Mystery to solve: 2008 Camry Hybrid battery issue

I have a 2008 Camry Hybrid with 194K miles. Recently, it started flashing ‘check hybrid system, check VSC system’ (P0A80) and switched to gas mode only. Disconnecting the 12V battery temporarily fixed it. After testing at Greentec, they found slight aging in the hybrid battery but no major issues. Toyota, however, insists the entire battery needs a replacement for $5000, despite no direct battery test. Now, after their diagnostics, all warnings are gone again. Any advice on who to trust or what might be the issue?

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Here are my two cents:

Trust Your Gut: You know your car best. If the warnings cleared after the diagnostics at Greentec and everything seems okay now, it might suggest the issue isn’t critical.

Second Opinion: Since Toyota’s recommendation is significant, it might be worth getting a second opinion from another trusted mechanic who specializes in hybrids.

Consider the cost of repair versus the value of your car. Sometimes, a less expensive fix or temporary solution can make sense if the car is older.

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They want to swindle you. If the warning went away then it probably wasn’t a big issue. Give yourself and the car some more time and see how things play out.