If you’ve been driving for a while, we are sure you’ve heard that it’s
necessary to change the oil in your vehicle every three months (or 3,000 miles) or face dire consequences. We are here to tell you that this information just isn’t true, especially when it comes to newer vehicles. But what about changing the oil in a Prius Prime? Does it still have to be changed at the same frequency as gas-only cars? Keep reading to find out.
Oil Change Intervals for 2017 Toyota Prius
You will be pleased to know that Toyota maintenance logs suggest that you only chance the oil and filter in your new Prius Prime every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. This is due to a couple reasons. First, Prius models recommend that you use synthetic oil when it comes to lubing up the car, and synthetic is known for being better quality and giving vehicles longer engine life. Second, newer vehicles in general have smarter mechanics and better engineering than they did when the 3-month rule was created, so they are able to go a lot longer without swapping out the oil.
There are exceptions, however. If you are someone who takes repeated trips of less than 5 miles in temperatures below 32 degrees F or someone who excessively idles the vehicle or drives at low speeds, you should be changing your oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. The same goes for if you tend to use your Prius Prime for heavy vehicle loading or take it on frequent long trips.
Is your new Prius in need of an oil change? Then bring it over to Bill Alexander Toyota and let the pros handle it. Through our Toyota Express Maintenance, we can have you in and out in no time flat, all without an appointment!
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Toyota Oil Change Intervals
Oil is one of the most important fluids that is utilized in your Toyota vehicle. As a result, it needs to be changed on a regular basis to avoid the oil becoming sludgy and causing damage to your Toyota vehicle’s engine. Our staff here in the Novato Toyota service center is here to help customers understand the importance of oil to their Toyota. Join us today as we discuss how often you should be changing the oil in your Toyota vehicle!
Recommended Oil Change Intervals for Toyota Vehicles
The old adage used to be to change your oil every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever occurred first. However, as engine technology has advanced and grew more efficient, this is no longer the case. Toyota recommends that customers change the oil in their vehicle, or have it changed for them by a professional every 6 months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Recommended Oil Viscosity for Toyota Models
If you are a hands-on Toyota owner, you might be interested in changing the oil in your vehicle on your own. We support this path, as it is a much more cost-effective method for customers than even bringing the vehicle into one of the more affordable service centers in the area. If you intend to change the oil in your Toyota on your own, make sure that you are using the proper oil. Obviously, we recommend using Toyota Genuine Motor Oils, as they are specifically designed for use with Toyota engines. However, synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 is another option that is acceptable as well!
If you need more information on Toyota oil change procedures or are searching for some affordable automotive maintenance, then you should contact us here at Novato Toyota today!
More: What Services and Coverages Are Available With the ToyotaCare No Cost Maintenance Plan?