Hello, I have a 2004 Prius, and plan to drive it about 7000 - 10,000 miles per year, and primarily in local travel in a moderate climate (MD). I hope someone can answer the following oil-related questions: o how important is it for the oil and filter to be changed every six months rather than wait for 5000 miles? o does the Prius really burn or lose about a quart of oil every 600 miles (as stated in the manual)? o is an additive suggested (my dealer adds "BG MOA oil additive" to all of the Toyotas which it services, including Prius')? and o is the added cost of synthetic oil worth it in terms of performance or longevity of the motor? Thanks, Bob in Silver Spring

Actually oil does not "break down" unless it is run too hot and carbonizes (rare). It picks up acids from the gasoline combustion. Once its additives are used up, those acids can corrode the bearings. I had a 1974 Ford sedan with a (I'm sure Japanese) 4 cylinder that recommended oil changes every 10,000 miles, and I'm sure oil has improved since then. But like I say in another post, changing more often doesn't hurt, it's just unnecessary. It also gives the mechanics a chance to inspect other parts for damage, but the Prius is so well designed and assembled I think this danger is rare also.

Lot of things can apply though. I try to change mine at 3000 cause I work in a big construction zone at 9000 to 10,000 feet. Not paved for a lot of it and have a great deal of dust blowing around. Plus the strain from going up and down from one mountain to the other. I prefer to keep the oil as clean as I can.

I HAVE BIG PROBLEM. PRIUS 04 IN GARAGE FACING INWARD. CAR WON'T START, NOTHING LIGHTS UP. BESIDES CALLING TOWING, ANY IDEAS? Maryellen

The battery is flat. Light left on or door ajar. Options: 1. recharge battery or use jump charger. It is in the boot, on the RHS. It won't need a lot of recharging, as soon as it lights anything the hv battery will do the rest.. 2. Jumpstart, may be difficult with the car in the position it is, it can be pushed or towed out of the garage, but no further. 3. Call Toyota Assist, let them sort it out. The car can be towed with the front wheels on the ground, but only for a very short distance - 20.30yds - and at walking pace. After that the front wheels must be off the ground. regards Jerry