How important is regular maintenance for my Toyota Prius?

I recently purchased a used Toyota Prius and I'm wondering how often it needs maintenance. I've heard hybrid vehicles require less maintenance, but I want to make sure I'm taking good care of my car. Any recommendations for how often I should bring it in for service?

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your Toyota Prius running smoothly. Hybrid vehicles do require less maintenance overall, but it's still important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your owner's manual.

I would suggest bringing your Prius in for service every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and checking all other fluids and components. Your mechanic can also do a thorough inspection to catch any potential issues before they become bigger, more expensive problems.

Remember to also keep up with regular tune-ups, which typically occur every 30,000 miles. This will ensure your Prius continues to run efficiently and can help prevent issues with the hybrid system.