Dealer visit checklist
2018 Toyota Prius checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2018 Toyota Prius problems to check
- Inverter water pump failure is a known issue on Gen 4 Priuses (2016-2018) and can cost $400-$700 to repair if it fails outside warranty
- Headlight condensation and dim low-beam output is a widely reported owner complaint on this generation
- Brake actuator (brake booster pump) can develop leaks or noise, with repair costs of $1,000-$2,500 at dealer
- Rear suspension can develop squeaks and clunks, often traced to worn bushings around 80,000-100,000 miles
- Infotainment screen on some trims develops touch-sensitivity issues or delamination over time
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Toyota Prius vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $17,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away