Do I need a Prius "manual"?

I'm not sure if there's an aftermarket service manual available yet. There was a rumor awhile back that Haynes was about to publish one, but I don't know if it has hit the stores yet.

Meanwhile, you can get a lot of information here and related sites. If there's a DIY job to be done, there's almost certainly someone here who has done it. Just spend a little time with the Search function.

 

Hello!
Brakes on the Prius are expected to last for a REALLY LONG time, depending on your braking habits. They don't move (the calipers) until the car is moving under 8 mph, most of the time, unless you're in neutral or really stomping on the brake pedal.
Spark plugs are expected to last for 100,000 miles or more.
From what I've read on here so far, inverter coolant is sealed system and requires no maint. ICE coolant may need maint. at some point - 100,000+ miles?
The weakest links I've seen so far from reading on this forum are the 12 vdc battery, the tires, and lighting - LED footwell lights seem to be favored by many, and LED's can be swapped out for most of the other interior bulbs and some of the exterior lights as well.
Stereo upgrades are popular.
Search for instructions for normal oil and filter changes.
Same for the cabin air filter.
If you enjoy wires, there are mods for the lighter plug, backup camera (on at the flick of a switch!), alternate video input jack - for DVD player to the MFD screen, the ever popular EV button, and a few other things.
We're kind of stuck for performance, though. It is what it is, unless you can figure out how to cut several hundred pounds off the weight of the car.
I intend to add the LED footwell lights this spring. I'm going to begin to Dynamat the doors and the firewall and the HVAC duct boxes that I can get to. New speakers, an amp and subwoofer, and that should do for a bit.
Unless I get a BT Plate...
Well, have fun with your car. Mine's been a blast so far!
Guy in WNY

 

There is a lot of good info here John's Stuff - Toyota Prius and more and if I remember right, I think I saw a Haynes manual listed for 2008 Prius at Amazon (not sure though).
Toyota states that if you do your own maintenance (ie oil changes etc.) you need to have all receipts, dates, etc. related to the maintenance to be able to comply with the warranty.
In other words, you will have to PROVE to them in a warranty situation that everything done by you was as per specification so you better be an impeccable records keeper.
I found that in the Platinum EW book but it may be stated elsewhere also.

 

Not sure about your local dealership. I have excellent ties with mine. If you need anything, try asking the Parts Department for it. Everything is now available on TIS (techinfo.toyota.com) in PDF format. I have had them print me several things already including the JBL Amp Wiring Diagram in my 08. If you need something real specific, I will try to assist.

 

Whoa there, Cat Wrangler,

I don't think you're going to be able to preform (at least not as cheaply as you would hope to) one of the things you mentioned---the fuel filter replacement. I think I read either here or at PriusOnLine, that since the fuel filter is inside the bladder tank, then the entire fuel tank must be replaced if the filter becomes clogged. Kinda makes a good case for only buying good quality fuel at a relatively new station & not fuel'g up in windy sandstorm conditions. If I'm wrong about the fuel filter location & the need for the tank replacement, then somebody set me straight please.

Ken (in Bolton,Ct)

 

Haynes manual, 2001 to 2008
Haynes Repair Manuals

They evidently carry them at Autozone also.