What is the Average Oil Change Price?

Regular oil changes are an important part of vehicle maintenance. These simple tasks, just like the replacement of the air filter, must be performed regularly in order to maintain the engine's performance. Drivers are often left with questions regarding oil changes. Perhaps you are curious about the cost of an oil change.

It is important to understand not just the cost of an oil change, but how it affects your price. This guide will cover everything that you need to know regarding the average oil change cost. You will also find the most convenient locations to perform the oil change task. 

What is the cost of an oil change?

It doesn't matter whether you have to do the oil change yourself or have it done by a professional. You can generally expect to spend between $20-$120 for most oil changes. The type and amount of oil you use, as well as the place where the car is located, will determine the cost. 

This is a small expense compared to the cost of not maintaining your engine. Your expenses will be very low if you do the oil change yourself. You can reduce your chances of needing major engine repairs by putting in a small amount today. You can think of regular oil changing as insurance that will protect you from having to deal with expensive engine repair or replacement. 

Factors Determining Oil Change Cost

1. Types of Motor Oil

Your oil choice will impact the final cost. There are generally four kinds of oil available. Conventional oil (or conventional oil) is the most common and classic type. It’s the least expensive and is produced by simply refining the crude oil.

Full synthetic oil uses a crude oil that has been refined, but it’s also be purified and distilled. Chemically manufactured materials, like petroleum formulas, can be added to this base. This synthetic oil is a man-made engine lubricant. However, it’s also the most expensive option. These oils are most beneficial for turbo engines and new vehicles.

Synthetic blend oils combine the best of both synthetic and conventional oil. Because of the formulation, it can provide many benefits of the synthetic type but doesn’t have an excessive cost associated with it. 

High mileage oil can be used in engines with 75,000 mile or more. The oil is formulated with additives to decrease friction and corrosion. High-mileage oils can be either synthetic or blended, but they always have the additional properties. 

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2. Motor Size

How much oil is required will impact the cost of an oil change. A larger motor will require more oil.

Four-cylinder engines will use approximately five quarts. Six-cylinder engines often hold six quarts. An eight-cylinder engine, on the other hand, can store up to eight quarters. It all depends on which type. 

The average professional oil change service includes five quarts. Additional oil will be charged if required. 

3. Service Location 

Costs will vary depending on where your vehicle is taken. The cost of repairing your vehicle can be accomplished at home, in a dealership or by visiting a fast-lube location.

You can perform an oil change by yourself. This is the cheapest option. You will need the necessary skills to do the job at home. You will only need the tools and materials necessary to do this task. If you perform your own oil changes, it’s also recommended that you do other maintenance tasks at the same time. To ensure that nothing needs your attention, make sure you change the oil filter.

Although professional oil changes can be more costly, it is possible to save money by visiting a local lube station. The cost of oil changes at a local lube station will be lower than those done at the dealership. However, these technicians don’t have the same experience working on your vehicle. In fact, it’s not uncommon for them to strip the oil pan plug or cause other damage. 

With that said, you don’t have to get your oil changed at the dealership unless you already have an agreement to do so. This is often the best oil change service, as it includes other services such as checking the tire pressure and inspecting the brakes. These other services might be more beneficial than the cost of an oil change. 

RELATED: 5 Easy Steps to Change Your Car's Oil.

Oil Change Intervals

With every vehicle, it’s important that the oil gets changed at its appropriate interval. However, the recommendation can be different based on your vehicle’s year, make and model. You can find the recommendation in your owner’s manual or speak to your local dealership. You will find the intervals set at approximately 5,000, 7,500 and 10,000 miles.

Oil changes are also affected by driving conditions. You might need to change your oil more often if you have a lot of driving. Regular towing, extreme temperatures, and frequent idling can all cause engine wear. Your motor is also subject to more wear and tear when you are driving on city streets than highways. 

By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, you ensure the engine remains running its best. Synthetic oil is more durable than traditional oil and will protect motor components. No matter what type of oil you use, it’s important to get regular oil changes to ensure maximum lubrication of the internal engine components. Serious engine damage could occur when parts rub or create friction. These problems can lead to expensive repairs down the line.

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