Justin Pritchard is a Sudbury, Ontario based automotive journalist and award-winning presenter, photographer, videographer and technical writer. PRO TIP: Because of how hybrids work, braking system components such rotors and calipers may be at elevated risk of corrosion and wear depending on how the vehicle was driven, and how well the braking system was maintained.Įspecially when test-driving a used PHEV that’s been driven in a salty Northern climate, be sure to visually inspect exposed braking system components for signs of excess rust, and listen for any unwanted noises during braking on your test-drive. Translation? So far, owners seem to be experiencing few if any problems - though test-driving shoppers should still be sure to double-check all interior electronics, including the climate control system and all power door locks, for proper operation. Most owners rate their used Outlander PHEV highly, and systematic and worrisome complaints are relatively difficult to track down - which is encouraging given the Outlander PHEV’s high sales volumes. On your test-drive, connecting to multiple chargers and monitoring the response from the vehicle can reveal potential trouble that might cost you money. Some owners have reported trouble with charge doors, charging connections, and micro-switches used to operate the on-board charging system. Numerous owners have reported disappointment with the lifespan of the factory-installed 12-volt battery, noting that cascading electronic gremlins are likely across multiple vehicle systems as the battery dies. PRO TIP: Like many hybrids, the Toyota Prius Prime has both a large hybrid ‘traction battery’, and a more familiar 12-volt battery that’s used to power certain on-board electronics. 2020 Toyota Prius Prime Photo by Brian Harper / Driving Double- and triple-check all electronic features, including safety features, keyfobs, Bluetooth connectivity, and all media connections. Check all carpeting for signs of moisture. On your test-drive, remove all items and covers from the cargo area, checking for water pooled down in the lower portion of the Prius Prime’s body, beneath the cargo area cover. Some owners have reported problems with leaky rear hatches, premature corrosion of braking system parts, inoperative cruise control, inoperative multimedia connectivity, and premature degradation of the vehicle’s standard 12-volt battery. Of the three used models on this page, the Clarity seems to be the most limited in supply, meaning shoppers set on one should plan to shop patiently and check often for availability of newer units. If you’re sold on the Clarity’s comfortable drive and generous EV range, your $25,000 will get you a two- to three-year-old unit with mileage between about 50,000 and 70,000 kilometres. Honda will discontinue the Clarity after model-year 2021, though at this writing, units still appear on their website with a starting MSRP of $44,505 before rebates and incentives. If you’re wondering, each model includes a wide range of must-have safety and connectivity equipment, and of the three, I’d call the Outlander and Prius Prime the best picks for owners of larger dogs.īelow, let’s look at what $25,000 gets you on a used example of one of these machines, and at some useful tips and pointers to consider as you shop second-hand.Ģ017-2021 Honda Clarity: Maximum EV range and comfort Honda Clarity Photo by Honda / Wieck
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