Is the oil overfill still a problem for 2008 models?

[mikem13]

So I am taking in my 2008 Prius in for the 1st oil change tomorrow. I am planning on taking Mobil 1 with me and having them use that.

Is the overfill issue still a problem for the 2008 models? I saw in the manual is still says the capacity is 3.9 Qts.

As a side note I plan to begin changing the oil myself, but I wanted to take it in the first time to have it looked over and discuss an issue with our breaks. (When we come to a stop the brakes seem to disengage for a brief moment and then catch again. Usually it happens two times in a row very rapidly. It also makes sort of a clunking noise)

Anyhow, is overfill still a problem in the 2008s?

Thanks in advance for any help.

[triumph1]

I just changed my oil, and only put in 3.9 quarts. I have other half empty containers to pour the rest in, and save it for when I need it. I just don't see the point of overfilling, I can't imagine these cars will ever burn oil unless not properly maintained. I can't tell you how many people I know, mainly with motorcycles, that over fill their 3.6 or so sump with the "ah just throw 4 quarts in" attitude, and up spring the oil leaks. Not that it would happen with the Prius, but if it calls for 3.9, then put in 3.9 or to the fill mark, and save the rest for later. If someone else is going to change it for you, ask for the .3 quarts back.

[KayakerNC]

Originally Posted by triumph1

Not that it would happen with the Prius, but if it calls for 3.9, then put in 3.9 or to the fill mark, and save the rest for later. If someone else is going to change it for you, ask for the .3 quarts back.

Interesting math.

[Patrick Wong]

Originally Posted by mikem13

...Is the overfill issue still a problem for the 2008 models? I saw in the manual is still says the capacity is 3.9 Qts...

I suggest that you add 3.5 quarts when changing the engine oil and filter. It is easy to measure 0.5 qt. out of a 1 qt. container; then you have 0.5 qt. remaining for your next oil change.

If you do this, you will see that the oil level measured per the dipstick will be about 1/8" below the top dimple.

[lefat1]

Originally Posted by KayakerNC

Interesting math.

3.9+.3=3.12= 3 qts 12 ozs=4qts
looks good to me, fuzzy math

[richard schumacher]

Truly, even 3 quarts is plenty, because about a half quart of old oil stays in the system coating the internal surfaces. Try it and see.

No matter who changes the oil or how much you use, always check the level yourself before driving away. This can catch gruesome errors before they cause expensive damage.

[triumph1]

Originally Posted by KayakerNC

Interesting math.

I stand corrected. Still, I would always pour in just to the fill line, there is bound to be some old oil left in there. I drained mine and let it drip for an hour, and when I refilled, I must have had a good 12 ounces of oil left in the new container. Would it hurt to throw it in? Not sure. Would it help? Probably not.

[Huntceet]

Come on!
3.9 Qt = 3 an 9 tenths quarts
9 tenths of a quart is 14.4 ounces
So, 3.9 quarts = 3 quarts 14.4 ounces

[racerbob]

Oil overfill is a problem for ANY car. The Prius doesn't have a problem, the lube service jockeys do. Oil level should never be above the upper mark on a dipstick even after sitting overnight, cold. Checking oil when hot just after the engine shut off is not accurate and generally leads to overfilling. Obviously, make sure the car is level. As everyone states here, 1/8 inch below the upper mark is ideal. You don't have to worry until it gets to the lower mark. Most dipstick markings equal 1 quart between upper and lower marks (cross hatched area).

[jdchappie]

Originally Posted by Huntceet

Come on!
3.9 Qt = 3 an 9 tenths quarts
9 tenths of a quart is 14.4 ounces
So, 3.9 quarts = 3 quarts 14.4 ounces

One more time, just for the math minor.
9 tenths of a quart is 28.8 ounces
So, 3.9 quarts = 3 quarts 28.8 ounces.