Never a dumb question in my book. seafoam in the intake could maybe help? If hot soaked it’s supposed to help with carbon deposits on the pistons, but I’m doubtful if it would extend all the way to the EGR. Putting some in the tank here or there will help clean the injectors which can help, but it doesn’t need it as often, and helps if it’s added to a low tank so it’s concentrated. Add a little to the oil before an oil change to help clean up that as well and dump the rest in a low tank.

Driving hard may also help lower carbon deposits, but to what degree, that I’m not sure. Best surefire way is to clean it every 50,000 miles. I’ve done gig work before in my 2010 and 2011, excellent vehicle, but make sure to put plenty into savings for new tires brakes etc, as they will come more often.

5k mile oil changes are highly recommended, (0w20 only comes in full synthetic) I use Mobile1 oil and filter, plus an additive, and I’ve never burned a drop Of oil in my 2011 and 12. my 09-10 both burned about a half quart per change. if you change your own oil, it will save you a chunk of money, doesn’t take many tools, and buy your oil at Walmart, nobody beats their price, and it’s the only thing I buy there lol.

A few other things:

keep an eye out for warning lights. If the temperature light comes on, PULL OVER IMMEDIATELY. Don’t keep driving it, put the heater on max, and let her sit for a little while. Then test it. Does it only come on going up hills? Then the water pump is likely on the way out and you’ll want to replace it. (Buy an Asin from the asin store off Amazon it’s basically oem) replace the thermostat at the same time.

Run a Dr. prius test on your HV battery annually, see how she’s doing and plan for a replacement.

Change the transmission fluid every 50k, it uses a special Toyota WS fluid type.

Check the tie rod ends in the front, they tend to go bad every couple of years with torn boots. easy fix.

Wheel hubs go out every once in a while, you’ll get an ABS light and need a special scanner to get the code.

if ABS Comes on and the brake feels super mushy, might be a booster, but I’ve never had one give out.

Consider a catch can install, this will help oil build up in the intake. replace the PCV at the same time.

Change the coolant over time as necessary.

Give her a nice hand wash here and there and clean the interior. A clean car makes gig work much more comfortable.

Enjoy your Prii, treat her well and she’ll last you a long long time :3