Steps to Reset the Toyota Prius Oil Maintenance Light (2015-2022)
Put the ignition into the RUN position (Press the start button twice without your foot on the brake).
Press the BACK button on the right side of the steering wheel.
Press the RIGHT ARROW on the right side of the steering wheel and scroll over to VEHICLE SETTINGS.
Select VEHICLE SETTINGS by pressing the ENTER button on the right side of the steering wheel. (the button with the circle on it inside all the arrows)
Select OIL MAINTENANCE.
A prompt will appear “Reset?”
Select YES.
Another prompt will appear “Reset Completed”
The Toyota Prius Service Required reminder should only be reset after changing the oil and oil filter on the car.
Why It's Important to Reset the Toyota Prius Maintenance Light
Resetting your Toyota Prius’s maintenance indicator is essential to track oil change intervals and check the engine oil condition, including how far you are from the next scheduled maintenance. It’s also advisable to keep a personal record of each oil change and service by compiling all relevant service documents. Doing so not only guarantees the best upkeep of your car but also acts as evidence of regular maintenance, which can be advantageous if you choose to sell the vehicle in the future.
Toyota Prius Oil Type and Quantity
The 2015-2022 Toyota Prius requires 4.4 Quarts of 0W-20 Synthetic oil.
How Often Should You Change the Oil on Your Toyota Prius?
It is recommended to replace the oil in your Toyota Prius every 3,000 miles. While certain experts, service centers, and dealerships may recommend more extended intervals, sticking to a 3,000-mile oil change cycle is important. Consistently following this routine is key to preserving your Toyota Prius’s engine performance and preventing a range of possible problems.
What to Do If the Service Reset Procedure Does Not Work?
If you encounter challenges while resetting the maintenance light of your Toyota Prius, attempt the procedure once more. Switch off the ignition and the engine, then begin the reset process again. Make sure that the hood and all doors are firmly shut before starting the process.
Why is the Toyota Oil Maintenance Light Still On After An Oil Change?
After completing an oil change on your Toyota Prius, it’s important to reset the service intervals and maintenance alerts. Simply changing the oil and filter doesn’t automatically turn off the maintenance light. If the maintenance reminder on your Toyota remains active post-oil change, it usually means the reset step was overlooked by the individual who performed the oil change.
General Toyota Prius Maintenance Tips
Check Tire Pressure and Tire Tread
To locate the recommended tire pressure for your Toyota Prius, look for the white or yellow sticker on the door frame, which becomes visible upon opening the driver’s side door. Ensure to inflate the tires while they are cold to prevent overinflation. This involves either waiting for three hours after the car was last driven or inflating the tires prior to driving. For checking the tread wear on each tire, consider using the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
Rotate Your Tires
We recommend rotating the Toyota Prius tires every other oil change, (if you are changing your oil at our recommended 3,000 mile interval) or every 6,000 miles.
Check the Coolant Level
Check the coolant level to ensure it is within the correct range in the coolant reservoir, ideally above the minimum level and beneath the maximum mark. Employing a flashlight can assist in providing a clearer view inside the coolant container. Since the coolant system is sealed, a significantly low coolant level could suggest a leak. Conduct a pressure test on the system to detect any possible leaks.
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Inspect the brake pads’ thickness on both the front and rear brakes of your Toyota Prius to verify they have adequate material remaining. Employ a brake pad gauge for an accurate measurement of thickness. Additionally, examine the rotors for any indications of rust or abnormalities. When your Toyota Prius is elevated on a jack or lift, rotate each wheel by hand (with the parking brake disengaged) to check for smooth rotation. Resistance in wheel movement may indicate an issue with the brake caliper or jammed slider pins in the caliper.
Check Brake Fluid Reservoir
It’s essential to maintain a consistently full brake fluid reservoir. If the brake fluid level is significantly low, it often indicates a leak in the system. Check the brake calipers and lines for any evidence of leaks.
Check Washer Fluid Level
Refill your washer fluid reservoir. During winter, choose a washer fluid with antifreeze properties to avoid freezing inside the container.
Check the Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Open the air filter box in your Toyota Prius and take out the air filter. If it looks dirty, clean it using a vacuum, compressed air, or by shaking out the dirt and debris. If it’s overly dirty, replace it with a new one. If it’s still clean, just put it back in place. Also, there’s a cabin air filter located behind the glove box that purifies the air inside the vehicle. Inspect this filter and change it if it’s dirty or hasn’t been replaced before.
Check the Power Steering Fluid
Ensure the power steering fluid reservoir in your Toyota Prius is filled to the full mark. A low fluid level might suggest a leak, so if it’s not full, add more fluid and inspect the power steering lines for any signs of leaking.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
Having worked as an automotive technician for ten years in both dealership and private shops, I’ve observed that vehicles that skip regular maintenance tend to face more frequent and serious problems. Despite some automakers suggesting oil change intervals ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 miles, my expert recommendation for Toyota Prius owners is to opt for an oil change every 3,000 miles, irrespective of Toyota’s own guidelines. This approach is crucial for sustaining optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle. Regular oil changes can minimize engine wear, potentially improving fuel efficiency by as much as 2%. It also ensures the engine remains clean, crucial in preventing the buildup of harmful deposits that can reduce the engine’s lifespan.