"We've never replaced a PCV valve."

It is common practice to replace PCV along with spark plugs. They should at least know that much, and perhaps have suggested that you wait until 120K. On the other hand, service advisers generally know very little about the Prius.

 

One issue: I believe you have to pull all the lower windshield trim, wipers, and wiper motor off, to get at it. That's likely one reason they combine it with spark plug removal, which is in the same area.

 

Our service place said, "okay, sure" when I requested the PCV change when I took it in for the recall inverter pump/ transaxle fluid change/ wheel alignment trip.

I'd worry about a service center that had never actually done basic maintenance on a Prius.

 

The plugs and PCV can be done without removing the wipers and cowl but it takes some careful skill to do so. : p

P ersonallyI wouldn't worry about it until you do your plugs at 100,000-130,000. I did my plugs and PCV at approx. 120k and both were in good shape.

 

FYI 10 min job no need to pull the windshield shroud out .. u can do it by moving the other stuff below it and never have to so anything with the shroud.. Easy fix.. save money do it your self

 

How?

 

Locate the PCV then dread taking apart the cowl and you will suddenly figure out what to take apart to get to the valve. lol

I don't remember how I did it or i'd post something more constructive.

 

reach down behind the engine and feel around for the pcv valve. once you have it, unscrew it carefully and screw the new one in.

 

Because it is only hand-tight and the new one goes in just as easily?????? I hope you weren't serious!

The threads are coated with sealer -- at least both the old one and the new one were for me. The old one is very stubborn to break loose. The new one isn't much easier going in. Using a crescent wrench or even an open-end wrench may not work. That's the one part of galaxee's photo essay that is extremely misleading and has cause a lot of trouble for people that don't have a lot of tools. It takes a box end wrench, or, if you are lucky, the right combination of ratchet handle and socket. There is very limited clearance for a deep socket. There is more than one way to get to it: take apart the cowl, or pull the air induction and unbolt a larger portion of the main engine wiring harness. The latter is why it is good to combine this with spark plugs and throttle body + MAF cleaning. I disagree with the cowl method -- too many steps.