Prius (2001) Battery dead?

nduchast

I have a 2001 Prius with 90K miles.

While driving, I got the three lights (main battery, stearing, run to dealer).



The dealer tells me the battery is toast and it will cost $4,200 to repair.



A rew questions for experts:



a) I have read that even 1st gen batteries should last longer (150 K or even 300 K). I have ready than when this occurs, the car stops - I was able to drive still. How do I know that the dealer is not just trying to sell me a new car?



b) I read about repair kits to replace the battery. Anyone used these?



c) The repari kit seems to cost $500, do you know if anyone will actually do this for me? i.e. $500 parts + labour?



d) Can I salvage the car for parts?





Anyone had similar issues in the past?



Thank you.

kizwiki

These people have:
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-care-maintenance-troubleshooting/11399-prius-battery-life-replacement-cost.html

knfenimore

I thought the batteries were guaranteed for 10 100k miles. What does the warranty say?

lenjack

Should not cost that much. Try another dealer.

Docnick

A replacement battery should cost about $2800. Your dealer will not "repair" the battery; I doubt if they even know how.

As mentioned. try another dealer. There are also "rebuilt" batteries available now.

Finally, Prius batteries normally last way beyond 300,000 miles; those used in taxis have been beaten up and driven at least 300,000 miles. I do not recall any failures.