How to Change the Oil and Filter on a Toyota Prius Hybrid Car

Someone who has changed the oil in dozens of cars will suddenly because nervous and uncertain at the thought of changing the oil in a Toyota Prius. The reason behind this is that Toyota's Prius is a hybrid vehicle, and people tend to believe that it is more complicated than a normal car, or perhaps more fragile. Neither of these are true, however, and if you've changed the oil on any passenger car, you should be able to change the oil on a Prius.

Step 1

Drive the Prius onto ramps that are securely placed on a level service, then apply the emergency brake or place stones/boards behind the back tires. Make sure that the car is thoroughly cooled before continuing so that you don't burn yourself on hot oil.

Step 2

Locate the oil pan under the car and loosen the drainage bolt located on the left side of the pan (the pan is angled slightly at that part). Allow the used oil to run into an empty pan. When it is finished, unscrew the oil filter located behind the oil pan. If it difficult, then use an oil wrench, but try to avoid doing so if possible.

Step 3

Using your finger, rub new motor oil onto the gasket/o-ring of the new filter. Screw the new filter (consider purchasing an OEM filter if possible) into the filter port and hand-tighten it; it is not necessary to use a wrench, but make sure that it is screwed in firmly. Replace the bolt on the oil pan (replace the washer if you have a new one).

Step 4

Pour four quarts of synthetic 0w-20 motor oil into the oil spout under the hood. Check the dipstick to make sure that you did not overfill (drain some if necessary), then start the car and monitor the filter and pan for any leaks.

Step 5

Pour your old motor oil into the empty oil jug, screw the lid on tightly, and take it to your nearest autoshop or Auto Zone so they can dispose of it properly. Never pour oil onto the ground or into water.