2008 Prius---what maintenance/service needed

Change the engine oil / oil filter at least annually.
Check the 12V battery and replace it as needed. If you are not using a battery tender or battery charger periodically, expect the battery will need to be replaced every 3 years or so.

 

Ouch! To own a car that expensive without driving it to get lower operating expenses may have been a bad plan! (I personally believe that driving it keeps the battery healthy, taxis get great longevity)

I would replace the ATF WS in the transaxle now and every 4 years (normally I say 90,000 miles) Brake fluid absorbs water over time, have that tested. The anti corrosion additives in the anti freeze may be gone, have that tested.

http://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/omms/T-MMS-08Prius/pdf/Prius08SMG.pdf I would do the 30,000 service on page 11

 

Brake flush, if needed, is a dealer service, not like any other car. there are test strips to check how much water has been absorbed.

Amazon.com: Phoenix Systems (3003-B) BrakeStrip Brake Fluid Testing Strip: Automotive

 

I'd say follow the Toyota schedule. It specifies what's to be done, by mileage and/or months. With some caveats. For example, the 6 month tire rotation could be skipped, it's pointless. And with the cabin and engine filters, do not just replace them blindly: have them inspected, only replace when needed.

And what Patrick said regarding 12 volt battery upkeep: with such low mileage you need to monitor it, consider some sort of automated battery tender.

 

I was going to say the CTEK MULTI US 3300, but looking at their website things are revamped. The aforementioned charger may still be available, there tends to be lag with retailers. But anyway, looking at the CTEK website, maybe the MXS 3.8:

www.ctek.com

I'm completely partial to CTEK, because I've used a 3300 for about a decade, but there are a lot of choices. CTEK seems a good one though.

With the original 12 volt battery I believe they say to keep amperage around 4 amp, or a bit lower. You want a "smart" charger, ie: one that assesses the battery, runs through a charging regimen, gradually tapering off, and can be left on indefinitely, during long idle times. It should also give you at least rudimentary feedback as to how it's doing.

 

I just purchased the BatteryMINDer Model 12248. This is a good one for the Prius AGM battery.

There is a jump point in the engine compartment fuse box under a red hinged cover. Connect the negative (- or black) lead to an engine bolt and the positive (+ or red) lead to the jump post in the fuse box. Be very careful that the polarity is correct. The BatteryMINDer will tell you that the polarity is reversed before you plug in the 120VAC.

Set the unit for AGM and 4A. Once the green charging light stays on solid the battery is fully charged. If you leave the charger connected it will continue to maintain the charge and will not overcharge.

 

Yes, with any of the chargers: leave the plugging into the wall socket to last. Check your connections, charger status lights, settings, and then plug into wall. And always disconnect from the wall first.

 

BTW, what is the 12 volt battery in there? I'd assume it's been replaced once, and if by a dealership, it's probably the same as original, or the latest Toyota approved battery.

 

Walmart brand works great 19.99