Time for an Oil Change? Here's All You Need to Know

What Does a Complete Oil Change Service Include?

Regular oil changes at an auto service center may cover several other services contributing to overall car maintenance. These include:

• Oil drain and replacement: The mechanic will drain old oil via the oil drain plug and refill the reservoir with new oil. Based on your vehicle’s specifications, this could be conventional, synthetic, or high-quality motor oil. Before draining the used oil, the mechanic will clean the oil pan to remove debris. They’ll ensure the oil level meets the vehicle manufacturer’s oil specifications in the owner’s manual. 

• Oil filter replacement: Along with a refill of fresh motor oil, they’ll replace any clogged oil filter with a new one (and possibly a new oil filter gasket). This further ensures your vehicle’s engine runs with clean oil.

• Fluid checks: The mechanic will top off fluids such as brake, transmission, coolant, and power steering fluid. 

• Tire repair service: They’ll adjust tire pressure, rotate tires, inspect treads, and perform other related services covered under warranty.

• Battery replacement or repair service: The technician will check for corrosion, clean terminals, and perform a battery replacement or repair if needed.

• Brake repair service: The technician will readjust the brakes and inspect the brake pads for wear.

• Engine air filter or fuel filter replacement: If necessary, they’ll replace a clogged air filter or fuel filter.

• Wiper blade inspection: They’ll inspect and replace worn wiper blades as needed.

• Visual inspection: The mechanic may also check the car’s engine components and moving parts for any wear and tear.

How Much Is an Oil Change?

The average cost for an oil change service can range between $35 and $250. 

Here’s how much money you’d have to pay depending on the oil type:

• Conventional oil: $30 to $75
• Synthetic blend oil (semi-synthetic oil): $40 to $100
• High-mileage oil: $50 to $75
• Diesel engine’s oil: $50 to $70
• Synthetic (full-synthetic oil): $65 to $120
• Oil change cost for luxury vehicles: $250+

NOTE: The average cost of an oil change also depends on the labor cost. Service centers offer special offers or pre-owned specials (for pre-owned vehicles) that can help you save money. You can also check your car insurance policy for potential discounts or coverage benefits.

What Factors Affect Oil Change Costs?

Several factors can influence the oil change price:

1. Oil type: Synthetic oil is expensive and suitable for high-performance engines and modern vehicles. High-quality motor oil like synthetic blends costs more but lasts longer. Conventional oil is cheaper and works well for an old or simpler vehicle’s engine.

2. Car type: Modern vehicles often require premium-grade oils, which can be costlier. Larger vehicles carrying heavy loads (such as trucks and SUVs) or those with sophisticated engine components may need additional oil, incurring a high oil change price.

3. Service shop: Quick lube shops are more affordable and convenient for a quick oil change, making them ideal for frequent oil changes. Dealership stores are ideal for certified vehicles or cars still under warranty but often provide manufacturer-recommended services at a higher cost. You can also opt for mobile mechanics who come to you and perform repairs from your driveway.

How Long Does an Oil Change Take?

The amount of time required for an oil change (complete replacement with fresh oil) depends on where and how it’s done. 

For instance, a DIY oil change takes 30-60 minutes (depending on your tools and expertise), while quick lube centers can typically complete the process within 15-45 minutes. 

Auto repair shops generally take 30 to 45 minutes. If you opt for mobile mechanics, they save you wait time by servicing your vehicle at your location.

The duration for an oil change process can also vary based on the following factors:

• Vehicle type: Vehicles with difficult-to-access oil systems may take more time. Diesel engines often need additional oil and take longer to drain due to more complex filtration than a conventional oil change on gasoline vehicles.

• Oil type: Synthetic oil tends to drain faster through the oil drain plug. They are engineered for better flow and lubrication. Conventional motor oil, with its less uniform molecular structure, might take longer to drain during certain conditions, like cold weather.

• Type of establishment: A lube shop can perform a quick oil change. Auto repair shops or your service center may take longer as they often perform other routine inspections (like tire pressure checks and oil filter changes).

How Urgent Is An Oil Change?

Very urgent. 

Regular oil changes are part of preventative vehicle maintenance services and are crucial for ensuring your engine’s protection. Driving your car with old oil can lead to engine wear, sludge (contaminant) buildup, and costly repairs.

Scheduling routine oil changes (as part of regular maintenance services) is easy. If you can’t visit an auto service shop during showroom hours, you can schedule service online or call a mobile mechanic to handle the job at your location.

TIP: Regular car maintenance is a great time to consider upgrading your car. Many dealership stores help you value your trade during service visits. While your car is being serviced, you can check out pre-owned vehicles, new vehicle specials (special offers), and new inventory.

How Often Should You Change the Engine Oil?

Oil change intervals are based on the type of oil, oil grades, and driving conditions. Your owner’s manual may recommend getting an oil change every 3,000 miles.

Here’s when you’ll typically need an oil change based on type of oil:

• Conventional oil change: Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles
• High-mileage oil change: 5,000 to 7,000 miles
• Diesel oil change: 5,000 to 7,000 miles
• Semi-synthetic oil change (synthetic blend): 7,000 to 10,000 miles
• Synthetic oil change (full synthetic): Up to 15,000 miles.

However, factors like extreme temperatures, high mileage, or carrying heavy loads can reduce oil life. To ensure optimal engine performance, it’s crucial to monitor oil life and add fresh oil to your car at the recommended intervals.

NOTE: Fluids with different oil grades (oil specifications) also have different lifespans. For example, 0W-20 multigrade oil will last longer than SAE 5W single-grade oil.

What Are the Benefits of an Oil Change?

Regular oil changes as part of a car care service will help: 

• Lubricate and keep the engine temperature in control
• Protect engine parts from premature damage
• Reduce wear and tear caused by dirty oil
• Improve fuel efficiency
• Reduce carbon emissions

4 FAQs on Engine Oil Change

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about oil change:

1. What Are the Signs You Need an Oil Change?

If your car’s oil is due for a change, you’ll notice: 

1. An illuminated oil light or check engine light on the dashboard 
2. Unusual engine noises, such as knocking sounds
3. Burning smell from engine parts
4. Decreased fuel economy and engine performance
5. Oil appears dark and gritty on visual inspection

2. What Type of Motor Oil Do You Need?

Choosing the right oil is crucial for your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the different kinds of oil used:

• Conventional motor oil: Ideal for normal driving conditions.

• High-mileage oil: Best for cars with over 75,000 miles as it helps reduce oil consumption and leaks.

• Synthetic blend oil: Mixes conventional and synthetic oil for better performance in harsh conditions.

• Full-synthetic oil: Improves fuel economy and fuel efficiency. It also lasts longer, especially for hybrid and newer cars.

3. Should You Consider a DIY Oil Change?

If you’re inexperienced in vehicle maintenance, avoid changing your car’s oil yourself. You may save on the labor cost, but mistakes like using incorrect oil, over-tightening the filter, or mishandling crude oil disposal can cause engine damage, costly repairs, and environmental harm.

It’s always better to leave the oil change process to a professional.

Here’s why:

Although routine oil changes are essential, consulting a skilled technician ensures that you adhere to the required oil change intervals. Frequent oil changes without enough automotive knowledge not only waste resources but also increase expenses. 

TIP: If you still wish to go the DIY route, always order parts, like oil filter and high-quality oil, from trusted sources.

4. Do You Need High-Mileage Oil?

High-mileage oil is a quality oil option for vehicles with over 75,000 miles. It helps tackle oil leaks, excessive consumption, and sludge buildup (from dirty oil). Though it can be used in newer cars, it’s more effective for an older car’s engine, helping increase lifespan and performance

5. What Happens If Your Oil Level Is Too High?

Overfilling the oil pan with excess oil can cause it to enter areas like the combustion chamber, leading to smoke and other performance issues. That’s why mechanics always verify the oil level after adding fresh motor oil to your car.