000, Nov 14, 2012
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V388000, Oct 5, 2009
• SteeringRecall number 06V188000, May 31, 2006
• Air bagsRecall number 06V096000, Apr 3, 2006
• Exterior lightingRecall number 04V558000, Nov 22, 2004

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Obsolete noticeFeb 13, 2026
• This bulletin includes basic procedures for performing a rescue charge on Ni-MH high voltage (HV) batteriesFeb 13, 2026
• This is to advise of various price adjustments that will affect Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and Long Life...Mar 4, 2024
• The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master...May 30, 2023
• This bulletin includes basic procedures for performing a rescue charge on Ni-MH high voltage (HV) batteriesMay 31, 2022
• TT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a...Mar 17, 2022

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.