Checklist: 2nd gen Toyota Prius 2004–2009

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

The inspection sheet: mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 4

Known problems, and how to check for each.

HID headlights going out All yearsDrive with the headlights on for a while and watch for one or both going out, and ask whether bulbs or ballasts have been replaced. A published reference, owners' reports (unofficial)
Brake actuator All yearsWatch for brake, ABS or traction warning lights when starting and on a test drive, and ask whether the brake actuator was replaced. Toyota
Electric water pump All yearsAsk whether recall 12V536000 was done, and watch the temperature and warning lights. NHTSA, Jalopnik
Steering intermediate shaft All yearsAsk whether recalls 06V188000 and 12V537000 were done, and feel for play or clunks in the steering. NHTSA

Services to ask about 2

Scheduled work a seller can show records for. The 2nd gen's schedule has 8 more services, on its page. Buying shows which are due at a car's miles and age.

Engine oil and filter 2007–2008Replace every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Ask for oil change records. Toyota
Engine coolant 2007–2008Replace first at 100,000 miles or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years. Toyota's 2008 guide names the inverter's coolant with the engine's. Ask whether the coolant has been changed, as both systems need it. Toyota

Recalls to ask about 6

Recalls filed for these model years, newest first. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 12V537000 2004–2009The splines on the steering intermediate shaft may not be hard enough, and can wear until the steering fails. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 12V536000 2004–2009A scratch made in assembly can let the coil wire in the electric water pump corrode and break, stopping the pump or stalling the hybrid system. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 09V388000 2004–2009An unsecured or wrong driver's floor mat can trap the accelerator pedal wide open. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 06V188000 2004–2006The power steering intermediate shaft and sliding yoke can crack under large forces, and steering control can be lost. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 06V096000 2004–2006Some side, curtain and knee airbag inflators were made without enough heating agent, so the airbag may not inflate properly in a crash. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 04V558000 2004Deposits can build up inside the brake light switch, and the brake lights can stop working. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA

What buyers avoid 1

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

2007–2008SlashGear says to avoid the 2007 and 2008 for headlights that can shut off while driving, and the 2008 also for oil use, which it calls semi-common. CarComplaints.com, an unofficial source, counts 255 complaints for the 2007 and 262 for the 2008, among the most of any Prius years. SlashGear, owners' reports (unofficial)

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.