The 2010 Toyota Prius is famous for its fuel efficiency, durability, and low emissions. But if you want to maximize its performance, choosing the proper 2010 toyota prius oil type is a must.
What oil is the best for your car? And can you use other oil types instead? Do not worry if you have no idea about how to bring out the best in your vehicle. This guide can help you out.
We will explain the 2010 Prius oil type in detail. You can also learn extra tips to take care of the car. So what are you waiting for? Let’s scroll down to discover!
What Is Toyota 2010 Prius?
The 2010 Prius is a hybrid electric manufactured by Toyota. The company includes this model in its Toyota Prius lineup, which is famous for its environmentally friendly construction and high fuel efficiency.
This third generation of the Prius lineup debuted with a revised appearance, enhanced efficiency, and improved interior features over previous versions. Here are some impressive features of the Toyota 2010 Prius:
CVT
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) offers efficient and smooth power transmission. It doesn’t have extra gear but utilizes a set of belts and pulleys instead to adjust the gear continuously.
Hybrid Powertrain
This 2010 Prius car has an electric motor and gasoline engine. Interestingly, while the gasoline engine is a four-cylinder engine that can generate 98 horsepower, the electric one will provide an extra 80 horsepower.
Energy Monitor
The Prius features an energy monitor that shows real-time data about the vehicle’s fuel use. For example, you can check it to monitor three readings:
- Battery charge level
- Power flow between the electric motor and gasoline engine
- Fuel usage in the system
Interior Features
The 2010 Prius has various interior features, including the following:
- Touchscreen display
- Backup camera
- Keyless entry to start your car without the key
- Push-button stat
- Infotainment
Safety Features
Safety is one of the top concerns of Toyota. Hence, the 2010 Prius comes with many safety features, such as:
- Anti-lock brakes
- Traction control
- Airbags
- Warning system
- Adaptive cruise control
What Is Toyota 2010 Prius Oil Type?
Toyota recommends 0W-20 synthetic oil for the 2010 Prius. It’s important to use the suggested oil type to maintain the optimal performance and longevity of the car’s engine.
What Is 0W-20?
0W-20 is a type of synthetic oil made from a combination of synthetic base oils and multiple additives.
- The base oils used to make 0W-20 include polyalphaolefins (PAO), polyol esters, and diesters.
- The additives include detergents, friction modifiers, antioxidants, anti-wear agents, and dispersants.
The letter “W” in its name stands for “Winter,” and there is the number 0 right before it. In fact, the lower the number, the better the oil can flow in cold temperatures. As you can see, 0W-20 can work well in cool conditions.
Meanwhile, the number 20 refers to the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures.
Can You Use Other Types Of Oil For The 2010 Prius?
Yes. If you can’t find 0W-20 elsewhere, consider using 5W-20 instead. This type of oil is also popular to use in modern vehicles.
However, please note that 5W-20 is the higher viscosity oil. As a result, it will affect your Prius’ lifespan and performance when used too much, like when you use bad gas for your vehicle .
Here are the possible consequences of using the wrong oil for your 2010 Prius:
- Reduced performance: The engine of the 2010 Prius is built to work with 0W-20 oil. If you can’t satisfy this requirement, the wrong oil will reduce your engine’s power.
- Poor fuel efficiency: Fuel efficiency is one of the main selling points of the 2010 Prius Toyota. Once the engine can’t operate at its best because of the oil type, you will soon notice a sharp decrease in fuel economy.
- More emissions: When the engine doesn’t run efficiently, it will generate more emissions than expected. The emission will then harm the environment, which is not what Toyota aims at first.
How Much Oil Does Toyota 2010 Prius Need?
The 2010 Prius oil capacity of the 2010 Prius is 4.4 quarts. To ensure the oil is within the specified limit, check it with the dipstick after adding oil.
Aside from the volume, you need to pay attention to the oil’s quality to ensure your car can run smoothly.
Otherwise, poor-quality oil type will damage the motor. Moreover, it may emit an awful noise and a burning smell. So if you notice those signs, check your Prius carefully to avoid explosions.
What Do You Need To Know About 2010 Prius Oil?
Aside from the oil type, other information about 2010 Prius oil is also important for a safe and smooth operation. This section will help you cover them.
2010 Prius Oil Change
Changing the oil in line with maintenance schedules or after excessive use is important. This practice guarantees your car works efficiently and avoids engine wear.
But how often should drivers change the oil in the 2010 Prius? Technically, the manufacturer recommends performing the oil change every 10,000 oils. The change interval is often around one year.
Here is how to change the oil in your 2010 Prius:
- Find the oil drain plug and the oil filter under the car.
- Locate the drain pan under the drain plug.
- Remove the drain plug to drain the old oil into the pan.
- Use the oil filter wrench to detach the old oil filter.
- Form a thin layer of oil on the gasket of the new filter.
- Install the filter tightly.
- Replace the old drain plug.
- Use a funnel to add 0W-20 to the engine.
- Check the oil level.
- Run your car’s engine for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
2010 Prius Oil Reset
It’s crucial to reset the oil maintenance light of your Prius after changing the oil to keep up with the oil change schedule. Here is how to do it:
- Set the ignition to the “On” mode but do not start the engine.
- Find the “Trip” button on your steering wheel and press it until you see “Trip A.”
- Turn the ignition to the “Off” mode.
- Hold the “Km/H Mph” button while pressing the start button. Remember not to touch the brake at this step.
- Release the “Km/H Mph” button once you hear that the reset is done.
Best Toyota Prius Engine Oil 0W-20
0W-20 is the best oil for your 2010 Prius. However, you still have many options from different brands, even when knowing which oil to purchase. Here are the top choices recommended by experts on hybrid cars.
Castrol Edge Advanced 0W-20
0W-20 from Castrol comes with fluid titanium technology, offering impressive strength under pressure. This oil also provides amazing performance in all scenarios to prolong your engine’s lifespan.
Additionally, it has the strongest oxidation management and the most solid wear security, with the highest strength of 25%.
Toyota Engine Oil
Toyota utilizes the original engines from Toyota automobiles to test their oils under the most realistic cases. Hence, you won’t have to worry about the quality of the oil.
Furthermore, thanks to the extra substances in the oil, it offers low fuel consumption. The remarkable low-temperature capacity will also impress you.
Amsoil Signature Series
0W-20 from this brand is excellent in controlling unpredictable oil use and emissions due to its shear-stable formulation. The high stability rate is a big plus, too.
Conclusion
0W-20 is the best oil for your 2010 Prius to perform at its best. After choosing the right oil type, remember to perform regular oil changes and reset to maintain the engine.
If you don’t have 0W-20, you can use alternative synthetic oil. However, avoid doing it often. Otherwise, you will risk damaging the engine.
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand more about the 2010 Prius oil type. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to get in touch with us for help.
Thank you for reading!
