brand new Prius owner... asking for input

no, no and... i don't know. welcome aboard!

 

No, but if it hasn't been done yet, I'd get the transaxle fluid changed pronto.

From http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-...uying-used-prius-15k-spend-2.html#post1480855, it should run you ~$98.

http://priuschat.com/forums/knowled...andard-optional-equipment-some-countries.html should help you identify your model/package.

 

1. Nothing special about the oil. BTW, it's a very easy DIY job if you want to make sure it's done properly.

2. No. However you should check the coolant level (and circulation) in the inverter coolant reservoir. If you "thread search" here you'll find tons of info on this. I also second the transaxle fluid change for preventative maintenance.

3. There was a guy selling leather cover kits for armrests and center console on ebay. Some members here have used the product and liked it. Maybe some who's done this could give you more details.

 

Transaxle fluid change, spark plugs (if original), and clean out the HV battery cooling fan located near the 12v batt (may as well change the 12v batt too).

 

If the service was done at any dealer in the past, Toyota has online records.

https://auth2.toyota.com/owners/web/pages/parts-service/history

works once you sign up, You can sign up at

Toyota Owners Official Website: Service Coupons, Owners Manuals, Service Scheduling and More

 

No. It's a set interval. Some people pay for oil analysis and use that to determine an appropriate interval, although they're actually having the analysis done to make sure the car's running OK.

 

Are there any DIY instruction for cleaning out the HV battery cooling fan?

 

Yes every 5,000 miles you will have the Maint Required light come on due to mileage. You can reset it but I do not remember the instructions. Do a search you will find it easily. It goes something like open and close dooor three time.. etc ... etc I think.

I just let the light stay on. Too lazy to reset it.

 

doogster:

Is there any reason(s) why you did not (or could not) check with the previous owner to get info. on the maintence of your car???

 

SOOO - he even titles the car in his name before he flips it ??

 

If you don't know when the oil was last changed, assume that it was never changed. It's time for an oil change.

Tom

 

Here is an email I got from a friend when I asked about Prius maintenance after I purchased mine:

I have now had my car long enough to speculate about what maintenance a Prius should have, and it’s a very short list!
It’s also very different from other cars, just thought I would share:
1. Clean the throttle body: 50K miles or when you change the air filter.
2. Clean the battery cooling fan: 100K miles, this might vary with conditions.(if you drive with the windows open or transport animals a lot)
3. Change transaxle fluid: 100K miles.
4. Check the 12V battery: This battery lasts 5-7 years as the hybrid battery starts the car. It’s easy to check voltage from the MFD, just ask me.
5. Check the inverter cooling pump: This was a common failure on ‘04 and ‘05, and is easy to check, Toyota may replace under warranty, ask.
That’s pretty much it, of course change your oil (I like synthetic), tires, alignment, ect. I recommend changing the cabin air filter once in a while, it’s no problem for the car but you would like to breath clean air.

Things not on my list, Brakes, I have 126K miles on my car and the original brakes look almost new. Spark plugs, I replaced mine recently, the old ones look much like the new ones, think I wasted my money. Belt, my water pump belt looks fine, think it will last as long as the water pump.

 

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