The 2010 Prius only lasts around 150,000 miles with a lot of engine problems. At $7,494 – 12,430, it’s too much money when you may need to spend thousands to keep it running.
Is the 2010 Toyota Prius a Good Used Car?
- No, 2010 is a bad year for the Prius. Owner reviews complain about engine problems, high oil costs, and worn-out batteries.
- Reliability ratings are bad. The 2010-2011 models have more engine problems than others with improvements for 2012.
- Performance is boring from the hybrid powertrain which makes 134 horsepower.
- The 2010 Prius is reasonably safe, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is outstanding, at up to 50 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Prius?
- Consumer Reports says the Prius meets basic transportation needs, and has above-average owner-satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Prius a 4.6/5 liking the fuel economy, but disliking the driving position.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Prius 4.7/5 and like the technology, but dislike the higher purchase prices.
What Common Problems Does the 2010 Toyota Prius Have?
Common problems found on the 2010 Prius are more serious than other years and include engine problems, headlight failures, and peeling paint.
Engine problems, leading to excessive oil consumption, are the most common issues on the Prius, showing up at around 110,000 miles. The problem is caused by internal issues with the engine, and costs about $2,300 to rebuild.
Headlight failures show up often at roughly 30,000 miles. Replacing the bulbs costs about $100, and a new ballast is around $450 if that has failed.
Peeling paint is another very common issue on Prius models with over 80,000 miles. The clear cot starts to fail and peel off, and the only solution is to repaint the affected areas at a cost of about $1,000 per panel.
There are 10 recalls, with the most serious being for the hybrid inverter system which can shut down and cause the car to stall.
How Long Will the 2010 Toyota Prius Last?
A properly maintained 2010 Toyota Prius will likely only last 150,000 miles before mechanical issues get too expensive, which is much shorter than a Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are affordable according to Repair Pal, at $392 per year.
Most used Prius models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the cylinder head for $1,500, fuel injectors costing $300, and the engine oil level sensor, which costs $275.
The Toyota Prius performance is consistent and reliable. It has standard problems that comes with cars after so much use over time. I wouldn't consider it to be problematic.
Yes. Apart from oil changes, and tire replacement, I have had no issues. The 12 volt battery was just replaced after nine years.
Extremely reliable. It has I have fb 150000 miles on it and has never had a problem and has never had to go back to the shop except for oil changes, tire rotation, etc.
It is reliable, I have had no major problems. Could have more cup holder space and better ac vent locations.
The battery can easily be run down. Headlights are not automatic. . Paint job is thin and cheap. Way overpriced but I have never had engine problems.
My car has well over 250,000 miles; when a car has that many miles you're going to have issues. My hybrid battery has all but failed and I've replaced the axles a few times. I was a ridesharing driver so breakdowns like this are to be expected.
The Prius is a reliable car. I was able to move across country driving this car with great gas mileage. I only wish the Prius had more power (especially when going over the mountains).
The Toyota Prius is reliable in every way. I think that the interior is not as nice as I would like it to be and the fabric is alright but other than the this car is great for travel.
How Much Is the 2010 Toyota Prius Worth?
Blue book values range from $7,494 – 12,430, making the 2010 Prius about $2,000 more than a Honda Civic Hybrid or a Mazda3. When new, the price range was $22,800 to $28,070. Depreciation is better than average, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Prius?
There are four models of the Prius available. The Prius was just updated for the 2010 model year with a complete redesign.
Prius II is the entry-level model with:
- 15-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Ignition & Entry
- Cruise Control
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX Jack
Prius III is a step up, adding:
- Improved Instrument Cluster
- Upgraded 8-Speaker Stereo With Bluetooth & 6-CD Changer
Prius IV includes additional features such as:
- Leather Seating
- Heated Front Seats
- Auto Dimming Mirrors
Prius V is the flagship model and has:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- LED Headlamps
- Navigation Package
What Engines Come In the Prius?
The only engine is a weak 1.8L 4-cylinder paired with an electric motor which generates 134 horsepower while getting up to 50 MPG combined. Performance is slow, taking 9.8 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Prius Come In?
How Big Is the Prius?
The 2010 Toyota Prius is similar in size to other compact cars including the Nissan Sentra and Ford Focus. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin, but some taller passengers may find the sloping roofline a bit cramped in the backseats.
Cargo space is nearly twice the size of other compact cars, offering 21.6 cubic feet of room behind the seats, and up to 39.6 cubic feet when folded flat.
How Does the Prius Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota Corolla is another competitor from Toyota costing about $1,000 less. Reliability ratings are better in the Corolla, but the Prius has more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Corolla for the 2010 model year since it will last significantly longer.
The Honda Civic Hybrid is another hybrid which costs $2,000 less. The styling and reliability are both better in the Civic, but the Prius is more powerful. We recommend the Civic, but in other years the Prius easily wins, there just are too many issues with the 2010 model.
Do Owners Recommend the Toyota Prius?
Yes, it is very fuel efficient in going longer distances and it is appreciated with the cost of gas especially. It is a comfortable car that can endure a lot of different atmospheres and on top of that it has really great speakers.
Yes, it is an excellent vehicle. The fuel economy us amazing. It has plenty of room and looks great too.
Yes, it is a great vehicle. It is comfortable, handles well and gets great gas mileage! We have over 150,000 miles on it and we have never had a bit of trouble. We have never had it in the shop.
Yes, it has good gas mileage and therefore is great for traveling for everyday needs and vacation. It is small but has enough space for groceries and other essentials. I like the bottom trunk storage space.
Wonderful car gets great gas mileage and has a good reputation. I've had mine 9 years and still going strong. Fairly roomy for a small car.
Yes it is. The hybrid battery failure issue is a burden but that notwithstanding, it's a good car. I think I'd buy another.
The Prius is a great vehicle. Living in the city in constant traffic, my gas mileage is awesome. When I'm in a standstill, I am not burning any gas.
Yes it is a good vehicle. The range is great and the hatchback makes it easy to transport things. I love how small the car is as well because it makes driving in a city easier.