Toyota Prius Prime water contamination in oil requiring multiple oil changes on Toyota Prius Prime

Some Toyota Prius Prime owners report experiencing issues related to water contamination in the engine oil, necessitating multiple oil changes. These owners note that following the owner's manual, which specifies the use of 0W-20 oil for a 10,000-mile interval, is essential to prevent complications. If 0W-16 oil was not used previously, they may need to replace the oil and filter sooner, at 5,000 miles. Additionally, the presence of water can increase the sump level and create water globules in the drained oil, highlighting the importance of using the recommended oil to avoid such problems. Some owners have also observed that dirty oil can alter the oil's dielectric properties, potentially leading to electrical issues like arcing or short circuits in the stator windings due to contaminants. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and brake inspections, is crucial for optimal performance, and many owners emphasize the need for weekly hybrid vehicle drives and oil changes every six months or 5,000 miles to combat fuel and water contamination effectively.