just did my 1st oil change and noticed that there isn't a little plastic flap covering the oil pan and filter area. is that normal? should I go find a replacement?
Is this the car’s first oil change, or the first you are doing? If it was dealer serviced, you might ask that dealer to replace the tray.
The plastic cover is not that well secured with its little plastic screws and sometimes will fall off especially if the last guy failed to completely secure it or some of the screws were left off. It is part of the car's aerodynamics and provides a level of protection for the bottom of the engine and filter.
it's my first DIY oil change since the car is now 45k miles and I don't feel like paying $200 for a service. Do I just drive up the dealer and see if they have one on hand?
Meh, our 2010 Prius II has been without the oil change door for over 8 years now. Our 2017 Lexus RX450h did not come with an oil change door. While it’s a nice to have and was designed to be on the car, it’s not absolutely necessary . I’d save the $200 for holiday gifts.
Here's the part number: 51410-12105 Checked, it's the same part as my 2010 Prius. Attached is a TSB on the cover, has some info on the fasteners. If you do get another, it'll last forever IF: 1. You remove the entire panel, at every oil change. 2. You rinse grit out of the fasteners whenever they're off, and keep on top of any that go missing or break. They really shouldn't break if you're careful and keep the grit out of them. 3. Periodically check under there.
