Today’s vehicles deliver more performance than ever, as each year’s models bring new features for safety and convenience. (Wireless phone charging, anyone?) But your vehicle is still a complex machine that needs to be actively maintained. And that all starts with routine oil changes and the right engine oil. Because if the engine isn’t running properly, nothing else matters.
Not to worry, though. Maintaining your vehicle’s oil is easier than you might think, and Jiffy Lube® is here with the answers to your biggest questions.
HOW MUCH IS AN OIL CHANGE?
Now on to everyone’s favorite question: how much does an oil change cost, exactly? The price of your oil change will depend on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change.
To determine the type of oil that’s best, your technician will consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and ask you for your personal preference. Some drivers prefer conventional oil, while others select full synthetic oil, synthetic blend, or high mileage oils . If recommended by your technician, it’s okay to use a different brand than you’ve used in the past, as long as the oil meets the viscosity grade and specifications listed in your owner manual. Contact your local Jiffy Lube® for pricing based on your vehicle and the type of oil that’s right for you.
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DO OIL CHANGES PROTECT YOUR ENGINE?
They certainly do. Your motor oil is one of the most important elements inside your vehicle, because it lubricates all the moving pieces in the engine and keeps it running properly. The oil reduces friction, transfers heat, and absorbs the byproducts of combustion to prevent the engine from overheating.
Think about it this way: if you’re feeling really hungry, your ability to do work starts to suffer, right? Your engine is that way too. Oil is like food for the components inside the engine and makes it possible for them to do their jobs. If oil gets too low or is no longer fresh, it can lead to sticking piston rings, overheating, or even decreased engine life. So by changing the oil, you’re protecting the most important parts of the engine.
HOW MUCH OIL DOES MY CAR NEED?
If we had a nickel for every time someone asked us, “How much oil does my car need,” well, we’d have a lot. The truth is, it depends on what kind of vehicle you have. In the past, almost all cars and trucks required five quarts of oil for an oil change. But now, with the greater range of engines found in modern vehicles, that number can range from four quarts to 10 quarts or more. Ask the trained technicians at Jiffy Lube® how much oil is appropriate for your vehicle and if there’s an oil that could improve your vehicle’s performance. They can recommend a quality Pennzoil® product that meets your manufacturer’s guidelines for engine oil.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN MY OIL LIGHT COMES ON?
When the oil light on your dashboard is illuminated, it means your vehicle needs service: likely an oil change and a new oil filter. Take your vehicle to a service center with trained technicians, like your local Jiffy Lube. At Jiffy Lube®, your technician will do more than just replace your oil and filter and put a reminder sticker on your windshield. They’ll also perform a full courtesy inspection, including inspecting your vehicle’s battery, fluids, lights, and belts. Additionally, they’ll check and adjust your tire pressure, clean your exterior windows, and vacuum the carpets inside your vehicle.
CAN’T I JUST TOP OFF THE OIL MYSELF?
Your oil can be topped off in an emergency situation, but it’s not a replacement for a proper oil change. That’s because the old, worn out oil is still trapped in the system. And when it mixes with the new oil, it keeps that fresh oil from working as well as it should. So a complete oil change involves draining the oil from a drain plug located on the bottom of your engine, under the vehicle.
Recently, some technicians have developed a suction method that removes the oil by siphoning rather than draining. But regardless of which method is used, it’s essential that the old oil is removed and that oil changes are performed as often as your manufacturer recommends.
Following those recommendations is critical. So when you’re evaluating a service center, don’t just ask, “How much is an oil change here?” Make sure to ask whether their technicians follow the guidelines set by your automaker. At Jiffy Lube®, that’s what we do every day. And whether your vehicle needs an oil change, new brakes, or you just want an inspection, the technicians at your local Jiffy Lube® are always eager to help.
READ MORE ABOUT IT
If you’re wondering whether the “three months or 3,000 miles” rule still applies for oil changes, we’ve got you covered.
Can you mix synthetic oil with regular oil? The answer may surprise you.
Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.
FAQs
While some forms of maintenance are expensive, oil changes are among the most affordable ones you can seek for your vehicle. The costs associated with an oil change can vary, but the service usually ranges from $25 to $100.
Is an oil change 100 dollars? ›
Typically, an oil and filter change using conventional oil will cost between $35 and $75, depending on your area. If your car requires synthetic oil, you should expect to pay more (anywhere from $65 to $125) but you make up some of the cost, since synthetic oil lasts longer and has to be changed less frequently.
How much oil is included in an oil change? ›
What is included in an oil change? A full-service oil change includes up to 5 quarts of ValvolineTM oil, new oil filter and lubrication of chassis components according to your vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
How much is oil change for most cars? ›
The average cost of a conventional oil change at a dealership ranges from $50 to $80 CAD, while synthetic oil changes usually cost between $80 and $120 CAD. Keep in mind that prices can vary significantly based on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the dealership location.
Is $50 normal for an oil change? ›
Regular oil changes are a key maintenance service for cars and trucks. The cost of an oil change — typically between $50 and $100 — will vary depending on your vehicle, servicer and location. Like gas and auto insurance, drivers should factor this expense into the cost of owning a vehicle.
How much is the average oil change in the US? ›
You'll pay about $35 for basic service with no extra quarts. Top service with extra quarts will run about $75. This is likely to be with conventional oil. With semi-synthetic oil, the average cost will be higher: $40-$100.
Is 70 dollars a lot for an oil change? ›
The cheapest change in the U.S. involves conventional oil, ranging between $30-$75. Next up is synthetic blend oil, between $40-100. For full synthetic, it's between $65-$100. "The simple truth is there's a lot of factors that go into making up that price," Stadtler said.
Is expensive oil really worth it? ›
Taking care of a vehicle by using quality oil will save money in the long run, even though these lubricants are more costly. This is because a vehicle that is well cared for will need fewer repairs. Using low-quality or cheap oil can even cost you dearly, should an engine or transmission need to be replaced.
How much do oil and an oil filter cost? ›
If you choose conventional oil, expect to pay somewhere between $40 and $130 for an oil and filter change in a passenger vehicle. For synthetic oil or high mileage engine oil and a high mileage filter, expect to spend between $70 and $200.
What determines the price of an oil change? ›
The price of your oil change will depend on a few factors, including the amount of oil required, the type of oil that is used, and the ease of performing the oil change. To determine the type of oil that's best, your technician will consult the manufacturer's recommendations and ask you for your personal preference.
Put simply an oil change is when you take out the motor oil from your engine and put back in new motor oil. During an oil change you also have to change the oil filter and put on a new one. The oil and oil filter do so much for your engine that getting regular oil changes is the best way to keep your vehicle healthy.
Is transmission fluid included in oil change? ›
These include transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. During an oil change, the mechanic often checks these fluids' levels and quality. If any fluid appears low or dirty, it may be topped off or replaced, maintaining your vehicle's overall health.
What is the most expensive oil change on a car? ›
An oil change for a Bugatti Veyron can go upwards of $20,000 – $25,000. The eye-watering cost isn't only tied to the car's complexity; technicians have to remove several panels and parts from the underside to access the 16 oil plugs. Because the Bugatti uses super thick 10W-60 synthetic oil, it takes hours to drain.
Who charges the least for an oil change? ›
Oil change prices at chain shops
| Oil change retailer | Oil change service price range |
|---|
| Jiffy Lube | $49.99 - $109.99* |
| Goodyear | $41.01 - $137.31* |
| Firestone | $50.52 - $108.64* |
| Walmart | $24.88 - $54.88* |
Oct 30, 2023
The cost of an oil change can vary between $20 and $150, depending on various factors. Since the difference between costs can be significant, you should learn how to evaluate the cost of an oil change for your vehicle and avoid getting scammed by shady auto shops.
Is $70 too much for an oil change? ›
A regular oil change might run around $40-$50. If your car calls for (or you opt for) synthetic oil, the price range rises to somewhere between $70-$120 and could top out at more than that.
Is $60 normal for an oil change? ›
However, since the typical range for an oil change is between $35 to $125, a $60 price tag may not be that expensive.
Is $90 too much for oil change? ›
Average Oil Change Prices
For a regular oil change, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 and $75. This leaves the average price lingering at around $46 nationwide. A full synthetic or synthetic blend oil change will cost slightly more money. The price of a synthetic oil change is anywhere from $45 to $90.
Is 80 dollars a lot for an oil change? ›
Depending on a few factors, the cost of an oil change is anywhere between $20 and $100 if you have someone else do it, like a car repair/lube shop or dealership. If you can do it yourself, you're looking at about $30 to $50. Typically, you're paying more for the labor than the engine oil itself.
