The free ride is over

Posted on November 24, 2004 by Gene

Back when I got my first Prius — way back in the mists of time, 2000; when a Prius was a leap of faith — I was happy to get free service on the car. It was nice — bring it in every 6 months for service, with nary a bill in sight.
My, how times have changed. Today I took my 2004 model in for it’s one year service, safety inspection, and a little computer reprogramming. The 2004 model does not include free service. Total bill? $297, including the $30 off coupon I got in the mail.
Technology is pricey, you know?
But there is good news for my fellow Prius drivers who are constantly annoyed by the wonky gas gauge that seemingly bears no relation to the amount of fuel in the tank: there’s finally a fix that involves both a fuel line gadget and a new computer. My parts have been ordered, and I’ll take it in next week to get the upgrade. Gee, and only 4 years after I got my first Prius with a wonky gauge… good things come to those who wait.