I'm learning after buying a gen 2 prius (a strange machine built like a gaming console, kind of the DSi of cars) that most of the issues I'm running into with this vehicle are not what I would consider to be car guy problems; they are instead computer guy problems.
oh, the 12v battery is dead? great news, it can run on a fucking mobility scooter battery, dw about it!
speakers blown out? I can fix that easy, and I'll even install an iPod integration setup while I'm at it. the touchscreen doesn't always work on one side? well. that's what happens when a touchscreen from 2008 sits in the sun too long. works fine if I remember the sun shield.
and the dashboard lights don't turn on sometimes? well. I can use the buttons and knobs to enter like seven different cheat codes that might turn them on, but tbh the car still runs fine even without knowing how much gas I have or what speed I'm going. I'll just fill up often and use my phone's GPS as a speedometer until I have some downtime, and then the prius discussion forums have posts on how to solder the circuit board so it works again.
oh whoops the car won't always turn off so I have to hold down the button until it shuts down did I buy a car or did I buy a laptop? don't ask me how to deal with actual car problems; I'm too busy holding down the DISPLAY button while switching the lights on and off so I can access the secret service menu.
ridiculous vehicle. glad I talked the guy down in price because it's also mildly a nightmare. but. but. I am having fun!
