CHECK YOUR OIL!!!

I replaced the washer on my first oil change with an aluminum one, and have used the same washer since. I'm careful to keep it in the same orientation every time. I'm hesitant to say anything for fear of calling down the "I Told You So" demon. It never leaks though. Even after eighteen (18) oil changes (to date).

 

I have done about 20 changes too. I don't have a washer at all. It has not leaked since I have bought the car. I never used a washer in all my cars and trucks. Been working so far.

 

I call BS.

 

Since you are in Texas, you are welcome to come down anytime and watch me change my oil.

 

I change the washer every time, they say to, it's cheap, might save an engine: what's not to like.

 

Sure the washer isn't stuck to the bolt/plug? Do you know what washers and seals are for? I will agree you do not have to change out for a new washer every time, but none at all...wrong. To the few Prius owners out there that do change their own oil, do not follow almostrice's advice on this one.

 

Very likely: those buggers glue themselves on. I always have to stop after backing the drain bolt partially out, pry the washer loose with a small screw driver.

Did a 6 month or 8000 km (Canadian interval) change this morning, 6 months governed, and the kilometers since last change was only 4058. Here's how it looked, before and after:



I know, may look dark, just means it's doing it's job. Still, just saying.

 

2500 miles and your oil looks like that? you need to drive more.

 

Hi almostrice. It's fairly common for people to not notice the washer because it tends to get stuck permanently onto the drain plug, particularly if it's been over torqued. By design these washers crush and deform when you torque up the plug, and this can cause it to squish into the threads of the plug and stick there. It's actually quite common for people to have an old washer squashed onto their drain plug and never even realise that it's there.

Here's a picture of what a drain plug and washer looks like. This particular one is from my transaxle, but the situation is fairly similar with the engine drain plug. These ones are in pretty good condition (and not stuck), but if someone's been using the same engine drain plug for many years then the washer and plug are usually fused together as what appears like a single unit.

 

Sure are a lot strong opinions on this. I have never had a problem. Seems like you dont clean your mating surfaces and require a crutch such these washers. I have changed my oil for 25 years. I have never saw the need for washers. Keep your opinions as opinions. If they were needed, the manufacturers would have used them when I got them new.

Also, I am not blind. I know what washers look like. Those look like they were overtightened by some grease monkey.

 

Our mileage has a fair number of long trips, we're in the 'burbs. Also, I'm cognisant of the toll of short runs, we don't do impulse drives unless unavoidable. And use a block heater year round.

If I look at the dipstick just prior to oil change, the oil looks very clean: oil appearance is deceptive in such a thin film.If you ever get an early oil change, catch a cup or so in a clear container: I think you'll be surprised how dark/opaque it looks. Again, likely the oil is just fine, just doing it's job, but it's an eye-opener.

 

NTB's data comes up with 3.9 quarts. It's always exactly at the "full" mark on the dipstick when I check after a change.

 

Your car-your money-your problem....however your 2005 Gen II Prius reqires part number 9043012031 washer/gasket on the oil pan plug and my 2010 Gen III Prius requires the same. That is fact, not opinion...so as you say "keep your opinions as opinions"...and for the record, I have been a licensed mechanic longer than you have been changing your oil in the driveway, backyard or where ever.

 

I can see one reason for the dealerships overfilling, at least with third gen hatchback:

Whenever I do an oil and filter change, I'll put in 4.2 liters (the spec'd amount, equates to 4.4 US quarts). After running the engine for a few minutes, then letting it settle: the oil's close to 1/2" below the top mark. But after a decent drive, rechecking: the oil's right on the top mark. Same level after sitting overnight.

Now the dealership mechanics have to check level based on just a few minutes running time. If they stick to spec. qty. they'll be ok, but if the follow what the dipstick tells them, the oil ends up overfilled.

 

So the oil debate is done and we're onto sump plugs and washers .....

 

Yeah thats the exact total volume. There's at least almost a third of a quart hiding in the top of the engine especially in the VVT section that takes a long time to drain back.

Check your oil first thing in the am and I think you'll find its very overfilled. Very common knowledge here for many many years the car takes 3.5 quarts on a change.

 

This guy is just too funny.

Look almostrice, I was trying to be nice and show how yours was an easy mistake to make. I was actually trying to help prevent you from looking quite so foolish. But seriously, there’s just no helping some people.

And just a bit of a “heads up” for you. Opinions that you can take photos of, those are actually called facts.

 

It is no longer a problem. From this thread, I know who to ignore. I wont be arguing with people who read selectively. I'm glad I missed out on the oil debate. I should find it and ignore all on that thread too.

thx