Oil Changes: How Much They Cost and How Long They Take
For most of us, getting an oil change isn’t something that we look forward to. While an oil change is critical to your vehicle’s safety and longevity, it is often seen as an inconvenient item on your maintenance checklist. It can also cost a lot of money and be hard to find the time to take the car in.
In this article, we’ll cover all the basics of getting an oil change. You’ll learn about the different types of oil, how long they last, and how much they cost. We’ll also discuss some important tips to make sure you get the most out of your oil change. If you’re trying to decide if it’s time to get an oil change or not, you’ve come to the right place.
Basic Information
An oil change is a preventive maintenance procedure that should be regularly performed on engines to keep them at peak performance levels. The oil lubricates the various components of an engine and helps it run smoothly. If oil is not changed frequently, it becomes contaminated and can even damage the engine. Failure to timely replace oil can lead to costly repairs, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with oil changes.
Cost
The cost of an oil change may vary depending on several factors, such as the vehicle, the type of oil, the location, and any discounts or specials available. A basic oil change can cost anywhere from around $20-$50, though it will be more for luxury vehicles. It’s also important to note that some shops may charge more for an oil change if synthetic oil is requested.
Time
The amount of time that an oil change will take will depend on many factors, including the type of vehicle being serviced, the amount of oil used, how busy the shop is, and how experienced the technician is with performing this kind of service. In most cases though, an oil change should take no longer than 45 minutes to complete.
Tools and Supplies Needed
To properly perform an oil change on your own, certain tools and supplies are required.
- Oil (synthetic or regular)
- Oil filter (reusable or disposable)
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil funnel
- Socket wrench set
- Clean rag or paper towels
- Drain pan or container to catch the old oil
- Jack stands
How To Change the Oil
Begin by warming up the engine for about 2-3 minutes to ensure that all of the old oil has been drained thoroughly from the engine before removing the filter and changing out the new oil. Once you have warmed up your engine, follow these steps.
- Lift your car. Lifting your car should be done with a jack and jack stands or by raising it onto four ramps placed securely underneath each wheel.
- Unscrew your car’s oil cap located on top of your engine’s valve cover and set it aside in a secure area away from your work area.
- Locate your car’s drain plug located underneath your vehicle and fit a flexible drain pan beneath it before removing the plug with a box or socket wrench. Allow all of the old motor oil to fully drain out before replacing the plug again with your wrench or socket set attached to a ratchet handle.
- Fit an appropriately sized oil filter wrench onto your car’s oil filter located close by and unscrew it until it comes off completely before discarding it in an appropriate container for disposal later on.
- Put a new filter on snugly but do not over-tighten it. Threading it by hand is usually sufficient at this point until snugly secured. Pour in fresh motor oil according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Replace the cap on top of your valve cover before lowering your vehicle.
- Check for any leaks using either newspaper or old rags spread around each area where you conducted work before starting your car back up again.
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that oil changes are a vital part of ensuring the longevity and safety of your vehicle. Taking the proper steps to perform a successful oil change can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. If you take the time to do your research and follow the steps outlined here, you will be able to get the most out of your oil change and protect your car for years to come.