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Oil Overfilled - Is it really a big deal??

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by OrlandoGuy, Jul 27, 2008.

  1. OrlandoGuy

    OrlandoGuy Junior Member

    Joined:
    May 4, 2008
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    Location:
    Orlando, FL
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Five
    Ok...so I took my car to Central Florida Toyota for it's first two oil changes. I supplied the Mobile 1 5-30 synthetic.

    The first change was overfilled - and when I first mentioned this to the service advisor, he told me "It is like that until all the oil drains down, then the level would be right" - I asked they take the oil out until it is at properly at the full mark - they were very polite and did what I asked, but always maintained that putting 4 quarts in will cause no damage and is proper.

    My second oil change, their 'prius master mechanic' did my oil change and balance/rotate the tires at the 10K service. Again, I found the oil overfilled. The mechanic said the Prius actually takes 4.1 quarts - but he only put the 4 quarts I brought in. Again, I asked the level be lowered to match the full indicator on the dip stick. Again, they were very polite and did as I asked, but again said that it would cause no damage and is appropriate.

    So my question is this....Am I making a big deal out of nothing? Am I wrong about the overfilling being bad? - the owner's manual does clearly say overfilling will cause engine damage - and 3 - Why in the world did the Toyota engineer's not just inlarge the oil pan ever so slightly to hold a full 4 quarts to make this a big non issue?

    Thanks!
     
  2. Sufferin' Prius Envy

    Sufferin' Prius Envy Platinum Member

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    Toyota specifies 3.9 quarts and even put convenient marks on the dipstick. Don't let the human dipsticks try to BS you. Yes, it is a big deal. Always stand your ground. You are in the right.

    Or you can do as I have finally resigned myself to do. I bring only three quarts of Mobile 1 and tell the dealer I will top it off . . . because after three times of them overfilling, I no longer trust them.

    The service writer just gives me a knowing nod. :rolleyes:
     
    RHennick likes this.
  3. jammin012

    jammin012 The man behind The Man

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    Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do,