Scotty,
The in laws are thinking of selling us their 2011 Hybrid Camry with 168000 miles. They bought it new in 2010 Not sure of price yet but may be 3500-4000. It would be a third car for me wife to drive back and fourth to work. What are your thoughts?
Even if this car wouldn't have 11 year old batteries, These are just really bad hybrids.
First of all, It's not efficient at all - you can get better gas millage out of a regular modern Corolla.
The engines do not last - the same head bolt thread and oil consumption issues as the regular AZ engine.
Repairs cost a fortune - it's a more complex car with much more complex and expensive parts than a petrol.
(Adding insult to injury is the fact that sometimes, mechanics and specialists can't solve basic issues like no-crank no-start)
AVOID IT.
I really don't recommend buying a 11 year old troublesome hybrid that's only rated to do 31/35 mpg (city/highway).
Even if it would be efficient (which it's not, even the 4 speed automatic 2014 Corolla L petrol - the last of the truly bulletproof small cheap simple sedans gets similar MPG) you'll probably never offset the higher repair and purchase costs with increased gas millage.
Hybrids make sense only if you're shopping new, drive a lot, and get a hybrid that's actually built for efficiency.
For example a new Toyota Corolla 1.8L Hybrid is rated to do 52/53 mpg (city/highway), and it comes with a long battery warranty.
But for people who buy used cars, Hybrids are going to be terrible.
be prepared for a $6k bill to replace the battery soon
Why are they selling it?
If they need cash, politely ask them to sell it to a dealer for much more $$$.
If you need a fuel efficient daily driver, consider a regular petrol Corolla/Civic.
In general when it comes to hybrid Scotty's advice is to avoid used ones unless it has very low mileage. The Camry you are considering it old and it has a lot of miles so definitely avoid it. As already said here the new Corolla hybrid gives very good mileage if you drive enough to justify and need a hybrid (or if bigger then new Camry hybrid). If between the gasoline only Civic and Corolla (both new) I would suggest the Civic because it's more roomy and a much more comfortable interior. With the Civic if you want longitivtiy then get either the LX or Sport trim since they have naturally aspired engines. The Civic also has hatchback version if you want some more cargo space.
Thanks guys! I appreciate the responses!!