Cross country trip advice.

With all of the snow they are having in Massachusetts, maybe you want to consider selling the car in CA and buying a 4 wheel drive when you get to MA.

 

Aside from a good overall check of the vehicle (brakes, oil etc etc) here are a couple of specific things that I would make sure were done on my Gen 1 before heading out.

1) Get the transxale oil service done before you go. (unless you know it was done in the last 40K miles)
2) Get your inverter coolant pump checked.
3) Make sure you have good tires. The Prius really needs good tread to perform well in the snow.

Eric

 

I took long trips in my Gen2 Prius and in the one I have now and they are pretty good cars on a trip. I found the drivers seat uncomfortable after the first few hundred miles each day so plan on stopping to stretch and limber up every so often.

As far as the car is concerned, if it will be due for oil and filter change before you get to your destination I would have it done before starting. Check all the fluid levels, i.e. both cooling systems, and brake fluid, fill windshield washer. Check the engine air filter, replace if needed. Check the tires including the spare, make sure all your tire tools such as jack and lug wrench are there. I carry a tire pressure gauge and check the pressures each morning before I start out.

Even in March it could still get cold so throw in a heavy coat, wool socks, gloves, stocking hat, etc. Always a good idea to carry some drinking water.

Have a nice trip.