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When to service-time or mileage?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by bogeybob513, Mar 1, 2014.

  1. bogeybob513

    bogeybob513 rtc513

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    I have a 2006 Prius that has 27,000 miles on it. I have maintained it according to the maintenance schedule, but now I am running into the time/mileage problem.

    Just when does time rule over mileage? I know what Toyota will say, but what is the practical solution?
     
    #1 bogeybob513, Mar 1, 2014
  2. Easy Rider

    Easy Rider Active Member

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    It is a "which ever comes first" schedule.

    In general, if you drive a LOT, service will be based on mileage.
    If you do not drive a lot, then it will be based on time.
     
    #2 Easy Rider, Mar 1, 2014
  3. vskid3

    vskid3 Active Member

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    With your car barely averaging 3k miles a year, definitely go with time. There are plenty of things, like oil, that degrade over time. Air filters should be good for the mileage schedule (is there even a time for them?) as they only get used when the car is in use.
     
    #3 vskid3, Mar 1, 2014
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  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i always change tho oil and filter once a year, minimum. most things are mileage related, not time. some may recommend other fluids like brake or coolant and rubber parts like serpantyne belt which may degrade over time. i had a miata for 15 years and 24,000 miles, never did anything but oil and tyre rotations. it was like brand new when i sold it, and a great deal for the buyer since the resale is based more on age than miles. you probably want to keep an eye on your 12v. all the best!(y)
     
    #4 bisco, Mar 1, 2014
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  5. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    I agree that with regards to a low miles vehicle, the engine oil/oil filter should be changed at least annually, to get accumulated water vapor out of the crankcase. The 12V battery should be periodically charged (monthly at least) to keep it in good condition. Besides those considerations, the odometer reading can be used as a gauge regarding when to perform the other maintenance.
     
    #5 Patrick Wong, Mar 1, 2014
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  6. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    I would change the transmission fluid also as it tends to get acidic over time if it sits for long periods of time. Thats especially bad for this particular vehicle considering the electric motor windings are exposed to that fluid. Its very cheap insurance.

    I would send out a sample to get it analyzed and see how acidic it really is. We would appreciate it and add it to our knowledge base under the top of the page yellow sticky area under

    Transaxle oil analysis

    I use Wearcheck.com as they include a TAN (acid) and TBN (alkalinity). Both come into play when an oil has been in service too long. $25.

    About Oil Analysis » Wear Check International - The Oil Speaks…We Listen…You Save
     
    #6 edthefox5, Mar 1, 2014
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