I’m looking at a 2013 model with about 147k miles on it. It looks to be in good condition.

My question: I’m not all that used to driving hybrids, as all my previous cars have been gas. (I did drive a rental Prius for a couple of days many years ago, but don’t remember much about it.) What I notice, and didn’t experience on any other of my cars, is that, when starting off from a full stop, it’s like there’s a momentary lag, then the power kicks in with what feels like a slight (very slight, but noticeable) jolt or shudder. This only happens from a dead stop; if I’m even coasting at about 1 MPH, and accelerate, it’s completely smooth; but if not moving at all, I get that sudden slight shudder or whatever.

Is this typical for a hybrid, or is it something I should be worried about? If this was a gas engine, I’d be concerned about a possible transmission or CV shaft issue, but I don’t know with hybrids. Obviously, I’m going to take it in for a pre-purchase inspection. Are there specific things I should ask them to check for, either in terms of this phenomenon or anything else regarding the 300h of that vintage?

 

The start from stop behavior you describe is typical for hybrids. You get used to it.

I'd take it to a garage that specializes in hybrids and have them check the hybrid system and battery status.

My 2016 ES300H is the best car I have ever had, including a couple of full size Acuras.

 

No, there is no lag and no jolt from a standing stop. You can sometimes feel the engine kicking in, but it’s a vibration and added power and not a jolt from the drivetrain.

You should drive another ES and compare.

That’s also a very high mileage car. Try find one with less than 60k miles 😀