The cost of an oil change can vary based on your location and the type of oil used—whether it's conventional, synthetic, or semisynthetic. A basic oil change with conventional oil (without extra quarts) generally costs between $35 and $75.
We'll delve into the specifics of oil changes, including frequency, benefits for your vehicle and the environment, and tips for saving money on your next oil change.
How Much Does an Oil Change Cost on Average?
The cost of an oil change depends on several factors:
- Vehicle’s year, make, and model
- DIY vs. professional service
- Geographic location
- Service provider
- Type of oil: conventional, synthetic, or synthetic blend
- Additional services like filter changes and tire rotation
A basic oil change with no extra quarts typically costs around $35. For a premium service with extra quarts, the cost can rise to about $75, usually with conventional oil.
With semisynthetic oil, the cost ranges from $40 to $100. Fully synthetic oil changes can range from $65 to $125. Some luxury vehicles might require special filters, which can exceed $260.
At a dealership, the average oil change cost is around $100, usually including a filter change. Adding a tire rotation can increase the total by $20 to $50. Dealerships or auto repair shops may offer discounts for bundling multiple services.
Oil changes are not covered by car insurance since they are considered routine maintenance. For more information, check out our Insurance Tips for First-time Drivers.
Quick Tip: While saving on fixed costs can be challenging, shopping for auto insurance can lead to significant savings.
Average Cost of Oil Change by Provider
The table below shows the cost of the most affordable oil change options at various national service providers. Price differences often reflect the quality of oil, service speed, and scope.
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Understanding the Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is refined from crude oil, while synthetic oil is created from chemical compounds. Synthetic oil is purer and designed to offer better protection for car engines.
Conventional oil requires more frequent changes and may not perform well in extreme temperatures. On the other hand, synthetic oil lasts longer and works efficiently in a broader range of temperatures. However, synthetic oil is more expensive.
To determine the best oil type for your vehicle, consult your owner’s manual for the recommended type and grade. The value of your car might also influence your decision.
How Often Should You Get an Oil Change?
Your owner's manual will specify the recommended oil change intervals for your vehicle. Generally, conventional oil needs changing every 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil can last up to 10,000 miles, while semisynthetic oil (a blend of both) typically lasts around 8,000 miles.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
Regular oil changes offer several benefits, including:
- Cleaner engine: Fresh oil removes dirt, debris, and contaminants from the engine.
- More efficient engine: New oil provides better lubrication, enhancing engine performance and longevity.
- Better gas mileage: A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently, improving fuel economy.
- Environmental benefits: Fresh oil prevents the degradation and release of harmful hydrocarbons.
- Prevents overheating: Proper lubrication reduces friction and the risk of engine overheating.
How to Reduce the Cost of Oil Changes
Regular oil changes can help lower fuel costs. To save money on oil changes, consider these options:
- Shop around: Compare prices at different auto shops.
- DIY: Performing oil changes yourself can save money. For a DIY oil change, you’ll need a few supplies, such as a drain plug wrench (refer to your owner’s manual for the correct size), an oil filter wrench, an oil pan, latex gloves, and possibly a jack.
- By doing it yourself, you can save $25 to $75 per oil change. Once you have the necessary tools, you’ll save money each time you change your oil.
Quick Tip:
If your car is paid off and its value is only a few thousand dollars, consider updating your car insurance. You might choose to drop collision coverage and increase liability coverage.
The Takeaway
A basic oil change with conventional oil averages around $35, but prices can go as low as $19. Higher prices usually indicate better quality oil, additional services like filter replacement, or faster service. Your owner's manual will recommend the type and grade of oil to use. Conventional oil is generally the cheapest, followed by semisynthetic, and then fully synthetic, which allows for longer intervals between changes—10,000 miles compared to 5,000 with conventional oil. To maximize savings, consider performing oil changes yourself.
When it's time to shop for auto insurance, SoFi can assist you. Our online auto insurance comparison tool helps you obtain quotes from top insurance providers quickly, saving you time and effort.
FAQ
Is $100 a Lot for an Oil Change?
The cost of an oil change can vary widely based on your location, the type of oil used, your vehicle, and any additional services like filter changes and tire rotation. On average, a basic oil change costs around $35, with some prices starting as low as $19. If you're paying $100, ask your service provider for a detailed breakdown of what is included in that price.
Should I Get My Tires Rotated When I Get an Oil Change?
Consumer Reports recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Tire rotation is an important maintenance task that ensures your safety on the road. Depending on the type of oil you use and your owner’s manual recommendations, you may need to change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. By coordinating your tire rotation with your oil change schedule, you might save money and time.
How Much Do Oil Changes Cost in 2024?
In 2024, the average cost of an oil change with conventional oil and no additional services is about $35. Basic oil change services can start at $19. Costs increase for synthetic oil and additional services like filter replacements.