Piston Slap: Overhyped Hybrid Analysis Paralysis?

Click here to view the embedded video.

Mishie writes:

Hi -

I love your blog. Its been an invaluable resource in my efforts to purchase a car. I have a pretty long daily commute and I'm a bit of a greenie so I'm really interested in purchasing a hybrid. I've looked at a number of models including the new Honda Accord hybrid but I've hesitated in buying the model I really wanted – the Prius – because of reports of acceleration and braking issues. Do those issues still persist?

I'm also pretty partial to the Lexus RX450 but since its a Toyota, I'm guessing its plagued with the same issues. I've looked at the Ford Fusion (not entirely sold on its reliability), the Honda Accord (too new and no room for a spare tire), and the Hyundai Sonata (read about their braking issues also). Is there a reliable hybrid out there? I have very little aptitude for mechanics so feel free to respond as if I'm ten. LOL!

Thanks,
Mishie

Sajeev answers:

Don't worry, there are no stupid questions…provided they aren't addressed to Sanjeev. But I digress…

That said, drop everything and go buy a Prius now!  Are you letting recalls and the media frenzy around unintended acceleration stopping you?  If on the remote chance this happens, put the vehicle in neutral and regain your sanity.  Because unintended acceleration can happen to anyone.  Try to kill the panic as fast as possible, and get the car under control with a flick of the shift lever. Okay?

And what of the Prius braking problems?  Done.  Over.  They certainly replaced a bad part/design and "bled" the brake lines to make sure everything works correctly. For decades now, braking systems incorporate safeguards (like multichannel brake fluid distribution) to keep this from being a life threatening problem. And they don't call it an emergency brake for no reason!

Stop worrying about problems commonplace in the car biz, or continue to worry and take the bus. Put another way: there are NO BAD CARS. Even the Smart Car isn't necessarily bad. And while Land Rovers are unreliable wallet killers and Corollas are perfect to the point of boredom, the differences between a "good" car and a "bad" car are nearasdamnit to statistically insignificant.

 

Send your queries to sajeev@thetruthaboutcars.com. Spare no details and ask for a speedy resolution if you're in a hurry…but be realistic, and use your make/model specific forums instead of TTAC for more timely advice.

from The Truth About Cars http://ift.tt/Jh8LjA

Put the internet to work for you.

via Personal Recipe 680102