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Old 06-17-2008, 12:09 PM
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msantos msantos is offline
Eco Accelerometrist
 
Real Name: MSantos
Location: Winnipeg, MB
Hybrids: 2006 HCH, 2007 Prius, 2007 HCH
Posts: 1,193
Default Re: '03 Civic with 140K miles - a good buy?

Quote:
Originally Posted by cazort View Post
...
Find a mechanic (not a dealer) you trust check the car out. If you search around, you can probably find someone who has experience working on hybrids. The honda civic hybrid is a little less high tech than the prius; it's more like a regular car, so you will probably be able to find someone.
Sorry, in terms of advice everything was going fine up until this quote.

The Prius is not significantly more high tech than the HCH. In fact, both systems are made up of the same basic hybrid components and governed by similar principles surrounding power management and its use. In other words, the main difference between the two is architectural topology, implementation which determine its capabilities.

To accurately infer on the suitability and adequacy of a Honda hybrid you NEED to consult a properly trained technician that is not only well versed in the generational attributes of the technology but is also well supported by equipment and literature. While there are only a few independent shops in North America that can provide this type of qualified service it is very unlikely that most people will succeed in getting their money's worth outside a Honda service department. Heck, even with all the support available to Honda technicians many here will have no trouble confirming how lacking they can still be at times.
Besides, Honda will often offer "good will gestures" in case of major system failures for even those that occur outside the warranty period. So it pays to not forfeit that opportunity especially in light of the precedents we are all well aware of. And the only way to know about it for sure is to know where you stand when considering buying a user car like this.

Cheers;

MSantos

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