Should you buy a Toyota Hybrid?

Ever wonder if Toyota Hybrids are good? or bad? A Toyota master diagnostic technician explains the truth about Toyota hybrid reliability and dependability.
This video started as a comment from a viewer asking what I thought about buying used or even new hybrids and their long term reliability. Well known and well respected KZbinrs like @scottykilmer and @chrisfix had contradicting opinions on this subject. And I think they are both right each in their own unique way.
In this video I share my humbe opinion on this subject. My humble opinion comes from my experience as a Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician and being a Toyota Hybrid Specialist for over a decade working on multiple Toyota Hybrid models from basic maintenance to complete hybrid system diagnosis and repair. I even mention @HumbleMechanic in this video! Hi Charles! love your channel man!
So the topics I will cover are the following :
1- Are Toyota Hybrids reliable?
2- Should you buy a Toyota Hybrid?
3- Why are you buying a toyota hybrid?
4-Why you should NOT buy a Toyota Hybrid.
5- Best Toyota hybrid models to buy
6- Worst Toyota hybrid models to buy
7- Is the Toyota Prius the king of Toyota Hybrids?
8- What Toyota Hybrids to buy if you don't like the Toyota Prius?
9- Special Toyota Hybrid maintenance?
10- Are Toyota Hybrids good DIY cars?
I hope after watching this video you will be able to make a better decision on buying a hybrid or not. I Hope if you already own a hybrid that this video helps you prolong the life of your Toyota hybrid as long as possible and I wish you have your Toyota Hybrid for a very long time without any issues.
Subscribe comment and like. If you have questions comment or email [e-mail]
Follow the channel on Instagram and Facebook @TheCarCareNut
0:00 Introduction
01:15 Are Hybrids reliable?
06:24 Should you buy one?
08:56 Why are you buying one?
09:37 Why you shouldn't buy one
13:12 Best Hybrids to buy used?
13:47 Used Hybrids to Avoid?
16:00 Is Prius the king?
16:54 Don't like the Prius?
18:22 Special Hybrid Maintenance
19:27 Are Hybrids DIY cars?
23:23 Video Suggestions
#thecarcarenut #toyotahybrid
Song: Ikson - Skyline (Vlog No Copyright Music)
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[@TheCarCareNut]

Want to know how Toyota Hybrids work? See this video series kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYmYfJ-jmppsm7s Want to know how Toyota Plugin Hybrids work and how they differ from conventional Hybrids? Find this video series kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZTcaoh5jZJjrMU

[@mhodges80]

I worked for Honda 10 years ago as a technician. Does the Hybrid Highlander have special tires on it. Low resistant rowing tires. I remember the Honda's had a different style tire that did not last very long but it would kill your fuel economy if you did not use them.

[@TheCarCareNut]

Hi Mathew. The highlander hybrid has normal tires. Some of them will have low rolling resistance tires but not all trims. The Prius will almost always have low rolling resistance tires.

[@circuitsandcigars1278]

This might be heresy but in the 12.5 years and 350,000 miles I owned my 2008 Prius (bought new) I didn’t always use low rolling resistance tires lol. Same HV battery and I didn’t want to replace the head gasket which is why I’m still not driving it. Got a 2020 Corolla Hatchback

[@nagendrapatchpulusu]

Which Hybrid car is best to buy now? Used or New ? does Lexus 300h is a good car? does it have long time reliability? who much I drive it's 50/50 I drive a lot sometimes like states to states for vacation or visit places, and daily locally using. which brand is good to buy with cost and reliability and including car features Honda Accord Hybrids? Hyundai Sonata Hybrid? Toyota Camry/Avalon Hybrid? Lexes Hybrid? Volvo Hybrid? Please suggest to me which one is good to buy? safety-wise, cost-wise, and ya little greedy Features-wise @The Car Care Nut

[@IRONLDU]

Do you have a video showing how to do de manteniment of the battery fan ?

[@erikamoore6164]

I drive a 2007 Prius which now has 300,000 miles on it. Still has the original battery and still gets 50 mi/gallon. The only repairs beyond regular oil and filter changes have been to replace the spark plugs once, a few years ago. I LOVE this car!

[@beebob1279]

I just bought a prius prime. I've wanted a Prius ever since they came out. Finally got one. It has a little over 100 miles on it and I love it. Plug it in and go 23 miles. Then it runs on gas. Absolutely love it. My first Toyota

[@Anomize23]

Man theres Priuses sold that were used as taxis with well over 200k. Whoever still says hybrids are unreliable are just in denial at this point

[@valvetter7458]

300,000 miles on the original battery! Very encouraging!

[@beebob1279]

Update. I've made a trip with the car. To the location I averaged 67 miles a gallon. The way back I averaged ninety two miles a gallon. I averaged 80.6 miles a gallon for the trip. With my distance driving this is why I needed the car. I went that far on just three gallons of gas. With my Silverado (which I still need for hauling) I can't do that without using over twenty gallons of gas.

[@kevtop351]

You didn't say if you maintain the fan filter.

[@EricMitton]

It's obvious that you know what you're talking about and you don't have an agenda. Awesome video.

[@joseanguiano7938]

I got to say, this man has have to be the most Toyota car informant I have ever seen on KZbin. Thank you for your insight and time!

[@noseefood1943]

As a 2018 Prius owner with 120k miles another tip to keep hybrid battery cool is select entire cabin fan instead of driver focus fan button so more cool air reaches back seat bottom where cooler intake is located. Also don’t block this cooler intake, getting a dark tint windows helps too

[@joelsutherland5247]

do u mean use air conditioner

[@Divetech2]

Owned Toyota Prius hybrid for 10 years. Own a 2021 Toyota RAV4 hybrid and just love it!!!

[@bronkdog]

I have a 2010 Prius, it has a 400 k. After learning about the battery fan maintenance and other maintenance not mentioned by Toyota. It’s been good it’s going to make it 500k can’t wait. Battery is ten years old wow!!

[@tonycoolfoxprepping7118]

Is that the original battery I just bought a 2010 Prius with 148000 miles on it about a use runs great I love it but that's really good to hear about your car

[@bronkdog]

@@tonycoolfoxprepping7118 about every 150 k you should clean the hybrid fan change the transmission fluid and spark plugs. Don't forget about the egr system also.

[@ThamilNesan]

Yeah they wont tell all the maintenance part because they want you to buy their battery after some point

[@kevinportillo1971]

Bro I just got mine and knowing this fact on life span puts me at ease on my investment.

[@marcofreitas5321]

@@bronkdog I would clean the fan filter at least every year, just in case. 150k seems too much.

[@jimserafin3080]

Your videos have given me so much greater confidence in my 2017 Camry hybrid with 309000 miles. I plan on keeping it another 300K. I am a Ride Share driver with over 20000 rides.

[@trailsdetails4061]

Recently bought a 2019 Corolla. It drove amazing with it being super comfortable, and the instant torque from the hybrid system means it's actually quick off the line (not 0-60 but just the initial jump) and it's great for merging. I drive a lot of 40mph country roads with minimal stops, or around-town using pretty much only the electric motor and I'm using 52 miles per gallon on average. It's not super fancy but I don't need it to be, it needs to be dependable, reliable and not cost a fortune in terms of maintenance. That, and the new generation Corolla actually looks really nice.

[@kkndzocker]

I can only agree I bought a Corolla ts hybrid great car

[@justinesimone5343]

I didn't drive my Hybrid much, cause Covid Sick for over a year. The Dealer never gave me directions on how to maintain my Rav.. Now telling me $5000 for the hybrid battery. (Not sure if it's the battery.) When I look at the Hybrid battery on my ECO Screen it shows yellow barrel in the back at only about ½. I'm pretty sure that's the Hybrid battery. Well, I started preparing it to sell. Bought new tires, got it detailed. But now I'm thinking for cost of a Hybrid battery, my car is better than whatever I can buy for the money. My car is beautiful! SO, I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME UNDERSTAND WHAT I SHOULD HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE DEALER IN THE FIRST PLACE!

[@jamesodell3064]

@@justinesimone5343 I would get prices from other dealers. $5000 seems high.

[@ladye2818]

Is it true Toyota Hybrids should be driven very often to prevent the battery from ever degrading? Apparently, it's not one of those cars you can just leave parked for weeks; for instance, when you go on vacation.

[@NotNowCato1254]

I agree that the new Corolla seems to be a great car, and looks good. However, I priced up a new 2.0ltr hybrid hatchback here in the UK - £35k!!!! No, sorry, not gonna happen. I can buy a low mile 3 year old Lexus IS300h for around £23k, so that's where I'm headed...

[@everettmitchell6564]

As a taxi driver I can tell you the 2nd gen prius is an amazing car. Those that don't get smoked in an accident commonly make it past 600,000 km. The life of a taxi is a hard one. These cars have won my respect. They do get jerky and noisy with age, but they keep on going. I like them so much I just bought a 2005 right hand drive imported from Japan for my personal vehicle.

[@vspinkboi]

Where are you from?

[@getawaydreamer2724]

What are KM’s? Tell us in miles

[@timorum]

@@getawaydreamer2724 Why? its not the 1960's... get with the program!

[@johnball8758]

kms are kilometers which are used in most countries except US. 600000kms=372000 miles

[@pauldadzie6991]

I am so happy to hear that hybrids aren't crap. I just bought a second hand Mazda axela (31000miles) with a prius hybrid system. It's the smoothest ride I have ever owned and I end each month with excess fuel from the allocation I get from work, which i sell for extra cash.

[@jamespn]

Good idea an keeping the fan filter clean, didn’t even know they existed.

[@reynaldomadridi7238]

Bravo! From a former sales rep for Toyota! You have given one of the best videos I've ever seen! Thank you!

[@SteveSilverActor]

Great video! I will also add that if you buy a Prius, you DEFINITELY SHOULD PROTECT YOUR CATALYTIC CONVERTER, especially if you park outside. The Prius is a prime target for thieves of cat converters. There are various options to protect them, such as cages, plates, or alarms, so please research this and take this into consideration.

[@Magnabee97]

You answered every question I wanted to know about hybrids. Thank you. As a Toyota guy you’re an invaluable source when it comes to Toyotas.

[@richardloewenhagen3818]

I have 30 years experience as an Air Craft Maintenance Director. This is the very best You Tube presentation by an actual auto mechanic I have ever heard. Bar None! This guy's credibility is 'Sky High" in my book!

[@davecrupel2817]

As a commonplace A&P I agree with you!

[@kevinharrington726]

I truly appreciate all your time spent making these videos. It has really helped me with maintaining my Hybrid Camry. I love Toyota products and hope I get as much use out of this one as I did my last ScionxB

[@rebeccastone8732]

So glad I tuned in. Very valuable info. I just purchased a 2021 Sienna awd. I'm a Pilot Car driver and am looking forward to using this as my company vehicle. I am glad you have informed me of the filter issues. Thanks!

[@LRBP]

What an honest review, kudos to you, thank you for 100% truth and zero BS!!

[@treborg777]

You left out the fact that there are thousands and thousands of Prius taxis out there! Taxi companies would not be using them if the HV battery goes bad all the time.

[@TheCarCareNut]

In Chicago where I'm from it's very normal for me to see 300-400K miles 3rd gen Prius and Prius V that run like a champ that are cabs. However cab drivers are professional drivers and they really take care of their cars. I was on a trip to Sema a couple of years ago and in Vegas they had Prius V taxis that ran on propane which I thought was pretty cool! They really started with the 3rd gen prius and especially the Prius V is a popular one.

[@chuckhursch5374]

The Car Care Nut Wow - propane!

[@d1rton]

@@TheCarCareNut , when hybrid is not cheap enought you go hybrid LPG. 😉

[@cfldriven]

@@TheCarCareNut Wait cabbies just drive with no babying the vehicle. The fleet manager makes sure they get all schedule maintenance. Speaking of Vegas they hot shift the cars there. As soon as cabbie pulls in at end of shift, there is another cabbie waiting to take it out. We have a 2014 Prius and driven it several times cross country without any issues. Great reliability, low maintenance, lots of storage area and great mpg.

[@TheCarCareNut]

I was referring to owner operator cab drivers which we have a lot of. Most fleets maintain their own cabs and we won’t see them at the dealership except for disasters

[@livefreeandfly]

Very informative and up front advice ! Longevity in any vehicle is so important and it’s not the car salesman I want to talk to , it’s the mechanic !!

[@bradcrawford3789]

This guy is great! Very straight, honest, and gives you practical advice you won't hear from the other channels, even though some are quite good.

[@sebastianmuswere2700]

Hey guys Chrisfix here...i think you should listen to this dude!

[@SayItWellOrShutup]

You know, I’m seriously considering a hybrid Toyota after I watched your video. What a great job you did here, may the Lord bless you too!

[@JBM425]

Concur. He did a great job discussing the topic in an even-handed manner.

[@williewortman323]

Look at a Honda Insight before settling on a Toyota. I test drove both Honda is the better value for the money.

[@jennylenpurser9693]

Thankyou for very informative video. As owner of Toyota CHF 2020 Hybrid Limited model you have explained lots more. Changing from Toyota HiLux SR5 FWD was a big change but as only needing a small vehicle now - very happy.

[@alk734]

Don't buy Toyota hybrid

[@thejudge8892]

Asking, Ordering , or what ; Lord.?

[@gy9969]

Hi AMD, thanks for putting out this video on hybrids. It’s so informative, especially from a Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician. My next car will definitely be a Toyota hybrid because of the crazy unpredictable cost of gas. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and recommendations!

[@hemisilbery3545]

Best informative hybrid vehicle video, answered every question I needed & the sense of humor that comes with it 😆 thank you bro, you're a legend 🤝🏼

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

The car I own now is a HUGE gamble. 2012 Prius V 217 miles on the car 25K miles on the engine. The man who fixed my car use to work on the A-10 aircraft. Last year his employer basically said you are turning 60 you're not a general we think you should retire. He decided to work on something a lot easier than the complex antique aircraft. He decided to work on hybrids. Good car .

[@chrisaltvater]

My 2008 Prius has 280K miles on it. The battery was replaced before 200K miles and the cost from the dealer was about $2,700.

[@desmondgreatdevil]

Had a 2015 Camry hybrid and totally didn’t know about the fan and the filter, and early this year the battery went and had to replace it. Thanks for this video, now I understand more about the hybrid

[@litalewis8425]

Thank you! No fluff and stuff! ALL much needed and appreciated information!!!! Again, THANK YOU!!! 🙌

[@AngeloArrifano]

Toyota has the most efficient internal combustion electric hybrid engine out there. They basically cut energy losses by simplifying the engine. There is no clutch, there is no gearbox (in the traditional sense), there is no chain or belt (Gen3+). The main point of the hybrid system is to keep the ICE running at its most efficient RPMs most of the time and compensate with the motor/generator to achieve the requested driving speed. The engine can automatically switch between Atkinson and Otto cycles, depending on power demand. Accelerating the car from a standstill position is also greatly more efficient than a a classical engine system because there is no clutch. Also, I mentioned there isn't a gearbox, the hybrid system works as an electric CVT - which is a sort of linear gearbox where for each transmission RPM the engine always provides its peak torque, making it the most efficient "gearbox" you can have. The Toyota's hybrid system is a marvel of engineering, it reduces energy losses in pretty much all the aspects of a traditional ICE system while simplifying the system at the same time. It's no wonder we see Priuses ou there beating the 1.000.000 mile threshold. Also, Toyota's hybrid system is more efficient than any pure electric drive vehicle that uses an ICE for charging the battery. Why? Because in most cases it's more efficient to use the rotational force of the ICE to turn the wheels directly than converting that rotational energy into electricity to power the electric drive only to be converted back into rotational energy to rotate the wheels. Therefore, I believe people not wanting or that are unable to charge car batteries, Toyota's hybrid cars are the best option for them. Disclaimer: I own a Lexus CT200h, which has a Gen3 Toyota hybrid. This is the best car I ever owned, I do in average 4.8L/100km of fuel consumption (city and highway combined driving), while maintaining immediate throttle pedal responsivity when needed. Looking forward to the new generations of turbo charged Toyota hybrids!

[@Martindyna]

All true but let's not forget that the `power split device' used by Toyota was invented by two Californian engineers & Atkinson was British.

[@AngeloArrifano]

@@Martindyna Did you look around you and ever wondered about the fact everything we have today is built upon the individual contributions of past inventors? Did you ever felt the need to credit Einstein when GPS is mentioned? Or credit French Nicephore Niepce when photography is mentioned. Or credit German Karl Benz for the invention of modern car? Just look at your cellphone today, the individual inventions of components and improvements that led to it's current form were made by many thousands of different people all over the world. Science knows no frontiers.

[@1AEROSOL.1PUFF]

I will never buy a car with a turbo on it, to replace a turbo is going to be expensive because the turbo is always put on the back of the engine, I saw a land rovers engine removed to fix the turbo.

[@TheCarCareNut]

Turbos will always wear out at some point. Either they leak oil or they have play. I own a car with twin turbos and one of them is already starting to leak oil and there’s nothing I could’ve done to prevent it. Perhaps that’s why Toyota isn’t in a rush to put turbo engines back in their Toyota line up. Lexus is the only cars that has a few models with turbo engines.

[@patsaklaras]

@@TheCarCareNut corolla1.2 too

[@ryan3390]

Scott Kilmer has split personalities. One day he loves Toyota, Honda & Mazda and next week he hates a Camry and a month later he loves the Camry. He is entertaining though, so I just take some things he says with a grain of salt.

[@rustynail7866]

Exactly why I unsubscribed from his channel. Scotty likes to hear himself talk.

[@ericatkins6600]

Scotty Kilmer over exaggerates everything and says literally everything is garbage or not worth buying. Not everyone wants a Camry.

[@wilsonxu6729]

true !

[@lesterparker1594]

I watch because he’s entertaining. I do take his advice with a grain of salt.

[@AF_Gulfstream]

I can’t stand Scotty. He is like nails on a chalk board to me.

[@cliffleath7983]

Just bought a new Rav4 2022 Hybrid and this video was very good for me. I will be CHECKING THE FAN FILTER!!! Thanks so much!

[@rogeryoung2049]

This is probably the best discussion about hybrids on the net. Thanks for the input and telling the truth from your perspective. Keep up the good work

[@SueMoseley]

I like to buy my cars new and drive them 'till they die. I've bought a Volkswagen and 2 Citroens prior to my current Toyota and all of them were fit for the scrap heap by the time they were 10 years old. I bought my Toyota Auris hybrid new early in 2011, so it's about 9 and a half years old now and it still feels quite new. Apart from regular servicing, the only expenses I have had (that I can remember) are a new set of tyres, windscreen wiper blades, a new 12v battery and the air-con regassing. I've never had a car before that's been so cheap to run and maintain. I'm hoping to buy a new car next year and plan to give my Auris to my daughter because it feels like it has many years of life left. I love the quietness of the drive and the fact that I never have to worry about it stalling or failing to start in cold weather.

[@bobgreen8142]

I like what you're saying Sue, I am giving a lot of consideration to a hybrid Auris estate, the one I have my eye on is 4 years old and I want something to last a few years - like you I tend to drive a car until it's fit for the scrapper. I think you've just helped me make up my mind!

[@steviesevieria1868]

Sue Toyota simply makes higher quality cars than any other manufacturer

[@philipbell3187]

I bought my Toyota Auris touring sports hybrid secondhand from a Toyota dealer, when it was new it cost the person £27,000 , one year later he traded it in for a newer model, so I got it for£14,999 with 28,000 miles on it , it’s the best car I have ever had , and I have had 2 aygos before , I am up to 114,460 miles and love it .

[@SueMoseley]

@@philipbell3187 Wow you got a bargain there!

[@iqbalmu]

Honest Review... Very polite and giving credit to other youtubers. Subscribed !!!

[@ShikLam666]

Thank you so much for the explanation, now I know what I am dealing with. I am the old school type, I will stay with the gasoline one for now. I have been working on car for over forty years, but I still learn a lot from you, love your honesty.

[@milovillamiel4148]

Am always amazed by the way you explain things about your stuff whether it is electrical or mechanical. Awesome! Thanks a lot.

[@bboyhighdefinition]

I appreciate how unbiased this guy is. So many people who are biased try to convince others to avoid the other

[@shaneanderson1036]

i’m 58 and thought i was knowledgeable about most run of the mill cars . today i learned something new . thankyou sir

[@tolson57]

Thanks for the information on fan cleaning. I have a 2013 Fusion Hybrid and I did not know about the need to clean the fan.

[@Fljeff7]

Great tips here. I own a 365k+ Corolla my Dad just purchased a 22 Prius this spring. We did some road trips this summer with the car. The modern features of the car are impressive to say the least. As a family we were a domestic vehicle owners until we saw the light now more of us own Toyota products. My dad chose to go Toyota after I told him how much I like my Corolla. We still have full size American V8 pickup trucks. They haven't finshed there life cycle yet. They are being driven much less now being we have gone to Toyota cars. I feel Toyota makes some of the best 4 cylinder engines.

[@jeave6286]

This is one of the most educational and interesting videos I have seen on hybrids. Thank you very much.

[@gabebruyere3517]

This video demystifies the hybrid for me and makes me feel like I can make a better informed decision on why I might buy a hybrid! Thanks so much!!

[@rondhole]

Yes, you should if you drive more than 15k miles a year. The difference is huge if you are in city traffic. It has very low maintenance, much lower than diesel in 20y. Engine components and rubber hoses also last much longer in hybrid, the engine runs cooler. My 06 prius at 230k miles valve cover gasket was still really good when I replace it. Most cars rubber seals crumble after about 6y.

[@edgaryzen4925]

@@rondholemay I get your input on whether it worth keeping the 06 Prius if driving less than 6000 miles per year?

[@JoseFernandez-wu8pj]

Gave Bruyere same for me.

[@JoseFernandez-wu8pj]

@@edgaryzen4925 do you ever apart from those 6,000 miles per year go say on a vacation out of state? If so, go for it.

[@UTArch1]

The fact is that a hybrid is the worst of both worlds because you have 2 separate drive systems in one car, essentially doubling the number of systems that can fail. You have the very limited range of the electric motor (due to the small battery) AND all the maintenance requirements of any other internal combustion engine car. If you are happy with yours, then you have not yet driven an all electric to see how much better they actually are.

[@UnkleAL1962]

I guess I have gained experience with a hybrid due to my job having 2 Ford Fusion hybrids for us to attend meetings and inspections. They are a little slow out of the gate and you don't want to pull out in front of someone and think you're going to zoom off, but they get amazing mileage. Getting used to the regeneration and braking was seemingly instinctive. Both cars sat a lot during covid while we teleworked; probably the battery life was shortened due to that. Having this experience, and gaining more from this video - I would consider a Rav4 or Highander. I have a gas Highlander now but would really dig much better mileage in this comfy and roomy vehicle. I think they Hybrid is a good solution while we wait for improved battery life technology to develop in EV's.

[@prakashgandhi3819]

Your explanation is great, very simple & slowly explained. Much appreciated your tutor

[@maxporras]

This video is gold! I thought I wanted a hybrid until I saw this video. For my current driving conditions it is not the car for me. Thank you CCN, your videos are great!

[@paultrewin5871]

After a 4 month wait my new Rav 4 hybrid arrived from Japan this week (in France). It is not a good car. It is an absolutely kick ass awesomely good car. I have done 400kms and I am already using only around 5.7 litres per 100 kms which is already better than official consumption figures. I am so impressed I can’t tell you. This one is definitely a keeper. Thanks, AMD for your running in advice. I’m following it religiously.

[@eduardobecerra7943]

Thank you for every single advice you give in the video I just bought a toyota corolla hybrid and I was worried about since it's my frist hybrid I did not know nothing about them just got it for the fuel efficiency but now after watching your video I feel happy that I own a brand new hybrid

[@timjohnson1199]

I have a Ford Mavrick truck with the same system. Getting over 40mpg in mixed driving with the same system. Love it

[@Good_Tech]

I just wanted to say thank you for emphasizing that hybrid owners should maintain their high voltage fan filters. I recently bought a 2012 camry hybrid (used) and you convinced me I should see how my filter looks. Turned out I didn't have a filter at all! I'm worried about how long it hasn't had one, however, thankfully I talked to the dealer that I bought it from two days ago and they said they'd take a look at the high voltage vents and fan to make sure everything is in good shape and they likely won't charge me. Thank you.

[@kargs5krun]

where are these fan filters located w/in engine compartment?

[@edwardcullen1739]

​​@@kargs5krun Hybrid battery is under the back seat. The inlet is usually on the left (behind the driver in a LHD, behind the passenger where people drive on the correct side of the road 😉😋). The manual does advise not to block the inlet, but most people don't read the manual...

[@edwardcullen1739]

With you on this. Wasn't aware of this. I have a new Yaris and was planning to switch to 6-month oil change after watching these vids; will add the filter (check/replace) to that interval.

[@jessiemei3021]

I was going to buy a Hybrid, but now I changed my mind after seeing this video, I drive less than 10k km/year, I want to buy it because it look cool, so... Thank You

[@hurilux41]

What got you to changed your mind? I’m just genuinely curious. Not sure if my current situation was the same as yours but I do have 06 Prius with 175k odometer and with the original battery. I drive under 8,000 miles per year. I thought it is $$ saver but in borrow time until battery replacement do happens. I do feel blessed from that cost saving opportunity. I am tempted to sell it just cuz the value of my Prius is $3.5-5k and the cost of the battery replacement is equal to that.

[@paulstein9258]

We are retired and drive under 5,000 miles per year. Still bought the new Toyota Venza Hybrid. It’s a nice experience. I was disappointed to find that my state, most states, charge extra registration fees for hybrids and EVs. They encourage the green effect, and then charge higher yearly fees to make up for the money they lose in gas taxes. Low mileage drivers get hurt. However, the joy of getting between 40 and 50 mpg, does ease the pain.

[@hurilux41]

@@Artificial.-_-.intelligence you can’t speak that fact for everyone therefore EMMV

[@pm7805]

You are the best mechanic on the planet. Very very fun and informative videos each time. 🙏🏻

[@ginalombardi2507]

Awesome! I am car shopping and thought I should get a hybrid. Then you mentioned not to go hybrid if you do not use your car a lot. That is me! So thanks for this vital decision made for me.

[@joeseng8712]

Love my 2006 prius. Everything still original and its got 428,000 miles and im averaging 48 mpg only because I have a led foot.

[@zezu4775]

Is your Prius FULL HYBRID or It Use Gas also????

[@joeseng8712]

Its a hybrid

[@joeseng8712]

Gas and electric

[@terryq9966]

@@zezu4775 ALL Prius' are hybrids, which means they use both battery AND gas. I "think" you are confusing it with a pure electric vehicle, like a Tesla for example, which runs only on battery power.

[@mytao2001]

Have you had to do many repairs and if you have what kind?

[@nickiemcnichols5397]

My Toyota Prius is the best car I’ve ever had, out of all American, Japanese, French, and German cars.

[@Chefjjdecker]

I have 2005 prius with 277k miles. I did replace the battery at 196k miles. Cars life was in tucson Az

[@77.88.]

Agreed the very best of reliable engineering including Ferraris, Lancia's and Alfa Romeo during the carburetor days back in the late 60's Mercedes Benz 300D, Honda Civics, although I had a 1989 Honda Civic hatch back with automatic transmission that never let me down and averaged 33-38mpg.

[@incharini]

I've got about 170k miles on my 2014 Prius and it's still going strong. I fully expect at least 300k miles out of it.

[@richardthornhill4630]

Excellent summary on Hybrids. Bought a 2020 Toyota Hybrid Ltd. Excellent car with excellent service, averaging about 40 mpg and about 10K a year. Did not know about the battery filter. Since he did not show the filter or its maintenance will have to find another video.

[@curleydogwg]

Thank you for this video. I enjoy and trust the way you approach the subject.

[@mavis967]

I purchased a used 2007 Highlander Hybrid after checking out multiple of your videos. Thank you for the great info

[@juhdah2146]

I was in Los Ángeles, and it seems 9 of 10 Uber drivers use Prius. I caught one, the driver had his Prius for under three years. When l looked at the odometer it was 297,000. It felt smooth.

[@trajanaugustus8783]

Good advice. We just purchased a 2023 C-HR Hybrid and love it. Never heard of the battery air filter until now!

[@muhammadtaimur1498]

Being owner of Prius-C, I can vouch that u r absolutely correct about Hybrid battery fan filter. My battery died after 150,000 km. Fan was not working since God knows when but I wasn't aware of it & neither were Toyota's own mechanics during multiple maintenance sessions.

[@jeffb.4800]

I'm loving my 2019 rav4 hybrid. Almost 25k miles already and zero issues. Hoping to have this car for the next 14 years.

[@patrioticpinoy3753]

Had a 2017 rav4 hybrid awd... was not happy with gas mileage 25 mpg ads claims 30 mpg ? Sold it..

[@James-il3tq]

2019 RAV4 Hybrid XSE owner with already 27,000 miles 😊 Zero issues. Will stay vigorous on maintenance including 6000 mile oil changes. Plan on keeping 10 years, 250,000 miles 🚙💨

[@Ketoswammy]

Patriotic Pinoy - Thats weird, I get at least 38MPG, as high as 40 at times. 25 is insanely low, have never seen it anywhere near that low.

[@dansheffield4021]

The 2019 has exceptionally higher efficiency than the 2018 or before. I have a 2018 rav4 hybrid that I havent quite figured out how to drive totally efficiently (I like to accelerate faster than most) but I still get 31+ mpg avg

[@Ketoswammy]

@@dansheffield4021 Surge and glide. Go ahead and step on it, get up to cruising (battery) speed. On mine, that’s about 40. If you have the new model, I’m guessing it’s much higher. Reasonably fast acceleration gives you some more charge, letting off throttle will kick in the EV. It’s so cool to drive like that and end up getting as good or better than “babying” it. I want the 2019 or 2020 but have not traded as I bought to keep it.

[@joseleysa5137]

I have a degree in Electronic Technology and been working & exposed to this field. I agree 100% with you. I like Scotty Kilmer and watch his videos, but he came from old school. I love high tech and love learning them...

[@HugoStiglitz89]

Scotty is still the man!

[@HugoStiglitz89]

Don't forget Old Scotty keeps up with modern day technology.

[@jdnrotterdam2150]

I don’t like that Kilmer is always hating on the prius. Or some other cars. He’s not always right

[@HugoStiglitz89]

@@jdnrotterdam2150 Wtf are you talking about you crackhead

[@joseleysa5137]

ballzbroz I respect Scotty and I learned from his old school, but the technology on the new cars are very advance that I think Scotty is intimidated, that is why he doesn't like any hybrid. For me in the other hand; I love learning new technology. Never stop learning, that is the future of the new cars.

[@hooshangalasti659]

Hi, I was going to buy a 2004 Prius but I am glad that I checked and wanted your Video. Thanks very much for that. Kind regards from Vancouver Canada.

[@DrJohn493]

Very satisfied with my 2015 Prius that was used primarily for daily commutes to/from work. Now retired, it still gets driven 2-3 times per week running erands around town. It gets a very solid 50-53 MPG driving 60 MPH on the highway. And the high voltage batteries are still going strong. Dealer maintained on the recommended service intervals since new.

[@Larsgman]

How much did the dealer charge you each time you took it? What did they do every time you brought it in?

[@DrJohn493]

@@Larsgman The only maintenance the Prius has needed are oil changes, tire rotation, new windshield wiper blades and a new starting battery. The “drive” batteries are still strong. Costs have been minimal for a 75,000 mile vehicle.

[@quantum9321]

Thank you so much. I really like this style of providing information, you hand off the questions for the viewer to ask themselves if it's the right one for them instead of just listing a bunch of information to confirm our own bias for whichever way we are already leaning

[@mpersad]

As an owner of a 2020 RAV4 Hybrid this is a terrific, honest, and straight talking assessment of the hybrids. Subscribed!

[@stephentrinh640]

Thank you for reminding me to Subscribe!

[@mouthhigh6944]

Have you seen the Venza hybrid series? It looks terrific.

[@donaldclark4350]

I have a 2020 rav 4 XLE great vehicle. The only thing I take issue and I don’t like the driver seat I find it very uncomfortable

[@francistubolino8810]

Not to bring you down, but only to make you aware, I bought a new 2020 RAV 4 Hybrid 5 months ago, and with only 4300 miles, my battery went dead Friday night. After they jumped started it and took it to dealership, they told me they couldnt find anything. I really love this car, but am not really sure what to do and am hoping someone can give me advice.

[@TheCarCareNut]

There’s a software update for the DCM that would resolve the issue of the battery draining.

[@user-zh9kc7tw4n]

After listening to many and learning how the eCVT hybrid works I got myself a Lexus NX 350h and loving it. The performance and quality is amazing. Driving is just a joy.

[@adamwoodworth5758]

Best advice up front !!!! Clean fan filter and yearly check fan for dust. Great advice for computers, dryers, video game consoles, air conditioners...😊

[@mikebanks4935]

These past few weeks I've been driving a Prius and I have found everything you and Kilmer have had to say about hybrids to be the truth--backed up by the experiences of friends and family driving Leafs and Priuses. The take-aways include routine maintenance, like oil changes had proper intervals. And that air filter, yes! It should be cleaned and or replaced on whatever schedule is called for by the manufacturer.)

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Yes, and even though it appears by the titles and thumbnails of Kilmer's videos that he is down on hybrids, he actually does say that he just prefers traditional cars, but he agrees that the Toyota hybrids are the best and I presume that extends to Lexus, as we all know how much he loves Lexus. It's just so easy for him to maintain and repair traditional vehicles that it's hard for him to justify buying a car he needs to take to someone else for work, and I completely understand that. In fact I recently re-watched an old one of his where he said that he recommends avoiding old used ones, but not necessarily buying new, or a well maintained and newer used one. Which it sounds like is consistent with this video.

[@lateepiphany]

Thanks! I’ve been a service advisor/parts person for over 20 years. Love your video love your honesty… Thank you for your education.

[@jeffdana9402]

Best and most comprehensive video on Hybrids that I have found yet. Great Information, well done video!

[@johnjenkins2315]

I’ve just tried to find the end of the comments and there seems to be NO end 😂. I’m from New Zealand and have friends who have Toyota Hybrids and they swear by them, as I’m in my eighth year I think that I’ve left my run a bit late. Do like your presentation , your yes/no response brought a smile to my face, cheers.

[@amazoidal]

I try to correct Scotty every time he mentions the $6000 battery replacement. I have 3 Prii- 2005,2008,2012. I do all my own work. My 2005 has over 200k and when the battery failed, I went to a junkyard and bought a 2014 battery for $850. You can buy brand new modules for $80 each; used on E-Bay for $40 but you don't know the age of the module. You can trade in your 28 old modules at your Toyota dealer for 28 new ones for $1950. Don't let the dealer charge you $3400. The rest of the car is like a Corolla. We have Prius taxi cabs here in SoCal with 400k. Most reliable car you can buy.

[@vinr6867]

I have a 2011 Lexus CT that burns about a quarter of oil every 2000 miles. A 2012 Prius Plugin burns 0 oil over 5k miles. Any idea? Do your Priuses burn oil?

[@amazoidal]

My 2005 burns a quart every 5k but I switched to Kirkland 10-30. It has just over 200k. My 2012 Prius V doesn't burn any oil. Toyota had a problem with the 2010 and 2011 burning oil. Were those the years for piston ring problems? One Prius site said to avoid 2010 and 2011 Prii. My 2008 Prius is at about 140k and burns maybe a half quart between changes at 5k.Be sure to change out that non-synthetic ATF called WS and put in REDLINE real synthetic ATF from Amazon. It's called REDLINE D6. I have it in all my Prii. Quieter, better "Shifts" and less regen noise. Remember, the 2010 and later hybrid Toyotas have an EGR valve Make sure it is service or replaced at 100k. Also check your electric engine water pump. Can fail all off a sudden at about 100-125k.

[@vinr6867]

@@amazoidal thanks for the info!

[@rondhole]

Exactly, American hot option to buy just the cells and rebuilt it as a new battery. But drake charge close tho 3k . Meanwhile European has no option tho buy just the cells but the replacement cost total it's about 2.5k installed

[@zoukchata]

You're able to use newer generation batteries on older gen cars?? I have a 2007 and I feel I need a battery soon...

[@ozarkliving7263]

Having owned 8 hybrids, all Toyota’s, still have 2, each has delivered 250k trouble free miles and each still going strong. I love them. My 2019 Avalon Limited Hybrid gets 49 to 50 mpg on the hwy and I love it! Favorite car yet. Wife’s 2018 Highlander Hybrid Limited Platinum is equally amazing and we average 29mpg to 32mpg…. I’m an electrical engineer….. we live in Branson, MO and all vehicles are garaged in a heated/cooled garage

[@BungieStudios]

Heated and cooled? Dang! I'd love that. I'm thinking of so many situations in my life where that would come in handy. 👍 In SoCali, we neglect our garages and leave them to the elements. 🙄

[@huntershortrepairs]

I'm really glad I came across this. For a while I've been needing a new car, mine has high mileage and it's only a matter of time before the next thing breaks... So after talking with a coworker about his luck with a Prius, he told me he's had his for 10 years and still gets over 50mpg, and he has very similar driving habits as me. My commute is 25 miles each way and I spend about 40 bucks a week on gas, sometimes more depending on any extra trips I make. For me, having a Hybrid will save me a considerable amount of money in fuel alone. To me, it would be worth it to drive something different while also saving on fuel.

[@skc5910]

很高兴看到这个视频。我买了一辆2017年生产的丰田LEVIN混动车。对于广大混动车主来说，动力电池寿命确实是最担心的问题。 在夏天开车时，我总是关闭车窗，打开空调，这么做就是为了给电池降温，同时避免让电池过滤器灰尘过多。 希望所有混动车主的动力电池都能用20年！ Glad to see this video. I bought a 2017 Toyota LEVIN hybrid. For the majority of hybrid car owners, the power battery life is indeed the most worried issue. In the summer, I always drive with the windows closed and turn on the air conditioner, just to cool the battery and avoid making the battery filter dusty. Hope all our battery will have a 20-year life!

[@Big_Rawr]

Thank you for this video! Every time I look around about hybrids no one seems to really talk about what's involved with maintenance and if it's right for the person's needs.

[@rothrock2]

As I research buying my first hybrid, I'm learning so much from this channel and your videos. Thank you!

[@rayderrich]

We are going through the decision process of going from a Honda Insight 2009 hybrid to a 2018-ish Toyota Prius, and your video contains extremely important pointers to keep us from making an expensive mistake. I honestly thank you very very much for talking about this stuff!

[@robmalcolm8042]

Honda hybrid will never hold a candle to a Toyota one. Completely different design.

[@rayderrich]

@@robmalcolm8042 For now we will not find out the truth about this. We decided the hybrid market is so overheated that we can easily afford an ICE vehicle plus gas for the next 7 years when we want to step into EV's. I hope EV's are better by then and the market is normalized as far as that will ever happen again.

[@robmalcolm8042]

@@rayderrich nah that’s fine I’m sure the car is great I’m not downplaying it. Just Toyota designs their ecvts to be like a manual while Honda maybe still use belts etc or have weaker parts. I do know Honda engines tend to be very good the best alongside Toyotas. And sure keep it going stick with your car it’s better than what prices can be now for a new one

[@rayderrich]

@@robmalcolm8042 All good, Rob, we understand each other :)

[@jacobpetersen5662]

Ha ha ha.... Honda feel WAY better to drive that any Toyota. Everyone knows that. @@robmalcolm8042 Try the eCVT in the new CR-V... BLOWS away the RAV-4.

[@biotecchie]

Wow! Thank you. I never knew that the battery filter needs to be cleaned. I have a 2008- presumably without a filter, so the cooling fan must be full

[@hestiodite]

This is one of the most helpful videos I’ve ever watched in my life. I like hybrids (the mpg *and* the trees ;-)), and am about to buy another one. No one ever told me about the battery fans! :P I’m going to get a good one, and take good care of it. THANK YOU!

[@matthewcacace6804]

So you are right in between Scotty and Chris, perfect! I couldn't agree more about only specially trained technicians working on those hybris systems.

[@frankperkins8100]

Totally pleased with our 2021 Prius eco. Getting 54 mpg.

[@kashpatel9979]

Excellent honest views, bless you too !!

[@PaulSter]

Really well done. Great to see the mutual respect you have for your peers like Scotty. Excellent

[@freedomperspective]

You broke this topic fairly and very informative, thank you sir! I was considering buying a used 2016 Rav4 Hybrid, good thing i did this research.

[@dogtrakker]

Ive owned 4 4Runners and 2 Hiluxes over 30+ years and I'm now considering my 1st Toyota sedan, maybe a hybrid, so thank you for your valued opinion.

[@mentezari]

Thank you very much for all the information and the fun !😮

[@justins6642]

Thanks for the info! I found the video very accurate based on my experience of owning a used gen 2 prius. This explains a lot of the problems I've been having with it recently.I learned the hard way of buying a cheap prius- yes they're reliable... until they break, then they cost an arm and a leg to fix. Hopefully these tips will help make it run better and more reliable from now on and keep the costs down!

[@5treasure]

This was SOOOOOO helpful! Thank you. I will make sure to check that filter!

[@richardsanmames5435]

This is the best video I have seen explaining hybrids. Great video, very informative.

[@kinsleysmith5114]

You are awesome! Very funny and informative!! Thank you so much for your efforts into helping make wonderful days for us all. 😊💗

[@MikeWeiner]

So one thing I really love about your videos, is where you tell us you're going to avoid the deep dive details. You tell us "this is what will happen" and keep going with the main thread, the stuff we NEED to know. Not going in to deep dives just to show off your knowledge (which clearly is vast!) is SUCH a relief! I'm new to your channel, yes, I know this video is over a year old as I write this, but I got a 2018 Prius (with 3200 miles on it) just about a month ago and want to learn how to get the most out of it. You are an absolute treasure!

[@MrRensan404]

Thanks for clearly explaining the pros and cons about owning a hybrid vehicle. Helps a lot with my buying decision.

[@ponch001]

Thank you for the information on the Rev4 hybrid I really appreciate. I will be picking my new Toyota REV4 Hybrid 2023 to. God blessed

[@randallsmith7885]

I bought a 2010 Prius new. Still have it and approaching 180,000 miles now. Taking good care of it. Love it!

[@ajmann07]

I just bought a very well taken care of 2015 Camry Hybrid from a older couple (they almost cried when I drove away) Looking forward to this new lifestyle/adventure Thanks for the videos

[@johncharters8187]

I’ve had my Yaris hybrid in Scotland for just over a year 20+ thousand miles. Absolutely love it. Comfortable, good in snow, economical. Great car.

[@rychei5393]

Never had a battery fail, always owned used priuses, but yes, once found one was running hot.... the fan to the battery had been disconnected! As soon as we fixed that, it ran cool and mileage increase, they hold their value to boot.