42-Month Maintenance Visit
(October 10, 2005)

What was done:

-Oil and oil filter changed
-Tires Rotated

Visit Summary:

Several people have recommended that I try using synthetic oil for longer change intervals and better winter performance. I decided to give this a shot, and provided four quarts of Mobil 1 (5W30) to the dealer. The Prius takes 3.9 quarts of oil with a filter change, so after the service was completed the dealer gave me back the container holding the extra 0.1qt. 

I was told that since synthetic oil lasts longer, I can wait until I put on a full 5000 miles before needing another oil/filter change (I'm told the filter is only good for about that long.) At the rate I've been driving, that could be an entire year from now! 

As an added bonus, I had a coupon that saved me about $10 off the usual price for an oil/filter change, which helps to offset the added cost of the synthetic oil a little bit.

The dealership was very busy, and it took the better part of 2 hours for the work to be completed despite my having an appointment. I didn't mind though -- the dealership now has a free WiFi hotspot, and I accomplished tons of software updates on my laptop that would have taken me most of the day at my usual 56k dial-up rate.

Using markings on my tires, I verified that they had indeed been rotated, and a quick check of the oil verified that it was filled to the proper level. All-in-all, I'd say it was a pleasant and productive visit to the dealership!

Cost of Service: $66.26 ($22.54 for 4 qt. synthetic oil, $43.72 for oil filter, oil change labor and tire rotation)