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Oil change in Prius the same way as any other conventional car?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by sammyj0r, Sep 29, 2010.

  1. sammyj0r

    sammyj0r New Member

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    2010 Prius
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    II
    Hey guys, I'm due for my first 5k oil change. Just wondering if I bring my gen 3 prius to a non Toyota dealer, will they figure out how to do a oil change to a prius? I'm just wondering if there's a special method for oil changes or they can figure it out easily and change the oil like any other car? What should I warn them about the Prius so they won't damage it? I hate the toyota dealer near me because they are shady people (Brooklyn Nostrand Toyota Plaza). I trust my local mechanic and I know that I have to use OW-20.

    Thanks!
     
    #1 sammyj0r, Sep 29, 2010
  2. Bob64

    Bob64 Sapphire of the Blue Sky

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    Ask em if they have the replacement parts (filter elements) needed to change the filter on the 3rd gen?
     
    #2 Bob64, Sep 29, 2010
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  3. Skoorbmax

    Skoorbmax Senior Member

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    I always recommend OEM filters. I have yet to change the oil on my Prius (I will next time) but I can't imagine there's anything tricky to it and in any case I'd be surprised if the process is not in the manual.

    I'd bring your mechanic the filter to use (grab a few from Toyota). Also find out which oil the thing takes; if it is for example 0w-20 synthetic, I'd also bring that to your mechanic so that he doesn't throw in whatever he has kicking around.
     
    #3 Skoorbmax, Sep 29, 2010
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  4. sarasebastian

    sarasebastian New Member

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    I have done it twice myself and it was very easy (I am not a mechanic). I am sure your local shop will be able to do it. Your mechanic will need a 64mm oil filter wrench, which he/she probably already has.

    I also recommend the OEM oil filter.

    Here is a set of very helpful illustrated step by step instructions: http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii.../67747-oil-change-2010-prius-do-yourself.html

    Finally, you will need to reset the oil maintenance indicator - instructions are here and it is also very easy: http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii...tting-oil-maintenance-required-indicator.html
     
    #4 sarasebastian, Sep 29, 2010
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  5. Judgeless

    Judgeless Senior Member

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    You could take the care to any express oil locations. 99% of them carry 0w20 and the filter cartridge used on the Prius is also used on many other cars. Most places stock it.

    The filter is not a hi-tech device. It’s made of paper and wire. You can use the OEM or any third party filter.
     
    #5 Judgeless, Sep 29, 2010
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